Birdshead Grip frame on a new Blackhawk

[Glockman17366]

I picked up a Blackhawk .45 Colt/.45 ACP about 6 months ago. This one is blued with the 4 5/8th's barrel.

I really enjoy the gun. I do have a hankering to install birdshead grips on this revolver. I really like the looks of the birdshead type grips.

I know Brownell's has the grip frame in brass and steel. What about the springs? And, for those of you who have installed these grip frames, how much fitting is required?

Thanks in advance for your insights!

 

[BlkHawk73]

Depends...all will need fitting regardless. The factory ones will likely require a bit less. Have heard some of the Qualite ones, bras especially can require more fitting work. You'll also need to buy and install the trigger spring retaner, the little cross pin which holds the trigger spring arms. Might as well spend the .99 and buy a pivot pin for the same spring. The hammer spring, the hammer strut and it's seat will all transfer over.
Biggest thing is to have a LOT of patience and go slow, checking the fit quite often. You can remove material but you can't put it back on. Brass goes away quickly.
If you go with a steel one, a finishing is needed also. Not sure if the grips are the same for the Factory Ruger ones and the aftermarket ones. If so, you'll be limited as you what is readily available if you opt for non-Ruger stuff.
For what it takes, and having little patience for such thing, I send mine off and for $80 it's fitted. Add the additional shipping and finishing costs and it's done.
Any specific Q's...ask away.

 

[Glockman17366]

Who did you send it to, if I may ask?

 

[BlkHawk73]

Have sent two to Gallagher Firearms - outstanding work.

John Gallagher
3923 Bird Farm Road
Jasper, AL 35503

TEL: 205-387-7678

 

[madcratebuilder]

The MKT grip frames are over size so you can fit the your frame. It took about three-four hours to fit the first set I did. They have all the holes drilled, you need to fit to frame and add all small parts. The brass grip frames with out the holes drilled take a little more work.

 

[tx gun runner]

The best way and cheapest way is to buy a gun with the BH and swap frames and sell the donner gun , that how I did all these guns . BH where not offered in 32-20 or 44-40 .