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

Published on October 28, 2021
Duration: 14:24

This guide, drawing on the expertise of Bill Wilson and Ken Hackathorn, details critical factors for ensuring 1911 reliability. It covers the historical design context, the impact of ammunition profiles on feeding, proper extractor function and tension, and the importance of magazine lip geometry. The advice emphasizes understanding the 1911 as a system and selecting components and ammunition that work in harmony for optimal performance.

Quick Summary

1911 reliability depends on the harmonious interaction of magazines, ammunition profiles, and the extractor. John Browning designed the platform as a unified system, optimizing for specific bullet shapes and velocities. Modern ammunition variations and extractor tension are common causes of feeding and extraction malfunctions, often requiring careful tuning or component upgrades.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: 1911 Reliability Issues
  2. 00:34Historical Design Context
  3. 01:54Bullet Ogive & Feed Ramp Importance
  4. 03:44Ammo Evolution & Feed Lip Mods
  5. 05:01Post-Military Ammo Standardization
  6. 06:58Extractor Function & Tension
  7. 08:45Wilson Combat Bullet Proof Extractor
  8. 11:19Recommended Self-Defense Ammo
  9. 12:42Final Reliability Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key factors influencing 1911 pistol reliability?

1911 reliability hinges on the precise interaction between the magazine's feed lips, the bullet's ogive (nose profile), the feed ramp angle, and the extractor's tension and geometry. John Browning designed these elements to work as a unified system, and deviations can cause feeding or extraction issues.

How does ammunition profile affect 1911 feeding?

The shape of the bullet's nose (ogive) is critical. Original 1911 designs were optimized for a specific GI ball profile. Modern ammunition, especially hollow points or semi-wadcutters, may have different profiles requiring adjusted magazine feed lips for reliable release and chambering.

What is the role of the extractor in 1911 reliability?

The extractor is crucial for controlled round feeding. It must have correct tension and a specific hook radius to ensure the cartridge rim slides smoothly up the breech face during chambering, preventing malfunctions.

Are Wilson Combat Bullet Proof Extractors reliable?

Yes, Wilson Combat Bullet Proof Extractors are highly regarded for reliability. They are manufactured with a pre-machined curve on 11-axis machines, providing consistent tension that is inherent to the part's design, unlike traditional extractors that rely on bending.

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