Facebook Live: 1911 Tools

Published on March 29, 2017
Duration: 71:49

This video provides a comprehensive overview of essential tools and techniques for building and customizing a 1911 pistol. It covers fitting the frame to the slide, barrel fitting, trigger installation, and other common gunsmithing tasks. The instruction emphasizes precision, patience, and the use of appropriate hand tools for achieving professional results at home. Key advice includes starting with a good reference manual and understanding that most components require some degree of fitting.

Quick Summary

Building a 1911 at home is achievable with essential hand tools like a shop manual, dial caliper, pillar file, hammer, and vise. Key gunsmithing tasks include fitting the frame to the slide by carefully filing frame rails, and barrel fitting which may involve adjusting lower lugs and hood dimensions for optimal lock-up and accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 1911 Tools
  2. 01:12Essential First Tools: The Shop Manual
  3. 02:02Fitting Frame to Slide: Measuring and Filing
  4. 03:45Specialized Rail Fitting Tool
  5. 05:25Barrel Fitting: Cart Easy Fit Barrels
  6. 08:22Barrel Fitting Tool for Lower Lugs
  7. 09:42Fitting a Beavertail Grip Safety
  8. 11:58Loose vs. Tight 1911 Tolerances
  9. 13:41Fitting the 1911 Trigger
  10. 15:11Fitting the Magazine Catch
  11. 16:01Why Build a 1911?
  12. 18:13Internal Fire Control Parts: Hammer & Sear
  13. 18:50Sear Jig for Trigger Jobs
  14. 20:20Fitting Barrel Lower Lugs Without Expensive Tools
  15. 22:45Using Shock Buffs on Guide Rods
  16. 24:31Proper File Usage Techniques
  17. 28:10Troubleshooting a Sluggish 9mm 1911 Slide
  18. 30:189mm 1911 Feed Ramp Issues
  19. 31:34Disconnector Scraper Tool
  20. 32:30Fitting a Mainspring Housing
  21. 34:08Installing a Bobtail Mainspring Housing
  22. 35:44Checking Sear Engagement with Pins
  23. 36:52Wagand Extractor Tensioner
  24. 38:47Plunger Tube Staking Tools
  25. 41:21Trigger Bow Alignment Jig
  26. 42:32Importance of Mainspring Poundage
  27. 44:01Gunsmithing Stones for Smoothing
  28. 45:06Mainspring Housing Pin Remover & Bench Block
  29. 46:05Slide Disassembly Tool
  30. 47:13Safety Detent Depressor Tool
  31. 48:13Changing 1911 Sights with a Sight Pusher
  32. 51:00Slide Holder for Milling Operations
  33. 51:27Tightening Loose 1911 Frames with Plates
  34. 52:49Locking Lug Recess Smoother
  35. 53:49Fitting an Ambidextrous Safety
  36. 56:38Checkering Kit for 1911 Frames
  37. 60:32Fitting USGI Parts on a New Frame
  38. 61:44Essential Tools for 1911 Assembly/Repair
  39. 63:15Barrel Bushing & Grip Screw Bushing Tool
  40. 64:21Barrel Twist Rate for 38 Super
  41. 65:11Using a Jig for Sear Fitting
  42. 67:00Recoil Spring for 10mm Commander

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most essential tools for a beginner building a 1911?

For a beginner building a 1911, the most essential tools are a comprehensive shop manual (like Jerry Kuhnhausen's), a reliable measuring tool (dial caliper), a pillar file for precise work, a hammer, and a sturdy vise. These form the foundation for most fitting and assembly tasks.

How do you fit a 1911 frame to its slide?

Fitting a 1911 frame to its slide involves carefully measuring the frame rails and slide dimensions. You then use a smooth file or a specialized tool to gradually remove small amounts of material from the frame rails until the slide fits snugly but moves smoothly without binding.

What is the purpose of a sear jig in 1911 gunsmithing?

A sear jig is used to hold the sear securely while it's being stoned or modified. It ensures the correct angles are maintained, which is crucial for achieving a smooth, crisp trigger pull and proper engagement with the hammer and trigger. This prevents rounding the sear edge improperly.

Can I truly build a 1911 at home with hand tools?

Yes, most 1911 builds can be accomplished at home using hand tools. While specialized machines offer precision, many gunsmiths historically and currently build high-quality 1911s using files, stones, measuring tools, and a vise. Patience and a good reference manual are key.

What are common issues when fitting a 1911 barrel?

Common issues when fitting a 1911 barrel include ensuring proper lock-up with the slide stop (requiring fitting of the barrel's lower lugs) and correct hood length and width to mate with the slide. Oversized or 'drop-in' barrels often require minor adjustments for optimal accuracy and function.

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