Looking at snagging a BHP this week. I've always wanted to get some custom work done to one to mimic a 1911. Can anyone explain to me how they change the profile of the backstrap to a beavertail (is it welded?), how much that may cost me, and any recommendations on smiths to talk to? I've been looking around but s few websites I've looked at haven't been updated in a few years.

I also plan on getting a trigger job, stippling the grip, 1911 style safet, updating the sights, and finishing it in a classic case hardened look. I'm assuming that I'd need a new hammer, too.

They essentially weld steel onto it, and then grind the shit out of it until it matches.


I think all of the big BHP smiths do it.  Garthwait C&S, Novak, Robar,


It's not a cheap procedure.  Actually,nothing is cheap on BHP's.   You'll be in for at least $1100 on those mods including the refinish,  not many people do color case hardening.  It's really best reserved for small parts.  None of the BHP smiths do color case finishes in house, so you'll have to have them ship the gun to the refinished and then back to them.  Probably turnbull.



But it sounds like a very attractive BHP

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think you can case harden something that's been welded like that... At least I don't think so. It sounds like it'd be a gorgeous gun though. By 1911 safety you mean a larger pad on the thumb safety, right?

You can.  If it was a poor weld job it will become apparent, but if it was done properly with a similar filler material to the base, it will be just fine.  My biggest concern with a color case hardening is that the temperatures required will have an effect on the overall heat treat of the frame.  Whether or not that's going to have an impact on a BHP or not I don't know.

BHP Frames are already kind of sparse too.  Would definitely run this by one of the BHP pros like garthwaite or C&S before you commit OP

On my Cylinder & Slide example it appears they milled a flat on the back of the small hump below the hammer and silver soldered the extension on.  There is a very small fine line visible there.

Definitely wouldn't want to color case harden that.