A Sampling of Customer Comments.
Thank you for trusting me with some of your most prized possessions.
Mr. Joe Perkins,
I received a call from Shotgun Sports (Anniston, Alabama) informing me that you sent back my 1911 with the new custom made and installed Giraffe Bone grips. This is the second 1911 you have custom made and installed Giraffe Bone grips on and they look outstanding. In addition, you have made and installed Giraffe Bone grips on two of my Colt Single Action Army revolvers, custom made and installed Amboyna grips on a Ruger New Vaquero as well as making and installing Eucalyptus Burl grips on my 1858 New Army Conversion as well as performing action work on all my Colt Single Action Army models and fire blued all the pins and screws on these revolvers.
If I may be candid for a moment and address your new customers: “For any new customer of Classic Single Action, do not let being on a wait list deter you from having Joe make you custom grips for your firearm. When you see the final product, you will say that the wait was worth it. Over the last several years Joe has made custom grips for six of my single action guns. I did not mind in the least bit the length of time I was on the weight lists because the action work and custom grips are more than worth the wait—the grips are truly a work of art.”
Joe, thank you for the attention to detail that you put into every set of custom grips and action work. In closing I wish you a very pleasant day.
Respectfully and With Best Regard, Dan Krejci
Joe,
I apologize for taking so long to email you back with my thoughts on the work you did on both of my old Colts. First thing that comes to mind is my disappointment. I’m not disappointed in your work or craftsmanship. I’m completely satisfied and extremely happy with my black powder frame SAA. The giraffe bone grips are as you promised. Unique. The craftsmanship and fit and finish are of the highest caliber. Now on to the Colt Bisley model. I’m not disappointed in the grips. Again, the craftsmanship, fit and finish are of the highest caliber. I’m disappointed after handling and shooting the SAA and the way you cleaned up the action and did your premium action job on the SAA I wish I had you perform the same action work on the Bisley model. I know that the Bisley is as close to original for the action as it left Colt in 1901 but now after shooting the SAA I’m spoiled and want the same kind of operation on that Bisley
As I said I’m completely satisfied with your work and you were right. I love those giraffe bone grips and the blonde burl grips on these old Colts.
The greatest compliment I can give you is please put my name on your list for me. I have something I’m craving and by the time I get up on your list I will be ready for another set of grips.
Thank You, James Pounds
- When my next gun comes in for grips I’m sending that Bisley back for that premium action job. Again, please put my name on your list when you read this.
Joe,
These are works of art. They just arrived! I want to mount them in a case rather than shoot them! You are right about the grip size. Your factory modified grip exactly fits my hand very well!. Gun manipulation for the draw is now, way more pronounced, controlled, and specific! What a great improvement for me. The old grips now seem like huge hams compared to these. And the look! They are more like museum quality to me! They look AWESOME! You are truly a craftsman! As we discussed, I would honored for you to put pics of them on your website!
I will refer the heck out of you! Thank you again for everything! Definitely worth the wait!
Sandpoint Slim
Cowboy Fastdraw Life #4404
SASS #112720
PS: Love the attached letter with serial numbers and details. Great touch!
Hello Joe,
Picked up my guns Thursday and just wanted to say Thanks again. The grips are amazing and the barrel stamp removal on my Vaquero looks fantastic! You were right about the cross inlay. The blackening of the background gives it a beautiful antique look and I love it. My wife says the same thing! I also could not be happier with the competition grip on the Vaquero, you were right about this contour being comparable to the Colt with a modified contour. I can hardly tell a difference when holding each revolver. Fit and finish were excellent and the Walnut and American Holly are beautiful woods! I plan on taking some good pics soon of all 3 revolvers, will send them to you if you would like to post on your website. Thanks Joe!-Kris
Joe,
I received my gun yesterday. You said that I would be pleased, but that doesn’t quite describe my thoughts. It is a work of art. You are truly a master of your trade and I thank you.
Best Regards, Rob Kirkland
Hi Joe,
I just picked up the revolver from Fedex. Wow, your work is stunningly beautiful. The action is silky smooth, it feels great in my hand, and I just can’t get over how wonderful the giraffe bone grips turned out. You are without a doubt the best in the world at what you do! If I get a chance to refer you to others and send more business to your waiting list, I certainly will.
I can’t thank you enough, very happy and very excited, David Caldwell
Evening Joe
My pal Brent from the ” The Gun Vault ” Mentioned his wife spoke with you regarding Shipping / FFL etc. … I was in there on other business and thought I’d let them know about my plans for eventual shipping of the Colt …
GEEZ – You should have heard ! All four folks in the store, including the owner Brent – Knew Exactly who you were AND your work 🤩 So – yeah, I got to be the envy of Shop for a brief moment – Anyway – I sent off a check for 2K And still prefer to just have you keep the gun there. Needless to say if your ever in Edgemont, SD You won’t have to pay for your drinks !
Thanks, Joe Scott
Joe,
I received the two revolvers you worked on for me and I cannot express how satisfied I am. I am ecstatic! Your workmanship remains incredible. I displayed the grips to a friend and he stated he would love to work with you just to discover your technique in finishing the European Walnut grips. Given the varied grain it takes a master to finish wood to the degree you have. The 1853 Remington Pocket Revolver grips you designed and installed are perfect. From an awkward grip to a firm secure grip and I am much more confident with handling it now. Your work on the main spring was exactly right. The gold and silver coin inlays on both revolvers is absolutely perfect. These are the third and fourth revolvers you have worked on for me and if I have another revolver that I need to upgrade I will not let anyone else but you do the work. Thank you for your guidance and your incredible talent in making these revolvers cherished heirlooms. – John Bower
Joe
Thank You!
