Wilson Combat Beavertail Grip Safety, High Ride, Bullet Proof Review

The Road Test: Wilson Combat Beavertail Grip Safety, High Ride, Bullet Proof

For anyone serious about optimizing a 1911 platform, especially for enhanced control and safety, the Wilson Combat Beavertail Grip Safety, High Ride, Bullet Proof presents a compelling upgrade. This isn’t just another aftermarket part; it’s a meticulously engineered component designed to address common shortcomings in factory grip safeties. My journey to this particular grip safety began during a particularly intensive session fine-tuning my competition 1911. I was experiencing consistent, albeit minor, failures to engage the grip safety during rapid fire, which is unnerving, to say the least, especially when milliseconds count.

Initial impressions upon unboxing this piece were immediately positive. The weight and heft of the hardened bar stock steel were palpable, a stark contrast to the often lighter, mass-produced parts. The brushed silver finish is understated yet elegant, and the machining is clearly precise. I had considered a few other brands, but their proprietary designs or less robust material claims steered me back towards the reputation of Wilson Combat. The immediate feeling was one of quiet confidence, a promise of solid, reliable performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat Beavertail Grip Safety, High Ride, Bullet Proof to the Test

First Use Experience

My primary testing grounds for this grip safety have been the unforgiving environment of my home workshop and, more importantly, the competitive shooting range. The workshop saw it subjected to careful fitting, where its exclusive compound joint radius proved its worth by allowing for precise hand-fitting with minimal fuss. On the range, the true test began under the stress of timed drills and rapid fire sequences. It performed admirably, consistently engaging with a firm, positive click.

I deliberately subjected it to dusty conditions during a long day at an outdoor range and even encountered a light, unexpected drizzle one afternoon. In all these scenarios, the grip safety maintained its functionality without any noticeable degradation. Its operation was intuitive from the start; the extended tang and raised rear tab provided a distinct tactile and auditory confirmation of engagement and disengagement. No surprises or quirks surfaced, which, frankly, was exactly what I hoped for with a premium part like this.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, punctuated by dozens of range trips and countless dry-fire drills, this grip safety continues to impress. It has become an integral part of my 1911’s reliability, eliminating the intermittent engagement issues I previously faced. The hardened bar stock steel shows no signs of premature wear. Even after being repeatedly gripped and released under pressure, the finish remains robust, with only the faintest signs of contact on the highest points, which is to be expected.

Maintenance has been refreshingly straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a gun cleaning cloth after each range session, and the occasional light lubrication of the pivot point, keeps it operating flawlessly. It’s far easier to maintain than some more complex safety mechanisms I’ve encountered. Compared to budget grip safeties I’ve used in the past, the durability and consistent performance of this Wilson Combat piece are night and day. Those cheaper alternatives often developed looseness or developed stress marks after far less use.

Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat Beavertail Grip Safety, High Ride, Bullet Proof

Specifications

The Wilson Combat Beavertail Grip Safety, High Ride, Bullet Proof is machined from hardened bar stock steel, a crucial detail that speaks volumes about its intended longevity and resistance to stress. It features an exclusive compound joint radius, which is a testament to thoughtful design, making it remarkably user-friendly during the fitting process. The modified grip safety arm is another key specification, specifically engineered to simplify firearm disassembly, a practical consideration for any owner who performs their own maintenance.

The pocketed rear tang is designed for a recessed commander hammer, ensuring proper clearance and fit, while the raised rear tab is a subtle yet critical enhancement that guarantees positive safety release with minimal effort. This unit requires frame modification for installation, and the manufacturer recommends using their #402 fitting jig for optimal results, underscoring the precision involved. It comes with a brushed silver finish and is constructed from stainless steel, offering both aesthetic appeal and corrosion resistance.

• Material: Hardened Bar Stock Steel – This material choice is paramount, offering superior strength and longevity over cast or MIM (Metal Injection Molding) alternatives. It’s less prone to cracking or deforming under stress, a critical factor for a safety component.
• Design: High Ride Beavertail – This design profile extends the grip surface, preventing “hammer pinch” and providing a more secure grip for shooters of all hand sizes. The “high ride” aspect means it offers a more positive engagement with the thumb safety lever.
• Fitting: Compound Joint Radius & Modified Arm – These design elements are specifically for ease of fitting by a gunsmith or skilled enthusiast, and they also facilitate easier field stripping of the pistol. This is a significant advantage over grip safeties that require extensive custom machining to fit correctly.
• Hammer Compatibility: Pocketed Rear Tang – This feature ensures compatibility with commander-style hammers that have a shorter tang, preventing interference and allowing for a cleaner integration into the firearm’s action.
• Activation: Raised Rear Tab – This provides a larger, more positive surface for the shooter’s hand to depress the safety, ensuring reliable disengagement under the duress of shooting.
• Finish: Brushed Silver – A classic and durable finish that resists fingerprints and minor abrasions, contributing to the overall premium look and feel.
• Origin: Wilson Combat – The manufacturer’s reputation for high-quality 1911 parts and accessories is a significant factor, indicating a commitment to precision and performance.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of a grip safety is to prevent the trigger from being pulled unless the shooter is holding the firearm correctly. The Wilson Combat Beavertail Grip Safety, High Ride, Bullet Proof excels at this fundamental task. Its precise engineering ensures that it engages reliably when gripped and disengages smoothly when the hand is positioned correctly. I experienced zero unintentional deactivations or failures to engage, even during aggressive shooting drills.

