The checkered grips look much better IMO. I never really cared for smooth grips. They just seem to slippery to me. I also like grip tape and use it on several carry weapons. I take the grips off and run it under them so that the grips hold the edges down and it gives a cleaner look IMO.
When shooting with the grip tape on does it ever scrape up your hand or make it sore? Im asking because i am thinking about buying the grip tape kit for my Gen 2 G19
I think the checkered grips look the best on 1911s. I prefer the solid wood, but to each their own. For shooting though, I am hard pressed to find a grip for any of my autos that feels better than the Hogue rubber wrap around grips.