Dan Wesson Guardian FIXED

Published on February 5, 2022
Duration: 14:58

This guide details how to troubleshoot and resolve a common 1911 issue: the slide failing to lock back on an empty magazine. It emphasizes diagnosis with a gunsmith, the importance of part fitment using aftermarket components like Wilson Combat slide locks, and thorough testing with various magazines to ensure reliability. The process highlights that even high-quality production firearms may require minor tuning for perfect function.

Quick Summary

Expert analysis from Hickok45 reveals that a common 1911 issue, the slide failing to lock back on an empty magazine, can often be resolved by replacing the factory slide lock with a compatible aftermarket part, like one from Wilson Combat. Proper part fitment and testing with various magazines are crucial for ensuring reliability.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Magazine Overview
  2. 01:14Shooting Test with Various Magazines
  3. 05:14Explaining the Fix: Slide Lock Replacement
  4. 07:30Slide Lock Comparison: Standard vs. Bullet Proof
  5. 11:26Final Assessment & Reliability
  6. 13:40Sponsors and Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you fix a 1911 that doesn't lock back on an empty magazine?

To fix a 1911 that fails to lock back, diagnose if the factory slide lock is undersized. Often, replacing it with a compatible aftermarket part, such as from Wilson Combat, can resolve the issue. Thorough testing with various magazines is essential to confirm the fix.

What causes a 1911 slide to not lock back?

A common cause for a 1911 slide not locking back on an empty magazine is an undersized or out-of-specification factory slide lock. This can prevent the slide stop from engaging correctly with the slide's cut-out after the last round is fired.

Which magazines are best for a Dan Wesson Guardian?

The Dan Wesson Guardian, like many 1911s, can be sensitive to magazine fitment. Testing revealed that a variety of magazines from brands like Dan Wesson, Nighthawk Custom, and Wilson Combat can work, but a specific slide lock upgrade was needed for consistent reliability.

Is it common for production 1911s to need part upgrades?

Yes, even high-quality production 1911 pistols sometimes require minor part tuning or replacement, such as upgrading the slide lock, to achieve perfect reliability, especially when using a wide range of magazines.

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