First set of elk panels for 1911

American1776 · #1 02-25-2020, 12:43 PM

Received my first set of Elk panels for my Colt 1911. They look and feel great. Spresser custom makes these.

Question for the 1911 experts: I know that the plunger tube should be supported by the grip panel. However, with these, the grip panel actually contacts the plunger tube, and when screwed down, the panel slightly presses on the tube. Is this normal? It doesn’t seem to be a lot of pressure, but the tube is contacting and being pushed inward by the panel itself.

Thoughts?

Thanks

H Richard · #2 02-25-2020, 01:27 PM

As long as it does not deform the tube and bind the plunger/spring it shouldn't make a difference. But, I would want it "relieved just enough that it wouldn't put that much pressure on the tube, it might cause a stress problem causing a break on the grip panel.

American1776 · #3 02-25-2020, 01:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by H Richard

As long as it does not deform the tube and bind the plunger/spring it shouldn't make a difference. But, I would want it "relieved just enough that it wouldn't put that much pressure on the tube, it might cause a stress problem causing a break on the grip panel.

Thats a good point. Thanks for the feedback.

I've read somewhere (of course, the internet) that some folks prefer the grip panel to put slight downward pressure on the plunger tube (pre-load) so in case of plunger tube failure, the grip will be holding it in place until repair can be made. To achieve this, some have recommended actually sanding away the grip panel so that the portion over the tube preloads some slight pressure.

I have a feeling that these grips were designed to do this.

colt_saa · #4 02-25-2020, 01:40 PM

The new grips look real good

While it does not sound like you and an issue with the plunger tube, I would probably chat with the grip maker about the possibility of removing a few thousandths of material