Correct OEM grips for '71 FN Series C Hi-Power
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I'm trying to find out whether any other grips than the "red backed" ones usually associated with this model/mfg date could have been assembled at time of manufacture. I purchased a 9mm used, but unfired, with original pouch. When I removed grips, I found these grips which were in the same mint condition to be a perfect fit, but no red moisture inhibiting coating. The grips had "Gr. 5" printed versus handwritten on the backs of both grips. When searching the web/forums, I read conflicting reports as to when FN Browning began discontinuing the "red backing." One post said 1971, another said not until they began assembling BHP's in Portugal. I called the Historian at Browning Customer Support for clarification. He did not know the answer, and was going to solicit help from a Browning HP collector. I have yet to hear back from him. It's hard for me to understand why anyone would remove the original walnut grips and replace with the same quality grips just to store it in their safe unfired. I can understand replacing them with shooter grips, if they were planning to shoot the pistol.
I would appreciate some "collector expertise" to help me out here.
I'm trying to find out whether any other grips than the "red backed" ones usually associated with this model/mfg date could have been assembled at time of manufacture. I purchased a 9mm used, but unfired, with original pouch. When I removed grips, I found these grips which were in the same mint condition to be a perfect fit, but no red moisture inhibiting coating. The grips had "Gr. 5" printed versus handwritten on the backs of both grips. When searching the web/forums, I read conflicting reports as to when FN Browning began discontinuing the "red backing." One post said 1971, another said not until they began assembling BHP's in Portugal. I called the Historian at Browning Customer Support for clarification. He did not know the answer, and was going to solicit help from a Browning HP collector. I have yet to hear back from him. It's hard for me to understand why anyone would remove the original walnut grips and replace with the same quality grips just to store it in their safe unfired. I can understand replacing them with shooter grips, if they were planning to shoot the pistol.
I would appreciate some "collector expertise" to help me out here.
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You might consider visiting the BHP board. On the 1911 forum. They have a number of, both posts and stickys regarding BHP grips.
A retired Texas leo, by the name of Steve Camp. Use to run a forum, and was very knowledgeable regarding BHPs. Unfortunately he passed away, a while back. Don't know if the forum has been kept on net, after his passing?0
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