Hi-Power grips and width

[Candiru]

I recently ordered some factory Hi-Power classic grips to replace the more "modern" grips that came with a Hi-Power. After putting the new grips on the gun, I was surprised to find that it felt a lot thicker than my old FN Hi-Power. Pulling out the older gun, I was surprised to discover that the grips there, although the same style as the new grips, were slightly thinner.

The difference is maybe 1/8" tops, but it's one of those little things that kind of gets under your skin. I can't sand the grips down without removing the checkering, and sanding them down on the inside is beyond my woodworking skill level.

My question is this: Can anyone who is familiar with the width and "hand feel" of Hi-Power factory walnut grips on guns manufactured in the 1970s recommend a brand of grip that closely approximates the width and feel of those grips?

Thanks for any advice you care to offer.

Edit: Wups, I just realized I posted this in Handgun General Discussion. Mods, please move to Autoloaders. Sorry for any inconvenience.

 

[rellascout]

I would look into the Navidrex checkered micarta grips for the BHP. They are super thin even thinner then the 70's vintage stock grips.

They are perfect IMHO.

 

[bobaloo]

I'll second the vote for the Navidrex. I've gone through several sets of grips for my Hipower and finally broke down and bought the Navidrex. The search is over. They're not as pretty as the cocobolo, etc., but they feel great in the hand and shoot well.

 

[Bart Noir]

Did you guys have to do some careful sanding on the inside of your Navidrex grips, to get them to fit flush against the HP metal frame? I sure did, as there was a rocking on the frame, so that tightening the screws caused the corner above the trigger to lift away from the metal.

Bart Noir