My First 1911 Springfield Champion Loaded Stainless 45

Published on March 10, 2020
Duration: 22:27

This video provides a detailed guide on the field stripping and reassembly of a Springfield Armory 1911 Champion Loaded Stainless .45 ACP pistol. The instructor, with personal experience dating back to 2002, walks viewers through the process, highlighting the differences between 70 and 80 series 1911s and demonstrating the use of aftermarket accessories like a Recover Tactical rail and Wilson Combat mag well. The guide emphasizes proper technique and safety during the process.

Quick Summary

The 1911 pistol is available in Series 70 and Series 80 variants. Series 70 lacks an internal firing pin safety, while Series 80 includes one for enhanced drop safety. Both offer excellent triggers and ergonomics, but 1911s generally require more maintenance and have lower magazine capacity than modern pistols.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Springfield 1911
  2. 01:20Why the 1911 is a Great First Pistol
  3. 02:0570 Series vs. 80 Series 1911 Differences
  4. 03:01History of the 1911 in Service
  5. 03:43Understanding Single-Action Pistols
  6. 04:241911 External Safety Features
  7. 05:1570 Series vs. 80 Series Safety Mechanisms
  8. 06:35Personal Experience with 1911s
  9. 07:461911 Maintenance Requirements
  10. 08:39Springfield 1911 Champion Loaded Stainless Overview
  11. 08:51Aftermarket Upgrades: Rail and Mag Well
  12. 09:03Magazine Capacity and Options
  13. 09:491911 Field Strip: Barrel Bushing Removal
  14. 10:501911 Field Strip: Slide Stop Removal
  15. 11:14Separating Slide and Frame
  16. 11:16Examining the 1911 Frame
  17. 11:59Examining the 1911 Slide and Barrel
  18. 12:35Detailed Look at 70 Series Frame and Slide
  19. 13:331911 Reassembly: Barrel and Guide Rod
  20. 13:55Reassembly: Slide onto Frame
  21. 14:07Reassembly: Slide Stop Installation
  22. 15:00Reassembly: Barrel Bushing Installation
  23. 15:34Reassembly: Recoil Spring Guide Rod Tightening
  24. 15:53Function Check After Reassembly
  25. 16:30Conclusion: The 1911 Platform
  26. 17:00Addressing Springfield Armory's History
  27. 17:59Positives of the 1911 Platform
  28. 18:53Negatives of the 1911 Platform
  29. 20:12Magazine Capacity Concerns
  30. 20:48The Modern 2011 Platform
  31. 21:04Why Everyone Should Own a 1911
  32. 21:28Upcoming Videos and Channel Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between 70 series and 80 series 1911 pistols?

The primary difference lies in safety features. Series 70 1911s lack an internal firing pin safety, relying on the grip safety and manual thumb safety. Series 80 1911s incorporate an internal firing pin block safety, actuated by a lever in the trigger mechanism, which adds an extra layer of drop safety.

How do you field strip a 1911 pistol?

Field stripping a 1911 involves ensuring it's unloaded, removing the magazine, then removing the barrel bushing, recoil spring assembly, and slide stop to separate the slide from the frame. Reassembly is the reverse process, ensuring all parts are correctly seated and secured.

What are the pros and cons of owning a 1911 pistol?

Pros include an excellent trigger, classic ergonomics, and a wide variety of customization options. Cons are its heavier weight, higher cost, lower magazine capacity compared to modern pistols, and a greater need for diligent maintenance and lubrication.

Why is proper maintenance important for a 1911?

1911s, particularly older designs, require more frequent cleaning and lubrication than many modern polymer pistols. Neglecting maintenance can lead to malfunctions and reduced reliability, making it crucial to keep the firearm clean and properly oiled.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Tactical Considerations

View all →