Grip Screw Bushing Problem with Lightweight Commander

[Lone_Gunman]

I decided to replace the grips on my lightweight commander with "Slim Line" type grips. This requires changing the grips screw bushings. I can't seem to get the bushings out of the frame. The bushings seem to be made out of aluminum, and are easy to burr up with screwdrivers and wrenches.

Tried WD 40, still no help.

Whats the matter here? Why can't I get the bushings out???

 

[dfariswheel]

The bushings are staked in place at the factory. If this is a used gun, somebody may have loc-tited them also.

With any 1911 you have to be careful not the damage the threads in the frame, but ESPECIALLY on aluminum frames.

Buy a bushing driver bit from Brownell's. This is a hollow screwdriver bit that fits down over the bushing and prevents it from deforming.

Also, you can very carefully use a carbide ball cutter to break the staking rivet on the back side of the bushing. The rivet is formed by a "skirt" on the bushing that's flared on the inside of the frame.

Again, be careful. It's fairly easy to dink the threads on aluminum frames.