Need guidance--1911 grips for IWB

[Wayne G.]

I carry 5" 1911 in Milt Sparks SSII IWB. Within a week of installing thin wood grips, I discovered that sweat had permanently darkened the left grip panel. The conditioned worsened the more I carried it. So, I am looking for a set of grips that are impervious to sweat/moisture.

What kind of grips will withstand sweat/moisture and yet be comfortable next to the skin for IWB carry--preferably in a slimmer-than-stock configuration with beveled bottoms. And if I can be really picky, checkered double-diamond if the checkering is not too aggressive--I don't want to snag my clothes or the skin on my side! Other suggestions welcomed as well.

Thank you for sharing your experience!

 

[CWL]

http://www.carboncreations.com/

Grips impregnated with carbon fiber. You can get ultra thin in a variety of styles and colors.

I have an ultra thin on my Officer's size as well as a full set for a Govt. size. One is almost 10 years old and the other is about 6 years old, no signs of wear warpage, etc. from carry, use or solvents.

 

[rcmodel]

Micarta
http://www.brownells.com/aspx/NS/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=20661&title=1911+AUTO+"GATOR-BACK"+GRIPS

Anodized Aluminum
http://www.brownells.com/aspx/NS/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=1576&title=1911+AUTO+ALUMINUM+GRIPS

G-10
http://www.brownells.com/aspx/ns/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=22870&title=1911+AUTO+G10+TACTICAL+GRIPS

Dymondwood epoxy laminate
http://www.brownells.com/aspx/ns/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=257&title=1911+AUTO+SLIM+TECH+GRIPS

Carbon Fiber
http://www.brownells.com/aspx/ns/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=5537&title=CARBON+FIBER+GRIPS


rcmodel

 

[akjren]

I carry in the same arrangement and my left grip also has darkened noticably as well as the head of the grip screw that is up against my side developing a darker patina. I just think it adds character to the gun, makes it more my gun having my sweat and skin oils on it.

However, if you are still concerned about it, take a look at these.
http://www.vzgrips.com/
http://www.alumagrips.com/main.taf?p=5

Alex

(Edited to add: Blast it... rcmodel beat me to it.)

 

[Technosavant]

Alumagrips. They're fantastic. Mine hold perfectly to my hand while not causing chafing at the range. The only thing is that you might want small O-rings around the screws (since they can work loose a little more easily than in wood or rubber). They make them in thin configurations (you'll want new bushings).

 

[peacemaker45]

Alumagrips. They make pretty much exactly the config you're looking for. Although I can't testify to the double diamond bit. I've got a set on one of mine, and they work very well. Amazingly thin, as well.

~~~Mat

 

[waterhouse]

Alumagrips.

+1. Slim and very comfortable to grip, available in several checkering patterns, no issues with sweat.

 

[Wayne G.]

Looks like Alumagrips are quite popular. Thanks for the advice. Will check them out. Does the finish wear off of them? I am assuming that they are painted. What do you use for grip screws? Looking for some that won't lose their color.

I guess all wood grips will darken when exposed to sweat.

The carbon creations grips look neat too, as do the others mentioned by rcmodel. Thanks for all the recommendations thus far.

 

[Spartacus451]

Alumagrips are anodized and the finish is very very very tough. The set I have looked like the day I bought it.