Changing Grip Frames...

[flintlock]

I bought a 50 Year Anniversary .44 Mag and it came with narrow checkered grips...Well, Houge and Pachmayr don't make replacement or over rubber grips for the new grip frame with the safety lock...

I also have a .357 Blackhawk that was built in 1956 and has the smooth maple grips...

It looks to me like I can swap the grip frames and then I will have the smooth, wider grips on the .44 Mag which will be more comfortable than the narrow, checkered grips now on the .44...In addition, I could then add an aftermarket grip if I thought it necessary...

Has anyone tried this??? Or is there an easier way...If this won't work I'm probably going to wrap the grip like a tennis racquet handle...

Or...Do some of the custom grip makers make a grip with the same dimensions as the older models???

[Bigeasy]

I am sure if you check on the net, you should find a variety of grips for this grip frame.  It is the same grip frame now being used on the new Vaquaro.  I found a set of slightly wider then stock splated maple that I put on my 50th flat top that made a big difference in feel.  You could always have a set made that in-close the bottom of the grip frame, giving you a place for your little finger.  Its a lot of work and expense switching grip frames on a blue gun.  I have done it on SS, but on blue you have the added complication of having to re-finish the grip frame as each grip frame must be fit to the gun by removing material.

Larry

[Jeff H]

I swapped mine on my 44 Spl almost immediately with CLC grips.
I talked to Carey about them specifically and he was on top of the issue and makes his grips thincker for this frame,
The price made me cringe until I put them on and handled the piece.
Once I had them on the gun, there were no regrets whatsoever.

Jeff H

[flintlock]

Thanks guys...There is a guy on Ebay that goes by pvtschultz and lives in Wisconson...He makes them and sells on Ebay...I'm gonna get in touch with him...

[flintlock]

Big...I believe your grips came from the same guy, the profile is similiar...

It looks like the base of the grip is smaller than my older Blackhawk but he states that his grips are thicker in the top...Do you shoot with that grip on and do you like it??? Thanks...

[Bigeasy]

I don't remember if it was him, but it was e-bay, so could be.  I have huge hands (size 20 / 21 ring), so most single action grip frames of the colt style hurt with heavy loads - just cant get a good grip.  The thicker grips do help a lot.  My first preference is for a Bisley or Super Blackhawk style grip, and I have converted several of my Rugers, but did not want to mess with this one because it is a one year only, and blued.  That maple is stabilized (filled with epoxy under pressure), so it is very durable as well as pretty.

Larry

[flatgate]

I bought a 50 Year Anniversary .44 Mag ........
I also have a .357 Blackhawk that was built in 1956 and has the smooth maple grips...

It looks to me like I can swap the grip frames

The trigger spring mechanisms are vastly different.  One can adapt the New Model grip frame to the Old Model but vice versa would be more work.

You simply need to get some nice grips for your 50th Anniv. Blackhawk.  Many many grip makers are able to supply your needs.

JMHO,

flatgate

PS I installed a larger grip frame on my 50th Anniv. .44.........