Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP Review

The Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP Made a Bold First Impression

The 1911 platform. A timeless classic that has been customized and tweaked for over a century. When I saw the Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP, I was intrigued by the promise of blending the classic look of wood with the superior grip of rubber. This grip promised to enhance both aesthetics and functionality.

My aging hands had started to feel the effects of long days at the range. The factory grips on my 1911 were offering less than ideal grip and control during rapid firing drills. I needed something that could provide a more secure and comfortable hold, without sacrificing the classic look of my firearm.

Upon unboxing, the Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP immediately impressed me with its rich walnut finish and the contrasting black Decelerator rubber. The combination of materials felt solid and well-made. The grips felt substantial in my hand.

I considered Hogue rubber grips, known for their exceptional grip, and some VZ Grips G10 options for their aggressive texturing. However, the Pachmayr offered a unique blend of classic aesthetics and modern grip technology that I found particularly appealing. It seemed the best of both worlds.

My initial reaction was one of excitement. The Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP looked like it could solve my grip issues while enhancing the appearance of my 1911. I was eager to get to the range and put them to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP on my Rock Island Armory 1911 and headed straight to my local outdoor range. I planned to run a few hundred rounds through it, focusing on rapid-fire drills and target acquisition. The range offered varying lighting and some natural cover from the wind.

The rubberized portion of the grip performed admirably, even with sweaty hands on a warm day. The checkering provided a noticeable improvement in grip compared to the slick factory grips. I felt more confident in my control of the pistol.

Installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes. However, I did notice that one of the medallion screws required some tightening after the first few magazines. This was a minor inconvenience but something to be aware of.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP has held up remarkably well. There is minimal wear on the rubber, and the wood finish has retained its luster. The wood portion has stayed solid with no cracking.

I clean the grips with a damp cloth after each range session and apply a light coat of oil to the wood every few months. The grips have required no other maintenance. This simple routine has kept them looking and performing like new.

Compared to the original factory grips, the Pachmayr grips offer a significant improvement in both comfort and control. My accuracy has noticeably improved during rapid-fire sequences. The grip’s enhanced feel gives me the confidence I need in tactical situations.

Breaking Down the Features of Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP

Specifications

The Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP is specifically designed for Colt 1911 and 1911-style pistols. It features a combination of rich walnut wood and Pachmayr‘s signature Decelerator rubber. This combination offers classic aesthetics with modern grip technology.

The grip is a standard, full-size 1911 grip profile. The grip’s checkered finish and finger grooves provide enhanced control and comfort. The weight is negligible, adding only a minimal amount to the overall weight of the pistol.

These specifications are crucial for providing a secure and comfortable grip, especially during rapid firing and in adverse conditions. The combination of wood and rubber helps to absorb recoil and reduce hand fatigue. This increases accuracy and control.

Performance & Functionality

The Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP excels at providing a superior grip and enhanced control. It significantly improves handling, especially during rapid fire. My groups have tightened up considerably.

The grip’s main strength is its ability to blend classic aesthetics with modern performance. The walnut wood adds a touch of elegance. The Decelerator rubber ensures a secure and comfortable hold.

The design is mostly flawless, though the medallion screws can occasionally loosen over time. Regular tightening is required. Overall, it far exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP is expertly crafted. The wood and rubber are seamlessly integrated. The grip feels solid and well-balanced in the hand.

The design is highly user-friendly. The grip installs easily with standard 1911 grip screws. The finger grooves naturally guide the hand into a comfortable and secure grip.

Durability & Maintenance

The Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP is designed to last. The Decelerator rubber is resistant to wear and tear. The walnut wood is treated with a varnish to protect against moisture and scratches.

Maintaining the grips is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional oiling of the wood is all that is required. No specialized tools or cleaning agents are needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP does not include any accessories. It is a standalone grip replacement. However, it is fully compatible with standard 1911 grip screws and bushings.

The grip can be further customized with aftermarket medallions. Many 1911 enthusiasts choose to swap out the Pachmayr medallions for custom designs. This allows for personalization.

Pros and Cons of Pachmayr 1911 ALS GRIP