Come Into Bawanna's Famous Grip Emporium

[yqtszhj]

Finally finished a set of Water Buffalo horn 1911 grips. I'm happy that the checkering didn't take away for the coloring at all, hardly notice it. Does help the grip considerable.
Now to decide what to hang them on.

https://i.postimg.cc/kD3JG59X/DSCN7937.jpg (https://postimg.cc/gLsFBmnf)

Those are nice. How hard is that buffalo horn to work with?

[Bawanna]

It's not too bad, it is hard, which is good for checkering. It is kind of fibrous which isn't so good for checkering but it's not bad.

Climate change can warp and twist it but shouldn't be an issue on a gun and if it does warp it isn't difficult to get it straightened out again. Have to look again but I think you soak it in mineral oil and lay it on a flat surface, sometimes you don't even need the oil.

These have been on the bench for months and no sign of anything warp or twist. I did buy this stuff as a slab so that helped as I didn't have to slab a piece of horn. Supposedly dog chew toys are the same stuff but I haven't tried that yet. If it worked that would be pretty cheap.

[Bawanna]

Spent the last few days whittling and finally completed an acceptable set of grips for my K9. Looking through the wood pile I selected a blonde piece which turned out to be Myrtlewood. I was pleasantly surprised, (never worked with it before) it's plenty hard and dense and really decent to work with. I'm semi partial to blonde grips so it worked out. I think this is one of the best fitting sets I'm managed to pull off.
I did a set prior out of some walnut, get towards the finish line and removed just a tad too much on the front showing the void in the frame, all those hours down the toilet. At least I think I've got a little better attack plan which seemed to work on this set.
I did confirm that my little 42'' belt sander is a huge time saver but at the same time makes it so you can screw up 10 times faster.
Evidence photos

https://i.postimg.cc/jd0RfmV4/DSCN7953.jpg (https://postimg.cc/9zb35xQD)
https://i.postimg.cc/P5dh3D5L/DSCN7954.jpg (https://postimg.cc/crkV6rYZ)

With it's big brother the PM45
https://i.postimg.cc/hvxgwbmm/DSCN7955.jpg (https://postimg.cc/1V9LVFJR)
https://i.postimg.cc/VsbYd1hN/DSCN7956.jpg (https://postimg.cc/DmnVNVnV)

Now I gotta find a proper holster for this thing, I carried it's twin K40 for quite a spell but I have no idea how. I dug through my drawer of never seldom used holsters and don't find anything that fits well. Might have to order up another Garrett Silent Thunder I guess. Might have to tag em so I don't get em mixed up, although I don't change daily carry very often. Keep going back to the Cbob.

Next to checker or not to checker, that is the question? Is that Shakespeare?

[Wlfman13]

Incredible job, Bawanna!

Now, to checker, or not to checker? The fain’t-of-heart side of me says, “Smooth is good. They look beautiful already.” But, that other side, the side that loves the look and feel of checkering, and knows firsthand what your hands can do with checkering files, well you know what it is saying.

I say sit and ponder the question a long while, and hold it a lot. Then, checker it when your gut says, “Go!”.

-Wlf

[Bawanna]

Gut already gave in and I started scratching, I'll keep ya posted.

[BirdsThaWord]

Very nice! They look great on there too. Interested to see them with the checkering too. I have no idea how you are going to do it.

[Bawanna]

Well here she be. Decided to checker the back strap too. Turned out pretty good. I'm pleased with it.
https://i.postimg.cc/wvdNdrmx/DSCN7957.jpg (https://postimg.cc/gwNjVNs1)
https://i.postimg.cc/mkLFPFj0/DSCN7959.jpg (https://postimg.cc/2bt5JyPw)
https://i.postimg.cc/cJ332W65/DSCN7958.jpg (https://postimg.cc/KKZ43dPn)
https://i.postimg.cc/j5Q7qhHH/DSCN7960.jpg (https://postimg.cc/YG09bYy0)

[jeepster09]

WOW!!!! Nice work.

[gb6491]

Oh yeah, the checkering really kicked them up several notches. Well done sir!:yo:

[Bawanna]

Snowed in for a week so I managed to finish a couple projects. First my Charger Mares Leg. I stained it first go around and was ok with it like this.
https://i.postimg.cc/QxgPxYz0/DSCN7772.jpg (https://postimg.cc/vcBX0hbV)
But it didn't really blow up my pantaloons and I'm kind of partial to blonde wood and girls for that matter especially Birch. So I sanded it all back down and left it clear. I managed my first successful over the top checking on the grip. I was so proud.
https://i.postimg.cc/65z0mkgJ/DSCN7961.jpg (https://postimg.cc/w7yLtG90)
https://i.postimg.cc/135WRmw3/DSCN7962.jpg (https://postimg.cc/xchGtS6w)
https://i.postimg.cc/ZKJHjbfx/DSCN7963.jpg (https://postimg.cc/K4st82h1)

If anybody has an original 10/22 stock laying around collecting dust, I'd sure like to get a few if they is reasonable. I think locally everyone found out I was looking for them and the prices sky rocketed, sort of like traffic, when they know I'm on the road everybody goes someplace. I think it's personal.

I also wrapped up a 6 or 7 year hit and miss project. A new stock for my grandfathers 1917 Enfield. Been just playing with it on and off and finally focused and got r dun. I inherited it and it was my deer rifle as it was for him back when I had a great pair of legs.
This laminate was extremely tough to checker. The light colored wood is nice and decent to cut but the black streaks are like steel, damn hard, took a lot of cutting. This was a blank from Boyds so it was rough shaped and nearly a drop in, so just final shaping, lots of sanding and the checkering.
https://i.postimg.cc/Hng2qdTH/DSCN7964.jpg (https://postimg.cc/sQT7SFB0)
https://i.postimg.cc/J7NKbDQh/DSCN7965.jpg (https://postimg.cc/rzpSTp36)
https://i.postimg.cc/ryxZQYqM/DSCN7966.jpg (https://postimg.cc/23jx5GqK)

And now pillow time, Saturday again tomorrow.........................

[gb6491]

Me likey both...quite a bit.:cool:

[yqtszhj]

I love the grain on that Enfield stock.

[Armybrat]

Just admiring your work.

[Bawanna]

Thanks for that. Sometimes I look myself, it's kind of a trip down memory lane. Stuff I'd forgotten about.

I'll have some more pics of the Ruger Mares Leg after a bit. I tried to put some poly clear finish on it to prevent the blonde from getting dirty looking as they usually do. Apparently the poly finish and the finish I put on before had a bad reaction. Didn't dry and turned into a gooey mess. Had to recut all the checkering (again) to get the gooey mess out.
I found some stain I've had around for a long time that turned out marvelous on another Mossberg 22 I got and thought I'd try it on the birch, not near as nice as the Walnut on the Mossberg but not bad. It's still a bit sticky, hoping it dries so I don't have to start all over yet again. I know the clear works on the Walnut stain so if it dries we'll be ok. (I hope).

[Bawanna]

In progress shots of some T9 grips I'm working. Got most of the hard part done today. Now if I luck out and get the screw holes exactly right we're almost home free. A lot of shaping yet to do and then scratch some checkering.

Still a little boxy,
https://i.postimg.cc/GpKv2Jgc/DSCN7976.jpg (https://postimg.cc/p99mc8t7)

Perfect fit along the back.
https://i.postimg.cc/V6Nnbr2X/DSCN7975.jpg (https://postimg.cc/Y4Jh59rS)

Perfect fit along the bottom, always a troublesome area but nailed it first time this trip.
https://i.postimg.cc/CKSjS6NP/DSCN7974.jpg (https://postimg.cc/Xr1ZgLtd)

https://i.postimg.cc/0ypYgqpK/DSCN7973.jpg (https://postimg.cc/k2g68zY7)

Probably quit for the night while I'm ahead and hope to spend some quality time with them tomorrow.
These things are a time consumer but a nice rewarding feeling when you pull a set off that are right.

[Wlfman13]

Wow!... Just, ...Wow!

Those are looking great, so far!

-wlf

[Artie]

Very nice work boss. I has a set of wood grips on my K9 I still need to find some screws for. The extra long screws I has found all seem to have some taper that makes them useless to me as it starts just before where I need to cut the screw so the taper is in the area that actually needs purchase. I may need to send em to you as they are smooth and I likes me some checkerin.

[Bawanna]

Very nice work boss. I has a set of wood grips on my K9 I still need to find some screws for. The extra long screws I has found all seem to have some taper that makes them useless to me as it starts just before where I need to cut the screw so the taper is in the area that actually needs purchase. I may need to send em to you as they are smooth and I likes me some checkerin.

Can probably recess the holes a bit and make standard screws work too. Send me a PM and we'll work it out if you wish.

[BirdsThaWord]

Very admirable work you do man!

[Bawanna]

Spent most of the day today getting them shaped and looking like grips. Thought I'd gamble and put on a little stain. A little disappointed that the grain isn't nicer, woods always a gamble. And they may get better with some checkering or a few other tricks I might throw at it. They fill good and fit well, that's the main thing.

I'll post a pic in the morning, let the sawdust settle all over the man cave for awhile.

[Wlfman13]

I’m looking forward to seeing them!

-Wlf

[Bawanna]

Wait no more.
https://i.postimg.cc/85cMRR8T/DSCN7977.jpg (https://postimg.cc/7Gv5DTYR)
And the hard part that nobody ever sees.
https://i.postimg.cc/V6hMDJ1n/DSCN7978.jpg (https://postimg.cc/CBjzKLRx)
Good fit on the bottom,
https://i.postimg.cc/rst4bqFb/DSCN7980.jpg (https://postimg.cc/2Lr3LRWF)
Nice match up on the back,
https://i.postimg.cc/RC3b9f3r/DSCN7981.jpg (https://postimg.cc/3WTZFkC9)
Well wouldn't you know, postimage just crashed and burned. I'll post a couple more when it's up and flying again.

[Bawanna]

One little boo boo on the back, one of the downfalls of using a power sander, you can screw things up 10 times faster, just kind of rolled over the edge for a nano second. It will forever bug me but not too badly. I can live with it.
https://i.postimg.cc/5NL7QVqn/DSCN7982.jpg (https://postimg.cc/4m4bjj09)

Kind of pondering some sort of inlay for grins and then some checkering. Gotta go visit mom today and pay the ransom for Adult Care. Make me angry just thinking about it. Glad she had some loot set aside to buy us some time to sell the house which will buy us a few years of good care.

[Artie]

Can probably recess the holes a bit and make standard screws work too. Send me a PM and we'll work it out if you wish.

Not sure I want to recess them more honestly but I would surely defer to your expertise.

[Bawanna]

The factory grips I have seen all have plenty of wood under the screw head so the wood strength isn't an issue. They usually can be thinned considerable too as the screws are pretty recessed.
Perhaps some standard length 1911 screws would be long enough for you, they are the same thread pitch?

[Artie]

Yes sir they are grips for my K9. I believe it to be the old style it has slab sides. Else I would send them to you and let you work some magic. I might do so anyway as they are not checkered and I like checkered. Especially the skip line.

[Bawanna]

Both my K's 9 and 40 are what I call old style. I thought of that after you mentioned your issue. Thinking you might have new.
We're ok I think, whatever you want to do.

