Fitzed up Custom model 10 Snubby

The cut away trigger guard is the only thing about the Fitz specials I could never see a reason for. I can see trying to re -holster and shoving the trigger onto the edge of the holster and shooting myself.
I do remember reading about a modification that thinned the guard on the trigger finger side but left the basic guard intact.
Anybody know if the cutaway guard is any help....I've never owned one so really can't say.
But the work done is very nice, Fitz would probably approve !
Gary
 
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I knew there'd be nay-sayers, alas . . . this is what my customer wanted and paid for, he knows what he's getting into, likely will never see a holster ever, and will spend its days getting ogled by his buddies at the range and when he has them over to show off his collection. Shorty 45, PM me I'd gladly do another ;-)
 
I have discussed the trigger guard modification with a world class fast draw expert and he stated it most certainly is faster, for me not so much. I understand that some people like it and some don't, but I see no reason to attack somebody's choice on what is basically a collector's forum. I also have both period modified revolvers in my collection as well as have had a couple modified to the style to experience a heavier calibers. While I suppose I could carry one ,I will not for fear of damaging or losing it . I very much like and appreciate the fine craftsmanship exhibited by the S&W Model 10 modified by TheShootist1894 and would have him do one for me in a heartbeat. Thanks for sharing. All my very best, Joe Kent. {Now I think I will go look at my copy of a Hyman Liebman modified Winchester 1907 351 as used by John Dillenger }
 
Nice work. I was wondering what was that horizontal groove on the front of the grip frame. Then, I realized it was the slot of the strain screw.
 
TheShootist1894 said:
I knew there'd be nay-sayers, alas . . . this is what my customer wanted and paid for, he knows what he's getting into, likely will never see a holster ever, and will spend its days getting ogled by his buddies at the range and when he has them over to show off his collection. Shorty 45, PM me I'd gladly do another ;-)
Click to expand...

Well, I understand wanting something just because you want it. I've just always thought the cutaway trigger guard was a poor concept, although as I said in my post it might've been acceptable back in Fitz's day. To me it's like a tattoo on a pretty girl - regardless of how well executed it might be done, it just detracts because I think that tattoos are inherently ugly. There are some who will disagree and say, "Yeah, well, you know, that's just, like, your opinion, man." That's true, it is my opinion. And my opinion is correct. :p

That said, your work looks impeccable. The smoothing of the underside of the frame where the trigger guard was removed is seamless. The checkering on the front and backstrap is great and as was pointed out above, love the "invisible" strain screw. I think a lot of people would overlook that because it's so well done. The matte finish on the back of the hammer is a nice touch - did you leave the single action sear and checker the top of the hammer, as Fitz would generally do? (I guess I enjoyed your original post more than I thought.... :o )

Please post more threads showing off your revolver work. If that includes Fitzs so be it, I'll keep my trap shut since I've had my say here. ;)
 
The SA is still useable, but I do not have a file that would cut the top of the Hammer to serrate, or checker it, and to anneal it and re-harden when the customer wanted DAO would not have been profitable, although I kind of wish I could have done the top of the hammer and the trigger face with some cross hatch checking like he would have done back in the day.. . . I was already beyond the work order on some things that i felt the gun needed, the grip fitting/reshaping mainly :-)
 
1894,

YOU ROCK!!! Great work! A true craftsman. Aren't the Model 10 snubs cool? I have one and love it. Alas she doesn't get shot much. When she does, her accuracy is on par with her 4-inch brethren.

I really like the beveled off barrel treatment. Looks great. Obviously, the checkering is first rate. Please let us know when she's done (meaning the grips).

 
Fitze's triggerguard is purposely built.

Fritz cut his guards, shorten the barrels, on 1917 models for Law Enforcement folks who wore gloves and were concerned about speed of operation. The idea that men would carry these "specials", loosely in their coat pockets for comfort bother me not, it is a serious built piece not for casual use.
 
IMO, the problem with Fitzing a triggerguard is not reholstering (one can always put an index finger behind the trigger or a thumb on the hammer while holstering), or safety in the holster, but, rather, that dropping the gun on the trigger guard might bend it enough to interfere with trigger return. Personal choice. Personally, I wouldn't do it.

Nice gun! Nice refinish! Beautiful job of Fitzing it. I, too, like the invisible strain screw, not just because it looks good, but because it also serves as an instant indicator of any backing out.
 
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I don't like the cut out trigger guard for looks or function. If you have a long trigger finger, see Bill Jordan's narrowed trigger guard.

Calling a Smith & Wesson with the trigger guard cut out a "Fitz" affects me a lot like calling a detachable magazine a "clip" annoys so many Internet Experts. Mr Fitzgerald worked for Colt.
 
TheShootist1894 said:
I knew there'd be nay-sayers, alas . . . this is what my customer wanted and paid for, he knows what he's getting into, likely will never see a holster ever, and will spend its days getting ogled by his buddies at the range and when he has them over to show off his collection. Shorty 45, PM me I'd gladly do another ;-)
Click to expand...
I wasn't saying it was wrong, just wondering about the why.
I believe the customer is always right and if he's paying then he get's what he wants. You did an excellent job, the work is first rate .
Gary
 
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