Closed end grips - do I cut them?

[metroplex]

I bought a pair of Pro Grip 717 grips for my 696 because I liked my 719s, but I wanted to get the same style that Stoner used on his Desmosedici's. I got them but they appear to be closed end grips. I thought they would have been open ended.

Every other vendor (from a Google search) I see that advertised the 717 says it is open ended. Do I need to cut the 717s? If so, any tips/tricks on making sure it comes out looking good and not a hack job?

They are super soft and comfortable. I like them, but I need them to fit properly.

[wet]

Just use a sharp razor blade and take your time going around. Eezy Peezy

[freeflydive]

I'd recommend using a hole saw that you can attach to a drill/dremel for a professional look ... or use an X-Acto knife or box-cutter after you outline the diameter you want cut. I love the 717 progrips...no bling factor, but they provide more comfort and function over over the blingy Rizoma or axis grips! I also installed a set of weighted bar-ends (Rizoma) and they work nicely to quell most of the vibrations.

I assume you've installed grips before (719's)...for other members doing it for their first time, use an adhesive (ie grip stick) & maintain a 1mm+ gap on the right side grip to avoid getting your throttle-stuck open against the bar-end/cap. Also, the thinner grip goes on the throttle side (since the throttle tube is wider than the bare bar on the right side).

Like Wet suggested, take your time and be patient.

Aloha,
Majdi E.

[metroplex]

I've used hair spray for the 719 and stock grips, and it worked very well. I also used hair spray for the Hogue grip on my Glock 17 and it stayed put during a heated range session.

I used an Exacto knife to cut the ends on the 717, but I also ordered the 780 just in case. The 780 is the same texture/compound/design as the 717 but are open ended, and do not have a stiffer compound on the inside.

[paulmm600]

slide the grips on with grip glue and then bang the end with a rubber mallet to cut the hole