Handgun grip module with a reinforcing bracket

A method of assembling a handgun, the method comprising:

• providing a handgun grip module comprising
• a body portion with opposed spaced-apart sidewalls extending longitudinally, the body portion defining an upwardly open channel with a frame box portion and a spring recoil box portion,
• a handgrip portion extending transversely down from the body portion,
• a recoil block positioned between the frame box and the spring recoil box, the recoil block extending between and connecting the opposed spaced-apart sidewalls;
• and
• a metallic bracket disposed against the distal face of the recoil block, the metallic bracket having at least one protrusion extending proximally through material of the recoil block and into the frame box;
• providing a frame with a frame chassis extending longitudinally between a distal frame end portion and a proximal frame end portion, the distal frame end portion defining a recess for the at least one protrusion extending proximally through the recoil block;
• installing the distal frame end portion into the frame box with the distal frame end portion abutting the recoil block and the at least one protrusion received in the recess in the distal frame end portion;
• rotating the proximal frame end portion down into the frame box;
• and
• installing a pin through the proximal body portion of the grip module and through the proximal frame end portion.