Frame/handgrip assembly for autoloading handgun

Abstract

A frame/handgrip assembly is provided for autoloading handguns of the Model 1911 A1 type which incorporates a gripless preferably metal frame structure having guide rails for receiving a conventional slide and having a configuration for receiving other standard 1911 A1 components. The frame structure defines opposed handgrip seats including one or more keyways. An integral handgrip structure is provided having spaced connector elements having one or more internal keys for establishing mating, interlocked structural relationship with the handgrip seats. The handgrip structure incorporates an integral trigger guard and both the trigger guard and the connecting elements of the handgrip are physically interlocked with the frame structure by means of screws, pins, etc. The frame and handgrip structures may cooperatively define a wide internal cartridge magazine receptacle for receiving a wide, staggered row, enhanced volume cartridge magazine. The handgrip structure is a structural element of the frame/handgrip assembly and defines outer grip surfaces presenting surface preparation for efficient gripping and defining a maximum handgrip thickness being substantially the same as the handgrip thickness of a standard Model 1911 A1 handgun. The frame and handgrip sections of the assembly each provide for wholly contained location of structural and operational components while establishing a functionally interdependent relationship between such components.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.