Accessorize Your 1911: Hammer

Published on June 27, 2014
Duration: 4:18

This video details the process of replacing the hammer on a 1911 pistol, a common customization for improving aesthetics and performance. It covers essential safety checks, detailed frame and hammer disassembly, transferring the strut and pin to the new hammer, and reassembly. Proper alignment of components like the sear spring and hammer strut is emphasized for correct function.

Quick Summary

Replacing a 1911 hammer involves safety checks, frame disassembly to remove the mainspring housing and sear spring, then removing the hammer pin. Transfer the strut and pin to the new hammer, reassemble components ensuring correct alignment of the sear spring and hammer strut, and perform a function test.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Accessorizing Your 1911 Hammer
  2. 00:19Safety Check and Initial Disassembly
  3. 00:42Frame Disassembly Steps
  4. 01:21Hammer Removal and Strut Transfer
  5. 02:10Reassembly with New Hammer
  6. 03:15Final Assembly and Function Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key steps for replacing a 1911 hammer?

Begin with a safety check and field strip. Disassemble the frame to remove the mainspring housing, grip safety, and sear spring. Then, remove the hammer pin to free the old hammer. Transfer the strut and pin to the new hammer, then reassemble all components, ensuring proper alignment, and finish with a function test.

What tools are needed to replace a 1911 hammer?

Essential tools include a punch set (specifically a 1/16-inch punch), a bench block for support, and potentially a plastic mallet. Basic field stripping tools like a punch for the mainspring housing pin are also required.

Why is transferring the hammer strut important when installing a new 1911 hammer?

The hammer strut is integral to the function of the hammer and mainspring assembly. Transferring it ensures compatibility and correct operation with the new hammer, maintaining the firearm's cycling and firing mechanism.

What are common pitfalls when reassembling a 1911 after hammer replacement?

Common mistakes include improper seating of the sear spring tab in its frame cutout or incorrect alignment of the hammer strut with the mainspring cap. These can lead to malfunctions, so careful attention to detail during reassembly is crucial.

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