Reshaping Compact Grips

[Storz]

I recently bought a used Gamo Compact off another member on the board here and so far am loving the pistol, its incredibly accurate and for a used gun in like new condition.

However the grips tend to pinch by hand a bit, right near the base of the thumb between the index finger and thumb. It seems like if I removed a little bit of material from that area on the  grip I could get a better fit for my hand. I've never done any sort of woodworking and don't even know where to start. What grit sandpaper should I use? I'd assume that removing the grips from the pistol is needed, which looks pretty straight forward. Should I 'finish' the grips with anything once sanded? I'm guess I'll loose the stippeling from the factory in any areas that I sand correct?

Any tips/advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks!

[SDale]

What I would do is get a set of cheap files from Home Depot, some masking tape and 2 packs of assorted sand paper.

Once you've got all your stuff, take the grips off the pistol and use the masking tape to cover up any part of the frame that's exposed when the grips are on. 2 or 3 layers of tape should do. Put the grips back on then take a round or half round file from the set and start rough shaping the area that doesn't feel right. Once you get it close, pull the grips back off and start sanding to smoothe out all the file marks. Start with 80 or 100 grit and work your way up. Test for fit every now and then.

Once everything is sanded down you can go on to refinish the grips or leave them natural if you want.