Thanks again guys for all the interest…here’s a few more photos and a little more detail. Let me just highlight some key items of interest on the outside of the gun. We’ll save the lengthy discussion on what we do inside the gun for another time…
Grip Safety
World class beavertail fits require a different approach on Springfield pistols due to the dimensions of Springfield frame tangs, which do not leave enough material to properly blend a traditional hi sweep type grip safety. Most often, gunsmiths use smaller radius grip safeties to compensate. Rather than deviate from what is a “Chen†grip safety fit, I chose to build up the rear of the frame by TIG welding (as in my foot on the pedal and my hands holding the torch and rod) and laying in very fine beads of weld with tool steel filler rod. The frame is then remachined back to proper dimensions so the fitting can begin.
Remember, this is a satin blue finish, which will not hide discoloration or flaws due to welding, as a painted/coated finish would. By playing very close attention to the many elements of fine TIG welding, I am able to weld up the tangs and fit the traditional high sweep type grip safety on a .250 radius with no evidence of excessive heat, porosity, or discoloration. From the outside, it is virtually impossible to tell, even under magnification, that any welding occurred. The end result is that I am able to precisely fit the grip safety to my own standards and style.
Of course the thumb safety is not neglected, and it is blended by hand to not only be comfortable to the hand, but also blend gracefully with the lines of the frame.
Progressive Traction Checkering â„¢
This pistol features the latest evolution of my exclusive Progressive Traction Checkering â„¢. As the name implies, this series of textures are specifically designed to give the 1911 shooter a degree of traction which is proportional to the amount of grip force applied. In other words, if the shooter takes a solid grip on the gun, he is firmly locked into it for superb recoil control. Loosen the grip, and the pistol slides easily in the hand, should a grip adjustment be needed during a draw or a reload.
This latest version features a series of small raised ridges which cross in the middle of the frontstrap to form an X pattern. The ridges serve to give even more directional, progressive control in 4 axes to give the shooter greater control of the pistol without being overly sharp or abrasive.
Magwell
In the above photo you’ll also notice the enlarged magwell opening, seamlessly cut into the mainspring housing as far to the rear as possible for reliably fast reloads. This is done using the specialized Chen Mainspring Housing and has become “de rigueur†on all my custom builds. Astute pistoleros know that the rear of the mag well is the definite sweet spot during the reload, as it greatly reduces the degree to which you have to “rock†the magazine into the mag well. By the time you’ve indexed the back of your magazine with the back of the mag well, the bullet nose has already cleared the front lip of the mag well, and you’re in!
The Pro Trac Checkeringâ„¢ on the rear is cut integral with the frame, to provide even greater tractioned surface area, as well as a unique, distinctive appearance.
Slide Top
Back to the more traditional side of our theme, the top of the slide is flattened and fine lined at an elegant 40 lpi. The front sight is scratch made in house and blended to gracefully match the slide radius for a clean appearance. A fine cut border sets off the slide flats from the rounds. The bushing is countersunk and polished. The barrel is cut flush with the bushing countersink, then precision crowned and polished.
Finish
The entire pistol is detailed, with lines straightened and external metal surfaces polished to a fine grit finish by hand. Then, the satin finish is applied with fine blasting media. Finally, the parts are dipped in the bluing tanks by Phil Filing at Glenrock Blue. Thick paint coatings can hide flaws in the metal; the type of satin finish done on this pistol is very unforgiving. Especially on the elbows!
Since many people have inquired, here's the scoop on my waiting list.....it will open up in some capacity towards the end of the year.
Thanks again everyone, see you at the range…..!
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FAQ
It really looks cool!
