1911 Frontstrap Checkering

[Rob10ring]

I am looking at some 1911 ponies and see that they generally don't come with checkering of the frontstrap. Is this checkering really necessary, or even that useful. I could send one to the custom shop to get it done if it's really worth it, but would hate to ruin something that is fine left alone.

[Timothy]

Mine is smooth and never been any trouble and the M1911A1 I qualified with back in the 70's was the same.

Try some grip tape before you spend the money on checkering.

[ellis4538]

Also try skate board tape.

Richard

[MikeBjerum]

If you have good grips and a good gripping technique (high and tight into the beaver tail) front and back strap checkering is a luxury.  However, if you are sloppy in your griping the checkering will help.

[kmitch200]

Kiwi Sure-Step Pads are sold in some grocery stores in the shoe polish area. They are a pebbled rubber surface on an adhesive backing that is less abrasive than skate tape.

Loosen the grip panel and slide the pad under them. Mark on the pad where the grip panels cover it and outline the magwell.
Take a dremel and with the plastic 'wire' wheel buzz the rubber down that will be under the grip panel to just where the backing starts to peek through. It won't lever up the grip that way.
Cut the pad so it doesn't hang under the magwell, slide it under the grips and tighten. I didn't expose the adhesive to allow easy removal and they stay in place anyway.
Presto, you have a textured front strap that helps grab back. (even if your grip is high and tight)  

I liked the feel so much I added it to my SIG1911 and it already has a checkered front strap. This is less abrasive than the checkering and added just a slight hint of thickness which I like.
On the SIG, I made the cutout to follow the little contour of the front of the magwell but didn't bother on the Gold Cup 'cause I don't use flush fit mags anyway.

[Sponsor]

[tombogan03884]

If you have wrap around grips like I do it's a waste.
If not, well, it looks nice.

[Pecos Bill]

I've had 1911's with both styles of front strap. Didn't make any difference in the handling that I could detect. I don't use either gun under adverse conditions (mud, water, snow etc.) but I do know that after an extended range session my fingers know the difference. Looks great though.

Pecos

[Ichiban]

Personally, I prefer some level of front strap checkering/texturing on a carry weapon - it's not a big deal on a range gun.  Nothing as aggressive as a TRP (okay, I haven't shot one, just fondled, er uh, held a few) which I found very uncomfortable.  I kind of figured that if/when SHTF your grips might not be dry.  They could be wet with rain, mud, or blood as well as the possibility of compromised grip strength/mechanics.  My current EDC has 25 LPI front strap checkering and checkered G10 grips.  

[PegLeg45]

I've used stair tread material (like skate tape) that I bought from Lowes. It comes in a sheet that is large enough to cover a standard stair step for around $5. I've had it on my Commander for around eight years and like the griping texture.

I do like the looks of those on KMitch's gun. I might look into those also.

[Ichiban]

I tried one of these things as well.
http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/pid=16409/Product/1911_AUTO_CHECKERED_FRONT_STRAP
I thought is was like grabbing a cheese grater. 

What can I say?  I'm just a delicate little flower with soft girlie hands.