You have done a phenomenal job with these grips. The snakewood is fantastic. The inlays are beautifully executed. They turned out just as I hoped they would. The subtle details of handmade craftsmanship adds enormously to the appearance. It is rare nowadays to see this level of attention to detail. These are works of art.
Please put me on the waiting list for some more of your fine work.
Chris Choyke
Mr. Perkins:
Just wanted to let you know that I received my gun back today. Couldn’t be happier. You did a fantastic job. Thank You again so very much for the great work, excellent communication, and an all-around perfect transaction. Can’t wait to deal with you again.
Scott Dalrymple
Hey Joe,
Took my Colt out today finally to shoot. That barrel turning did the trick, it’s dead on wind age now. I can ring 50 yard shots consistently on a 2/3 IPSC silhouette and probably further now, but I ran out of hand loads that I was testing. The action job is super slick and a big improvement over the heavy factory springs. Just wanted to let you know I’m a happy customer and I really appreciate the great work. Chris Troupe
Joe, just wanted to send you a note of thanks for all your help over the years. I can’t tell you how much it means that you take time out of your busy schedule to offer advice and patiently answer questions and try to explain things. I know you have a mountain of work so I’m sure your minutes are precious. Anyhow, just wanted to say thanks and I really appreciate it. Any time the topic of grips or gunsmithing work comes up in the various forums that I visit I always try to send people your way. Not just because you’re a nice guy but also because your work is just so fantastic. Anyhow, thanks again. Rene Heurtex
Hey Joe,
I just received my Colt back and am still trying to wrap my head around the sorcery you performed. I feel as though I’ve been living a lie up until this point when it comes to what an “action” job is. Your skills and customer service have no equal in my opinion and I consider it a privilege to have had my Colt worked on by you. Thank you so much for everything. From start to finish this has been a fantastic experience. I can’t wait to get out to the range and see how she shoots. I look forward to sending more action work your way and possibly having some of your custom grip work done as well. Take care and stay safe! Matt Heverling
Hi Joe,
I got the revolvers from the FFL on Saturday. They look and feel fantastic. I was surprised how light the action is. I know that somewhere on your website you say that you tune the guns to fire Winchester primers. A few years ago, I had to switch to Federal to get 100% reliability from the Smokewagon with the retractable firing pin (the one with the original system was reliable with Winchester). So, I was a bit worried that the springs on the Colts might be too light. We went to the range yesterday with several light loads, some with Winchester (the old white box) primers and some with Federal. Both revolvers were 100% with all the loads. Accuracy was spot on. We were using 200 grain bullets from Missouri that are his “Cowboy” bullets sized .452 and have BHN of 12. All my rounds were in the black and both revolvers started to open up a hole in the black though each was centered very slightly different. Perfectly fine. The only issue is that the pad of my middle finger would rest over the screw hole of the stock Colt grips and it started getting sore and then I got a tiny blister. Usually, I like checkered grips. I’ll have to decide if I want to have you make me some smooth grips or not.
Thanks for the great work!
Cheryl Sanchez
Hi Joe,
I picked up my Colt from my FFL the other day and ran a few rounds through it this morning. Wow – what an impressively smooth and light action. The action work you do is certainly well worth it. I’ve never felt anything quite like it.
Thanks, Harry Preste
Hi Joe,
I just picked up the revolver from Fedex.
Wow, your work is stunningly beautiful. The action is silky smooth, it feels great in my hand, and I just can’t get over how wonderful the giraffe bone grips turned out. You are without a doubt the best in the world at what you do! If I get a chance to refer you to others and send more business to your waiting list, I certainly will.
I can’t thank you enough, very happy and very excited,
David Caldwell
Joe: Just received my Colt SAA back with the new grips installed, I had you make the grips out of Indonesian rosewood with solid silver snake inlays complete with ruby eyes. The gun is absolutely beautiful and I have already received many compliments. Thank you for such great work. I plan to make this gun my “legacy gun” which will be passed down through the generations. Again, thank you so much for the stunning grips.
Don Noland
Hola Joe,
I wanted to let you know how happy I am with the action work you did on my Colt & Ruger!
I’ve never sent a firearm to a gunsmith before for improvements or problems & I thought both guns were fine as they were from stock/factory. They both worked well and were as accurate as I could be. Zero problems. But after your Premium Action Work the difference is really like night & day. The hammer pull & cylinder rotation are so smooth & responsive. The trigger pull is very crisp & both guns lock up super tight. I’m looking forward to sending some more pistols your way for action work. I am very pleased & can’t wait for my # to come up for grips.
Thanks, Andrew Berman
Joe,
Sorry that I have neglected to thank you for such a wonderful job on my Colt using my Father’s military insignia. I have gotten many comments in praise of your outstanding craftsmanship. This revolver has become the flagship for my Colt handgun collection. No doubt that any soldier in the last 148 years would be proud to carry this 1873 SSA. Thanks again for your superior workmanship on my revolver that has so much sentimental history.
Regards, Jack
Joe, I picked up the Colt Saturday and you did what I asked, you sent me the best one! 😂 Now I see what your action jobs are about, like butter would be an apt description. Can’t wait to shoot it, and thanks Joe, you were a pleasure to deal with, the world would be a better place if more people handled things like you do.
Thanks, Rick Breeden
Hi Joe,
FedEx just delivered my Colt a little while ago. The American Holly grips you have installed are absolutely gorgeous! The light color really makes the engraving pop out. The fitting to the metal is perfect. Needless to say, I am very pleased with the quality of workmanship and materials. As we discussed, I am on your waiting list for my next project-a NF in 45 Colt- that I would like the Palladin grips installed on. Looking forward to working with you down the road on this next project!
Thanks so much, Jim Duffy
Hello again Joe,
Just picked up my SAA yesterday. AMAZING!!!!!!! You do incredible work! I am so impressed with the work you did on my gun. It is the best feeling SAA action I have ever felt. Thanks again, Steve.