[Bawanna]

Spent several hours quality time mixed in with playing with the grandson today. He's 3, nice to associate with someone on my same level intellectually.
Still a far piece to go, a few more passes on the checkering and touch up a few spots. Did another boo boo cutting the inlay holes but I think I fixed it.
Found one Kahr pin right off, wishing I had another, but digging through all my pins (I keep them all) I got lucky and found another. These were brought back from SHOT a few years back and handed to them directly from Mrs. Moon, so priceless pins, debating on making another set of grips as I'm not sure these are worthy but think I'll run with them.

https://tribunist.com/technology/do-you-need-a-handheld-minigun-of-course-you-do-video/?fbclid=IwAR3kO9nL7o1uDVWJfSyESer3ZDb4DX9pDP7nq3_h wj6nblFWGEoz3dudvnI

https://i.postimg.cc/4yCLQbgD/DSCN7986.jpg (https://postimg.cc/8JHm1vs4)

Back to the sweat shop.

[dao]

They look very nice Colonel. And much better than the plastic grips that come on the Kahrs.

[Wlfman13]

Those are really looking sharp, Bawanna!

-Wlf

[boscobarbell]

Wow, very nice!!

[Bawanna]

Well I think I'm done.
https://i.postimg.cc/Y96Sv5WW/DSCN7991.jpg (https://postimg.cc/tZgbfmDq)
https://i.postimg.cc/kgHGzFCB/DSCN7988.jpg (https://postimg.cc/yDF7SRkH)

While I was waiting for paint or in this case stain to dry I did my usual routine and polished the barrel and hood, took the mags apart and polished and waxed the mag bodies. Quite a wrestling match getting those mag springs back in let me tell ya, but I prevailed.
Shoot it some more and I think it will find ride time on my belt.

https://i.postimg.cc/CKf5gBMJ/DSCN7987.jpg (https://postimg.cc/nsppKLDQ)
https://i.postimg.cc/SRmxCg6t/DSCN7990.jpg (https://postimg.cc/621KNL1d)

Keep in mind I'm a wood butcher not a photographer.

[Wlfman13]

Wow...Those grips look great! And, that was a perfect use for those Kahr Arms pins.

Not many purtier guns than that one, in my opinion.

-Wlf

[Bawanna]

Had a set of fake stag grips that really looked, well fake. Bright shiny white, pretty good texture and most importantly for me Slim. Very difficult to find real stag and even fake that isn't as thick or thicker than standard 1911.
I'm not a fan of fake but like thin and I'm reluctant to part with the funds for the real thing mostly cause they aren't thin???

Anyhow I got a set from Arizona Grips down near Greg and the color and texture were pretty decent, I'm partial to them. Wanted to put them on my Cbob but of course it's bob tailed. So I thought I'd check and see if the color went through and then I'd just make them bob tailed. Color didn't go through, I can see where something was applied to give it the aged look.
Well that gave me the idea of putting something on the really fake looking plastic ones. I roughed them up a bit and then smoothed them again down to about 500 grit and applied some Maple stain.
Turned out acceptable and I might try some walnut stain to darken them a bit more but they are good enough for me for now until I find some thin real ones. As a grip maker my hats off to the guys making the stag, I've tried and failed numerous times.

https://i.postimg.cc/fLRcbcG9/DSCN7994.jpg (https://postimg.cc/gw1XSZkz)

https://i.postimg.cc/1XLwMLfG/DSCN7995.jpg (https://postimg.cc/hQ1XtZ8v)

https://i.postimg.cc/sf8YVZwM/DSCN7999.jpg (https://postimg.cc/dD2k6DMF)

They look lighter again in the photo's, might have to break out the Walnut stain.

[Bawanna]

Well just about wrapped another set of T9 grips. This is Coco Bolo, didn't even know the block of wood was coco bolo until I cut it. I think I have a couple more blocks that look the same so hopefully they are also Coco Bolo.
This was book ended slabs, I actually ripped one block in half, one side turned out pretty light the other much darker, could be it was on the outside or something. Did a skip line checker pattern which turned out decent. These are much thinner than the factory although the factory feels fine to me. I kind of was fixing a goof and took off more than I intended.
https://i.postimg.cc/mkQPwBXQ/DSCN8008.jpg (https://postimg.cc/hQt44Wqj)
Close up of the checkering.
https://i.postimg.cc/8C0fkyfr/DSCN8009.jpg (https://postimg.cc/SXcxDfry)
The other darker side.
https://i.postimg.cc/xCNJXKLp/DSCN8010.jpg (https://postimg.cc/tZyCfnSF)
Maybe a better shot of the checkering,
https://i.postimg.cc/Gt0BGHQL/DSCN8011.jpg (https://postimg.cc/xJRTSjhh)

And where most of the wood ended up, I think we remove more wood than we leave on these Kahr grips.
https://i.postimg.cc/NGT2Yks5/DSCN8014.jpg (https://postimg.cc/xqf13Hb2)

Off to look for the next victim.

[MikeyKahr]

I was wondering if this thread would still be around. Heck, I was wondering if you'd still be around, uncle Bawanna. Still doing great work, I see. Your checkering is looking great. Who'd you outsource to this time?

[Bawanna]

I was wondering if this thread would still be around. Heck, I was wondering if you'd still be around, uncle Bawanna. Still doing great work, I see. Your checkering is looking great. Who'd you outsource to this time?

Well MikeyKahr!, I'd kind of given up hope of ever hearing from you again. Damn nice of you to check in. So tell us all about it, what's been keeping you away, hmmmm?
Hope everything is fine and dandy and all your people are ok during these trying times. Definitely a weird time huh?

Not sure what you mean by outsource.

[MikeyKahr]

Well MikeyKahr!, I'd kind of given up hope of ever hearing from you again. Damn nice of you to check in. So tell us all about it, what's been keeping you away, hmmmm?
Hope everything is fine and dandy and all your people are ok during these trying times. Definitely a weird time huh?

Not sure what you mean by outsource.

Oh, I was trying to make a joke with the outsource comment. As if you would send any of your sticks out to get checkering work done by someone in China. Well, as for me, I checked in to see what the old gang was up to these days. Is jocko still alive and kicking?

Amazed that I remembered my password....and on the first try even. It was fate. Quarantine has been a pain but what else is new. Life's been flying by, kids are growing up fast. Trying to think of a good way to invest my kids' and grandkids' future tax dollars that are coming my way soon. What better way to stick it to the man then by buying a new holepuncher or three. Wanted to see what if anything was new and what other people are liking these days.

How are you doing up there in Pandemic State? Still tinkering and working for the Boys in blue?

Btw, good work on your latest checkering. Your work still looks great. A Bawanna blessed T9 or K9 would be sweet right about now.

[Bawanna]

Jocko is alive and well last time I checked about a month or so ago. He don't bless us with his presence much, too bad for the new folks that don't get to experience ole Jocko first hand.

I parted with the boys in blue last November and joined GB Greg as a man of leisure or at least I'm trying to anyhow. I work a day or two a week at Tractor Supply putting stuff together, wheelbarrows, carts, furniture, BBQ's all that sort of stuff. I told em to get somebody else for the riding mowers, I still do push mowers and chippers and a ton of fertilizer spreaders which ironically is probably fitting in my case.

Stick around and stir the pot for a spell, be nice to have some of the old rabble rousers visit and hang out again.

[MikeyKahr]

I could absolutely see you being an expert fertilizer spreader putter together. Congrats on the retirement. Love my local Tractor Supply and totally could see myself working there were I living the Bawanna life. I'll stop posting in this thread now as people are wanting to see Bawanna's pretty work and all. Good to be back for a bit.

[BirdsThaWord]

Nice guns & nice grips! Love the T9, the checkered grips and how you took the fake stags and aged them. Crafty man! You know I’d love to see your stainless 1911 polished up! BBQ for real with those grips!

[Bawanna]

Well it's been a knife handle checkering marathon the last 3 days. My good Nepalese friend in Reno who owns Himalayan Imports had me doll up some handles a member of her forum donated. Like us, everything over there is shut down and the poor really have it rough and she takes care of her people over there. So hopefully she can sell these on her forum and get some much needed funds over there to help them out.
https://i.postimg.cc/ZKKNGgh6/DSCN8015.jpg (https://postimg.cc/c626YFCJ)
A little skip line on this one.
https://i.postimg.cc/Y0tFqDLK/DSCN8016.jpg (https://postimg.cc/MMrH9DYd)
A little bowie, one of my favorites. They used to have large ones, I was instrumental in getting some small ones made, I carry one every day.
https://i.postimg.cc/N0T28v1v/DSCN8017.jpg (https://postimg.cc/mcLrRqXm)
Did a skip line on that one too.
https://i.postimg.cc/vZC66Zxv/DSCN8018.jpg (https://postimg.cc/Sn7KBqrX)
Slightly larger bowie,
Did a couple diamonds on this one.
https://i.postimg.cc/7YszwVxd/DSCN8019.jpg (https://postimg.cc/2VWyxnL7)
https://i.postimg.cc/C1gBmrNB/DSCN8020.jpg (https://postimg.cc/CZcxKN9S)
One more larger yet bowie to do an off they go to Reno.
https://i.postimg.cc/zGygBgvB/DSCN8022.jpg (https://postimg.cc/4YTd2nzk)

[Bawanna]

The done ones are soaking in mineral oil, hence the wet sloppy look. These are all water buffalo horn, it checkers good, it's hard and dense and takes a very long time but works well.

[Cokeman]

What does the oil do?

[Bawanna]

It just basically hydrates the horn, keeps it from drying out and cracking. Same as wood actually.
It's very fibrous like a very dense hair, strange stuff but very strong. It polishes up beautifully too.

[BirdsThaWord]

Nice work, and for a nice cause. Their hand craftsmanship of those knifes has a certain roughness to it that is appealing to me. Something that looks pre industrialization, when necessity ruled the day, not glitz or a standardized look.

[Bawanna]

They have been doing it for 100's of years, tradition passed from father to son. Watching video's is crazy. Never heard of OSHA, most don't were shoes, didn't see a glove in sight. Sit on the ground using a piece of steel buried in the ground for an anvil.
Sit next to a little open fire to heat things up.
I much prefer them to anything modern machined. Amazing what they can do.

[gb6491]

Darn nice work on those handles! You've a big heart boss.

[BirdsThaWord]

They have been doing it for 100's of years, tradition passed from father to son. Watching video's is crazy. Never heard of OSHA, most don't were shoes, didn't see a glove in sight. Sit on the ground using a piece of steel buried in the ground for an anvil.
Sit next to a little open fire to heat things up.
I much prefer them to anything modern machined. Amazing what they can do.
You painted a good picture, which reminded me of a youtube vid I watched once. Some guys with similar tools, or lack there of, were making stuff out of metal scraps. Amazing ingenuity, work ethic and patience all rolled into one. When I see people like that my heart goes out due to their life conditions. We have sooo much to be thankful for here in America, which many never fully comprehend or are very thankful for.

[dustnchips]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmTHEmol9k0
They probably cost very little at the factory and an enormous sum here

[Bawanna]

Wages are low and HI uses vehicle leaf springs for steel. Cost is little over there but she still sells them more than fair priced over here.
Not all Khukri's made in Nepal are equal by a long shot, nor are the shops that make them.
She helps pay for medical and education for the shop workers (called Kami's) tries to get them extra for holiday celebrations etc.
Each knife maker has his own mark so you actually know the Kami that made the knife.
Most shops don't do that and don't treat the makers nearly as fairly.

