I've just purchased a Centennial Airweight (sn 43xx) from a local guy. It's in fine condition except for one thing -- the grips aren't original.

In photos, I've seen both smooth and checkered grips for these early Centennials. Is either one more or less correct for this gun? I'd like to replace these with something as close to the originals as possible. I'm assuming high-horns will cost as much as the gun....

All suggestions appreciated.

Thanks,
Whisper

Those I have seen had smooth high horn grips. They might have been checkered at one time or other, but I don't remember any. I have no idea as to current grip prices for them.

The “high horn” grips for the early Centennial were indeed available in both smooth and checked walnut, but overwhelmingly came with the smooth style. I’ve never encountered the checked style, and didn’t know it was a thing until a while ago someone posted some original catalog or other documentation showing it was.

Good information above. If I recall the correct Centennial stocks have smaller than normal stock washers; the Bodyguard Airweight has similar-appearing stocks, usually checkered but with standard J frame washers.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

Give Paul @ KY Imports a call.. 502-244-4400
IIRC He had the OE set of grips for Centennial #248 in his stash..
I had bought the revolver & later found a set on this forum..
Later when I stopped bye He had the grips in his case..
Bet He still has them.. Worth a try..
I just found a checkered set online for $140 Googled "Centennial High Horn Grips"

[QUOTE=murphydog;140795178]Good information above. If I recall the correct Centennial stocks have smaller than normal stock washers;

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Here are pictures of front and back of some early Centennial stocks showing smaller washers murphydog describes.
Ray

Attached Images

	Early Centennial Grips.jpg (91.4 KB, 37 views)
	Early Centennial Grips - 2.jpg (19.0 KB, 29 views)