Joe, just got a chance to take a look at the Rugers. Thank you so much for the beautiful work. Your attention to detail, wood choice, grain direction, color, your choice of inlay material…all perfect. They both feel great in the hand. The birdshead also feels great in my left hand or right. I can’t wait to get them out to the range. Thanks again, I look forward to do doing business with you again soon.
Cheers, Bob Brainard
Joe,
Wanted you to know I now have the revolver in hand and it speaks for itself. Thank you very much for the excellent service and quality work that went into my firearm. Frank McCurry
Hi, Joe! I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the incomparable elk horn 1911 grips! I’m flummoxed by their beauty and feel! I’ve already sent photos to friends. The gun is sitting beside me as I write this, and I can’t quit picking it up, admiring it, enjoying the incredible feel of the elk horn in my hand, and feeling the pride of ownership! Owning a set of your grips is like owning any piece of original artwork from a top artist, and you’ve created a masterpiece for my 1911! Again, thank you so much! Now that my name is on your waiting list for single action grips and action work, I’ll be awaiting your phone call like a kid on Christmas Eve! All the best.
Grady Bird
Joe,
Just wanted to send a note of thanks for the work you did for me. Bar W inlay. I’ve had some bad experiences in the past. Your work was very beautiful. You kept me informed, turned over your project in a timely manner and made me feel confident in my purchase. I’d be more than willing to recommend you anytime.
Richard Williams PE
OK Joe,
Here it is. What you have done to restore and improve the function of my two old Blackhawks is apparently magic. The “work” I’d had previously done to them locally was supposed to improve them from their 45-year-old worn state, and instead it made them worse. After their trip to your shop, I’m awed by their rebirth. Damage repaired, Super Blackhawk hammers installed and action improved almost beyond belief. They are now a dream to shoot. The action is smoother, lighter and crisper than anything I’ve ever shot, and these are mine! I know this is what you do for a living, but along with paying for what you did, I have to add a very heart-felt THANK YOU for providing a level of craftsmanship that I’ve never seen before. They’re everything I hoped they’d be! And oh yeah, I tested them with aluminum case Blazer 38+p, brass case factory .38, and the notoriously hard primer TulAmmo .38. Fired them all without a hiccup. As soft and smooth as that hammer is, I had to see it to believe it. Just, wow. Thanks again, Steve Palley
Joe,
Just got the grips…. like the cowboy said in Tombstone… “I ain’t got the words” You are a true artist….. Thank you so much for all you did. Now it’s time to go through the collection and see what else I can upgrade! Dave Burkle
Joe,
She’s gorgeous! I couldn’t have asked for a better turnout. I already posted pictures on the Colt web forums showing off your work. And, of course, I linked your website for those who are unfamiliar. To say the least – Everybody is impressed. And I agree with them when they say I sent these guns to the right guy. Again, thank you. Brandon
Joe,
Thank you again for taking such good care of my Colt. It was well worth the wait, and I was very pleasantly surprised with your quick turnaround. The grips are gorgeous and the feel of them is perfect. Tactile, grippy, yet smooth. I have no idea how you accomplish that. Also, the extra room for my knuckles is just right. Truly a custom fit. Finally, I am amazed at your work on the action. Smooth doesn’t begin to describe it. It would take me a whole page, so suffice to say that I simply had no idea you could do that. It’s absolutely perfect.
Thanks again. I love this so much I’m thinking about getting another just so you can work on it! Bob Gore
DEAR GENIUS CRAFTSMAN JOE …..
ABSOLUTELY FLAWLESS WORK … JUST GORGEOUS …. YOUR RETURN PACKAGING IS EVER SO CLASSY AND USEFUL.
I WILL SEND ANOTHER COOL PISTOL IN 2 WEEKS AFTER PAYDAY.
CHEERS, Richard Borgens
Joe,
I apologize for being tardy for thanking you on such a wonderful job you performed on my Colt SAA. The action and case hardening results have far exceeded any expectations I could have imagined. In my opinion your workmanship is the standard of perfection. There’s no doubt that Samuel Colt would be proud. While you were working on this Colt, I was able to purchase a new 7” Colt SAA .45 through my gun club. I want to have the action work performed as well as a few other things. I will call you to discuss and get your opinion about the best options. Thanks again for your excellent work.
Regards, Jack Daggett
Joe,
I hope this finds all well out west! I am very remiss in not reporting on the value of the two 1860 Uberti’s you tuned and put new grips on. Wow, the 1860s are great….really reliable and accurate…..I have shot my open tops a lot too, but with black powder…..mess but fun! In short, in the North South Skirmish Association at Fort Shenandoah in Winchester, Virginia, I was on the team that won a second place medal at the Spring National. The guns look great, and it was a toss up on which one to use, but the results speak for themselves. As usual I am the limiting factor, but thanks for some really outstanding work! 🙂 Very respectfully, Walt Kreitle
Joe,
I just want to drop you a note and thank you for the superb work on the guns I just got back!! The grips and silverwork are awesome. The pair of 2nd gens are going to see a lot of great use and I expect I’ll get a lot of compliments. The actions on all of them are like butter …. just incredible. Thank you so much for your craftsmanship and the dedication you have put into becoming one of the best!
Kind Regards , Joe Leonard
Joe,
Today, I picked up the package from Shotgun Sports—excellent work. The Rugers are so much better than the factory and so is the Uberti, but the Rugers are truly sweet. The hammers on both Rugers are really smooth and the trigger pull on both New Vaqueros is perfect. Frankly Joe, you have spoiled me. I cannot get another SAA without having the Premium Action Work done by you. In addition, the jeweled hammer on the Ruger Bisley adds a real nice touch since the Bisley is stainless. Well, I look forward to your phone call telling me to send in my 1858 New Army Conversion for new grips and premium action work. Until then, I wish you a pleasant day. Happy trails!
