I'm looking to set up my model 41 for steel challenge. How can I add 1911 grips to an S&W model 41? This can be done without any modifications to the 41, correct? I think the 1911 grips would be better than the factory or my aftermarket bullseye grips for a two handed hold. I'm wondering what parts and what size grips (government or commander) I should use? Will the 41 screws work or do I need 1911 bushings and screws?

Is the frame on a 41 the same thickness/width as a single stack 1911? If not what is the difference.

Also, my factory barrel is not drilled or tapped so I'm thinking of
trying BME mount which replaces the rear sight to add a red dot. Had anyone tried one of these and how did it work?

Good news and bad: The 1911 grips will not fit the Model 41 frame. However, Herrett did make a 41 grip that has the same exterior shape as the 1911. I don't know if they are still available, but you might post a "Want to Buy" ad here and see if any turn up. Worst case, maybe find some scruffy factory grips and sand them down to size.
Sorry, I know nothing about the scope mount. I had a gunsmith D&T mine for a red dot.

Try this:

Trainer - Flat Housing Gun Stock

Thanks for the responses. To start I was tring to do this inexpensive to see if I like the 1911 grip style better and it works as well as I think it will. Then I would look at the trainer grips but good to know they exist.
By the comment about possibly finding some scruffy factory grips to sand down does the mean that the 1911 grip would be larger than what would be needed on a 41? Then I could just sand them down to fit? If so what would be my best way to won't them? Sorry but I don't have a 1911 to know how the sizes varry and if they mount differently.

I was thinking of finding some scruffy Model 41 grips. I don't think you can get the screw holes on the 1911 grips to line up correctly on the S&W.

Not only will the holes not line up using 1911 grips, but the grips themself are too narrow for the 41, and at the wrong angle. You would be better off getting some hardwood at the local Home Depot, and try carving a set yourself.

Take your existing Model 41 grips off and you'll see another problem with using just 1911 grips (other than the screw issue). The rear of the frame is not machined to be a grip and the mainspring is exposed so you wouldn't want the web of your hand in there. The Herrett Trainers cover this area and replicate the rear of a 1911 frame.

I have a set of the Trainer grips on my M41 with the 5.5 heavy barrel, and I really like them. With the weight of the 5.5 heavy barrel and those grip panels, it feels like it closely approximates my 945 and Gold Cup, and perfect for some cheap practice.

By the looks of how the Trainers are shaped, I think it might be possible to take a set of factory grips and sand them down and shape them into a base on which a set of 1911 grip panels can be glued onto. But, at only $65 for a set of Trainer grips... that's a much easier and cheaper route.

Here's some pics to help see what the Trainer looks like close up.

They don't come with the medallions, that's my touch.

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Conrad
SWCA #1830 SWHF #222

Ok I didn't think about the main spring. Looks like the trainers is way to go. Thanks for the replies and info. Greatly appreciated.

I am so excited about this pistol. It took 1 year and 5 days to get. I needed the same grip mod, so this information about the Herrett Training Grips was helpful.
Now that the pistol will fit in my hands better, and I might actually be able to eject a magazine at speed, what about the magazines themselves? Are there any baseplates with more meat on them? That mag sits up there in what is very much a magazine well. It would be cool to have a magazine that takes advantage of that design for 22 combat competition.

I have some Herretts..............NIB

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Go big or stay home

Very interested, sent e mail.