Hi Smootik, re the Kampfpistol -
I just came across your post about these grips, earlier in March this year.'
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As it’s now October, you’ve probably solved the problems already, but I thought I suggest my ideas, and see if you think they would work, and how they might compare with your solutions!??
I agree # 2 is easily solved by drilling another hole; I’d plug the originals with some Epoxy filler afterwards, unless the original CAW grips are going to go back on some day!
Re: #1 You wrote:
Placement and shape of positioning protrusions is totally different. LeuP panels have two C-shaped brackets, one near bottom, one near top. CAW panels have a ridge that runs all around inside, and in different shape. Frame has cutout corresponding to plastic panels and is solid all around it.Based on the photos, this is what I think might work??'
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1. Drill the new hole;
2. Remove any raised portions on the new grips that need to go, and leave any than can be left. For example, it looks like part of the bottom “C” brackets could fit?
3. Use an Epoxy (2-part mix) to make a long thin “sausage” and form it around the inside of the pistol handle well – after well greasing ALL the ABS surfaces. Making sure the “sausage sits about 3 mm – 4 mm ABOVE the inside edge of the well. I would use a mix that sets hard in about 8 minutes. The grease may make it hard to stay in position. If so use a piece of thin cardboard cut 3-4 mm smaller than then the inside of the well. It can be supported on a knob of plasticine if need be. This can all be removed later.
(A local NZ product I use is called "Knead-It")
4. Clean the replacement grip insides to remove any oil or dirt, then gently in position on top of the “sausage”.
5. Then carefully push down, squashing the Epoxy “sausage”. With careful pushing, the Epoxy will “bond” to the Bakelite and NOT to the ABS. You may find you need to make a thicker "sausage". Trial and error maybe inevitable!
6. Leave it to set for a minute, then CAREFULLY lift the grip up and onto its back.
7. Test for bonding and hardness. It should be firm but not set yet – use a scalpel blade to remove any unwanted “squashed” Epoxy from the edges of where the grip sits on the ABS and allow to dry.
8. Clean the ABS, and repeat the whole process for the other side.
9. When satisfied, place the grips on the pistol and screw them together.
Solving the last problem:
3) LeuP panels are slightly wider than CAW grips. They will stick out of frame about 1-2mm off sides and bottom.
I’d just cut the excess and sand with progressively finer sand paper, or 3M pads, finally buffing using a metal polisher such as Brasso!
Bakelite is made from phenolyic resin and formaldehyde plus fillers. The fillers were usually wood dust, but asbestos was sometimes used. '
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Even is it does contain asbestos, I don't think the small amount of exposure would be harmful – but wear a dust mask anyway!
Anyway, the pistol looks like a cool & unusual addition to your collection - I might even try to get one myself!
Cheers.'
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Thu Mar 11, 2010 8:52 pm
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