Can't get a grip on Ahrends grips

[1sailor]

I installed a set of Ahrends grips on my 19-3 to eliminate the sharp edges on my factory grips. They fit perfectly (really, there's zero gap between the two halves) and are just the right size but they are sanded so smooth that they actually feel slippery in my hands. I don't want to roughen them up too much and don't want to ruin them by experimenting but I really need to do something to give me a better grip. Anyone have any ideas. Pic below.

 

[Igiveup]

I just put together an order for Ahrend grips, very similar to your grips. What wood are your grips.
My only thoughts would be to switch to rubber grips during shooting sessions, then back to the Ahrends. An inconvenience for sure, but makes for better shooting. I have done this very thing.

 

[somebrains]

I'd go find a skilled wood worker in your area and have a texture put into your grips. Something subtle along the front strap and back strap.

Try the idea with strips of skateboard tape first and see if it works for you.

Cylinder and Slide, Wilson, et al used to stipple frames and do similar grip work on their "carry" packages.

I installed a set of Ahrends grips on my 19-3 to eliminate the sharp edges on my factory grips. They fit perfectly (really, there's zero gap between the two halves) and are just the right size but they are sanded so smooth that they actually feel slippery in my hands. I don't want to roughen them up too much and don't want to ruin them by experimenting but I really need to do something to give me a better grip. Anyone have any ideas. Pic below.

 

[raylan007]

Ahrends, Hogue , Altamonts

I'm sold on Ahrends for fit and feel and just the fact they are produced by a very personable fellow who will give you the time of day , if he has it. When I can't find what I want in Ahrends as a result of demand I have found for the exact reason you noted The Hogue Monogrip that claim to have a final finish in beeswax for a better grip control are a good alternative. The are available in some dazzling exotic hardwoods and can be found reasonably on Amazon and elsewhere. I still opt for Ahrends as my first choice. https://www.hogueinc.com/grips/S&W/kframe/roundbutt
One final note, I have a few pair of Altamonts and like the overall appearance but they do have a over slick finish that I wish they would tone down with a satin finish.
Photos 1 and 2 Hogue Monogrip
Photos 3 and 4 Ahrends Finger groove
Photo 5 Altamont Diamond wood rosewood magnas.

 

[Hapworth]

Which finish do you have, polyurethane or oil? The poly is a bit smoother, the oil a bit grippier. If you have the poly, send them to Kim to be refinished with the oil.

If you have the oil, indeed, send them to a woodworker with gun stock experience for sanding or checkering and an oil refinish.

 

[zonker5]

Get it straight from the horses mouth; call Ahrends and ask Kim for his advise.

 

[Pig Hunter]

Have them checkered.

 

[jack the toad]

Have them checkered.

or stippled.
I think most anybody (except dummy me) with proper tools (aka; punch) and a little layout ability could. Looks will depend on your ability. No guarantees after that.
I would practice on an old piece of wood first.
I will say that the slickest grips I've tried were Jerry Miculek's Bang, Inc. grips. But supposedly that's how he prefers them.

 

[OLDSTER]

As "hapworth" commented. I have two sets of Ahrends maple retro targets; one set is the oil finish and is much "grippier".

 

[ontargetagain]

I wonder if something like the gymnasts use or sports grip gel for gripping bats or rackets golf clubs might be in order. Seems to be an assortment on Amazon under 'gel hand grip' search. That way you can keep your grips as they were designed and not modify them.
Beautiful grain and color on those grips and a stunning looking gun!

Karl

 

[one eye joe]

Which finish do you have, polyurethane or oil? The poly is a bit smoother, the oil a bit grippier. If you have the poly, send them to Kim to be refinished with the oil.

If you have the oil, indeed, send them to a woodworker with gun stock experience for sanding or checkering and an oil refinish.

I AGREE WITH Hapworth. I USE AHRENDS SMOOTH TACTICAL CONVERSION GRIPS IN THE OIL FINISH ON MOST OF MY S&W REVOLVERS. THEY GIVE ME AN EXCELLENT GRIP….

 

[Laketime]

Sand them down and use a spray poly finish.Gives you a firm grip that won't shift.

 

[andyo5]

You might try a pair of their finger grooved version of the grip. The finger grooves do help you maintain your grip on the gun.

 

[Warren Sear]

You might try a pair of their finger grooved version of the grip. The finger grooves do help you maintain your grip on the gun.

Works for me; Ahrends retro finger grips. Purchased unfinished, then I applied 2 coats of tung oil or Birchwood Casey Tru-oil.