Very caring and giving people, couldn't ask for a nicer friend. I've been down and met her 3 times, hoping to get down again soon one of these days.

[gb6491]

Bawanna is too modest (an admirable trait in a man). :yo:
Check out Himalayan Imports website for some excellent information on khukuri:
https://himalayan-imports.com
Then visit them at https://www.bladeforums.com/forums/himalayan-imports.739/ ...but be warned, that can lead to addiction.
They truly make some quality tools.
They can chop, see this fella's video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lPiHG3y12Q
(BTW, I don't believe HI uses that style butt cap/pommel cover anymore)
They can...

[gb6491]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxvRzq5Owfk

[Bawanna]

Well today I decided while chanting what one man can do another can do to make another attempt at stag grips on a 1911. In this case Elk horn.
While I'm not totally pleased its the most successful I've done thus far. I got turned around and made to left sides so had to adjust a bit, but I got the mounting hole perfect and spent a lot of time thinning them down, might try a little more thinning but they are about standard thickness now, so a little fine tuning.
This frame is a Magnum Research which are a little bit deeper front to back so the extra frame displayed under the grip won't be as much on other brands. There's hope, maybe a few more attempts I'll get a nice set done.
My room and the shop smell like a dentist office (hate that smell) but we do what we must.

https://i.postimg.cc/MKYF3mHL/DSCN8032.jpg (https://postimg.cc/3dd1dpgj)
https://i.postimg.cc/vTs034sM/DSCN8033.jpg (https://postimg.cc/BLm5vQbw)
https://i.postimg.cc/y8Qrs6FX/DSCN8034.jpg (https://postimg.cc/sMWJJrHv)

Slightly thicker than I like but they will work and we ain't done yet.

So what one man can do another might not be able to but he keeps trying ya know.?

[BirdsThaWord]

Well it looks like you’ve got the grip making thing down, but we may need to re-learn how to field strip a 1911. :boink:

I like the idea of covering more of the frame’s grip width. Sounds like like the Magnum Research grip area is similar to the Springfields, in that they are wider there than most other 1911’s? (I think it was you who pointed that out to me in the past). Not sure why the grip makers out there don’t offer what you are making, the wider grips for those wider framed guns?!?!?

[dustnchips]

I want to see the slide that fits that frame. Very compact. Makes a 1911 into a boot gun.

[gb6491]

Well it looks like you’ve got the grip making thing down, but we may need to re-learn how to field strip a 1911. :boink:

I like the idea of covering more of the frame’s grip width. Sounds like like the Magnum Research grip area is similar to the Springfields, in that they are wider there than most other 1911’s? (I think it was you who pointed that out to me in the past). Not sure why the grip makers out there don’t offer what you are making, the wider grips for those wider framed guns?!?!?
I think it's not that they are wider, but rather the radius of the front strap is different.
I have some grips that cover the front strap of my pre Mil-Spec Springer;):
https://i.postimg.cc/L61RKrqc/recovery1.jpg

[Bawanna]

I couldn't get the barrel bushing to turn, thought I'd use the chop saw and weld it back together. Then I learned there's a wrench for such things. Then I remembered I don't have a welder or know how to weld. Shade tree gun wrench ya know?

[gb6491]

Still, .....a pretty straight cuthttps://www.animatedimages.org/data/media/641/animated-work-smiley-image-0025.gif (https://www.animatedimages.org/cat-work-smileys-and-smilies-641.htm)

[Bawanna]

Well even us shade tree types try to put out quality once in a blue moon.

I think its an excellent candidate to try and learn how to checker a front strap too if I ever get round tuit.

[gb6491]

Well even us shade tree types try to put out quality once in a blue moon.

I think its an excellent candidate to try and learn how to checker a front strap too if I ever get round tuit.
LOL, I'm documented shade tree and proud of the fact. My wife has a photo of me working under a tree changing the head gasket of my old Dakota back when we lived in an apartment. I'll have to see if she has it handy. In the meantime, here's the Dakota on a Yuma dove hunt:
https://i.postimg.cc/4y1RBwc7/dakota.jpg (https://postimages.org/)
I agree that's a fine candidate for checkering practice.
Regards,
Greg

[dustnchips]

Won't them rattlers get them bare legs?

[BirdsThaWord]

Well even us shade tree types try to put out quality once in a blue moon.

I think its an excellent candidate to try and learn how to checker a front strap too if I ever get round tuit.
Here you go sir! Nothing holding you back now! :biggrin1:

16705

[BirdsThaWord]

I think it's not that they are wider, but rather the radius of the front strap is different.
I have some grips that cover the front strap of my pre Mil-Spec Springer;):
https://i.postimg.cc/L61RKrqc/recovery1.jpg

Yep! I think you’ve got it covered (the grip area)! That system makes it look like that ATI you got. Cyborg 1911!!! I’m still looking for my kinda deal on one of those ATI’s, but you just don’t see them around. At least not used, or local.

[gb6491]

Won't them rattlers get them bare legs?
I suppose they could and my wife get's on me about it, but, sidewinders aside, I've not run across any real aggressive rattlers. I worry about my dogs more than my legs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jFaOvlDD_h4
Regards,
Greg

[GROTMAN]

NICE VIDEO GREG BUT NEXT TIME CAN YOU GET A LITTLE CLOSER TO THE SNAKE...COULDN'T QUITE SEE IT AS WELL AS I WOULD HAVE LIKED. JUST SAYIN..:biggrin1:

[gb6491]

NICE VIDEO GREG BUT NEXT TIME CAN YOU GET A LITTLE CLOSER TO THE SNAKE...COULDN'T QUITE SEE IT AS WELL AS I WOULD HAVE LIKED. JUST SAYIN..:biggrin1:
Here's another acquaintance of mine https://www.animatedimages.org/data/media/301/animated-animal-smiley-image-0025.gif (https://www.animatedimages.org/cat-animal-smileys-and-smilies-301.htm)
https://i.postimg.cc/1RNX0RDZ/rs.jpg (https://postimages.org/)
Regards,
Greg


Sorry about the hijack Bawannahttps://www.animatedimages.org/data/media/2152/animated-cool-smiley-image-0099.gif (https://www.animatedimages.org/cat-cool-smileys-and-smilies-2152.htm)

[Bawanna]

Snakes! Why does it always have to be snakes. I watched Raiders of the Lost Ark couple nights ago, now this.

And Greg, that's plenty close enough. Back off and blast him.

[King Rat]

LOL, I'm documented shade tree and proud of the fact. My wife has a photo of me working under a tree changing the head gasket of my old Dakota back when we lived in an apartment. I'll have to see if she has it handy. In the meantime, here's the Dakota on a Yuma dove hunt:
https://i.postimg.cc/4y1RBwc7/dakota.jpg (https://postimages.org/)
I agree that's a fine candidate for checkering practice.
Regards,
Greg

Yuma Dove Hunt. Brings back old memories of when I was a middle school kid and my Father was a Marine stationed there. Got my taste of wing shooting in Yuma. Back then, at least from what I remember, the place was one of the best for Doves. Thanks for the pick. By the way, are you from Yuma? I went to Gila Vista JH.

[gb6491]

Yuma Dove Hunt. Brings back old memories of when I was a middle school kid and my Father was a Marine stationed there. Got my taste of wing shooting in Yuma. Back then, at least from what I remember, the place was one of the best for Doves. Thanks for the pick. By the way, are you from Yuma? I went to Gila Vista JH.
It's still a dove magnet, but there are quite a few more homes out in the groves than there where when I was stationed here 88-93. I played quite a bit of softball at Kennedy Park. Later in life, my wife applied for a job at YRMC (I'm a retired gentleman of leisure), so we moved here about 13 years ago (out in the foothills, east of town).
Regards,
Greg

[BirdsThaWord]

If a snake could be pretty, that one is. Or maybe just a great photo. Surprised you were either able to get so close, or that the picture turned out so well from a distance?

[gb6491]

If a snake could be pretty, that one is. Or maybe just a great photo. Surprised you were either able to get so close, or that the picture turned out so well from a distance?
If it was a cold night (about this time of year), I've come across them early in the morning stretched out either in the sun or waiting for it. They are a bit lethargic(or don't give a squat), but I'm still careful and they don't seem to mind having their photo taken. Once they start moving back over themselves, it's time to move on. YMMV.
I also find some big Gopher snakes sunning themselves. They can give you a start until you recognize what it is.
https://i.postimg.cc/PqxmYCFZ/gopher-snake-2.jpg (https://postimages.org/)
Regards,
Greg

[BirdsThaWord]

Sheez man! And here I thought Florida was full of wild life! Another beautiful shot btw. You could print up a coffee table picture book with those pics. Not sure how many would want a book about snakes staring up at them...

[Bawanna]

Well a full day of Elk Antler under the shade tree in bawannaville. While I'm not ecstatic with the results I advanced considerable and got two sets hanging on guns and working. Again dress not blown up around my ears but a few more tries and the right piece and I might end up with something really good.

Set # 1 here actually came out relatively thin and with most of the bark in place, which is what I've been striving for.
Hanging on my Remington.
https://i.postimg.cc/WbhKgdbY/DSCN8039.jpg (https://postimg.cc/VdPDcLtX)
https://i.postimg.cc/LXxCZSdM/DSCN8040.jpg (https://postimg.cc/vg6LppHP)
https://i.postimg.cc/9fjN61Ps/DSCN8043.jpg (https://postimg.cc/v43z9rNv)
Just a little funky but worked ok with the bobtail.

Set # 2 I hung on my Magnum Research 1911G
These were quite thick and I spent a ton of time trying to get them thinner and still have full coverage. It was getting down to the limit and on this piece there was very little inner marrow, so I was able to remove a lot from the outside which of course removed the bark, but the bark wasn't all that nice on this piece anyhow so I didn't cry for long and didn't even curl up on the kitchen floor in a fatal position and cry for awhile. I might even try a little checkering on these but they are just a tad thicker than I prefer, actually anything other than thin is too thick but they are useable and we'll try them till a better piece comes along.
https://i.postimg.cc/xdyFnHt8/DSCN8045.jpg (https://postimg.cc/PLJMMLGn)
https://i.postimg.cc/sXjHXXNc/DSCN8046.jpg (https://postimg.cc/R3YLpM96)
https://i.postimg.cc/gjrMV7dL/DSCN8047.jpg (https://postimg.cc/p5bYxqmP)

I'm gonna work on finishing some checkering on another wood set I been working, room and shop both smell like a dentist office and I'll stick with sawdust for a day or two, it's saturday right.

[gb6491]

Darn, Bubba, you are getting the hang of it! I especially like that panel in the last photo.

You are right on about the smell. My buddy wanted to use my belt grinder make an antler chandelier. It didn't take long before I had him move it outside. Even using a dust collector. it made my garage smell just like a dentist office.

Regards,
Greg

[BirdsThaWord]

Nice man! I concur, that 2nd set is my favorite too. I know you said you like more bark, and those have less than the 1st pair shown, but to me that white(ish) part of the horn makes them sing on that blued/black gun. Nice set of grips laying in the background too! Some of the buffalo stuff you worked in the past? Very classy looking!

