1911 Beavertail Frame Jig

[RVTECH]

Ok - I am about to take the 'plunge' and modify my frame for a beavertail safety. Now I assume the jig is nothing more than two .50 hardened steel disks with a pin through them to shape the frame right? Reason is I want to make my own jig on my lathe and oil harden the disks. Thanks.

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[Samurai]

Actually, the Ed Brown jig for a beaver tail is to re-locate the hole for the mainspring housing pin. The only jig for re-shaping the frame is the actual bobtail mainspring housing!
Jason

 

[Samurai]

It sounds like you already know what the jig looks like, but I had one laying around so I snapped a couple cell-phone pics.

The jig itself
View attachment 200382

On a Rock Island frame
View attachment 200383

Hopefully this helps.
Jason

 

[RVTECH]

Yes that does help. Now just so I am sure - the diameter is exactly .50 right? I mean obviously it must be to make the .250 radius but I want to be sure. Thanks.

 

[Samurai]

My calipers put it at .501.

 

[RVTECH]

Perfect! I'll be chucking up a piece of round stock soon. Now what what would be the 'best' GS for my first fit project?

 

[Samurai]

My opinion is Ed Brown, just cause I like all of his stuff. It depends on what you want for grip height, 'speed bump' or not, etc. I like the high grip that the Ed Brown safeties get you and the speed bump.

 

[OregonJohn]

Here is my first one. Just take your time. After I was done, I could not slip a paper sheet into the frame/grip gap. The flat fish hook file did the best finish work. A black permanent marker will be your best tool. I now know why the good Smiths get the money. Time=Money. Go for it. John
http://www.northwestfirearms.com/forum/gunsmithing-repairs/20786-1911-colt-project-beavertail.html