Where to find source for 1911 front strap checkering

J

johhny12gauge

CGN frequent flyer
Rating - 99.5%
216   1   0
I have an aluminum frame Para LTC. I'm considering getting the front strap checkered. I'm not sure if the aluminum frame makes it any more difficult to get checkered. Does anyone know a source to do this and ballpark cost? I am in the GTA.

Thanks!
 
From what I see here, about 200$ give or take?
http:// darkinternational.com/index.php?main_page=privacy&zenid=1a41b7f9e1bed3fe3a18b13d726c2307
 
You know, skateboard grip tape works wonders and is dirt cheap. Since your frame is aluminum, the checkering work will mean that you have to get it recoated. The cost will add up fast!
 
Wilson Combat makes a very thin checkering surface that glues to the front of your frame. Almost looks like factory engraving. I think Brownells carries it. Cheap and looks good.
 
RickR1100 said:
Wilson Combat makes a very thin checkering surface that glues to the front of your frame. Almost looks like factory engraving. I think Brownells carries it. Cheap and looks good.
Click to expand...

Glues? The one I've seen on brownells is steel, and you mill out a section of the frame and tig weld the checkered section in, and it's for steel frames. I'll have to go look, maybe they have something new!
 
I have this on my SR1911 and not only is it matching stainless, it's easily removable and works like a cheese grater. Highly recommended.

100%20ch%20FS.jpg


And installed.

p_965100001_1.jpg


Wilson Combat product carried by Brownells.

And to answer the inevitable, no, it doesn't move if properly installed (easily done).
 
I saw the price of getting it done and just put skate tape on instead. For about the same price as sending my gun to someone, my next Brownells order is going to include checkering files. Mine is only a lowly Norc though, you might not want to go the diy route.
Kristian
 
Order a couple (checkering + 60 deg needle) files and a checkering guide and hand checker it. Aluminum is very soft so I would practise on a piece of aluminum (short length of pipe) to get the hang of it. Or just send it out!

Here are two straps I've done at 25 LPI (steel mind you):

06.jpg


1911%20Build%20-%2013.jpg
 
Last edited:
^^ Damn fine job! I'm debating about sending my SA 1911 RO out to get the frontstrap checkered. I ain't got the skill/experience to do it and not frack up my pistol. I'd rather pay someone to do it right and then parkerize/nitride finish it again. :p
 
I've done a fair number for myself and others but man, the wear and tear on your elbows from cutting checkering is brutal. I'm pretty much not doing it on any guns I don't personally own and want to keep forever now.

Although I did get a small milling machine recently, so I may go back to doing it once I get that set up.
 
plinker 777 said:
I have this on my SR1911 and not only is it matching stainless, it's easily removable and works like a cheese grater. Highly recommended.

100%20ch%20FS.jpg


And installed.

p_965100001_1.jpg


Wilson Combat product carried by Brownells.

And to answer the inevitable, no, it doesn't move if properly installed (easily done).
Click to expand...

Ok, so how does it attach? I was under the impression you glue these on, but please tell us how it really works.
 
One side of Velcro tape looks like this. I've used one on my CZ 85C, front and back of the non-checkered grip. Cheap and feels better than skateboard tape. Holds pretty well against oil. Home Depot, Lowes, Rona, Crappy Tire, Wally and other hardware stores will be your pick.

RickR1100 said:
Ok, so how does it attach? I was under the impression you glue these on, but please tell us how it really works.
Click to expand...
 
RickR1100 said:
Ok, so how does it attach? I was under the impression you glue these on, but please tell us how it really works.
Click to expand...

These wrap around the front strap and the edges are bent into to the frame cutouts under the grips and are held down by the grips. They are very thin aluminum but work very well.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom