Free For All Friday 3-20-2015: Grips and Gunsmiths
You ever get a much needed vacation from work and then once the vacation starts, you get sick? Just sayin’. Happens to me a lot.
Have ever had your hands on an XDM 3.8 compact with the mag grip extensions or “x-tensions”? We’re the grip extensions solid and well fitting? Lastly, how does one go about selecting a good gunsmith? -Shaun M.
Yes I have and I adore that gun. Springfield Armory has one heck of a lineup with those. On the particular one I handled, the extensions were tight and felt like it was part of the handle. When I wasn’t shooting, there was a small bit of wiggle simply because the grip extensions are attached to the magazine itself which is typically only held in place by a tiny strip of metal. When shooting, however, it’s not really noticeable. I have heard some people talk about how they removed the extensions a bunch of times and after a while it would get a bit more loose. Easy remedy there: don’t pull the extensions off on a regular basis.
A lot of “gunsmiths” popped up in the recent AR scare. They were essentially just a bunch of people who knew how to put together an AR and add some accessories to it. A true gunsmith is becoming harder and harder to find these days. The best guideline I can give is to look for one that’s been in business a long time. With longevity comes experience and with experience (typically) comes quality. Even if he’s the only ‘smith in town, if he does nothing but junk work he won’t stay in business that long. There’s a gunsmith in my area that’s been in business since the early 80’s. If I have problems with my gun, I’m going to take it to that guy. Beyond that, go in and talk to the person. Ask them about what you’re wanting them to do and see what they say. If you’re not comfortable with their answers, go with your gut. It is possible to permanently destroy a gun. Speaking of which, a good gunsmith knows the value of being bonded and insured. Make absolutely sure of that before you hand your gun over to them. It protects you just as much as it protects them.
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