Maru M9 and M9A1 metal inserts

[emilianoksa]

The latest M9 and M9A1 pistols have metal inserts behind the grip panels and a metal sleeve over the inner barrel. This makes them weigh more than some all metal replicas. The 1911s also have the grips weighted with metal inserts.

 

Is this done simply to add weight for the sake of realism, or is it meant to strengthen the gun, or protect plastic parts?

 

The TM M9 feels really meaty and the plastic used actually looks like metal. It looks more realistic than say the KJW imo and seems built to last.

 

I understand that only pistols with removable grip panels can get the metal inserts behind the panels. But metal sleeves on inner barrels should in theory be possible on all the newer TM pistols. Why don't they use them on other guns?

[Asomodai]

It's purely for realism. The M9 plastic does look good, but once scratched up through normal use is obviously plastic. 

 

My FN57 has no weights on the pistol, because the magazines are so large and heavy. 

[emilianoksa]

Thanks.