1911 Front Strap Checkering

[thawein1856]

So, I have an SA Loaded SS and I'm thinking of getting the front strap checkered. Couple of questions:
1. How much does this really help with keeping a constant grip while firing?
2. How many LPI should I get 20, 25 or 30?
3. Is it best to send back to SA to have it done? I live in San Diego? is there some place in san diego that would do quality work?

Thanks.

[Chief-7700]

So, I have an SA Loaded SS and I'm thinking of getting the front strap checkered. Couple of questions:
1. How much does this really help with keeping a constant grip while firing?
2. How many LPI should I get 20, 25 or 30?
3. Is it best to send back to SA to have it done? I live in San Diego? is there some place in san diego that would do quality work?

Thanks.

My TRP Operator Full Rail has 20LPI on the front strap. The 20LPI are sharp and painful. Before you commit to front strap checkering go shoot a gun with it. I found that Pachmayr rubber wrap around grips do the same thing and a whole lot cheaper.

http://www.pachmayr.com/signature-grips-wo-backstraps.php

[Mr. Meeseeks]

FWIW, I've always favored the look of 30lpi.

[reagan8]

... I found that Pachmyar rubber wrap around grips do the same thing and a whole lot cheaper.

+1

Also, you can occasionally find the front-checkered grips that Colt put on the Delta model on eBay. I have one, and the front-strap checkering is great; the only problem is that the Delta medallions tend to pop out, but nothing you can't fix with a little epoxy.

[GunDog]

I have 1911's with the front strap checkered and uncheckered. Actually, I prefer the uncheckered ones. If you're going to have it done to your pistol, I recommend the custom shop at Springfield Armory. They do great work at a fair price and with quick turnaround times.

[Fjold]

The coarser the checkering (20 LPI) the rougher and sharper it will feel compared to the finer checkering (30 LPI). Neither will help you with finger placement, they just prevent it from slipping as easily after you get your grip. For finger position get the wrap around grips with the finger grooves.

Or you can always find an old Safari Arms frame with the finger shelf built in, like mine (good luck with that, as they're rarer than a California pro second amendment democratic politician):

[railroader]

If you just want a better grip you can go with skateboard tape or grip tape like is found at home depot. If you decide you don't like it you can take it right off. Mark

[Mr. Meeseeks]

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewproduct/?productnumber=531042

Went with on of these once, it wasn't bad, but scratched a faint fine line under the trigger guard on the front strap. They're also available in a blued finish.

[Notblake]

I really enjoy the feel of the Hogue finger groove grip.



BUT, I do have larger hands. I also understand if you don't dig the look, but I do.

[Chief-7700]

The coarser the checkering (20 LPI) the rougher and sharper it will feel compared to the finer checkering (30 LPI). Neither will help you with finger placement, they just prevent it from slipping as easily after you get your grip. For finger position get the wrap around grips with the finger grooves.

Or you can always find an old Safari Arms frame with the finger shelf built in, like mine (good luck with that, as they're rarer than a California pro second amendment democratic politician):

Fjoyd, I keep kicking myself for not buying a MS-Safari Arms frame when I had a chance.

[rorschach]

2 of my Kimbers have 30 lpi checkering. Good grip, not at all as sharp as 20 lpi, and looks very trick.

That being said, I really like Hogue wraparounds as well, and they're a fraction of the cost of checkering.

[JTROKS]

Checkering is nice, but it is expensive and also painful the first time you shoot it. You'll get callus build up later on if you handle your checkered gun everyday. 30 LPI is easier on your fingers. Another alternative to a better grip is stippling. It will be less than half the cost of hand cut checkering.

[Cyc Wid It]

Tons of options... golfball, conamyd, frag, etc.

[Mr. Beretta]

If you just want a better grip you can go with skateboard tape or grip tape like is found at home depot. If you decide you don't like it you can take it right off. Mark

+1

Been doing this for years! Works great.

[9mmepiphany]

of the metal treatments, checkering is my least favored. besides being somewhat common, it is prone to denting.

my personal favorite is Conamyds which grip without being sharp and are somewhat more durable:


there are a number of options which you should look at

if you commit to checkering, 25lpi is a good compromise between grip and comfort. the Springfield Custom shop does nice work and their turn around time is very good...you just have to decide between hand or machine checkering.

for a CA shop, i'd recommend Apex Tactical in Morro Bay