Respectfully and With Best Regards, Dan Krejci
Mr. Joe Perkins,
I picked up the nickel Colt SAA on Saturday at Shotgun Sports. The premium action work and the fire bluing of the screws and pins is outstanding. If eventually you are able to get the ejector rod for the Colt SAA and fire-blue it, I will ship the nickel Colt SAA back to you for installation. After due deliberation, I thought it best to have the best install the part. Once again, thank you for the outstanding premium action work you have done on my three Colt SAAs (plus the Giraffe Bone grips on the two case hardened Colts), my two Ruger New Vaqueros (the Amboyna Burl grips on one), and my two Uberti clones (with the Eucalyptus Burl Grips on the New Army Conversion). Of all the gunsmith work I have had done on rifles, shotguns, and revolvers, etc., you are far the best gunsmith I have had the pleasure to work with and your ability to do magic with grips for Single Actions is beyond masterful.
Respectfully and With Best Regards,Dan Krejci
Hello Joe Perkins!
Thanks so much for the wonderful job upgrading my New Ruger Vaquero with Hand of God, ebony grips and the case hardening. There are more well known outfits doing the case hardening for triple the price and I have to say, the colors and finish on mine are better than anything I’ve seen the other place put out. Breathtakingly gorgeous is an understatement. I hope you kept pictures! The combination of the ebony grips with the gold hand of god alloy with the mind blowing, colorful case hardening makes me feel like I have a brand new revolver. I was worried I was making a crazy decision putting into the gun close to what it cost new. Not a second of doubt now. I will treasure this pistol forever and pass it on to my sons someday. You took a standard blued Ruger revolver and turned it into a special heirloom for me. Thanks so much for always picking up the phone, calling me on a Sunday night (not necessary) to let me know where the gun was in transit and taking the time to help me pick the right grips. Lastly, the packaging it came in today was an added bonus. What a presentation opening your custom box with the letter of authenticity too. I was like a kid on Christmas morning!
Thanks again Joe. You’re the best!! Joe from Boston
Joe,
Just got the vaquero back from you. I want to thank you for the master work you did! The grips are beautiful to say the least. The action is amazing and the barrel is now great once again! Thank you. I’ll be showing this off pronto to my soon to be jealous buds and sharing your name. And one day I hope to be back on your list for #2. All the best and keep up the amazing work. (Next Day) Just shot 100 rounds at lunch time today. Very sweet trigger and smooth action.
Thanks Joe, Jamie Barber, Athens GA
Joe,
No news to you for sure, but just had to mention how pleased I am with how your upgrade work has improved the shootability of this gun.
The low hammer makes for much easier cocking and the combo of the higher visibility gold/serrated front sight and the now-crisp trigger REALLY steps up the sight acquisition and accuracy.
Many thanks, Vic
Hello Joe,
I received my Cimarron 45 Colt today (Friday). First off, the packaging was excellent. The double inner pistol box will be useful for storage and if I need to send this or another single action in for service someday. My peacemaker is perfect! The action is butter-smooth, and it works easily and flawlessly, much improved over the factory configuration. The trigger is also wonderful, still firm but completely smoothed out and easy to operate, as opposed to the stiff feel it had before. I can’t wait to get it to the range. Thanks again for taking out the ding in the frame, shining up and machining the bottom of the trigger, and taking care of the damaged screw on the bottom of the grip, while including all this in the Premium Action work for no extra charge. Your service is very much worth it, and high value. I won’t hesitate to use you in the future or to recommend you to anyone who has need of single action work.
Have a great weekend! Bruce Albrecht
Joe,
Between bad weather and the work schedule it took a bit, but I finally got a chance to give the Blackhawk you worked over some range time. Wow! The gun has the finest, smoothest action of any of my handguns and is side by side with my ’67 Python in single action. Maybe even a bit smoother. A long time pistol shooter and friend was with me and fired a few rounds with it. He just walked away shaking his head in amazement. Thanks again for the great work. I can hardly wait to send it back for grips when you notify me.
Keith Mitchell
Joe,
I received the revolver today. This thing is a work of art! I’m sure you’ve heard this over and over again, but I’m almost afraid to shoot it because it’s so awesome looking! But I will shoot it! Lol. I absolutely love it. Great job!
Sincerely, Jeremy Murray
Joe,
I just want to thank you for the great action job you did on my gun. The guys can’t believe how smooth it is and how well it shoots. I’m glad I choose you for my gun purchase and gunsmithing. The trigger pull is light and smooth. Joe, thank you very much, Charlie.
Hi Joe,
I received the gun and grips today, everything is perfect.
Both sets of grips are incredibly beautiful and well made. The Curly Maple is out of this world.
Thanks! Ivan Gomez
Joe,
Wanted to drop a note to say the time waiting and money spent on our four new revolvers was worth every minute and every penny. The quality of gunsmith work is excellent and the grips are beyond what we were expecting. At the first two matches we shot them at, numerous people commented on how amazing they looked. Would also like to say thanks so much for the guidance through the process talking about the different considerations available. It made decisions easier and helped give us complete confidence in what was to come. We couldn’t be more proud of our new revolvers.
Charlie and Becky a.k.a. Two Spurs and Sunny Spurs
Joe,
Fantastic job on the guns! I am exceedingly happy with the grips on all 4 and the short stroke work is phenomenal. It was well worth the wait. You will be my go to guy moving forward. I would like to get back on your list to send you 2 more revolvers when you are ready.
