Tell me if this works or is a waste of time.

[Indigo]

http://i1142.photobucket.com/albums/n618/devito99/793d3ecf.jpg
http://i1142.photobucket.com/albums/n618/devito99/fbe22448.jpg

I was told my fake pearl grips are fragile and may break so no warranty given. So do they break from wear and tear on outside i.e. dropping gun or from inside pressure of actually firing pistol? This is a photo of some 1 millimeter thick, cushioned double sided tape (before I peeled off paper) that is concealed fairly well under pearl all around grip edge because the color is white on white. Does a product of varying colors like this already exist specifically shaped to fit? Will it absorb any of the impact that leads to them breaking or do you think it's of no use? It only adds about 1.5 millimeters to grip thickness total once you snug the grips up tight.

Thanks for any suggestions.

[gb6491]

I don't think that tape is a good idea.
If it's the foam type, it could possibly trap moisture leading to corrosion.
The adhesive could be harmful to the frame or grips.
The adhesive or tape material could react to sweat, solvents, or other chemicals and damage the frame or grips.
The grips are going to be difficult to remove (if using both sides of the tape).
I imagine that modern imitation pearl grips are made of acrylic or polyurethane and are no more fragile than many of the wood grips found on 1911s.
If you still want to back them, I would suggest a thin layer of fiberglass mesh and resin.
BTW, that's a nice looking Colt.
Regards,
Greg

[BuckeyeBlast]

If you're worried about pressure from the inside, I'd buy one of these and just trim off the finger groove section: http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=240624024

[Indigo]

I don't think that tape is a good idea.
If it's the foam type, it could possibly trap moisture leading to corrosion.
The adhesive could be harmful to the frame or grips.
The adhesive or tape material could react to sweat, solvents, or other chemicals and damage the frame or grips.
The grips are going to be difficult to remove (if using both sides of the tape).
I imagine that modern imitation pearl grips are made of acrylic or polyurethane and are no more fragile than many of the wood grips found on 1911s.
If you still want to back them, I would suggest a thin layer of fiberglass mesh and resin.
BTW, that's a nice looking Colt.
Regards,
Greg

I should elaborate there is a layer of separating paper on both sides I haven't actually stuck it on there yet just hacked a few pieces and laid them out. One of the grips didnt seat all the way and was wobbly hence where the idea came from in the first place...like when you fold up some napkins and jam it under a wobbly table leg when you are out to eat and can no longer stand your kids bouncing it back and forth for fun. Truthfully I don't have any idea how sturdy these things are or not so if anyone has fractured some and how maybe that would be the better question. I just figured the seller was pretty specific about these and the ivory that he must have had enough complaints to warrant a disclaimer. But I appreciate the tips I was just curious about the problem at hand and didn't consider any of your consequences. I get that it's complete blasphemy I just didn't want break something so pretty if I didn't have to but if it leads to bigger issues then no point.

[gb6491]

Indigo,
If the seller had specific concerns, then my guess is that they may not handle being flexed (or any lateral force) very well. I say this because years back Jay Scott made them by laminating the pearl material to a wood backing (http://forums.1911forum.com/showthread.php?t=311217). I do wonder if the wobbly fit will cause you any issues down the line.
Regards,
Greg

[jocko]

gb , I think back then most all Jay Scott pearl grips were laminated with a wood backing. We use dto sell alot of them for the colt 22 single action. My that brings back memories..

[OldLincoln]

I'd think a risk comes with tightening the screws being wobbly and all. Might really look for the wobble to get it flat and take it slow with the screws. They can split after a while also.

[Indigo]

I was originally envisioning a thin layer of spongy/foam material in brown/black/grey, etc. that could be trimmed to fit basically just to absorb impact, improve the wobbly fit, maybe reduce scratching or something. Just happened to have that tape handy.
Thank you all.