[BirdsThaWord]

“I'm gonna work on finishing some checkering on another wood set I been working, room and shop both smell like a dentist office and I'll stick with sawdust for a day or two, it's saturday right.”
Lol! No sir. Maybe it’s retirement, or the lockdown, but off a little on the day. Didn’t catch that in my first read.
My wife caught me last week calling Wednesday Friday. Easy to lose track of the days! :roll:

[Bawanna]

Received my set of store bought "REAL" stag grips today. They make my heart sing.
If I can ever produce some stag grips as nice as these my life will be complete.
https://i.postimg.cc/xT6SrDhz/DSCN8049.jpg (https://postimg.cc/Tp5smSRd)
https://i.postimg.cc/vZDwb2wS/DSCN8050.jpg (https://postimg.cc/TK84c9wr)

[BirdsThaWord]

I have to admit, those are pretty tight!

[BirdsThaWord]

Are they thin?

[Bawanna]

No! Sadly they are probably about standard thickness but so gosh durn pretty I'll live with them.

[gb6491]

Received my set of store bought "REAL" stag grips today. They make my heart sing.
If I can ever produce some stag grips as nice as these my life will be complete.
https://i.postimg.cc/xT6SrDhz/DSCN8049.jpg (https://postimg.cc/Tp5smSRd)
https://i.postimg.cc/vZDwb2wS/DSCN8050.jpg (https://postimg.cc/TK84c9wr)
Those are indeed fine looking grips and I'm glad to read that they sing to you.https://www.animatedimages.org/data/media/331/animated-beer-image-0035.gif (https://www.animatedimages.org/cat-beer-331.htm)
I see that that Wilson called dibs on them....nice!
Regards,
Greg

BTW, when's the barbecue?

[Bawanna]

Worthy of the Wilson for sure. They may find ride time on others. I was tempted to fix a corner so they could ride my CBob but I'm gonna leave them be.

I got 3 on the shelf with real stag and a couple with decent fake now so things are looking up.

Ever seen stag for a P210?

[gb6491]

Worthy of the Wilson for sure. They may find ride time on others. I was tempted to fix a corner so they could ride my CBob but I'm gonna leave them be.

I got 3 on the shelf with real stag and a couple with decent fake now so things are looking up.

Ever seen stag for a P210?
I have not seen stag on a P210. I can't remember seeing stag on any SIG pistol outside of there 1911 and 1911ish guns.
I even did a quick Google search on the matter, but that was a mistake because I came across this Colt: http://www.dlsports.com/pics/2012-10-08-revolvers/pic-2012-10-08-0148-large.jpg
Must resist.

[BirdsThaWord]

No! Sadly they are probably about standard thickness but so gosh durn pretty I'll live with them. I think I could live with ‘em too! In fact, just pack it up and ship it my way so I can get your BBQ SA in the mail! :madgrin:

[Bawanna]

I have not seen stag on a P210. I can't remember seeing stag on any SIG pistol outside of there 1911 and 1911ish guns.
I even did a quick Google search on the matter, but that was a mistake because I came across this Colt: http://www.dlsports.com/pics/2012-10-08-revolvers/pic-2012-10-08-0148-large.jpg
Must resist.

OH my, that is a temptation, for some reason I've had a burning desire for a Bisley Vaquero of late, not sure where that came from. My 100 year delayed birth might be coming into play.

[Bawanna]

I think I could live with ‘em too! In fact, just pack it up and ship it my way so I can get your BBQ SA in the mail! :madgrin:

Watch for it.

[gb6491]

OH my, that is a temptation, for some reason I've had a burning desire for a Bisley Vaquero of late, not sure where that came from. My 100 year delayed birth might be coming into play.
Oh, don't you dare! I have one on the older, larger frame Vaquero. It's my favorite Vaquero even if it is in .44 Magnum. I think a 5.5 inch barreled, Bisley New Vaquero in .45ACP would be just dandy. If they ever offer one, I would probably be a player.
https://i.postimg.cc/6p6w4JQw/rugersnstag-PS-copy1000.jpg (https://postimages.org/)
Regards,
Greg

[gb6491]

Watch for it.
When they pry your cold, dead hands off of it?

[Bawanna]

When they pry your cold, dead hands off of it?

Pretty much true. I never dreamed I'd ever live to own a Wilson. As your aware I got a super deal on that. It's early entry level but she sure is sweet. No, probably not gonna send it.

You definitely got a corner on the stag in your neck of the woods, looks super on every one of them.
And 45acp is exactly what I was searching for without success of course. Ponder a 357, don't have one. Gave mine to my daughter. I got stuff to load for that and my wife's little 38. 45 Colt is pricey and tougher to deal with.

[gb6491]

The Wilson is very classy, be hard not to bring it to a barbecue.

.357 would surely work.

What's the countdown at as of today?

[Bawanna]

No exact count, the county is always slow. Legally they only have 10 days to approve but most shops insist on waiting.

[Bawanna]

Spent the morning today at the dentist shop. I think I'm close to getting what I want. Thought I was there but then I go to take evidence photo's and I see things I want to make a little better.
We're getting close.

https://i.postimg.cc/FsB1hPHC/Inked-DSCN8052-LI.jpg (https://postimg.cc/tYF95NPF)
https://i.postimg.cc/HxzsRzN2/DSCN8053.jpg (https://postimg.cc/njsJQ4pj)

The picture looks like the bobtail corner isn't right, it is but that's one of the things I'm gonna fix a little bit, taper it off and round a bit more.

These are still a bit thick but they'll work and I might work on thinning some more too. I'm kind a tickled with this set so far.
Can you spot the boo boo's?

[dao]

We could but it's still much better than most of the rest of us could turn out. They're looking mighty nice Colonel!

[Bawanna]

Well couldn't leave well enough alone, just felt fat. Not as tickled with the look, so pulled a switcheroo until I come up with a new plan.
https://i.postimg.cc/bv8RRNft/DSCN8054.jpg (https://postimg.cc/21cvkY6k)
https://i.postimg.cc/xdR3pD9F/DSCN8055.jpg (https://postimg.cc/cKv36zgQ)

I think the dark looks better on stainless anyhow. Probably why I like to leave the bark on the stag, adds dark.

Oh well tomorrows another day. Daughters birthday today so grandkids enroute for dinner and cake with mandatory candles.

[dao]

Those look fantatic Colonel. You've renewed my hope to get a CBob!. Where did you find those grips? (ok to answer after the grandkids and daughter have gone ;o) )

[Bawanna]

Made them too, quite awhile back. You get a Cbob and I'll make another set. No worries. The Cbob discontinued you might have to look for a Vbob which is near the same thing.

[dao]

My LGS guy was able to find one a couple of weeks ago but it was $1495. Am waiting to see if Nancy and Chuck want to buy me another gun.
I really like those medallions. Do you have another set of those to use?

[Bawanna]

I think I can still get them, keep meaning to order some. When I first found the Cbob's you could get them for less than 800 all day long, then the Vbob was introduced and the Cbob's instantly went up to 12 or 1300.
I think CZ just figured they made such a quality gun they could get more for it, so rather than just jack the price they introduced a new model and asked more loot.
Still well worth it in my book but wish I'd bought the first one I saw for around 750, by the time I went for it, I paid like 1100 or something from North Carolina. Still happy to have it and will never part with it, carry it more than any other.

[GROTMAN]

NICE WORK ON BOTH BUT THE DARKER SET DEFINATELY STANDS OUT BETTER IN MY OPINION. :yo:

[dao]

I really do hope I can find one when I decide to pick one up. And when I do I would like to talk with you about making one or two sets of grips for me if you're willing. One for the CBob or VBob and one for my Guardian. Thanks Colonel

[gb6491]

Colonel, you have really stepped up your stag game. I look forward to seeing the product you are happy with.
Pour some pewter into them holes....once upon a time, there was this deer that took a couple of rounds to the antlers while saving a baby from a boatload of pirates.;)

[gb6491]

BTW Colonel, now that you are well on your way to mastering the art of stag grips, are you familiar with Potassium Permanganate?

[Bawanna]

BTW Colonel, now that you are well on your way to mastering the art of stag grips, are you familiar with Potassium Permanganate?

I'm not sure mastering the art is viable yet but I feel much closer than I was awhile ago.
I have no clue what Potassium Permanganate is other than I know it isn't a brand of scotch, but I could be wrong there too.

[gb6491]

I'm not sure mastering the art is viable yet but I feel much closer than I was awhile ago.
I have no clue what Potassium Permanganate is other than I know it isn't a brand of scotch, but I could be wrong there too.
It's a powder or crystals (I've heard it called a salt). It's used to treat skin problems and to treat water. When mixed with water or rubbing alcohol it produces a pink to purple color. Folks use it salvage antler that has turned white, the purple color turns brown as the solution dries. I'm pretty sure some of the stag grips on eBay have been treated with the stuff....especially some that are listed as aged.
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=potassium+permanganate+antler s (https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=potassium+permanganate+antler s)

[Bawanna]

I googled it and found what it was but didn't see the application you mention. I'll order some now. Might be just what I need. The last set I hung on my CBob was near exactly what I was looking for looks wise but just too thick and bulky feeling. I'll work on them some more while I'm waiting for Potassium Permanganate.

Thanks as always for the tip.

[dao]

Colonel what kind of wood was that you used on the Armor of God grips?

[Bawanna]

Wenge wood. I have plenty of it. Usually not a real crowd pleaser but I kind of like the stuff. Not the easiest to checker but it's a good solid wood.

I also found a few variations of the Armor of God pins, some very similar, some different but I like them equally well. I might order a few to have on hand.

[dao]

With the reddish tint to it those grips would look good on both a stainless finish as well as the black duty finish. Wenge wood is a hardwood? Would you care to post some pics of the medallions that you ordered?

[Bawanna]

I didn't order any yet but I intend to get the same as in my grips if I can, also a couple that are a slight variation.

I got the stag that I posted photos' of earlier down to near super thin, they feel good and the looks are acceptable. They don't fully cover the frame and the left side panel has just a tiny bit of the frame cut out exposed, just a sliver. Acceptable for my own use.

I shall try again. I ordered some of the magic potion Greg mentioned and will see what effect that has. I have one side of a elk rack left that may see the saw here pretty soon.

[dao]

I do think that a nice set of antler grips look as nice as any grips out there. Especially on something like a 1911 that has been around for such a long time. Sounds like the potassium permanganate could add some character to them as well.

[dao]

Couldn't wait on Nancy and Chuck to pay for my next gun. So my LGS guy bid on a Classic for me yesterday and ours was the only bid so we won! Pricey but I think it is well worth it. Now crossing my fingers to see if it is flawless as I want it to be. Described as New but we've never done business with the seller before. Supposed to come in 2nd Day Air so I should be able to see and hold it no later than Friday. Then the long wait for the BC.

[Bawanna]

Well I just applied some Potassium Permanganate to a set of grips that I liked the thickness of but didn't sing too good. They actually came on the 1942 Korean bring back I got years ago. They were thick and hideous to begin with. Someone had varnished them or something, didn't do the beautiful 1911 justice at all.
Went to a drawer but I occasionally got them out and messed with them. Eventually I got them nice and thin but lost most of the character.
I think this stuff is gonna change the whole picture in a very positive way. I'll post some pictures after a bit. Let them dry etc. I'm kind of jazzed. This might open up a whole new bunch of antler.

[Bawanna]

Well to me at least I have some pleasing results to share. The Pomegranite juice is the ticket. Super easy, super fast and near as I can tell plumb idiot proof. I mean it worked for me ya know?