Thanks again, Mark Johnston
Hi Joe,
As I mentioned to you on the phone yesterday, words simply cannot begin to describe either how pleased I am, or what really beautiful work you performed in transforming my two USFA revolvers into the absolute works of art. The nickel plating is truly gorgeous and the American Holly grips with bronze inlays are nothing short of spectacular. Honestly, these are the guns I have dreamed of owning as long as I can remember, and are now my “most prized” among a rather large number of both genuine Colt SAA’s and quality Colt clones. I will be mentioning your name and “Classic Single Action” with the highest recommendations at every opportunity which I encounter!
Many, many thanks and kindest personal regards.
Sincerely, Theron Bailey
Joe,
Words are inadequate to describe how happy I am with your craftsmanship and attention to detail. Both the Rattlesnake gun and Hand of God are absolutely fabulous. I can’t wait to take them to the NRA Headquarters Range and show them off.
Thank you, and so glad you are back to ~100% health…they were clearly worth the wait!
Al Meyers
Hello Joe,
I have been away from home and just returned today and was very pleased to find my 18k ‘Hand of God’ revolver waiting for me. It is an absolutely gorgeous piece that you have created for me. I gave it a good inspection, but not wanting to over handle it too much. Everything looks outstanding.
I cannot thank you enough. The presentation is beyond what I expected. I plan to proudly take care of and cherish this for the rest of my life and hopefully it will live on beyond me as a family heirloom. I made a presentation box for it where it will be kept safe (pics attached).
Thanks a bunch!
Bruce Skocdopole
Joe,
I feel that you have gone above and beyond what is expected of warranty work in this very competitive business. You made my grips back in 2005, I broke them in 2014. You fixed the problem like it never happened on the outside and from what you told me it is now better on the inside. In addition you reimbursed me for shipping. It just doesn’t get any better than that. The packaging on the return shipment was the best I have seen. Folks this is one of the best in the business.
Thanks again, Jim Kahr.
Hello Mr. Perkins,
After receiving my pistol and seeing the work I am sure you hear this a lot, but your work is second to none. The grips are absolutely beautiful and feel perfect in my hands when shooting; and the action is unbelievably smooth and crisp. Overall just amazing work and I cannot express enough how thrilled I am with it and glad I sent it to you.
Thanks, Rick Naramore
Dear Joe,
Guns arrived Friday. All I can say is that the work is awesome!! I don’t know which I am more impressed with; the inlaid ebony grips and their fit, or just how buttery smooth the actions are.
Thanks, Barry Bland
Joe,
I just wanted to send you a note of sincere gratitude and appreciation for the work you did in helping me restore that gun to a “better than new” condition!! Following the fire that devastated my parents’ house, leveling it and destroying everything in it, including Dad’s modest gun collection, finding his old BH that he purchased in the mid 60’s in the ashes was a bittersweet moment. That old gun had been with him through a lot and I myself harbor a lot of fond memories of growing up with it on the farm, drawing on imaginary foes and taking out countless evil tin cans! The work you did in helping me to restore it, truing up the action and getting it to work like butter was nothing short of fantastic, and the buckeye burl grips you fashioned for it are simply amazing and really set off the nitride finish we put on the gun! Presenting it to my Dad as a Christmas gift last year, was a very special moment, and I’m certain one he will not soon forget. I get reports all the time from friends and family members of how he shows it off to them when they visit. Thank you so much from not only myself, but from my entire family for helping restore a true family heirloom and putting a smile from ear to ear on my Dad’s face!!
Kind regards, and happy trails, Joe Leonard
Hi Joe,
I’ve been remiss in not sending you my heartfelt thanks for the incredible grips you made for my Colt New Frontier in .44 Special. I went with the mesquite burl because it was acquired locally (less than 100 miles north of here) and the fit and finish are the best I’ve seen on anything. The action job (basic) is just unbelievable as well. The first time I stroked back the hammer on one of your action jobs I thought to myself, “There’s no way this thing will light the primer!” On the contrary, I’ve had no issues of the sort. This gun is such a pleasure to shoot. I don’t take it out as often as I should because it’s such a showpiece. But beauty is as beauty does. I’ll have another for you soon. Terry Pierce “Hawk”
Joe,
Received my Colts today with black Ebony Grips and my initials PP set on the outside. They are absolutely beautiful and wonderful to the touch and grip. I’m on my way to your website in hopes of adding an endorsement to your excellent work. Craftsmen such as you are getting harder and harder to find. Glad I asked around to finally find you and your website. Thanks again for the great piece of work!
Peter Pedone, AKA: Pavaler Pete
Joe,
I just shipped my Colt SAA and a USFA to you. I included a note that describes the grips I would like for each gun. I decided to go for the premium action job on both guns as well. I wasn’t going to originally, since I already had a Houston gunsmith do action work on both of those guns, but there is a very noticeable difference compared to the guns you did for me. Yours are much smoother.
Aaron Duke
Joe,
I just received my Vaqueros back from you…Wow! Not sure what else I can say; they are beautiful! Haven’t had the chance to run them yet, but the action feels so smooth and the cylinder spins like a top! The grips are beyond my expectations! You are truly an artist and I feel fortunate to have had you work on my revolvers. Well worth every penny I spent! Thank you so much!
Regards, Mark Fortie
Joe,
Just received my 1872 back from you and your work is truly amazing. I didn’t think that you could out do yourself after the satinwood grips on my other ’72. The ebony grips with the brass tacks looks downright sinister. Job well done Sir!
S/F, Tom Shanahan Dumfries, VA
Hi Joe,
Oh my god, I love, love, LOVE those madrone burl grips! WOW!!! You make me want to have you re-do every grip I’ve ever had anybody else do. Your grips are so awesome and perfect, they make my gun feel like a work of art. I just hope my wife doesn’t get too jealous so I kinda have to keep it on the down low 😉
Rene Herteux p.s. Did I mention wow!?
