[Dick1911]

Hi, all! :) I'm a relatively new owner to a basic Springfield 1911-A1 GI model (also my first handgun) and I'd like to upgrade the grip safety to a beaver tail style as I'm tired of hammer bite so I'm looking for advice and recommendations. Can it be as simple as getting one for a Springfield 1911 loaded model and installing it?

Any recommendation as to what I should look for and how I should do it are more than welcome, it'll all be more than I know about it!

I was also wondering when improvements such as this are done, how does it impact the value of the pistol on resale? Although I don't think I'm going to resell it, I like it too much. :D

Thanks in advance for the info!

[kart racer]

Smith & Alexander makes one for the springer.

[TX1911fan]

That's the one I used. You can buy the jig and fit it yourself pretty easily.


http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/1850/backyw2.jpg

[Jim Watson]

Note that
1. It must be fitted = grind steel off the frame.
2. The Springfield does not match the Colt in the tang, S&A makes a specific beavertail with .220" radius instead of the common .250"

[lonewolf5347]

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a380/lonewolf5347/NEW45AUTO003.jpg
I was thinking in upgrading my 1911SA I did a lot of upgrades as far as swapping and changing all springs:installing a Wilson combat trigger:A new sear spring she now breaks clean at 3 1/2 lbs.I read some were S@A has a drop in also someone said Wilson may have a drop in
My mil -spec is a tack driver so far 500 rounds threw it NFTF problems and the NM serial number has a lot of upgrades,maybe next year winter project

[JoeHatley]

I also used the S&A guide to fit a Wilson grip safety to this Essex frame.

http://www.iowatelecom.net/~hatley/alumagrips_l.jpg
http://www.iowatelecom.net/~hatley/alumagrips_r.jpg

Pretty straight forward project.

Good Luck...

Joe

[Jake in TX]

I used the Wilson drop in, and a surplus Colt Commander hammer. It has worked well for me.

Jake in TX

[Highway Magician]

You can use a Colt Factory grip safety from a COMMANDER model.