Fantastic work, Mike! I think you’re more than ready for Holland & Holland, Rigby, Purdy, etc., etc.
Haha! Very kind Tom Although I think I’ll get a few more of these under my belt before I apply for the job. So far all of my work has been jewelry related, and this was definitely a valuable learning experience. I was honestly really relieved that it went smoothly, and I didn’t end up buying two or three more slides to complete the project.
Well, my client liked the slide so well he decided he needed a pair of grips to match, and here they are:
I’m sure your client is very pleased with them.
Stunning workmanship, Mike. These are beautiful, and so tastefully executed. Regardless of the craft, it’s always pleasurable to view the work of a master, and these grips are fine examples. Thank you for sharing!
These are perfect in every way, Mike! Hope we’re able to see the entire handgun with everything in place.
Wow! Many thanks, @Steve ! Your Photoshop wizardry never ceases to amaze! What an honor to have you do this. Thank you, my friend!
Much appreciated, Tom and Aaron! I happen to know that both of you are masters of your crafts, and I truly value your respective opinions. Thanks guys!
Awesome work, @Steve!
Great job, @Steve! I was convinced that was the real deal.
Mike, I think you found your niche. Absolutely beautiful firearm.
It really is stunning. The beautiful wear on the frame really pops and accentuates Mike’s fine craftsmanship.
I’d like to piggyback off of a comment of yours, Tom, @mmrogers, do you have a bench set up at Holland & Holland’s Dallas Gunroom?
Great craftsmanship Mike!
lol. Thanks again Tom and Aaron! Don’t think I’m quite there yet (but would love that)! This is actually the first 1911 I’ve engraved, and it was definitely a valuable learning experience.
Much appreciated @StevesTrail !
Oh my…that’s simply amazing custom work. Gorgeous!!! I need to show that to hubby and son. Did I miss information about the grip…it almost looks like a woven horsehair pattern.
Thank you @Bmpdvm . It’s deep relief engraving in western arabesque scrollwork. This is the rendering from which the grips were engraved (© 2025 M. M. Rogers) :
Mike, are the grips stainless steel or sterling? Side question - which material do you prefer engraving?
The grips are actually milled from billet aluminum, Tom. My preference is sterling for both hand engraving and laser lithography. I like stainless for slides because it’s less finicky to finish than carbon steel.
Your client has excellent taste! To commission matching grips ~ chef’s kiss.