Joe,
I’ve been a little busy and meant to contact you sooner. I received the Colt and it’s really nice.I appreciate the work that went into all four revolvers; the action jobs are amazing and the grips are gorgeous. Thanks,Mark Verwest
Joe,
Got the .357/.38 Ruger OM Vaquero w/birds-head grip today. Absolutely amazed! Brian C’s work in fitting grip frame to cylinder frame is flawless. Your work with the Indonesian Rosewood, sterling silver knot inlay, removal of barrel stamping, and other pistol modifications make you an artist; not just a gunsmith. This is my Holy Grail gun. I can’t wait to shoot it. Now, the search begins for another, so you can again work your craft, and I’ll have my Holy Grail pair.
Thank you. Regards, Joe Witcofsky
Hi Joe,
I just want you to know how pleased I am with the work that was done on my .44 sp Ruger. The grips, case hardening, and silver inlay are beyond my expectations ( even after reading the other reviews ). Thanks again for making a nice firearm into a family heirloom. Chris McDowell
Joe,
I wanted to take a minute and say thanks for a job well done on my COLTS. The ivory on my 5 ½ is gorgeous. The American Holly on my two 7 ½’s are marvelous. The fit and finish is extraordinary. I am glad that there are still craftsman with attention to details. You are certainly one of them. My respects, Kent Huntsman
Joe,
After just a little bit of drama with Fedex, (my delivery truck was rerouted back to the facility for “local weather delay”…come on, this in Minnesota for pete sake) I went and picked it up myself (roads were fine). I couldn’t wait until I got home, so I opened up the box in my car. I felt like Ralphie on Christmas Story opening up the Red Rider BB gun. The extra wrapping around the grip was a nice touch, made for a little more dramatic unveiling. I sent you my Ruger Blackhawk convertible and you sent me back a work of art! The Hand of God grip is stunning and flawless. I thought, “this can’t be my gun” and then I pulled the hammer back and my thumb didn’t recognize it either! So easy, so smooth. The color case hardening is gorgeous with great blues, yellows and perfect patterns. Honed and chamfered cylinders are like glass…everything you worked on is fantastic. Worth the wait, my Hand of God Blackhawk has become my most prized firearm. Thanks, Chad Ridler
Joe,
Mate I finally got to collecting the Blackhawks from Customs today. You’re a legend. Absolutely unreal and they will partner the Rattlesnake Rugers you did last year really well. Can’t thank you enough for helping me out with these fine guns.
Cheers, John, (Western Australia)
Dear Joe, I just wanted to report in and say the guns are simply incredible. I found them on my desk early the 11th exactly as you said. That alone was amazing, but then I took them out and felt the new action and Short Stroke work. Smooth as butter is an understatement. I was borrowing a friend’s Vaqueros in 45LC that were short stroked by xxx xxxxx so I could get used to the action and hammer pull. I have to say his felt almost like factory guns compared to mine! Absolutely amazing. I have a gunfighter friend I’m going to be seeing at the NM state shoot in a week and he was asking about my guns. You may have another pair on the way once he feels how nice mine are. Can’t thank you enough for squeezing me in so quickly and for the outstanding workmanship. Again, thanks so much for your help. One of these days I’ll get some grips from ya too.Your buddy, Bill Adams AKA- Will Two Gun Adams
Joe, You are ” THE MAN” when it comes to grips and action work. I apologize for taking so long to write this email. I’ve been shooting my Ruger New Vaquero that you worked on for Cowboy Fast Draw and it has performed flawlessly. I have won three trophies this year and the gun has never let me down. The hammer feels so light and smooth that I was worried that it might not fire every primer it lands on….not the case though! It has fired every primer it has landed on!!! Fast Draw is very hard on guns…and all the dry firing practice even harder. My gun still feels as smooth as the day I got it back from you! You may have some new business headed your way because everyone that has checked out my gun has wanted to know who did the work. Besides the great action work…I get tons of complements on my grips. I had you do my grips in Ziricote with the open mouth rattlesnake inlaid. (My alias in CFDA is Rattlesnake Rick so I had to have the snake!) You also polished my stainless Ruger and between its new shinny exterior and the unbelievable looking grips everybody wants to look at my gun. I just bought a USFA so you will be getting a call from me soon. I was just looking at your site since I bought the new gun and saw my Ruger pictured on your site! I couldn’t be more proud! Now I can tell everybody if they want to see my gun they can just check it out at Classic Single Action!!! Thanks again Joe….I’ll be calling you soon to go over what to do on my new USFA. ……..Rattlesnake Rick aka Rick Westall
Joe,
I just received my pistol with the new grips and all I can say is WOW! They are beautiful, and the pistol seems to melt into my hand. Hard to feel were my hand stops and the grips begin. I can’t wait to shoot it tomorrow. Thanks for doing such a great job!
John Deiss
Joe,
I received the Colt on Friday. Your work is excellent! The ivory grips are beautiful! Thank you. I sent another Colt across the US to have grip work done at the same time as the project you worked on for me. I did this only knowing that you and the other company were the most recognized for quality work. In conclusion the work from Company B was not a pleasant experience; whereas, you were professional with updates, your knowledge was up front, and your quality of work the winner. I have a few more revolvers that will be in need of your services beginning with a Colt SAA in 44 spl for which a set of your Maple or American Holly grips are desired.
The other two are 45’s. One of which may come with the 44spl. to have one piece ivories installed.
I look forward to working with you on these other projects.
Regards, Kent Huntsman
Joe,
I got the grips (and pistol) back today and I really don’t know quite what to say. I have been gun collecting for 50 years and have had mucho customization done on almost all of them, with custom grips from pretty much every one of the “Names”. But the European Walnut grips on my Super Blackhawk are almost beyond description. The color, the figure, the fit, the finish, amazing.
