Smyth Busters: Dropping a 1911 Slide on an Empty Chamber

Published on August 11, 2020
Duration: 5:41

This guide details a safety check for the 1911 pistol platform, focusing on the potential issue of 'hammer follow' when dropping the slide on an empty chamber. Instruction is provided by Brownells experts, emphasizing the importance of sear engagement and trigger job integrity. The video explains that while high-quality 1911s can withstand occasional drops, repeated stress on an empty chamber can degrade finely tuned triggers, especially those with light pull weights and reduced sear engagement.

Quick Summary

Dropping a 1911 slide on an empty chamber can lead to 'hammer follow,' where the hammer falls to the half-cock notch, potentially battering the sear. This is particularly concerning for match-grade triggers with light pulls and reduced sear engagement, as repeated stress can degrade the trigger job over time. Service-grade 1911s are generally more robust due to higher sear engagement.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 1911 Slide Myth
  2. 00:28Sear Engagement & Metallurgy
  3. 01:35Impact on Match Triggers
  4. 02:43Magazine Buffering Effect
  5. 03:41Types of Sear Engagement
  6. 05:06Conclusion & Verdict

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main risk of dropping a 1911 slide on an empty chamber?

Dropping a 1911 slide on an empty chamber can cause 'hammer follow,' where the hammer falls to the half-cock notch. This can batter the sear, especially on match-grade triggers with light pulls and reduced sear engagement, potentially degrading the trigger job over time.

Are all 1911 pistols equally susceptible to damage from slide drops?

No, service-grade 1911s with more sear engagement and heavier triggers are generally more resilient. Match-grade pistols with light pulls and reduced sear engagement are more susceptible to damage from repeated slide drops on an empty chamber.

What are the different types of sear engagement in a 1911?

The three types of sear engagement discussed are positive, negative, and neutral. Poorly executed trigger jobs, often resulting in negative engagement, are the primary cause of damage when dropping the slide on an empty chamber.

How can I check if my 1911 trigger is functioning correctly after potential slide drop stress?

Perform a function check: cock the hammer, then gently pull the trigger. If the hammer falls to half-cock instead of staying cocked, it indicates a potential issue requiring professional gunsmith attention.

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