Completing grip sets, preferrably in Montana?

26 August 2012, 21:43

From a "semiprofessional" grip maker I ordered black linen Micarta® grip sets for my Freedom Arms M97s several years ago. I specified their exterior surfaces be oversize that I could adjust them to a perfect fit for my small hand. I foresaw no problem, for I had done a similar job many years ago on a set of rosewood S&W "N" frame grips.

Unfortunately, I received precisely what I ordered. Both grip sets are an excellent interior fit on my 97s' grip frames, but there is no possibility that I would "adjust" them as I had planned. The maker has died, so having him complete grip sets is a non-starter. And were he alive, I would prefer to not have this job done remotely - that's part of my rationale for asking for oversize grip exteriors.

While I have acceptable OEM wood grips on the M97s, I want to complete the Micarta® grip sets, strongly preferring to have the work done within driving distance - that is, in Montana. If I could assure a prospective buyer the grip sets would fit his M97, I would sell them and ship my revolvers to Freedom for the same job. But each set is unique; neither set fits the other grip frame.

I'm open to suggestions.