Thanks, and more pistols will come your way.
Jim Thomsen, San Antonio, TX
Hi Joe,
Just got home from business trip and had a chance to look at the two revolvers that you installed grips on. the workmanship is first class and the grips fit really well in my hand. I will shoot these revolvers shortly, and just want to say thanks for a great job. I have had grips put on other revolvers I own, but none fit as well as these. And the walnut wood and finish is great. Thanks again for a great job.
Sincerely, Andy Mantis
Joe,
Just got the Ruger SBH back last Friday. Thank you for such great work. The action job is very smooth, the Colt base pin and crescent ejector rod button give the revolver a more classic look and feel. The grips are absolutely stunning. Love the color and figure of the walnut, the finish is very classic and the Competition profile feels good in my hand.
Thanks for the great work, and the constant communication. Best grips I’ve EVER seen.
David Hutton
Well, Joe,
I’m definitely impressed with the quality of your workmanship. No, artisanship is a better word, because it’s apparent that you put a little of yourself into each piece. I was astonished to notice that the two panels are mirror images, that the wood figure is almost exactly duplicated across the back of the grip frame. That just seems incredible. The steps of removing and replacing the panels show how well they’re fitted, like the proverbial bank vault. Your signature coin inlaid inside the grip is a nice touch.
Thanks, again, Robert Beneke
Joe,
The package you sent me arrived earlier in the week. WOW – what an outstanding job – thank you. Your custom ebony grips with silver inlays on my two Ruger Vaquero Bisley single action revolvers fit my hands perfectly and are literal works of art. And the action jobs you performed on each gun can best be described as “buttery smooth”. I couldn’t be happier.
Warm regards, J. Dan Fortier, AKA: SASS “Hoot-N-Holler Dan”
Joe,
I wanted to take a few minutes to tell you how happy I am with my new buckeye burl grips. They arrived on Friday around 1:00 PM. When I opened the box, I was speechless! First the color is breathtaking and just right for engraved SS revolvers. Pictures do not do these justice. In person they have a three dimensional appearance from the veins and buck eyes. I had to keep stroking them to be sure they were smooth which of course they are. Next, the fit and design are perfect. These smoke wagons now point more naturally. My trigger finger is now in the perfect position as well. I was curious why you asked about holsters; strong side or cross draw and now I know. Since my rig is set up for two strong side holsters, these grips match on the outside when holstered. You are a sly dog!
Happy trails, Barry Gillen aka Ender SASS 5895 former Territorial Governor
Hello Joe,
I just received my stainless Pietta 1858 New Army pistol back and it looks terrific. The silver inlay is perfect in every way. It sits perfectly flush, no seams, almost as if is was a natural part of the wood. Speaking of wood, I have never seen such pure black Ebony before. It’s so dark and rich, it seams to absorb the light around it. It’s warm to the touch and fits my hand perfectly. I’ve never seen grips their equal. You’ve done an amazing job Joe and you will certainly be the very first person I recommend if anyone needs a set of custom grips. They are worth every penny. I’ll be back with my Army Outlaw as well.
Most Sincerely, Travis C. Masters
Well Joe,
I am speechless. I figured the grips would be good according to what Longhunter told me, but I never dreamed they would be this good. Thank you very much. That was hard earned money I sent you and you paid me back with the same. The action is very nice also. I have a brace of Cimarron 44-40 Model P’s and also a brace of USFA single actions I will be sending you at some point.
Gary Bates
Joe,
I never had a chance to tell how “over the top” pleased I am with the “Hand of God” grips you did on my USFA. The work is exquisite. I am a perfectionist and I feared that for the money I was paying there might be some tiny flaw that would upset me. On the contrary, I’ve never been so pleased with anything in my life. Your work is simply amazing and I’m very proud to show it off. Of course everyone else gets pretty slack-jawed as well.
George Weynand
Joe,
I was truly stunned when I captured my first look at those guns. My gosh the grips are gorgeous! Fit and feel was perfect. Truly a work of art and those pistols captured a lot of looks when I first took them out of the box. All of the employees at “Shooters”, multiple Sheriffs from our county, as well as other customers remarked at how beautiful the grips were against the matt black of the frame. Who would have thought those pistols could be so darn beautiful? Those guns will be passed down to my sons. I am, indeed, proud of them!
Ed Sanford
Joe,
The package arrived today and these grips and work far exceeded my expectations. They are perfect in every way, exactly what I wanted. The Modified Factory grip fits perfect. Thank you again for the great work. In the near future I will be sending you another. Thanks again.
Al Houde
Joe,
Just got the guns. Wazooo!!!!!!! And yeeeehah!!!!!!!
Love the grips, looks, fit and feel. Only one problem, I’m sure my times will increase as I stop after each shot to look at the grips. The color goes well with the Rodeo black. Thanks again,
Jim Krog “Justice Good”
Joe,
They are really, really nice. They both look great and feel great. You did a fine job. I thought I was not going to be able to get them away from my dealer he liked them so much. I plan on getting out to my range tomorrow to try them out. Now if they will shoot even half as good as they look, that will be something. By the way, if you ever need a reference concerning quality of your work, please do not hesitate to use me. Thanks again for a great job.
Tom Klinkscales
Joe,
WOW!!! Guns arrived safely and we picked them up around noon today. You really do pretty work. Thanks and additional thanks for getting them out to us so fast. I may not be a better shot with your grips but I’m going to look a whole bunch better in the process.
John McElyea
Joe,
I just wanted to let you know that the Rodeo’s came in on Friday and I shot them in our club’s annual cowboy shoot that was the cowboys against the law enforcement. The guns are beyond gorgeous and they shot very well too. The work you do is awesome and I got a lot of compliments on the grips saying those are the nicest grips anyone has ever seen. By the way, the cowboys won!
