1911 Reliability - The Magazine, Extractor & Ammo: Gun Guys Ep. 48 with Bill Wilson & Ken Hackathorn

Published on October 28, 2021
Duration: 14:24

This video delves into the critical factors affecting 1911 pistol reliability, focusing on magazine design, extractor geometry, and ammunition profiles. Experts Bill Wilson and Ken Hackathorn explain how John Browning's original design specifications for the 1911 and .45 ACP ammunition were meticulously matched. They highlight how modern ammunition variations, particularly hollow points and shorter bullet profiles, necessitate adjustments to magazine feed lips and extractor tension for optimal feeding.

Quick Summary

1911 reliability depends on magazine feed lips, extractor tension, and ammunition bullet profiles. Original designs were specific; modern hollow points or shorter bullets may require adjusted feed lips. Proper extractor tension ensures controlled round feeding, and ammo with profiles similar to GI ball rounds typically feeds most reliably.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: 1911 Reliability Issues
  2. 00:34John Browning's Original Design
  3. 01:54The Critical Role of Bullet Ogive
  4. 03:44Ammo Evolution & Feeding Problems
  5. 05:01Post-Military Ammo Standardization
  6. 06:58Extractor Tension Explained
  7. 08:45Wilson Combat Bullet Proof Extractor
  8. 11:19Recommended Self-Defense Ammo
  9. 12:42Final Reliability Factors

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key factors influencing 1911 pistol reliability?

1911 reliability hinges on the precise interaction between the magazine's feed lip geometry, the extractor's tension and shape, and the ammunition's bullet profile (ogive) and overall length. Original designs were specific; modern variations require careful tuning.

How does bullet ogive affect 1911 feeding?

The bullet's ogive, or nose shape, dictates how it releases from the magazine feed lips and engages the feed ramp. John Browning designed the 1911's feed lips for a specific GI ball profile; different shapes, like hollow points, may require adjusted feed lips for reliable feeding.

What is the importance of extractor tension in a 1911?

Proper extractor tension is crucial for controlled round feeding. The extractor must securely hold the rim of the cartridge as it moves from the magazine to the chamber, preventing rim slippage while allowing smooth engagement with the breech face.

Which ammunition is recommended for reliable feeding in a 1911?

For reliable feeding in a 1911, especially for self-defense, ammunition with a bullet profile (ogive) that closely matches the original GI ball round is often best. Longer overall lengths and more pointed profiles generally feed more reliably.

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