Question re. converting SBH to Bisley style

[Cosmoline]

Is it possible to just order a grip frame for the Bisley version of the Ruger Super Blackhawk and just attach it to the frame of a standard SBH? My guess is it isn't that easy, but I didn't see the issue in the archives and thought I'd throw it out.

 

[Majic]

Yes and it's not very hard to do. You may have to do some fitting. You also have to swap out the hammer for a Bisley hammer. You may also have to swap out the trigger as the Bisley have a different trigger, but I'm not sure if you do or not.

 

[RCL]

Brownells sells a conversion kit with all the parts you will need. You will probably have to do some fitting, as factory grip frames usually come slightly oversize.

http://www.brownells.com/aspx/NS/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=319&title=BISLEY+GRIP+CONVERSION+KIT

 

[JoeHatley]

My guess is it isn't that easy

Actually... that's about it. Here's a Blackhawk convertable that I Bisley-isd a few years ago.



Dont forget to order a hammer and trigger. A little minor fitting on the frame, but it's pretty much a parts swap.

Good Luck...

Joe

 

[JNewell]

It's pretty straightforward work. You do want the Bisley hammer and trigger.

 

[Cosmoline]

Thanks! I didn't realize it would be that easy. I'm not sure I want to give up the old-school Dragoon look, but it's food for thought.

 

[revo]

When you say some fitting is required, how much fitting are we talking?

I would love to do this conversion, but I'm not sure if I'd be able to pull it off myself or not.

Maybe another way to ask: what tools will I need to use?

Is this a filing and grinding operation?

 

[cane]

The way the SBH's grip flares at the bottom has always bothered me. Several years ago I picked up a well used one. I cut the barrl back to 5" from 71/2 and took a belt sander to the back of the grip. Made a grip more like an "Improved No. 5" than the Colt's Bisley. Much more comfortable.

 

[rugerman]

How about the reverse, converting a Bisley to a blackhawk style. My son has a 44mag Bisley and would like a blackhawk style grip due to interchangable stocks not being available for the Bisley. He has large hands and the small diameter of the grip is a problem. rugerman

 

[JNewell]

When you say some fitting is required, how much fitting are we talking?

I would love to do this conversion, but I'm not sure if I'd be able to pull it off myself or not.

Maybe another way to ask: what tools will I need to use?

Is this a filing and grinding operation?

The Bisley grip is furnished oversized (overwide) and needs to be profiled to match the sides of the cylinder frame on the sides. Some contouring is also necessary at the top of the grip frame where it meets the cylinder frame. This is mostly file work and it requires more patience and focus than skill. With the stainless guns, you can then use varying grades of Scotch-Brite pads to get the right finish. I found that gray or red was about right.

Be advised that the screw holes in the frames do not always match up correctly. The first Bisley grip frame that I got was proud on one side but below flush with the cylinder frame on the other side. It had to be exchanged for one that was proud on both sides.

 

[JoeHatley]

When you say some fitting is required, how much fitting are we talking?

Here is an article about a similar conversion from over at Real Guns.

www.realguns.com/Commentary/comar97.htm

In my case the frame was just a little "proud" on one side. A little filing and polishing was all it took. BTW: the carbon frame is sold "in the while" and will need to be at least polished. IIRC... the frame windows for the hammer and trigger had to be opened up just a tass.

Good Luck...

Joe

 

[JNewell]

IIRC... the frame windows for the hammer and trigger had to be opened up just a tass.

Joe, you used the SBH hammer and trigger, yes? I think the trigger should not require any work either way, but the Bis and SBH hammers have "fit" issues with their opposite grip frames. One combination leaves a window that's too long and the other one that's too short and needs opening up. I don't remember which way is which.