Craig Tharp
Joe,
I have received my gun and must say I’m pleased beyond words. You must have heard just about every kind of WOW by now Joe. Your work really shows that you care about firearms. You are truly, really, really good at your craft. The Jarrah Burl grips are beautiful. The fit and finish do reflect a lot of time and effort on your part. The action on this gun is so super smooth; even my wife was amazed at the difference. This old gun may not be very pretty on the outside, except for the new grips, but it’s a lovely thing to behold on the inside.
Nick Harper, Winter Haven , FL
Joe,
Sorry for taking so long in getting back with you. The standard walnut grips you crafted for my Rodeo are superb in both finish and fit. They are perfect for this gun and a pleasure to wrap my hand around. Thanks again and you’ll no doubt be hearing from me again after my next purchase.
John Douglass
Joe,
Received the firearms and they are expertly done. Very smooth actions and beautiful grip work, not that I expected anything less! Thanks again,
Joshua Hoover
Joe— WOW!
Received the Blackhawk today and am very pleased with grips and action work. Hope the State Championship match went well. Thank you for a beautiful job.
Wren Cohenour.
Hey Joe,
I just wanted to let you know my revolver arrived today. My words cannot describe how satisfied I am with your “Hand of God” grips. They are beautiful, a true work of art. They feel great in the hand and I can’t wait to go to the range with them. Thanks again.
Sincerely, Jacob Benicewicz
Mr. Perkins,
Absolutely unbelievable. I have been paying $400 for walnut grips in the “original Colt contour” from what is supposed to be one of best grip makers in the country. When I opened my package today and saw what you made for my Colt, I was stunned. For $215.00 your craftsmanship far surpasses anything I have purchased from the other big names. As you know I have a substantial Colt collection from over 46 years. I have had grips made by the very best. Well today I learned who the very best is sir and it is you. What an extraordinary craftsman you are. Many thanks and many more coming your way,
Jim Rollins
Hi Joe –
I picked up the pistols at McBride’s today. They look awesome, and the action work is really phenomenal! My wife LOVES that we have family history literally in the palm of our hands whenever we use the guns. Brian Good, Austin Texas. (Brian sent me mesquite slabs from 100 year old trees on his family ranch that were downed by a storm)
Joe,
Guns have arrived. And I must say that you do some really beautiful work. I just love them, and they feel great, and the action job is so smooth I can’t wait to try them out, probably on Monday. I’ll let you
know how I make out. I have a feeling I am going to shooting a lot better now. I am glad I picked the blood wood.
Thanks for everything. Vic Orlando
Joe,
Wow, this is some of the finest action work I have ever felt. Very smooth, perfect timing, crisp trigger. I am used to paying almost twice as much. Most of my SAA’s have been done by the “Famous” guys, not any more. You certainly know what you are doing. Thank you very much,
Don Jacobs
Joe,
Just wanted to let you know the grips are nothing less than Awesome! Sunday I shot my first match with them. I took them out and they were liked by all; However, everyone was saying things like, “Your not going to like those smooth grips.” and “Those are going to slip in your hands when you sweat.” I told them what you told me about the way you finish your grips and shot the match. It was 99 degrees and 93% humidity out and we were sweating like crazy! Your grips were fantastic! Never even had the slightest slip. I won my division and came in 3rd overall by 1.3 seconds. Just wanted you to know I love your work and will be sending you my other guns in the future.
Thanks Again, Scott Lindauer AKA John E. Law.
Mr. Perkins,
I was able to pick up my Colt that you had installed the 3:10 to Yuma Grips on. It is excellent. Thank you so much and thank you for taking the time to fix the small metal burs that were next to the frame and extractor housing. I can’t tell it used to be there. The owner of the store was excited to see it and said I had a great looking gun and took photos. Again great and excellent work and I’m very happy to have happened upon you and you business. A true work of art.
Thank you again, Jason Baker
Joe, received Colt today……..
ABSOLUTELY STUNNING !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am speechless……….
Thank You very, very much sir.
Tom Kister
Joe,
The grips are terrific! Fit, shaping, and finish are as good as it gets. You’ve got a happy customer. Thanks.
Dave Pierce
Joe,
Just got home and got a chance to look at my new ivory grips. Could not be more pleased. They’re everything that I was waiting for. I will be singing your praises. Thank you once again for an outstanding job. They fit my hand like a glove.
Thanks again, Doug Treadway
Joe,
I went to a shoot in Texas, and the grips were amazing to shoot with. I had people coming up to me and asking about them and wanting to take a feel of them. I was sure to spread the word about your great art of grip making. December of last year we held our state championship shoot (Louisiana) and I won the state championship in B-western. If you ever need a stocking dealer for your grips, I’ll be glad to keep some in the shop. Thanks, Jason Robinson, AKA “Slick McClade”
Louisiana Shooters Supply
Hi Joe….I just received my two Colts with your new Myrtle Burl grips and I can’t say enough about how beautiful they are. They far exceeded what I had expected and what a fine job you did with the fit. They are just perfect. Sorry you will not be a EOT this year but I will catch up with you at the BorderTown shoot and I’ll be able to “Thank You” again in person.
Bob Webber….Baja Bandit SASS # 3654 L
Joe,
I picked up the USFA today. The grips are beautiful and a perfect fit, of course.
Thanks for a quality product, excellent communication, and early delivery.
Evan Green, Cheyenne, WY
Dear Joe,
All we can both say is that they are awesome, awesome, awesome!! They came out even better than we imagined and we know you will get business from all who see them. You do a wonderful job and you will be highly recommended to all we meet. Thank you for the beautiful grips!
John and Kelly La Rocco AKA Johnny Jingos and Miss Annie Odem.