you are absolutely correct on the grip . The grip in my opinion is one of the most important factors in a handgun much like the stock in a shotgun. I have skateboard tape on the grip of my IPSC pistol. Ugly but super functional. Not jokeing on the super glue. been using that stuff for decades on lots of things your not supposed to including skin repair. certainly not as professional as your method but it does still allow for adjustment and keeps stuff from moving unintentionally but I get your point.