Grip Screws Loosened

seb1999

July 05, 2002 11:47

While firing my latest acquisition a Llama Especial .32ACP, "honey I shrank the 1911A1!" (it is about 2/3rds the size of a .45) the grip screws loosened.

I hesitate to tighten too much for fear of cracking the walnut grips but I was wondering if Locktite would be the answer. I do not forsee changing the grips but is this a "no, no" on a pistol?

Of course I like small animals; especially when prepared in a rich gravey.

0

• 

  airborne

  July 05, 2002 12:17

  Locktite will probably only be a temporary answer if the screws are backing out so easily. A Llama handgun is not of collector value, changing the grips should not decrease value.
  
  You can always save original grips and put back-on if you ever decide to upgrade.
  
  B - BreatheR - RelaxA - AimS - SightS - Squeeze

  0
• 

  Nighthawk

  July 05, 2002 16:56

  I would try the lock tite first it should hold the grip screws with no problem.
  
  Rugster

  0
• 

  Rafter-S

  July 05, 2002 20:21

  I don't think I would use locktite on grip screws. Bad idea.
  
  My first option would be to use a tiny piece of white plumbing tape--the kind you use to keep water pipes from leaking. Make a couple of wraps around the threads of the screw before screwing it in. That will give it enough resistance to keep it from backing out.
  
  The second option (which I don't like too much) would be to very slightly "upset" a thread close to the screw head...like the second thread down from the head. You could probably do it with a pocket knife...just enough to give it a little resistance as the screw goes all the way in.
  
  My 2-cents worth on redneck gunsmithing.

  0
• 

  pigeoncreek1

  July 06, 2002 04:42

  I think Loctite would work fine as long as you use the #222 Blue colored loctite which is removable strength for small fasteners....DO NOT use the #262-#277 red stuff of you will need a drill to remove the grips!
  
  Gun control is hitting your target

  0
• 

  drawn

  July 06, 2002 07:55

  It may be the bushing is becoming loose, not the screw. I replaced my bushings, then replaced the screws with hex heads keeping the originals of coarse.

  0
• 

  leeblackman

  July 06, 2002 15:44

  I'd use a little teflon tape, or some serane wrap.
  
  If I'm wrong please correct me, I won't be offended.
  
  The sound of a 12 gauge pump clears a house fatser than Rosie O eats a Big Mac !

  0
• 

  mballai

  July 06, 2002 19:25

  A little clear nail polish might prove just sticky enough to hold the screws in place without becoming an issue. This is very effective for small screws in many applications. Gents: this is cheap enough to buy your own--don't take it from your lady's cosmetic drawer. She might not doubt your intentions but....
  
  Three Precious Metals: Gold, silver and lead

  0
• 

  seb1999

  July 16, 2002 16:53

  Thanks for your answers. I have teflon tape so I wil;l try that first and if no success I guess it's the better half's nail polish!!!
  
  Of course I like small animals - especially when prepared in a ssvory gravy!

  0

Please sign in to leave a comment.