Warning

 

Close
Confirm Action

Are you sure you wish to do this?

Cancel Confirm
AR15.COM
7/9/2011 10:49:18 AM EDT
I have been thinking about installing a bobtail mainspring housing on my carry pistol to reduce printing, tho admitidly my big ole government model prints less than my little sig due to the holster I use. I really haven't heard much on this modification other than both comfort and concealability increasing so I have a couple questions before I invest the $80.

First, do you need to cut, modify or replace the frame? I can't tell if it just slides in to the existing tracks or if the actual frame is cut at an angle to accommodate it.

Second, and I guess this may be answered in part by my first question but, will I need to get new grips?

Like I said I'm trying to make an educated buy so any help will be appreciated. Thank you.
7/9/2011 10:57:14 AM EDT
[#1]
You have to relocate the hole for the bobtail MSH and cut about 1/2" off the corner of the frame. If the frame isn't SS then it would need to be refinished. I like the look and feel of a bobtail commander and does help with printing.
7/9/2011 11:00:08 AM EDT
[#2]
I love the look and feel of the bobtail as well, but it's really not worth the pain to install it on an existing frame.  As mentioned above the frame has to be cut.  This can be easier with a bobtail jig from brownells.  I would not risk ruining a perfectly good gun.
7/9/2011 1:55:27 PM EDT
[#3]
Yes you have to cut the frame. Ed Brown makes a jig to do this. Unless you have a milling machine I would let a gun smith do it.

7/9/2011 2:30:46 PM EDT
[#4]
Quoted:
Yes you have to cut the frame. Ed Brown makes a jig to do this. Unless you have a milling machine I would let a gun smith do it.



This, plus you need new grips.
7/9/2011 7:51:24 PM EDT
[#5]
Next build I do is going to be a bobtail.  Planning on doing the new hole with a drill press, and cutting the frame with a desk grinder and then file-to-fit from there.  I'll let you guys know how it goes.