Grip Screws Loosened

seb1999

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.

airborne

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

Nighthawk

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

Rugster

Rafter-S

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.

pigeoncreek1

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

drawn

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.

leeblackman

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 !

mballai

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

seb1999

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!