GP100 Grip Panel locator Removal

[9mmdude]

I tried to put Hogue Grips on my GP100 4 Inch and I can't get the grip panel locator off. On my 3 inch GP100 it comes right out (Falls out). On the 4 inch it is stuck. I tried a plastic mallet and tapping and even a pair of vise grips.

Any ideas? With my luck it is not meant to be removed.

Thanks Steve

 

[groessebaer]

If you have a large vise it can be removed. On the right side place some wood on the grip stud above and below the pin ((I used a deep socket from a ratchet set but might not be the best idea that I placed over the pin). The idea is to have the wood or whatever thick enough so when the vise is closed it will push the pin out of the grip stud into the hollow. It is easier to do than explain. Perhaps someone else can put it into better words.

 

[9mmdude]

Thanks for the info Sir! Got it out.

 

[groessebaer]

Glad to hear it worked. I don't know why but most just push out and some are really in tight.

 

[9mmdude]

I called Ruger and the rep told me that older GP100's had the grip locator installed so they needed to be removed with force. My 4" GP100 was made in 1989 and the 3" GP100 was made in 2003 or so, so that makes sense.