Disassembly, cleaning, and inspection of the 1911

Published on February 16, 2019
Duration: 41:44

This guide details the field stripping, cleaning, and inspection process for a 1911-style pistol, as demonstrated by Chris from Regular Guy Training. It covers the step-by-step disassembly, including removing the barrel bushing and slide lock lever, and emphasizes thorough inspection of components for wear, cracks, or damage. The video also touches on proper lubrication points and function checks post-reassembly.

Quick Summary

To properly disassemble a 1911 pistol, ensure it's unloaded and engage the safety. Depress the recoil spring cap, rotate the barrel bushing right, pull the slide back, align the takedown notch with the slide lock lever, and remove the lever. Then, slide the slide off the frame, followed by the barrel and guide rod. Inspect all components for wear and damage before reassembly.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction
  2. 01:22Disassembly - Barrel Bushing
  3. 03:24Disassembly - Slide Lock Lever
  4. 04:50Disassembly - Slide and Barrel Removal
  5. 05:13Cleaning and Inspection - Barrel
  6. 06:18Component Inspection - Barrel Locking Lugs
  7. 07:27Component Inspection - Feed Ramp
  8. 07:53Component Inspection - Barrel Link
  9. 08:56Barrel Cleaning Philosophy
  10. 10:34Component Inspection - Barrel Bushing
  11. 11:39Component Inspection - Recoil Spring
  12. 12:13Component Inspection - Slide Lock Lever
  13. 13:00Component Inspection - Recoil Spring Cap
  14. 13:36Component Inspection - Guide Rod
  15. 14:00Recoil Spring Weight Discussion
  16. 15:23Breech Face Cleaning Caution
  17. 15:56Lubrication Caution - Firing Pin Channel
  18. 17:30Frame Cleaning
  19. 19:56Frame Inspection - Slide Lock Lever Plunger
  20. 21:18Frame Inspection - Safety Lever Plunger
  21. 22:20Frame Inspection - Safety Lever Notches
  22. 23:38Frame Inspection - Roll Pin
  23. 24:03Frame Inspection - Ejector
  24. 25:20Slide Inspection - Extractor Tension
  25. 27:30Reassembly - Lubrication
  26. 29:30Reassembly - Barrel and Slide
  27. 30:51Reassembly - Slide Lock Lever Insertion
  28. 32:28Reassembly - Barrel Bushing Insertion
  29. 33:38Reassembly - Guide Rod and Recoil Spring
  30. 35:20Post-Assembly Function Check
  31. 36:09Safety and Function Checks
  32. 37:08Manual Safety Check
  33. 37:16Grip Safety Check
  34. 37:37Trigger Function Check
  35. 38:04Lockup Check (Slide Lock)
  36. 38:11Disconnecter Check
  37. 39:15Cycling and Excess Lubrication
  38. 41:14Magazine Recommendation
  39. 41:23Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you properly disassemble a 1911 pistol?

To disassemble a 1911, first ensure it's unloaded. Engage the safety, depress the recoil spring cap, and rotate the barrel bushing to the right. Pull the slide back, align the takedown notch with the slide lock lever, and remove the lever. Then, slide the slide off the frame, followed by the barrel and guide rod.

What are the key inspection points for a 1911 after cleaning?

After cleaning a 1911, inspect the barrel for wear and cracks, check the locking lugs for damage, and examine the feed ramp. Also, check the barrel link for excessive play and ensure the slide lock lever plunger has adequate spring tension. Inspect the ejector for solidity and the extractor for proper tension.

What is a common mistake to avoid when cleaning a 1911?

A common mistake is over-lubricating the rear of the slide, especially the firing pin channel. Excessive lubricant here can impede the firing pin's movement, leading to light primer strikes and potential malfunctions.

How do you check extractor tension on a 1911?

To check 1911 extractor tension, insert an empty cartridge case into the breech face. Gently shake the slide; if you hear any rattling or movement from the extractor, it may be worn and require attention or replacement.

What are the proper lubrication points for a 1911 pistol?

Proper lubrication points for a 1911 include the slide rails, the front edges of the frame, and the inside of the frame where the slide contacts it. Ensure these areas have a light, even coat of lubricant, avoiding the firing pin channel.

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