Here is a shot of one side as it was and one with the juice applied.
https://i.postimg.cc/1R6KjqtV/Stag-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/vDY91D5G)
Both with the juice.
https://i.postimg.cc/28DxRSbc/Stag-2.jpg (https://postimg.cc/w3wNDHkL)
After it dried which didn't take long, I hit it with some scotchbrite pad, didn't do a lot, then some 320 grit paper which cut a bit and showed some high spots, finally some steel wool which really was the ticket, it cleaned and brought the character to life.

I'll be experimenting more and some of the antler that I haven't considered is now up for consideration as this stuff will add the music for a look that I prefer. I think the darker "aged" look is much nicer on a stainless gun. The natural is fine and maybe preferred on a blued gun. If you have anything but blued or stainless your gun don't deserve stag.

https://i.postimg.cc/VLWWYPXY/DSCN8059.jpg (https://postimg.cc/sv1hc8n8)

I'll post the other side in a minute when I cover up the SN.
https://i.postimg.cc/SK6yPdwt/Stag-2.jpg (https://postimg.cc/xkdDJvjK)
Plumb hot in these parts today, been outside mostly, kind of cookin myself, kind of nice actually.

[BirdsThaWord]

I think they look great. Very, very aged. I had to look up Potassium Permanganate. How you discovered to put a disinfectant on grips.....are they covid proof now? I guess you are the mad scientist of gun grips! Unless you meant the pomegranate juice? Either way, I would have never thought to go there.

[Bawanna]

Once again for about the 3,927th time this month our man Greg provided the idea. I swear he's the smartest man alive.
It's the ticket for sure.

[dao]

They sure have character now. I think Greg has put you onto something good here Colonel. If you play around with it you might find that if you apply it with a brush intended for paint by number you can change the coloring selectively to make them appear like they came off the animal like that, recently. As in looking less "aged" overall but with brown sections/lines in select places on each panel. Something to experiment with anyway.

[BirdsThaWord]

Once again for about the 3,927th time this month our man Greg provided the idea. I swear he's the smartest man alive.
It's the ticket for sure.
That guy is a walking guncyclopedia!

[Bawanna]

They sure have character now. I think Greg has put you onto something good here Colonel. If you play around with it you might find that if you apply it with a brush intended for paint by number you can change the coloring selectively to make them appear like they came off the animal like that, recently. As in looking less "aged" overall but with brown sections/lines in select places on each panel. Something to experiment with anyway.

One can easily just sand more off and it will reveal the natural color. It's especially effective on like the antler I mentioned that has no color but has a nice textured surface. Throw the juice to it, let it dry and sand off the high spots and you'll have exactly what you describe.
I suppose I could cut some depressions in the surface and accomplish much the same thing. Lots of potential here, I'm all tingly thinking about it. Kind of coasting now though, heats sapping my tiny bit of reserve. Might have to uncap a Longmire Rainier and rehydrate.

[BirdsThaWord]

Yer gonna make me wear a hole in tha google. It took a bit to find what the heck a Longmire Rainier was. Apparently Mr Longmire liked to drink the Rainier beers, which I’ve never heard of. So now, should I go and try to watch Longmire, which I never have, or should I try to find some of that beer? So few hours in the day...

[dao]

By all means Colonel, a man's got to have priorities. And a nice, cold Rainier would be right at the top of the list!

You described what I was visualizing way better than I could articulate it. And the sanding would do the trick. Much better than a small brush. Can't wait to see some of the grips you come up with. Might even have to ask you to make me a set for my Classic when I have it in hand.

Looks like it will be Tuesday before I can handle it for the first time. The seller/distributor has been impacted by Covid like a lot of folks so they were a bit slower to get it shipped than I had hoped would be the case.

[Bawanna]

Yer gonna make me wear a hole in tha google. It took a bit to find what the heck a Longmire Rainier was. Apparently Mr Longmire liked to drink the Rainier beers, which I’ve never heard of. So now, should I go and try to watch Longmire, which I never have, or should I try to find some of that beer? So few hours in the day...

It's a great series on Netflix. He's one smart cookie. I wish they'd do a few more seasons. I loved that show. I even rewatch from time to time.

[Artie]

You could do up a set of panels for a Ruger SP101.

Love the program.

[Bawanna]

I've done several SP101's. Surprisingly they are kind of tough to get just right. Early on I did several sets and got them perfect, now I seem to struggle. I just did a set a couple weeks ago.

I should post some picks and clean out the grip drawer one of these days.

[Artie]

I know what you can do sir I have a couple Ruger SP 101s wearing your work. I would like some more.

One set of antler with the juice treatment and one set of cocobolo with a diamond and skip line checkering.

I need to look at this Ruger GP100 with lazer grips and see if the panels are the same as the regular panels and decide what I want to do there.

[Bawanna]

https://i.postimg.cc/Gmzwy5wr/SP101.png (https://postimg.cc/4YKSCwxF)
https://i.postimg.cc/zXC1Jfxy/DSCN8061.jpg (https://postimg.cc/svgLm3dz)

Not totally happy but close. Trying to take something that wants to be round and make it flat within a certain size and shape is challenging.
This is my wife's 22 SP101 and she likes her lazer grips so guess I can try again when the mood strikes.

[Bawanna]

Got some Armor of God pins in. Thought they sold individually so ordered 4. Turns out they come in pairs so I got 8, happy day. That's what I wanted anyway but didn't want to spent the loot.

Anyhow hung one pair in a set of 1911 grips, turned out pretty durn nice for once.
https://i.postimg.cc/DZ7LSZKx/Armor-2.jpg (https://postimg.cc/671ySBqZ)
https://i.postimg.cc/Xvf9N5tZ/Armor-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/cKJvXvxZ)

[dao]

Those are sharp!

[mr surveyor]

16775

I'm still tickled pink with my 10 year old inserts from Master Joe. Six day a week carry in every imaginable normal East Texas weather, thousands of rounds through the bore. I'm still happy :)


jd

[Bawanna]

That was one of the early sets that turned out nice. Those look sharp iffen I do say so my own self.

Somebody here awhile back was asking about these Armor of God pins and wondered if I could still get them.

I don't recollect exactly who that was, but let me know and we'll fix you up.

[dao]

Same grips on two Dan Wessons. Wenge wood with Armor of God medallions.

They feel perfect in the hand with just the right depth of checkering. I'm sorry but I just can't send these back to you. PM in bound.

The man has skills. Thank you Colonel!

[Bawanna]

Those look durn nice on both guns to me. Looks like they even fit pretty good. Blind hog gets an occasional acorn you know.

Your a lucky man with two Dan Wessons, I got enough trouble trying poorly to keep up with Greg, now I gotta get a blued Dan Wesson? Naw I concede you win.

[dao]

Well, I considered sending a thank you card to Nancy and Chuck for the Classic. Just to thank them for the new gun. But I decided to take the high road, and just vote for The Donald again in November.

[Bawanna]

Atta boy!

[Bawanna]

Well today I took my first stab at stabilizing my own wood. I got the stuff to do it about 3 years ago as a Christmas gift. I read up and watched video's and thought what a time consuming and scary process.
Finally today I decided enough is enough even though I was semi skeered I thought, what the heck. Most I can do is screw up the pump and fail.

I using stuff called Cactus Juice which is a heat activated resin. I've done the soak and the vacuum chamber today and it's in the toaster oven now for 4 hours or so and we'll see what we got. I could tell the very dry wood soaked up a lot of the resin both in volume and the weight of the wood. Optimistic.

I did goof and release the vacuum a bit to quickly which resulted in sucking resin back into the pump but I noticed it right off and shut it down, drained the oil, flushed and refilled so hopefully no long lasting damage to the expensive pump.

I'll get a report out tomorrow when the process is over. Fingers crossed.

[getsome]

Have you tried those little blue pills you can get off the internet?....They work pretty good and do the same thing but with a lot less hassle and mess, although some Cactus Juice might be interesting...:cool:

[Bawanna]

Oh you wicked wicked boy. I just use a couple popsicle sticks and some duct tape for that.

[340pd]

This thread could go downhill very quickly. Interesting in how the wood turns out and good luck removing the duct tape. I found it to be very painful.

[getsome]

Well ever since Jocko went and lit out leaving us I figured somebody has to pick up the slack....Anyway good luck with your wood project boss, hope it turns out like you want it to.....

[gb6491]

How's the project progressing Colonel?17050

[Bawanna]

I kind of got side tracked on the follow up, my youngest son the Marine got an apartment and was moving out, still a work in progress but he's close.
The project I consider a success especially for a first time and quite a learning experience. The final product I think accomplished it's purpose in taking not usable soft wood and making it usable.
It is quite a time consuming and involved task but like most things will become easier although still time consuming.

Here's a shot of the needed stuff to do it.
https://i.postimg.cc/nz5HpjHX/DSCN8125.jpg (https://postimg.cc/BLTWCvP3)
Up top the vacuum pot. I can do pieces flat up to about 6". Then the pump oil and the jug of Cactus Juice.
Below that is the toaster oven and the pump.

The wife convinced me to just throw caution to the wind and try a dye. I kind of wish I'd just went clear but the dye definitely added to the learning experience.

To kind of abbreviate, here's the process.
Need to have absolutely dry wood. Zero moisture. This wood was bone dry but it was still suggested to bake it for 3 or 4 hours. I don't have a moisture gauge so I baked it to be safe. Then into a plastic wrap (I used a zip lock bag) to make sure no moisture gets back into the wood if your not going right into the vacuum pot.
Then put the pieces in the bottom of the vacuum pot and weight them down so they don't float.
Add the Cactus Juice to fully cover the wood plus about an inch.
One fella ( I watched a lot of video's) recommended just letting it soak for an hour. This worked well as I used the hour to help with the son's moving.
Then we get to the scary part for me which was applying the vacuum. The pump is quite expensive, the oil level and cleanliness are critical. This one confused me as it had 3 ports coming out of a manifold. Turns out they are different sizes for different connections so not scary at all really once my simple mind figured that part out.
Once I figured out how to get a vacuum going, had to apply a bit of pressure on the lid to get a proper seal, it starts to bubble. Have to watch and if the bubbling gets near the lid you have to ease off on the vacuum and let the bubbles subside which they do quickly. Then after a few minutes the bubbles aren't as heavy but continue.
I realized that once I achieved the vacuum I could shut the pump off and it maintained and the bubbles continued.
One learning step here was to release the vacuum very slowly, I did it too quick and it sucked the resin back up into the pump. I was afraid of that. Anyhow I shut it down, drained the oil, made a trip to town to get more pump oil and flushed and refilled.
Restarted the process which was actually fine as again the fella recommended doing the whole process twice. Getting the initial vacuum and watching the bubbles. On the second round I got very few bubbles.

Then it's a waiting game for about 4 hours just soaking. Even suggested it was ok to leave over night which I'll probably do next time.

Guess this isn't very abbreviated after all and we're not there yet.

After the 4 hours another learning experience. The stuff is still very liquid at this point. You remove the wood from the resin and wrap it in tin foil (individual pieces). I just did like I saw and wiped off the excess with my finger and wrapped in the foil. I will go to much more effort in wiping off all excess next time. It just stays on the outside and after 4 hours in the toaster oven if plenty hard. Even wrapped in foil it leaked out all over the oven which of course was smoking something fierce. Ended up double wrapping after we wiped all the stuff out of the oven.
The oven temp is apparently quite critical and needs to be at 200 degrees. I got a oven temp gauge as suggested. If too hot it sets the outside to quickly and the inside won't set up and the piece will be ruined. Not hot enough is better and just cook it longer. Guess you can't over cook.
My toaster oven that came with the gift of all this stuff has a timer that only goes to 30 minutes. I'd like to eliminate that so I don't have to watch the clock so much, if I'm late the oven turns off, the temp of course drops and I have to get it back right at the 200 degree mark. Another learning experience.

