As you might know from another thread my 43 colt has them under the grip and like you said if it didn't then chances are I wouldn't have it. So i count my self lucky they are out of sight out of mind.
Your looks to be in good nick to bad if they could have moved them a couple MM to the right they would be under the grip. Too much trouble 2 screws and all,must have been a busy day that day.