Had an idea for 1911 grip panel config -- feedback?

[Richard.Howe]

What if you out a full-thickness stock on the left side of the gun to help captivate the plunger tube -- and a slimline stock on the right side for grip reduction?

I don't like slimlines on the left because it tends to leave the plunger tube a bit exposed (unsupported). What about this alternative?

Rich

 

[SAWBONES]

I agree about the left panel needing the upper "lip" to reinforce the plunger tube. I consider this a necessary feature on 1911 grips.
Modern slim grips often lack this, which is why I prefer a modified version of thinner grips, about .225" thick (standard is .250"), which usually permits retention of the "lip", though of course it means the grips must be custom made, and some materials such as Micarta, other composites and ivory, work better for this than most woods, due to the greater strength of the harder materials.

Your idea might well work, as might sculpted or contoured thin grips, where the top is left thicker than the lower part .

 

[Black Snowman]

I'd have to try it but I imagine alignment would feel strange. If you're worried about the plunger tube there are other options to ensure it's secured including bolt-on varients or fashioning a retaining clip that would fit under the grip and hold it in place. That's what I think anyway.

 

[Richard.Howe]

Wow, I really thought this subject would get a lot of folks talking. I'll just try it out and report back...and snap some photos.

 

[WhoKnowsWho]

Wouldn't it be easier to just really make sure and extra sure that the plunger tube is locked in place?

 

[R.H. Lee]

I don't know that a grip configuration is gonna keep the plunger tube from coming loose in the first place. Agreed the pt is a weak point, you just have to keep an eye on it.

 

[Preacherman]

Would it not be possible to have a pair of slimline grips, with the top of the left grip at normal width to provide support to the tube?

 

[Sam]

That is very doable Preacherman. Most grip materiel can be worked to do that.
I regard JMB very highly but that plunger tube was not one of his best ideas. When I do a 1911 I solder the thing in place anyway and never worry about it again. With the pins in place for the shear load, you can even use soft solder for the job.

Sam

 

[Richard.Howe]

I got in touch with VZ grips (small but super micarta grip maker) and he says that slimline grips with increased thickness at the top of the left stock are impossible to make without retooling. If anyone is inclined to do custom work, this guy is, and he says it ain't doable.

So -- back to my original idea!

Have a great day,
Rich

 

[Zach S]

One thing I thought about was cutting a thin peice of sheetmetal (.024" stainless steel) to go under the grip, but bend up and cover the plungertube, then sanding the added thickness of that peice off the frameside of the left grip. Since all of mine are stainless, I could have it blasted to match and almost no one would notice.

Then I tried thin grips, decided I didnt like them, and that was the end of it. But you're free to try my idea if you like.

 

[Sam]

cajuncoona,
VT might be unwilling but he has bux involved in the tooling.
It is not undoable, just not economical for him. I make grips with width and thickness variations all the time. Seldom if ever duplicate factory grips.
If you really want them, I'll make them. It will cost you.

Sam