1911 Problem Areas

I have been studying this pistol since 1970 and as most of you have found out, you very seldom get a "new in box" 1911 pistol that is flawless with a good trigger pull, regardless of which brand you buy. I will point out the obvious problem areas for the GUN OWNER. I have no intention of teaching gunsmithing.

FEED RAMP = This area must have the proper gap and proper angle or it will not allow proper feeding of various cartridges.

EXTRACTOR = The internal extractor is a major problem regardless of what the experts tell you. If the tension is too loose it will fail to extract, if its too tight it will not allow a bullet to feed. If it has not been heat treated properly it will NEVER be able to hold its tension.

MAG. CATCH ASSEMBLY = If this catch is not at the correct height for your particular frame, your magazine will be to low for reliable feeding. The only person that understood me was Virgil Tripp of www.trippresearch.com
He knows this is a major problem area.

EJECTOR = Its the length that is so critical, not the angle. If it is to long it will not allow you to eject a loaded bullet. If it is to short and you have a poorly tensioned weak extractor the empty cases will hit you in the head.

DISCONNECTOR = A short disconnector will cause your pistol to go fully auto, so will improper hammer and sear engagements and a weak sear spring or not enough tension on the sear spring. Disconnector length is critical.

SLIDE STOP = Reassembly should require "NO TOOLS" if your pistol is put together correctly. Those that tell you to use a tool are wannabbees that do not get it. The 1911 was designed for use by the military and should be able to be field stripped in seconds under the worst possible conditions with out a pin punch or a bushing wrench.

PLUNGER TUBE = This can be a major problem if it breaks away from your frame because of improper installation as it can lock up your thumb safety in the "UP" position and you are out of business at the most inopportune time. IT MUST BE INSTALLED CORRECTLY.

MAGAZINES = Do not buy cheap inferior magazines. You must have a follower that will be stable and not ride forward and you must use a quality spring, YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT.

SERIES 80 DESIGNS = If you have a series 80 pistol which incoporates the firing pin block safety system, you must check the height of the plunger lever in the frame when the trigger is pulled. I use Mitutoyo or Brown and Sharpe measuring devices for this type of proceedure.

AUTHORS PERSONAL NOTATION: For those that have tried to offend me and my work and use me and my reputation for their personal gain, that is over forever. Suggest you contact your HERO, TEDDY ROOSEVELT.

Teddy Jacobson
www.actionsbyt.com
281 277 4008
tjacobson@houston.rr.com