1911 Grip Safety Build-Up | First Person Defender Tips

Published on May 10, 2023
Duration: 2:50

This guide addresses a common issue with the 1911 platform where the grip safety may not be fully depressed, leading to trigger malfunction. It offers a temporary field expedient solution using tape or moleskin to build up the grip safety tab. For a permanent fix, it recommends consulting a certified armorer to adjust the grip safety's leaf spring, ensuring reliable disengagement during firing.

Quick Summary

If your 1911 grip safety isn't reliably depressing, you can use layers of sticky tape or moleskin on the backstrap tab as a temporary fix. For a permanent solution, a certified armorer can adjust the grip safety's leaf spring for easier disengagement.

Chapters

  1. 00:251911 as a Defensive Platform
  2. 00:371911 Specifics: Manual and Grip Safety
  3. 00:44Springfield Armory Prodigy Example
  4. 00:55Common Grip Safety Issues
  5. 01:22Competitive Shooter Solutions
  6. 01:34DIY Tape Build-Up Method
  7. 01:50Professional Armorer Adjustment
  8. 02:15Temporary Fix on the Range

Frequently Asked Questions

Why might my 1911 grip safety not be working?

The 1911 grip safety may not function if it's not fully depressed. This can happen due to a shooter's deep palm swell or an inconsistent grip technique, preventing the safety from disengaging the trigger mechanism.

How can I temporarily fix a 1911 grip safety issue?

As a field expedient solution, you can build up the backstrap tab of the grip safety with several layers of good quality sticky tape or moleskin. This increases the surface area, making it easier to depress fully with your grip.

What is the best way to permanently fix a 1911 grip safety problem?

For a permanent solution, it is recommended to take your 1911 to a certified armorer. They can professionally adjust the grip safety's leaf spring to require less pressure for disengagement, ensuring reliable operation.

What is a grip safety on a 1911?

A grip safety is a passive safety feature on firearms like the 1911 that requires the shooter's hand to depress it before the trigger can be pulled. It's designed to prevent accidental discharges if the pistol is dropped.

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