I neglected to take pictures of how they come out of the foil except one test piece I added here.
https://i.postimg.cc/wTDs4HVX/DSCN8126.jpg (https://postimg.cc/jLd5CpB2)
https://i.postimg.cc/hhRcQkQg/DSCN8127.jpg (https://postimg.cc/Mf5hhrYr)

The other pieces were quite built up with the very blue resin. Took quite a bit of time at the belt sander to get down to the wood.

This was the result.
https://i.postimg.cc/XNRCgXwN/DSCN8129.jpg (https://postimg.cc/s1Jxjj6b)
The bottom long pieces are the same wood before anything was done to it.
https://i.postimg.cc/DfJGs14Y/DSCN8128.jpg (https://postimg.cc/Cd0dpBNj)
Untreated wood. Very light, pretty soft. It would crack, shrink and warp with weather changes for sure.
https://i.postimg.cc/XqCnJjJQ/DSCN8130.jpg (https://postimg.cc/ct0pkNfn)

I cut the end off the test piece and it appears the resin did go all the way through. I'll know more for sure when I do some shaping for a grip or knife handle.

I plan to cut up some pieces for pen blanks to see how that works out too.

The Cactus juice has a shelf life of 6 months once the hardener is added to the gallon jug. After stabilizing, the juice that is left in the tank can be reused as often as you like. Another reason to wipe off all of the excess and get it back in the jug.

Have to have a container in this case for the blue dyed stuff unless I intend to do everything blue which I don't. Next attempt I think I will do with no dye or very little. Came with 5 or 6 different dyes which can be mixed and matched.

So that concludes my first stabilizing saga. I got lots of wood that needs it and I'm not quite as afraid to do it after this maiden voyage.

I'll keep ya posted.

[dustnchips]

The bigger pieces looked like spalted maple. is that right or is it something else.

[Bawanna]

I believe it is spalted maple. Pretty stuff. I have another pile of little pieces I just cut to run in the next batch, some mesquite, Zebra, mixed stuff. Some for pen blanks, mostly grip stuff.

[Bawanna]

I was just looking at moisture meters. Some online for like 13 bucks, as usual I looked at comparisons and thought I'll get the best. Turns out the best is 489 bucks. So I think that ones off the table. In fact I think I'll forgo the whole deal. Just cook the wood good and go for it.
Not rocket science.

[Bawanna]

Note to self-----when drying wood in the toaster oven to eliminate moisture, keep it on warm only.

Just lost a couple small pieces that apparently burst into flames and incinerated. Guess the timer is a good thing in some respects. It apparently switched off and the fire went out.

I at least had it out in the shop so in case something like this did happen it wouldn't burn the whole place down, course the day ain't over yet.

[getsome]

Bawanna, brotherman, I hope you will forgive me for my lame attempt at humor to start this thread, I didn't mean any harm and it was stupid and I'm sorry for derailing your thread.....You are the master at all things wood working and your latest project looks way cool but keep the fire extinguishers handy just in case.....In a hope to clear things up I will quote Ms. Emila Litella from Saturday Night Live years ago when she said....."Never Mind"...

[yqtszhj]

Note to self-----when drying wood in the toaster oven to eliminate moisture, keep it on warm only.

Just lost a couple small pieces that apparently burst into flames and incinerated. Guess the timer is a good thing in some respects. It apparently switched off and the fire went out.

I at least had it out in the shop so in case something like this did happen it wouldn't burn the whole place down, course the day ain't over yet.

My wife must have taught you how to cook. First round always comes out burned or raw, no in between..... I hope she don’t see this post.

[Bawanna]

Bawanna, brotherman, I hope you will forgive me for my lame attempt at humor to start this thread, I didn't mean any harm and it was stupid and I'm sorry for derailing your thread.....You are the master at all things wood working and your latest project looks way cool but keep the fire extinguishers handy just in case.....In a hope to clear things up I will quote Ms. Emila Litella from Saturday Night Live years ago when she said....."Never Mind"...

Aw crap getsome, I took you totally seriously and put a half dozen popsicle sticks in to do with the next batch. Thought they be stronger, denser (that means harder). Still working on the painful duct tape removal.

[gb6491]

My wife must have taught you how to cook. First round always comes out burned or raw, no in between..... I hope she don’t see this post.
Dead man walking if she does?

[gb6491]

Great thread Bawanna! Thank you for the detailed post. I found it very informative and have saved it all as a .pdf for future reference.
Regards,
Greg

[Bawanna]

I just finished up a set of grips with the first batch, I'll go take a picture.

I got another batch in the vacuum as we speak and I suspect it will come out different. Found that if I left the pump running the bubbles continue. Started at 11:15 now 3:00 and still bubbling so I'll leave it till the bubbles stop. Then let it set over night and start cooking tomorrow.

I suspect there will be a better penetration. I assumed since the vacuum pressure remained high it was still doing it's thing but leaving the pump running which it is designed to do it keeps adding the pressure I guess. Maybe it is rocket science.

I'll go take a picture.

[Bawanna]

https://i.postimg.cc/ry51nGsD/DSCN8131.jpg (https://postimg.cc/3WJ0Wvgh)

https://i.postimg.cc/wTHhStR0/DSCN8132.jpg (https://postimg.cc/G978DmQy)

I'm pleased with the look and it added a bunch of stability. Unlike the good stabilized wood I've gotten in the past which I believe is an epoxy based resin, this stuff does not fill voids. In this case that's fine as there were no voids and I picked wood accordingly.
The epoxy based stuff will not take oil or anything, all you do is buff it on a polishing wheel. Doesn't seem to work with this stuff. It took oil which really brought out the colors.
That is fine by me if they are durable and not brittle.
Again I think this next batch of wood will be different. Might be a whole new scenario if I'm finally doing it exactly right. I know I didn't sweat as much doing it today but the day ain't over yet.

To be continued.

[AJBert]

I really like the way those grips came out! If you don't like them and are thinking of tossing them, I have a special rejected wood projects area that I can put them in for you.

[Bawanna]

I really like the way those grips came out! If you don't like them and are thinking of tossing them, I have a special rejected wood projects area that I can put them in for you.

I'll refine them a little bit and send them to you. You can be a product tester. I think they are going to be alright but no way to know until time goes by and they get shot.

Had one set I made from some stabilized wood given to me. Actually made them for our highly respected Admin JohnH. Fortunately for some reason I put them on my gun and shot them before I sent them. First shot they cracked in half right between the screws. Too brittle.

[Bawanna]

Just unwrapped another batch out of the foil.
https://i.postimg.cc/nrmPGmKf/Stabil-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/XBVLVpDs)

I wiped it down a lot more than the first batch but still quite a bit of excess on the outside. Easily off with the belt sander.
https://i.postimg.cc/5NcGNP14/Stabil-2.jpg (https://postimg.cc/w3VFwQ7Z)

Threw in some pieces for pen blanks to see how the stuff spins.
https://i.postimg.cc/BZPk0rr7/Stabil-4.jpg (https://postimg.cc/grdNyTk3)

Starting to get a bit organized but really need to toss a bunch of stuff. Nice this time of year, not cold and only a bit warm. Nice.
https://i.postimg.cc/MKyLcyKy/Stabil-3.jpg (https://postimg.cc/rKwj3R4m)

On first observation I don't see a lot of difference in the end result even though this vacuumed for like 6 hours bubbling the whole time and cooked for 3 plus. I'll know more when I work it some and see how the inside acts. Still isn't sealed and hence impervious to oil, water, etc. Does seem much harder and heavier so definitely benefits.

The saga continues.

[dustnchips]

I don't see how this treatment could make wood impervious to oil and water. It will fill the pores through and through, but it would still have wood fiber. As far as I know, wood fiber must be coated with something to become impervious. The oil or water would not saturate into the pores like untreated wood though. Can a thin layer of cactus juice be applied to a finished product and then baked again?

[Bawanna]

Good thought on the coating and baking, not sure. I'm thinking it probably wouldn't work though as after it comes out of the foil, excess remains on the surface and it's kind of like plastic. It's like water to start with. I'll try a piece just for grins sometimes and see what it does.

The epoxy based stabilized wood is completely impervious. You can weigh it down in water and it will take water but take it out and all the water will drain out. You can't stain or oil it as it won't penetrate. Different process, not sure how it's done, no doubt much more complicated and expensive than this.

This should work fine for my purposes. As long as it doesn't end up brittle and prone to cracking which it doesn't seem to do so far.

[dustnchips]

I love to try it on a bowl, but it would take a pretty big vacuum pot and a toaster oven would never do for the baking. Not sure I would want to risk a mess in my oven.

[Bawanna]

They strongly discourage using the kitchen oven even if the wife is out of town. A bigger pot and a oven out in the shop would be nice. Course it would take a lot more Cactus Juice which is not cheap I found out. Thought I'd order another jug so I could try clear and another color. I'll have to save up for a bit.

[AJBert]

I'll be more than happy to be the test dummy to test out your grips. I need to get the wife out shooting her Sig 238 and the .30-30 for the upcoming hunting season. Thank you very much!

[dustnchips]

The cactus juice is the cheapest part of the first batch. Looks to me like the first batch costs 4-5 hundred bucks.

[Bawanna]

True. Depends on the pump. My wife and daughter got me a really good pump which was where most of my apprehension came from, I didn't want to mess it up. Easily 500 to start.
But being able to take really pretty otherwise unusable wood and make something with it is a pretty cool thing.

I love the wood I get once in awhile from WSSI a stabilizing outfit. But at 30 to 50 bucks for a piece for one grip set, too pricey. Course one could get a lot of pieces for the 500 start price I guess.

Sort of like paying 40 grand for a car that gets 25 miles to the gallon, buy a lot of gas for your paid off 10 mile per gallon model.

[dustnchips]

It's a hobby, so cost doesn't matter. Just try to justify the cost of all of your guns or the ammo you shoot up. There are no pockets in a coffin so you might as well enjoy it.

[Bawanna]

I'm taking all my guns with me, saving up for a crane to pick up the box.

[GROTMAN]

https://i.postimg.cc/ry51ngsd/dscn8131.jpg (https://postimg.cc/3wj0wvgh)

https://i.postimg.cc/wthhstr0/dscn8132.jpg (https://postimg.cc/g978dmqy)

i'm pleased with the look and it added a bunch of stability. Unlike the good stabilized wood i've gotten in the past which i believe is an epoxy based resin, this stuff does not fill voids. In this case that's fine as there were no voids and i picked wood accordingly.
The epoxy based stuff will not take oil or anything, all you do is buff it on a polishing wheel. Doesn't seem to work with this stuff. It took oil which really brought out the colors.
That is fine by me if they are durable and not brittle.
Again i think this next batch of wood will be different. Might be a whole new scenario if i'm finally doing it exactly right. I know i didn't sweat as much doing it today but the day ain't over yet.

To be continued.

i love the looks of those grips. They look kind of arizona( y ) ,ajbert you better get them before greg does... Just sayin.

[Bawanna]

Merged this stabilizing thread into the grip emporium.

Great news. I made a second set of the green camo wood which starts out blue and somehow turns green??? Go figure.
The good news is checkering it doesn't take away from the grain and color of the wood.

