Question on grip frames

[Greeenriver]

I have a Ruger Super Single Six with the XR3-Red grip frame. It is aluminum and I am planning to "RoundBut" this revolver. The problem is, I lookid under the grips and there ain't enough metal thikness to get a good round but without having to build us the area at the bottom rear of the frame.  If it was a steel frame, I could cut and bend and weld it, but I have no way to weld up alum.

How  do the rest of you get arround this problem??  Any sugestions will be helpful.

Changing to a steel gripframe is NOT an option, as I don't want the extra weight. Buying a new Ruger BirdsHead gripframe is also NOT an option, as they are steel and I have a BH SSS already.

These are in 32H&R Mag, but I don't think that makes any diference to the gripframes.

Greeenriver

[BlkHawk73]

  There's gotta ge someone in your area that can do that little bit of welding for you. 

[Flash]

You don't want to cut up that RSSM .

[44 Man]

As you noted, there is not a lot of metal at the bottom rear corner to get a 'true' round butt shape.  But there is enough that you can shape it and get a very nice effect to the gun.  I have done several.  Round the bottom what you can, round the front edge a little, and thin the grips from the screw hole down.  The makes for a very nice carrying, compact pistol.  I think you will be pleased with the finished product.  You can bead blast the frame and make it all satin or polish it up to a nice shiney silver.  The aluminum grips frames have merit, as I like the pistol nice and light.  I just wish Ruger had left even another 1/8" of metal on that corner to make things easier.  You can often buy used aluminum take off grip frames at gun shows very reasonable.  Pick one up and an extra pair of grips and go to work!  44 Man

[Greeenriver]

As you noted, there is not a lot of metal at the bottom rear corner to get a 'true' round butt shape.  But there is enough that you can shape it and get a very nice effect to the gun.  I have done several.  Round the bottom what you can, round the front edge a little, and thin the grips from the screw hole down.  The makes for a very nice carrying, compact pistol.  I think you will be pleased with the finished product.  You can bead blast the frame and make it all satin or polish it up to a nice shiney silver.  The aluminum grips frames have merit, as I like the pistol nice and light.  I just wish Ruger had left even another 1/8" of metal on that corner to make things easier.  You can often buy used aluminum take off grip frames at gun shows very reasonable.  Pick one up and an extra pair of grips and go to work!  44 Man

Thanks, that is just what I will do. I'll get the extra one BEFORE I start grinding on the one I have, I think!!   LOL!!!!!  I do know a couple of friends that can weld a little onto the one I work with, if it becomes necessary.  I like the idea of leaving it in a satin brushed finish, but I do have a buffing setup and may buff it to a high shine just to see how it looks.  In a few months, when I get it done, I'll try to post a few picts.

Thanks for the replies and ideas,

     Greeenriver

[Flash]

The part number for a 32 frame is different than a single six frame so, the top edge of the ears that the hammer falls between might not mate with the cylinder frame. This is the area that usually needs to be ground when exchanging frames on a 32 mag. WHAT EVER YOU DO, do not grind your original frame or the cylinder frame. If the edges are a little off, just live with it because of the value of your 32. They bring upwards of $450 now. Just think how much value would be lost on an old Winchester if it was butchered. One day, your Ruger will have the same collector status and your grandchildren will scratch their heads in disbelief if you cut up that Ruger.