Custom Budget 2011 Pistol Build Part 3: (Barrel Fitting)

Published on February 12, 2020
Duration: 22:36

This video details the critical barrel fitting process for a budget 2011 pistol build, focusing on achieving proper lockup and function. It covers essential steps like modifying the reverse plug, using layout fluid to identify high spots on barrel lugs, and employing specialized jigs like the Brownells Lower Lug Cutting Jig for precise fitting. The host emphasizes the importance of fitting the barrel to both the slide and frame, especially when using aftermarket or mixed-brand components, to ensure the firearm goes fully into battery.

Quick Summary

Proper 2011 pistol barrel fitting involves ensuring the lugs and hood are precisely shaped for correct slide and frame engagement. This often requires using layout fluid to find high spots and specialized jigs like the Brownells Lower Lug Cutting Jig for accurate modification.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: 2011 Build & Battery Issue
  2. 01:28Sourcing Parts & Conversion Concepts
  3. 05:13Barrel Fitting Fundamentals
  4. 06:03Modifying the Reverse Plug
  5. 07:57Using Layout Fluid for High Spots
  6. 11:20Lower Lug Cutting with Brownells Jig
  7. 14:34Using the Barrel Alignment Block
  8. 16:50Final Testing & Battery Check
  9. 18:101911 to 2011 Conversion Parts List

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main challenge when fitting a barrel for a 2011 pistol build?

The main challenge is ensuring the barrel lugs and hood are precisely fitted to the slide and frame so the firearm can go fully into battery. This often requires specialized tools like lug cutting jigs and careful filing to remove high spots identified with layout fluid.

What tools are essential for cutting the lower lugs on a 2011 barrel?

Essential tools include the Brownells Lower Lug Cutting Jig, a barrel alignment block to ensure squareness, and appropriate cutters. A faux guide rod is also used to apply upward pressure during the cutting process for accurate lockup.

How do you identify high spots on a 2011 pistol barrel during fitting?

You identify high spots by applying Dykem Steel Blue layout fluid to the sanded barrel lugs and hood. After racking the slide, silver spots will appear on the blue dye, indicating areas that are too high and need to be carefully filed down.

What parts are needed to convert a 1911 to a 2011?

To convert a 1911 to a 2011, you'll need a 2011 frame, a compatible barrel, a 2011-specific ejector, a pin kit, 2011 magazines, a wider trigger bow, and a 2011 magazine release.

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