Shocktech Vortex, So Close

[BlindFaith429]

So quick update on my Vortex. With the help from a couple members here and purchases elsewhere, I've got her very close to being done.

Replaced the old trigger plate with a new ST unit, and a NOS aluminum dual roller sear. New ST springs in the frame, as well as for the hammer and valve.

Kept the old brass ST valve, and got a ST Phat Hammer for it.

Keeping the Inception front end for now, as well as the Gladiator reg.

NOS ST Mini Rail and Pro ASA, and a set of 3D printed blue plastic grips round out the frame.

Also kept the old ST bolt, pin and the cooking rod (even though its not ST, I like how it looks).

Set up with my old 12 volt Revy and a PTP elbow.

All I have left is to buy a tank to finish the timing, and sweet-spot the regulator.

Can't wait to sling some paint with this bad boy.

The only thing I need to fix (not sure how) is that the back block sits a little crooked. No mater how I spin the cooking rod, the block still sits a little crooked. Maybe I need a different one?

[iamthelazerviking]

Very nice, always liked the look of the Vortex. If you can, try a different back block to rule out the current one being wonky. If a new one still sits crooked then probably the pump arm.

[glaman5266]

I agree. Might be the pump arm.

[latches109]

And or the ram shaft

[glaman5266]

Looks excellent. Those grip panels and the detent give it some really subtle & beautiful accents.

[batmite]

Nice build!

Did you print those grip panels yourself? If so is there an STL model available???

Come to think of it I can just make them myself...

I think I might have a business idea here... LOL

[Alexndl]

There are some stl file on thingiverse, search for 1911 grip panel

[BlindFaith429]

I got them off the-bay. Users profile name is Stryker custom. They were listed for empire resurrection, but I had him open up the screw holes a little for the bigger 8-32 screws on my frame

[devilzcall]

I think a quick coat of epoxy would really help the printed grips blend in.
Maybe it's only because I own two printers myself, but the print-texture immediately screams DIY to me which really does the build injustice.

You can also wet-sand prints like that and it will look much more refined even if you don't get rid of all the layer lines. Start with 120 or 240, work your way up to 800 and hit it with a coat of matte varnish.

[batmite]

Yeah, sand and coat for sure. But what varnish/epoxy is friendly with PLA or PETG?

[devilzcall]

I haven't heard of one that isn't