Video - Modifying the grip frame on Pietta's 1851 Navy

[Bottom Dealin Mike]

I think Pietta is making good cap and ball revolvers these days. But their 1851 Navy grip drives me crazy. The shape is all wrong. I've talked to Alessandro Pietta about this several times, but things aren't going to change. So, I can show you how to improve that situation yourself.

We can pretty easily re-contour the grips and back strap of a Pietta 1851 Navy rcap and ball revolver to eliminate the Pietta "Tail" and give the grips a more historically accurate appearance. All you need to do this are a few hand tools and patience.

[Deadeye Dick]

I don't have a Pietta, but if I did I wouldn't hesitate to reform the grips like you've shown. Good job on the video. Always enjoy your work. Thanks!
Deadeye Dick

[Cliff Fendley]

Wow thanks! That sure is a vast improvement. I've got one I'm going to do that to when I can find a little extra time.

[Harley Starr]

Alessandro would do his customers a great service by making the backstraps more authentic. IMO.

[Paladin UK]

Manufacturers listen to their customers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Now why in the heck would they wanna do that!!

Paladin (What thinks Mikes Vids are Brill  ) UK

[Jubal Starbuck]

   Thanks Mike,  learned something from it for sure.  I have one that needs it, but its nickel plated.  Keep up the good work!

    Jubal Starbuck

[Pettifogger]

Wrote an article on this mod a few years ago.  One thing Pietta has done is that they use the GWII profile grips on their current all steel C&B's.  Much nicer grip contour for me.  A lot of people like the brass gripped models more angular shape.  Nice thing about having interchangeable parts is that you can make up pretty much anything that suits your fancy.

[Slowhand Bob]

I am one of the few who prefer the Pietta Navy grip frame shape over the Colt and Uberti shapes.  The more narrow the frame the better it fits my hand and I particularly appreciate the reduction at the top, as on the Piettas.  The fix Mike shows here should actually improve on my preference since it leaves the top along and reduces the bottom more.  Thanks Mike, I always do better with video and the spoken word than I do with photos and type.

[Steel Horse Bailey]

Another good work.  Thanks, Mike!

[Flint]

Mike,have you tried stretching the backstrap to fill out the contour?  I realize that would require new wood, but it would fill the hand better.  The shape is still wrong because of the hollowlness of the back contour.  Perhaps a torch and a screw jack between the frames. 

[Bottom Dealin Mike]

I've thought about it, but I think it is more work than it is worth.

But, if some one else tries it, I'd like to hear how it worked out.