Frontstrap Checkering

[jak77]

I just purchased a SA Loaded and was wondering if anyone knows where I can get the frontstrap checkered. My buddy has a colt (not sure which) that has the frontstrap checkered and I really like how the checkering grips my hand. I would like to do this to my SA (if its possible) but have no idea where to look. Your help would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[ojisan]

Cylinder and Slide (for example):
20 lpi on a single stack frame for $204.25 + shipping etc.
30 lpi $245 + etc

http://www.cylinder-slide.com/index.php?app=ccp0&ns=catshow&ref=1911%2FPARAORD3&sid=9z7766u6k43644w540ebl57kbh6xah28

30 lpi used to be the standard, but 20 seems popular these days.
I believe the C&S job above is machine cut.
Hand cut is usually more expensive.
Some of the CA smiths still do hand checkering, but you will have to shop around for someone who does this, their lead time and their price.
Also, after the checkering is done, you will need frame refinishing.

[dstiltner]

I had my done by EGW - 20 lpi. It was $150 + shipping. They also offer 25 lpi and 30 lpi for the same price. I had heard machine checkering would not have good points. They did a really good job, you cannot even see the points but you can see the impressions on your finger.

[Richie Caketown]

can i get pics of this please , im not too sure what it is but it sounds cool

[tzahoy]

I've done a couple of them and it's painstaking work. These are both 30 LPI. I bought a used Brownell's fixture from someone off The Firing Line and machined it to work on an officer's model as well as a government size frame.

You have to be extremely precise with the initial cuts to keep the lines from crossing, especially with finer checkering. I've got a lot of years behind a file and am very competent with one and it was still a very painstaking process. Still I enjoy that kind of work, and it was very rewarding to see the finished product. The first one took me about 10 hours. The second one took me about 8. I don't think I could do it any faster.

[GunDog]

jak77,
Your best bet for this type of work is to contact the Custom Shop at Springfield Armory. They've done several of mine, including a Colt Commander and a 1927 Sistema. Excellent work, priced right, and quick service. Give 'em a call...you won't be disappointed.

[evidens83]

I would love to do this to my RIA but the prices always hold me back. Anybody have pics of checkering done on a RIA?

[NiteQwill]

This is mine done by Will O'Hara. I woul also suggest the Springfield Custom Shop, Dave Williams does great work. He's currently working on my latest project.