How do I make larger hand grips for my 1858?

[DuncaninFrance]

I have been looking for some larger hand grips for my Pietta 1858 New Model Army revolver - not fancy ones just BIGGER ones! Can't find anything* so have decided to try and make some myself.
I can see that it should be easy to cut blanks BUT how do you shape them so they are uniform?



Here is a start...........................

*blackisler and I spent about half an hour on the Skype chat last night trying to find some bigger grips - NOTHING

Here is what it looks like at the moment

[Dave 101]

Hi Duncan

if you are refering to the profile ie cross section you could try one of these , its a profile gauge , its like a comb with lots of moveable teeth .
http://www.fine-tools.com/kontur.htm

Dave

ps also have a look on youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wa226wSK ... re=related

[Aughnanure]

Dave has hit it, 10 ring.

I haven't seen those for years and was going to suggest cardboard templates; cut to fit the first (perfect ) grip that you make, then make the other as a reverse copy.

Another tip is to make a set of rough grips and coat them with body filler (automobile not vinters) then, just before it is hard, carefully grasp in the normal shooting position and you should have a hand fitting grip.
Clean up and paint to choice; not pink.

Have fun.

[DuncaninFrance]

Interesting, thanks. I used to have a profile gauge but it was too coarse so it got lost when we moved to France.
That video tells me that I am missing 2 good bits of kit - a small band saw and a facility for sanding profiles, neither of which the wife is going to sanction
Going to have to think about your idea Eoin but keep em coming!

I sent Pietta an e.mail yesterday to see if they had any 'cost effective' suggestions

[Karl/Pa.]

The Remington New Army is decidely made for smaller hands, as are most Rems. If you really would like one for the ham-fisted, try a Rogers & Spencer.

[DuncaninFrance]

Thank you Karl I happen to like this pistol as it has progressive rifling and should shoot very well once I sort it all out.
I like the R&S but at just over $1320 I DON'T think it is a starter...........................

[Dave 101]

Heres another idea , ask around at a local joinery shop and see if someone could knock them up for you in exchange for a trip to the range for a test firing of the pistol .

Dave

[DuncaninFrance]

Heres another idea , ask around at a local joinery shop and see if someone could knock them up for you in exchange for a trip to the range for a test firing of the pistol .

Dave

In the UK it would be a great idea but here.....................................more chance of platting fog Too many people have guns and so there is no real value in a range visit,

A friend of mine has some ideas and will be round on Saturday for a cuppa and some cake - I have every confidence he will supply the answer.................... Watch this space

[Aughnanure]

What sort of cake?

[DuncaninFrance]

Cherry Cake, Yorkshire Parkin, Scones and Jam all washed down with a pot of good English Tea - non of your faggot dishwater and lemon like the French do