The first Model 29-2 I had bought in 1974 which turned 40 last year deserved a new pair of grips, so I had John make me a pair of Maple grips for it. This is the first chance I've had to post pictures of them. John's work speaks for itself. Anyone who has been fortunate enough to acquire a pair or two from John knows what quality and craftsmanship goes into each pair. (Sorry about my poor picture taking ability)

NICE. I have some "chocolate" quilted maple I've seasoning for awhile; someday it's going to be in John's shop

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ΜΟΛΩΝ ΛΑΒΕ

Nice. You bought that when M29s were going for $500+.
Question: Do you think maple is hard enough to hold up to full boat loads?

Rock maple is harder than walnut. It's a very hard wood. It's more than hard enough to handle full powered loads.

Like me the gun is retired. I do however feel the Maple is strong enough to withstand full house loads. I paid $350 for the gun, as the "Dirty Harry Era" was upon us. The retail back then was about $165 if I remember. But back then if you wanted a Model 29 you had to step up.

Thats right, woodworkers don't call it rock maple for nothing.

There is a west coast species called Big Leaf Maple that is quite a bit softer, the Eastern Stuff is more than enough to deal with any magnum loads.

In 1974 I think the retail was about $203.50-250. By 1978 it was about $350.

How does it compare to coco bolo and goncalo alves?

Maple is not as hard as cocobolo but its also less brittle, Goncalo Alves is very soft, probably somewhere between Claro Walnut and American Walnut.

Oh, be still my heart. Gorgeous gun and stocks!