Here's how this set looked starting out. Just about gave up, didn't see much hope in these pieces.
https://i.postimg.cc/zftjrKSR/DSCN8140.jpg (https://postimg.cc/wtNJ5tr6)

One side checkered and oiled.
https://i.postimg.cc/B6RB83zS/DSCN8141.jpg (https://postimg.cc/TLqDSzGF)

One set checkered, the other smooth.
https://i.postimg.cc/HW7tqJJV/DSCN8143.jpg (https://postimg.cc/WtTrr1wv)

And made a pen and pencil, the pen is the same wood, the pencil is similar wood. It spins good and didn't blow up on the lathe which is another good sign.
https://i.postimg.cc/x1P56WX5/DSCN8146.jpg (https://postimg.cc/tsYFTvtn)

Been kind of whoopin it, think I'll go hit the recliner and some Rifleman and Wagon Train for a little break.

[dao]

You're on to something there Colonel. Those grips look fantastic. They kind of remind me of the coloring you see on very old maps. Distinctive any way you look at em.

[AJBert]

Glad you sent me over here, I was waiting on an update in the other thread. Both sets look great!

[CharlieW]

Fantastic looking grips - just beautiful!

[Bawanna]

Thanks Charlie.

[getsome]

Beautiful and amazing work sir, you are gifted and a true craftsman to be able to make the things you do....

[jeepster09]

Wow!!!!


merged this stabilizing thread into the grip emporium.

Great news. I made a second set of the green camo wood which starts out blue and somehow turns green??? Go figure.
The good news is checkering it doesn't take away from the grain and color of the wood.

Here's how this set looked starting out. Just about gave up, didn't see much hope in these pieces.
https://i.postimg.cc/zftjrksr/dscn8140.jpg (https://postimg.cc/wtnj5tr6)

one side checkered and oiled.
https://i.postimg.cc/b6rb83zs/dscn8141.jpg (https://postimg.cc/tlqdszgf)

one set checkered, the other smooth.
https://i.postimg.cc/hw7tqjjv/dscn8143.jpg (https://postimg.cc/wttrr1wv)

and made a pen and pencil, the pen is the same wood, the pencil is similar wood. It spins good and didn't blow up on the lathe which is another good sign.
https://i.postimg.cc/x1p56wx5/dscn8146.jpg (https://postimg.cc/tsyftvtn)

been kind of whoopin it, think i'll go hit the recliner and some rifleman and wagon train for a little break.

[berettabone]

Just had a chance to see the new grips. They look nice, and different from the usual grips you see out there which is a good thing.

[CharlieW]

Are those new grips spoken for, or are any of them for sale?

[Bawanna]

I can make ya some Charlie, sent a PM.

[jeepster09]

......

[BirdsThaWord]

Man, you’ve got some skills! Very nice logo design!!!

[Bawanna]

That is nice, wish I could get something like that made. Burn it into stuff or something.

[jeepster09]

Christmas is coming.....so is your sign :=]

[Bawanna]

Seriously?

[jeepster09]

....

[jeepster09]

MY awesome new CAMO grips! :w00t:

[Bawanna]

Looks like they fit....how do they feel? For some reason they look thick. Now I see what that one notch was for...extended slide release.

[jeepster09]

Looks like they fit....how do they feel? For some reason they look thick. Now I see what that one notch was for...extended slide release.

Not thick...feel good.

[Bawanna]

Did another couple batches of the stabilized maple. My fake stag grips on my Ruger broke at the mounting screw again, so started whittling out some new handles. Little bit of fine tuning and get the mounting screw attached and we're on the track.

https://i.postimg.cc/jdQSxkPM/Ruger-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/nCrJT2dm)

https://i.postimg.cc/4xfNmb1s/Ruger-2.jpg (https://postimg.cc/dLfKfCXx)

Been an all day party but keeps me off the street.

[CharlieW]

Those revolver grips look great !! I am still trying to figure out how to take a pic of the grips you made for me that I can post -- my iPhone pics are way too big. If anybody knows how to "shrink" a 4MB iPhone pic down to meet the forum requirements, let me know.

[Bawanna]

I sent you my email address. If you send them I'll see if I can shrink them.

[gb6491]

Did another couple batches of the stabilized maple. My fake stag grips on my Ruger broke at the mounting screw again, so started whittling out some new handles. Little bit of fine tuning and get the mounting screw attached and we're on the track.

https://i.postimg.cc/jdQSxkPM/Ruger-1.jpg (https://postimg.cc/nCrJT2dm)

https://i.postimg.cc/4xfNmb1s/Ruger-2.jpg (https://postimg.cc/dLfKfCXx)

Been an all day party but keeps me off the street.
Those are looking real good:cool:

[Bawanna]

Put a wrap on this set, I installed the grip screw. Took them out to the buffing wheel (driving rain) and unlike the previous sets, they actually polished up pretty nice. I cooked these longer to get them dry and they really soaked up the resin, so I will put more effort into that part, maybe things will get even better.

They didn't crack or do anything bad installing the grip screw eschustions so that's a good sign in itself.

https://i.postimg.cc/W46vVwSL/Ruger-3.jpg (https://postimg.cc/XZJhcFTQ)

https://i.postimg.cc/DzKTRMrP/Ruger-4.jpg (https://postimg.cc/G4zVyzS4)

Got a little pile of wood in the back ground so I'll ponder what to whittle next. Maybe tomorrow.
Fighting another kidney stone or something today but the pain is easing up so maybe this too has passed. 3rd round in about that many weeks.

[CharlieW]

I sent you my email address. If you send them I'll see if I can shrink them.

Thanks, Bawanna -- we haven't had much sun this week; I get some photos taken of the grips on my guns in the next couple of days
and send them to you.

[Bawanna]

In a rare moment of motivation I put some antler handles on a little knife a fella sent me several years ago. I put some wood on it initially way back when and it was nice but it didn't sing. Kind of languished in a drawer.
Decided I really liked the blade shape and needed to address the music, so I knocked off the wood and put on some antler. The sheath that came with it rode too low on the belt for a full time sitter such as myself so I made a tupperware that rides nice and high. Just finished up a few minutes ago.

https://i.postimg.cc/YSk4K5NH/DSCN8168.jpg (https://postimg.cc/zytDTPPt)
https://i.postimg.cc/HkbJNYyz/DSCN8169.jpg (https://postimg.cc/9DFFRj1w)
https://i.postimg.cc/7YFGXGfb/DSCN8167.jpg (https://postimg.cc/fJvRRb7h)

Now in search of the next victim.

[jeepster09]

That looks good.

[Armybrat]

Much nicer than wood. Me like.

[gb6491]

Nice work on that knife and sheath Bawanna!
I'm still digging that knife(with stag handles by Bawanna) you sent me:)
https://i.postimg.cc/9F8tsh3M/akbstagbawanna.jpg (https://postimages.org/)
Regards,
Greg

[jeepster09]

Nice work on that knife and sheath Bawanna!
I'm still digging that knife(with stag handles by Bawanna) you sent me:)
https://i.postimg.cc/9F8tsh3M/akbstagbawanna.jpg (https://postimages.org/)
Regards,
Greg

Now that there is gorgeous! If you are struggling for ideas for Christmas for me :yo:.....that will work! :2eek:

[Bawanna]

Now that there is gorgeous! If you are struggling for ideas for Christmas for me :yo:.....that will work! :2eek:

Have you been a good little boy this year?

[getsome]

That sir is a right fine looking hog sticker.....Ya done a real nice job boss, it's a beautiful thing to behold....

[Bawanna]

I got to fondling my relatively new Ruger 22/45 today and found the fake stag grips....well fake. Didn't sing for me.
https://i.postimg.cc/fygLvm42/22-45-3.jpg (https://postimg.cc/64ntW7pn)

I also just didn't gel with the import cheapo red dot monstrosity that I've hung on lots of toys only to remove when I find I don't really dig it.
https://i.postimg.cc/fybyX5PS/22-45-4.jpg (https://postimg.cc/wyS9Y5g9)

So I took it off and pounded the factory rear sight back on.

After looking at Gregs version I tried to replace the levers on my newer version but didn't come up with anything that would work. Buttons like he has make it mucho easier to fit a 1911 grip without a bunch of butchering.

Alas I went to the grip drawer and found this set and did the butchering and installed. For today I'm happier and it sings louder than the fake stag.

https://i.postimg.cc/3xdh2bks/DSCN8180.jpg (https://postimg.cc/ZWtXSHFH)
https://i.postimg.cc/DyCFJKwQ/DSCN8181.jpg (https://postimg.cc/6yGFggRT)

[gb6491]

Oh my!....much nicer!

[jocko]

Heh guys , old JOCKO here! Yahoo Bawanna finally let me off probation. I didn’t know it was going to be 3 years🙈 any got done bad bees in my trusty blunt nose PM9 if you go to THE FIREARMS GUY, he did a field test for Karh on my PM9 which then had over 45m rounds thru it. He did a nice review.
Anyway while shooting it bsck here at hind on some steel targets with new blazer ammo. I got a massive overload sn IG literally blew my pm9 apart. Blew the chsmber wide open sn cracked the barrel all the way Bkew extractor to somewhere. Blew the bottom of the frame with the two slide trails apart. Other than a stinging hand, I must credit tge Kahr as absorbing all the punishment . Naturally BLAZER People blamed the gun, even though I showed tge tge picture of tge wide open chsmber with their cartridge case still stuck.
So I had a spare BLUNT NOSE PM9 that took its place.csnt remember seeing a handgun chsmber ESPECIALKY one as thick as kahrs ever split wide open like that.did I spare anything from this? Believe it or not the slide is perfect 👍
Anyway thanks bawanna for letting me back on for 1 week trial. An I still have those beautiful walnut carved grips from my model 60 engraved Thst you refinished fir me an somehow they came back finished ***** pink.
I may be getting old but Ivdon’t forget some things!

[Cokeman]

I thought you died

[yqtszhj]

Welcome back. We know it’s you because everything is spelled correctly (correctly as spelled by jocks that is).

Too bad about the pm9 but I’d say at least you had a spare and you came out ok. How’s the wife’s G43 holding up (I think that’s what you got her a few years ago isn’t it?)

[GROTMAN]

Welcome back jocko, only bad thing is now i have to go find and re download my jocko typing decoder app... Glad you"re still alive and kicking. :d

[getsome]

What’s wrong with the speeling, looks perfectly fine to me, didn’t have a problem reeding it at all....Just add or subtract a letter hear n there and it makes perfect cents....Sheep farmer I am sorry about your high mileage PM9 getting busted up and glad you didn’t blow off your pickle poppin hand in the process but since you’re off the Bawanna probation list we would all would appreciate your company here at Kahrtalk bar and grill to help us all understand the idiocracy of things as they currently exist in the way only you can possibly do.........

[mr surveyor]

just to keep the thread alive .... I just did my semi-annual (normally) detail strip of my daily outdoor carry, a 1993 vintage SP-101, .357 mag, I bought very lightly used in 2010. That's the gun that convinced me to take up re-loading (which is addictive itself), and I've carried it 5 - usually 6 days a week since early 2011 ... particularly as a surveyor's "field gun". It gets pretty nasty in the environments I (used to) deal with, including being totally submerged a couple of times in some nasty swamp creeks. Well, shortly after I bought the SP-101, Bawana offered to make me some grip panels for it, so I could replace those butt ugly original Ruger plastic panels. Well, they are still very much a part of my all time favorite field carry gun, and they look as good as ever. I just take them off and give them a wipe down with Old English (dark) furniture polish three or four times a year. Just knowing where those thin pieces of wood have been, and all they've been through in the last 10-11 years is pretty darned amazing.

