How to Change the Grip Frame on Stance

Stance is the first in an all-new line of handguns from Savage and built to deliver the kind of modern performance and ease of ownership you’re looking for. Stance is designed to be comfortable and functional in the hand thanks to its defined surface textures and adjustable grip. Stance comes in a variety of different colors including black, gray and FDE. Follow these simple steps to learn how to change the grip frame on Stance.

The Savage Stance utilizes a serialized chassis that is assembled into a grip frame as opposed to a "receiver" that is molded into the grip frame. This affords a great deal of flexibility and allows the entire system to be modular. In this case, the grip frame can be swapped out for any number of reasons -- different colors or damage to the original come to mind -- without the serial number on the firearm being affected. 

WARNING! Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Make sure your firearm is completely unloaded before attempting any field stripping or disassembly. Always wear safety glasses when field stripping or during disassembly/reassembly of your pistol.

How to Change the Grip Frame 

1. If your Stance is equipped with a manual safety, engage the safety into the SAFE position.
2. Press the magazine release and remove the magazine.
3. Pull the slide rearward and press upward on the slide stop to lock the slide open.
4. Ensure that the chamber is clear of ammunition.
5. Rotate the takedown lever clockwise 90-degrees (if you have a Manual Safety model, make sure the safety is in the FIRE position for this step)
6. Pull the slide slightly rearward to disengage the slide stop. Then push the slide forward to remove it.
7. Use a punch to extract the takedown lever.
8. Pull upward on the front of the chassis. Use a screwdriver for leverage if needed. Remove the chassis from the grip frame. 
   1. Do not remove or alter anything installed in the chassis.
9. Place the rear of the chassis into the new grip frame. Be sure that the trigger sits into the slot in the trigger guard area. Press the front of the chassis downward until it is fully seated into the grip frame.
10. Firmly reinsert the takedown lever at 90-degrees.
    
11. Place the rear of the slide onto the front frame rails. Move the slide rearward until it engages the rear frame rails. Push the slide to the rear and engage the slide stop. 
    
12. With the slide in the locked back position, rotate the takedown lever counterclockwise 90-degrees.
13. Close the slide and replace the magazine into the firearm. If equipped with a manual safety, engage the safety into the SAFE position. 
14. Complete a function check of your firearm as outlined in the manual.

Safe firearm ownership is your responsibility. When something does not sound, feel, or look right, seek the advice of a professional gunsmith immediately.

If you have any questions, please refer to your owner’s manual and call our customer service team at 1-800-370-0708 (Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm ET)