Its strength lies in its absolute reliability and the positive tactile feedback it provides. The weakness, if one can call it that, is that it requires careful fitting by a qualified gunsmith or a patient, skilled individual with the right tools. This is not a “drop-in” part for the novice. It meets and exceeds expectations for a high-end component, offering peace of mind that is invaluable in any shooting application, from competition to personal defense.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of this grip safety is exceptional. The hardened bar stock steel construction imparts a reassuring heft, and the machining is visibly precise, with clean lines and smooth transitions. The brushed silver finish is aesthetically pleasing and feels solid, not like a cheap coating. In hand, once fitted, it feels like an organic extension of the 1911’s grip.

Ergonomically, the high ride beavertail design is a significant improvement over standard grip safeties. It fills the web of the hand more completely, providing a higher shooting grip and effectively eliminating hammer bite. The extended rear tab is perfectly contoured for natural thumb placement, making safety operation almost instinctive. There was a slight learning curve in the fitting process, but once installed correctly, its operation became second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from hardened steel, this grip safety is built for the long haul. I anticipate it will outlast many other components on a standard 1911. Under normal, albeit rigorous, use, I foresee no significant wear points developing beyond cosmetic marks that are typical of quality metal parts that see use. It’s designed for heavy-duty application.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving cleaning and occasional lubrication. The stainless steel construction aids in resisting rust and corrosion, even if exposed to a bit of moisture. The primary maintenance concern would be ensuring the pivot pin remains clean and lightly oiled. There are no obvious inherent failure points in its design; its simplicity and robust materials contribute to its impressive longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

This specific product, the Wilson Combat Beavertail Grip Safety, High Ride, Bullet Proof, is a core component and doesn’t typically come with a host of accompanying accessories. Its primary purpose is to enhance the functionality of the pistol itself. However, its design considerations mean it is intended to work harmoniously with specific hammer styles (e.g., commander hammers) and the use of the #402 fitting jig is a recommended accessory for proper installation.

Compatibility with other aftermarket parts is generally excellent, as is typical of Wilson Combat products, which are manufactured to tight tolerances that often align with industry standards. For example, if one were upgrading other aspects of their 1911, this grip safety would seamlessly integrate with many modern trigger groups and hammers designed for custom builds.

Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat Beavertail Grip Safety, High Ride, Bullet Proof

Who Should Buy Wilson Combat Beavertail Grip Safety, High Ride, Bullet Proof?

This grip safety is an ideal upgrade for serious 1911 enthusiasts, competitive shooters, and individuals undertaking custom builds or reliability enhancements. If you frequently shoot at a vigorous pace and demand absolute certainty in your firearm’s safety mechanisms, this component is for you. It’s particularly well-suited for those who have experienced issues with factory grip safeties or are looking to optimize their shooting ergonomics.

Those who should probably skip this product are individuals seeking a simple, direct replacement part that requires no gunsmithing or frame modification. If you are new to 1911 customization or prefer a purely cosmetic upgrade, this might be more involved than necessary. For those embarking on this upgrade, I highly recommend investing in the Wilson Combat #402 fitting jig to ensure a precise and safe installation.

Conclusion on Wilson Combat Beavertail Grip Safety, High Ride, Bullet Proof

The Wilson Combat Beavertail Grip Safety, High Ride, Bullet Proof is, without question, a superior component for any 1911 owner seeking enhanced safety, improved ergonomics, and unwavering reliability. Its construction from hardened bar stock steel and meticulous engineering set it apart from lesser parts, offering a significant upgrade in durability and performance. While the requirement for frame modification and professional fitting adds to the cost and complexity, the resulting security and control it provides are well worth the investment.

For its price point, the value is undeniably present for those who understand the nuances of 1911 customization. I would unequivocally recommend this grip safety to any discerning 1911 shooter who prioritizes function and form, and who is willing to invest in proper installation. It transforms a critical safety feature into a point of robust, reliable excellence.