[hsshss]

I have a 2nd series late 1952 Target model 6" Woodsman.It is close to NIB with factory target and accessories.For some reason (maybe they broke) the grips may have been replaced. What's there is the correct general shape with the Colt logo but they are an ugly dull mud brown color and have warped and/or shrunken to where you can see into the magazine well on the right side. The screw looks untouched.I have two other 2nd series guns,one with the correct Coltwood grips and the other with, I believe the also correct later solid brown color.Could these grips be original later solid brown version and just shrunk,dulled and warped over the years?Also they are held on by a screw from the left side with the flat side of an estruchean showing on the right side and ,again they look untouched. The grip adapters that came with it have also dulled to a similar look.My gun with Coltwood grips has a screw head showing on both sides.If they are original (which I am begining to think while hearing myself talk) I should probably rub some oil on them to bring back a shine and leave them on there since I don't plan on shooting the gun.If not original, should I be looking for the Coltwood grainy pattern or the solid brown or would either be correct if this a transitional period?Thanks

 

[JudgeColt]

The stocks (Colts have stocks, not "grips) are likely original. Since a dull finish is original on this era of stocks, you should leave them as is.

 

[824tsv]

Hello,
I agree with the Judge that they are probably original to your Woodsman. Sadly this is a common occurrence with 50's era plastics. I have a couple of sets of 50's era Woodsman stocks that have warped and shrunk from age and exposure to sunlight.

 

[hsshss]

ThanksWas there a change in composition when they went to the solid brown or is it just a matter of the climate and exposure of a particular gun over the years?

 

[hsshss]

Also,there is a black Colt marked screwdriver disc about the size of a 50 cent piece in the box.Is this an original accessory to this 1952 gun?

 

[Colt75]

ThanksWas there a change in composition when they went to the solid brown or is it just a matter of the climate and exposure of a particular gun over the years?

I think it was mainly the composition and durability of the stock material that causes the shrinkage and warping. Also, I think the Colt Screwdriver came with the gun. Eagle Grips makes some nice walnut replacement stocks for this model.

www.eaglecgrips.com

 

[Jackson]

I Personally do not like the Brown Plastic Second Model Grips; As hard as you can tighten them, they move around a little and wear the blue. And they are feel cheap and are dung colored. Keep them for originality. One suggestion that I like is to use Original Colt third model MT Woodsman Walnut Grips (with the thumbrest ) and either relieve the back of the RH grip for the mag release or cut a small u shaped opening to clear the pin like the plastic grips. Looks great, feels great and it is still Colt. Jackson.

 

[824tsv]

+1 ^ Third series stocks are by far the best alternative, although they are hard to locate in nice condition and reasonably priced.

 

[Stoneke]

Do an Ebay search under Woodsman Grips. There are several different offerings. Some wood grips by Mazdaman4 are exquisite English Walnut. I have two.

 

[Rick2106]

I would be very cautious buying from Mazdaman4. I purchased a set of grips from Mazdaman4 - eBay seller and my experience was not so good. Received grips and to be honest I was not satisfied with the quality. Not finished properly and not matched to my satisfaction either. Ask to return grips. No reply to my message asking to return but Mazdaman4 did open a case in the resolution center to block any return process. Mazdaman4 has it all covered with a fancy "disclaimer" in the description. eBay protects only the sellers that pay their outrageous fees. Last I checked w/ PayPal fee combined & them taking a percentage of your shipping cost it's the better part of 15% & up & so much for their money back satisfaction guarantee. Just a warning. If you buy from Mazdaman4 you have bought it. Maybe you will get a nice set of grips? Also they might arrive in less than 3 weeks (Purchased June 7th, grips arrived June 25th.) Everything could go perfect BUT what if, everything doesn't go perfect? Your not satisfied with your purchase? Sorry, Mazdaman4 has your money and eBay backing him. Mazdaman4 has a no return policy that is ironclad and zero regard for the customer. I'm a firm believer it's more important who you buy from than what you are buying. Someone that takes care of the customer will keep that customer, gain more customers and will always make it right by you. Do a little homework before you buy. Check return policies carefully, research companies / seller reviews & feedback online and check product reviews.
Actual pictures of grips. S&W J frame RB Faux Pearl. Would you be satisfied with these?