Ironically I called a few hrs. ago and asked Maria about the grips as well, not knowing about this post. Maria did say that the grips are not going anywhere anytime soon. I did not know about the crest being such an issue. Hopefully all of our input will help them and the crest into the grips in the future.
I have to say that their customer service sofar has been very good, and I don't even own thier gun yet.
FYI....Maria also said that the NP3 coating does in fact void the gun's warranty. I called Robar about their coating, and they recommend a few hundred rounds be put through the gun before their coating is applied.
Just collecting info before I buy the gun..
Dom