If I wasn't so lazy, and half dain bramaged, I'd take and post a picture .... but I don't imagine it would look a whole lot different from the picture I posted here in 2011 ... excepting a bit of extra holster wear and carry wear on the SP-101.

Thanks Again Bawana!


jd

[getsome]

Mr serv, no need to post a picture, I can see it in my mind….…My last pistol purchase will be a SP-101 3 inch revolver…..The older I get I realize my world seems to want to go round and round more so than back and forth so if you have a 101 with some Bawanna grips then you should consider yourself a very lucky man indeed sir…….

[mr surveyor]

Yep, it's a 3" SA/DA SP-101 with real, authentic Bawanna grip panels.

I've been through a lot of 38/357 "field carry" revolvers in the last 40 years of playing explorer (land surveyor), and absolutely none of them (particularly blued models) could come close to withstanding my lifestyle like that (now) old SP-101 can. Actually, I think I shot only a box and a half of factory ammo in mine before it got nothing but reloads. Yep, it tolerated some real crap my first month or so of re-loading, but since then I have no idea how many thousands of rounds of re-loads have run through that barrel. And the Bawanna grip panels still look new.

Dang, if I don't go out on a survey tomorrow I might have to take a current pic to post. :)


jd

[Bawanna]

It's heart warming that they are still holding up and looking good. I probably have a picture someplace but I made a few of those and I'm not certain in my head which ones were yours.
I actually have a couple sets I started on long ago that I should finish and put out there.

[jeepster09]

It aint true ifin there aint no pictures......:boink:

[mr surveyor]

ok, just took a pic, right out of the holster, after a nasty day in the field (for an old guy)

This is after 10+ years of 5-6 day a week holster carry ... in often some pretty nasty environments (when I was a younger stud-puppy)


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jd

[getsome]

Perfection, what more is needed in a CCW pistol

[Bawanna]

Wow, those grip panels look good. I remember those well. I got lucky and they fit good and I didn't screw up.

Thanks for refreshing my memory.

[BirdsThaWord]

Nice cannon (and the grips too) Mr Surveyor. I noticed you took the pic on a grid too. Yes, you must be a true surveyor through and through!;)
For some reason, I want to get me one of those cannons one day and polish the snot out of it. One of my all time fave revolvers right there. And, when you run out of ammo, they still make for a good weapon (club like) when grasped by the other end!

[mr surveyor]

I still have the original 2010 pic. The SP-101 hadn't developed it's character marks yet

18183


I've always been more into practicality and functionality, and that rig fits my needs.

jd

[Bawanna]

A set of K grips I just wrapped up this morning.

https://i.postimg.cc/dtb0k7XV/K9-1.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/jSySzx0Q/K9-2.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/tgyCkK90/K9-3.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[DavidR]

Beautiful. A work of art.

[dao]

Did you make those from Scratch Colonel?

[Bawanna]

Yes, all the grips I've made started out as a block of wood.

[dao]

Wellllll, I'm shopping for a K9. And it's about impossible to find wood grips these days. Soooooo :D

[Bawanna]

Wellllll, I'm shopping for a K9. And it's about impossible to find wood grips these days. Soooooo :D

We'll leave the light on for ya. I haven't been making too many grips of late. Usually making lots of sawdust in my little room where it's warm and dry in the winter but been out in the big shop making sawdust on bigger stuff. Gotta get me a pellet stove out there. Got a propane heater but 30 bucks to fill the tank and it only goes 2 or 3 days. Plus all the moisture it introduces.

[dao]

Yeah, a nice pellet stove, or other airtight would be nice. You could fire it up the night before and have it nice and warm in the morning. Funny how when we get older the cold feels colder.

[Bawanna]

Yeah, a nice pellet stove, or other airtight would be nice. You could fire it up the night before and have it nice and warm in the morning. Funny how when we get older the cold feels colder.

That must be it, I just can't take the cold anymore. Especially in the shop where your trying to build something. Hard when your bundled up like Nanook of the North. Outside cutting wood or doing something physical not so bad but even that's harder to take now days.

[dao]

When I worked construction in the Carpenter's Union on commercial buildings downtown I would be framing metal studs, a lot of the time in tall buildings with no exterior walls up yet. So it would get pretty darn cold. Even aside from the physical labor part of that being impossible for me now I couldn't take the cold that I could back then. Shoot I don't even like working in my enclosed but unheated garage anymore. Which is kind of weird because nowadays if I do anything physical in temps above 60 or 65 I sweat a lot. :(

[Bawanna]

All this MK and K talking lately inspired me to whittle out some K grips.

Here's a set of Wenge wood with an Armor of God inlay almost done, little fine tuning and a set of Zebra and Maple in the works.

[BirdsThaWord]

Never heard of Wenge wood. I would have guessed it as Zebra. It may just look more Zebra ish than the Zebra wood does. But i don’t know wood.
I certainly do like those dark lines/grains in contrast to the lighter grain. Goes super well with the frame of the MK. Nice set of grips there man!

[berettabone]

When I worked construction in the Carpenter's Union on commercial buildings downtown I would be framing metal studs, a lot of the time in tall buildings with no exterior walls up yet. So it would get pretty darn cold. Even aside from the physical labor part of that being impossible for me now I couldn't take the cold that I could back then. Shoot I don't even like working in my enclosed but unheated garage anymore. Which is kind of weird because nowadays if I do anything physical in temps above 60 or 65 I sweat a lot. :( When you become older than dirt, your body just can't regulate heat and cold very well like it used to. I remember. working commercial buildings myself doing pre-wires. We'd be by the big lake (Michigan) and the wind would whip through those empty buildings. The worst part was moving ladders around, climbing and stretching with all sorts of winter clothing on. You's be so sore at night because of the restrictiveness of the clothing as far as moving around. Not missing those days..........

[dao]

^^^A fellow sufferer^^^

You're killin me here Colonel. Of course you know those are a perfect match to the set you made for my Classic. Right down to the species of wood. All that aside, you do good work Sir!

[Bawanna]

^^^A fellow sufferer^^^

You're killin me here Colonel. Of course you know those are a perfect match to the set you made for my Classic. Right down to the species of wood. All that aside, you do good work Sir!

Well guess I best set that set aside for when you get your K? I was trying to remember where that other set went, I knew I'd used that pin in some Wenge. I have to check the box, I though I still had a set on one of mine too.

[dao]

This is the set you made for my Classic. Not sure when I'll be getting a K9, but it's at the top of my list.

[Bawanna]

This is the set you made for my Classic. Not sure when I'll be getting a K9, but it's at the top of my list.

I don't think that's Wenge wood on those. They are the only ones, I checked around and don't see the set I thought I had around here anyplace.
Wenge doesn't checker nearly that good. The different bands of wood are soft and hard so it don't cut good. It's a great wood and looks good but kind of different to work with.

You know looking closer again at the pic that just might be Wenge after all. Maybe that's how I figured it's hard to checker but those turned out real nice.

[dao]

You did tell me they were Wenge wood when you made them for me. I guess you're just good enough to overcome that species inherent difficulties when checkering, and that's why they turned out as well as they did.

[jeepster09]

I just got a new K9.....he is quite the pistol!
Meet TJ....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4tAtp-TyzQ

[Bawanna]

I'm looking forward to seeing that movie, looks like it might be pretty good.

[jeepster09]

I agree.

[dao]

Nice looking dog Jeep!

[getsome]

I just got a new K9.....he is quite the pistol!
Meet TJ....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4tAtp-TyzQ

He’s beautiful Jeep!

[yqtszhj]

Man, I love that dog.

[BirdsThaWord]

You’ve got my next dog Jeep! Been talking to the wife for a while now about when our current one leaves, next will be a Shepherd! Yours looks to be super healthy (shiny coat)

[Bawanna]

You did tell me they were Wenge wood when you made them for me. I guess you're just good enough to overcome that species inherent difficulties when checkering, and that's why they turned out as well as they did.

Checked my notes, definitely Wenge. The mind is a terrible thing to lose.

[berettabone]

I just got a new K9.....he is quite the pistol!
Meet TJ....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4tAtp-TyzQ He's beautiful..................got a shep myself. Great dogs. Too smart for their own good. Personality. Expressive faces, energy, very intuitive. Love to be praised. Nosy, protective, alert, loyal. Love to work. Mine doesn't bark very much. Usually just alert chirps...................

[jeepster09]

TJ has some cool relatives! One was in K9 Cop with Jim Belushi and other was in Beverly Hills Chihuahua! as Delgado.

[jeepster09]

He's beautiful..................got a shep myself. Great dogs. Too smart for their own good. Personality. Expressive faces, energy, very intuitive. Love to be praised. Nosy, protective, alert, loyal. Love to work. Mine doesn't bark very much. Usually just alert chirps...................

TJ is also from Wisconsin.

http://jerland.com/shepherds/index.html

[Bawanna]

Cold and a little snow here lately so been playing with some wood. Revisiting some old grips made long ago, just tinkering.

Made a new set of K grips, Maple and Zebra wood. Also playing with a set that I put some bed liner texture on and stained. Didn't look so good. Sanded on the stained part a bit and got kind of a distressed look like on some of the 1911's they do it to now, make it look like they been around the block more than once.

Guess I'll go play some more, can't dance.

Edit to add, slipped in a set of 1911 grips too. Stabilized Spalted Maple.

[dao]

Actually....I think they all look good

[BirdsThaWord]

Dang man! I woulda never thought about using bedliner. What a great idea! I think they came out great and do have a nice “patina”. I bet you got your millions selling those knock off Ming Dynasty vases to collectors, didn’t you?
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[jeepster09]

Dang....my idea for a bedliner....wonder how many grips this would make?

[BirdsThaWord]

Dang....my idea for a bedliner....wonder how many grips this would make?
Not sure if it’s the same stuff, but the polyurea coating stuff is crazy! Watch what they do from about the 17 sec to 30 sec part of this video, then the sledgehammer against blocks part.

https://youtu.be/lAsoTOxwAGI

[Bawanna]

I did several Glocks with the bedliner for officer personal guns. I tried a few different ones with different results. I think "Whataliner" was my favorite. It was tough but flexible which made it grippy. We sent all the dept Glocks to be coated down in AZ, what the heck was that company? They did all kinds of gunsmith stuff, no longer in business.
It was a great finish and made a great grip but not flexible at all. Many preferred my bedliner.

Fast and easy and in my opinion, not worth the cyber space to write this looked pretty nice too.

[Bawanna]

Well it looks like once my checkering tools are worn out and used up I might be out of the checkering game. Brownells where I usually buy the cutters even though Dem Bart is local to me thinks they are out of business. I was very much afraid of this.
I don't like the Gunline cutters and they tell me they are sometimes hard to get.
The big thing is I was paying 5 or 6 bucks for a replacement cutter. Another company they suggested is selling them for 64 dollars. Gunline doesn't seem to be much less. Can't figure it.
They are only good for maybe 3 or 4 grips and not really able to resharpen them but I will be looking into that. Sure not paying 60+ bucks for a cutter head.
Guess I could take up knitting or crocheting?

[dao]

Colonel can you post a picture of the cutter heads?