Frame reduction on sub-compact frame

[Buck Liggett]

Has anyone done a frame reduction on a g 26/27 frame (remove the hump) successfully with just a Dremel. I've done it on a couple full size frames but unsure of the outcome (burning through polymer) on the sub size frame without cutting off the backstrap reducing and replacing. OT Defense sells the Gripfix Hump Eliminator but the tool and a flat backstrap is $126.97 delivered and would rather not buy for just one frame.
Thank you for your experience or advice.

Buck-

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[ZeroFoxGiven]

I believe, years and years ago on Glocktalk, before the site was sold, someone showed how they used heat and applied pressure to reshape Glock backstraps pretty flat.

I do not remember everything about the how, this was like 15+ years ago, but I remember it was fairly impressive. Might find a video on Youtube.

The OT Defense, was gonna mention it but you did already.

 

[Buck Liggett]

I went this route and chose sanding instead. I had various finishing and polishing tools, including OT Defense stippling tips, and ordered sanding drums up to 600 grit.

I found some (very old) videos online and considered two methods:

• Blowtorch/Heat: Too much effort and melting factor for little gain and possible frame destruction.
• Filling the grip with epoxy and sanding: Still involves sanding, and the grip is already reinforced internally, so I saw no benefit.

So, I decided to sand the hump and see how it went. If I went too far and compromised the backstrap, I could order a replacement backstrap and the necessary tool. The backstrap turned out to be quite thick! I sanded it down significantly without getting any soft spots and shaped it to my liking.

Note to readers: In my opinion, you cannot fully straighten the hump on a semi-compact gen3 without cutting it. However, sanding can make a noticeable difference. Proceed with caution, go slowly, and be prepared to stipple afterward.

I successfully removed the bulbous portion that dug into my palm. I started with 80-grit sandpaper on an upside-down stationary orbital sander, then progressed to 120-grit. Finally, I hand-sanded with 120- to 220-grit sanding sponges to achieve the final shape and a smooth finish.