[dafitch]

I need some help. I'm also asking over at the 1911 forum concurrently.

Last week I purchased a new Springfield Armory Ultra Compact .45 ACP 1911, and have put about 100 rounds through the pistol.

The pistol is functioning perfectly, however, today when I removed the firing pin and extractor to clean the respective channels, I noticed that I could see an extra bit of light while looking through the firing pin channel. Further investigation revealed that there is a longitudinal hole or crack between the ejector channel and the firing pin channel.

http://dafitch.com/images/SA_UC/images/p9140008_a.jpg

http://dafitch.com/images/SA_UC/images/p9140002_a.jpg

What's the consensus? I don't believe this to be normal. Is repair required in order to maintain the integrity of the pistol? Can a repair even be performed on such a defect?

I have 4 other Springfield 1911's (GI, Milspec, Loaded and an EMP). None of the others have this problem.

I will call Springfield tomorrow, but would like an idea of what I'm up against. I searched for this pistol for a few years, and would be very disappointed if it could not be repaired. I understand that this model is no longer in production.

Thanks,
Dave

[BBBBill]

From the limited number of pics, it looks like the ejector slot was milled too deep. How much clearance around the ejector with the slide installed?

[dafitch]

Hi Bill,

I don't have an exact measurement for the clearance, but based on how well the gun has functioned I would so the clearance is adequate. With too much metal removed, I would guess clearance would be more than adequate. As to whether the clearance is excessive, I couldn't tell you. Would pictures help?

Thanks,
Dave

[dafitch]

http://dafitch.com/images/SA_UC/images/p9140010.jpg

http://dafitch.com/images/SA_UC/images/p9140004_a.jpg

[dafitch]

http://dafitch.com/images/SA_UC_2/images/p9140002.jpg

http://dafitch.com/images/SA_UC_2/images/p9140005.jpg

[dafitch]

http://dafitch.com/images/SA_UC_2/images/p9140001_1.jpg

[sniper350]

I agree with BBBIll that the channel may have been milled too deep. I can't tell from the photo if the shell casing recoils against that section of the bolt face ........... if it does, significant forces hit that section with every pull of the trigger.

I would mark the "crack" and keep a close eye on things. I am sure it can be welded - TIG - if need be and the ejctor channel re-milled if there is enough room ? That's why BBBBILL was asking about the clearance -I think? If the ejector is almost touching the Slide Now - adding metal will not work......... see if S.A. will repair under warranty.

I have the same pistol ......and it IS worth the effeorts to keep this little beauty on the field. I don't go anywhere without mine ........


JF.

[Jim Watson]

That is a lemon.
Contact SA for a replacement slide or gun.

[4v50 Gary]

Concur with Jim Watson.

[dafitch]

Springfield sent a shipping label to me today with an RA. The pistols on the way back to IL.
So far, SA has been very easy (and pleasant) to deal with. I've had a bad experience with another major manufacturer, so this is a welcome change. I'll provide an update when I know something.

Thank you to everyone for the help.

-Dave

[dafitch]

SA called today. They will replace the slide under warranty. Gun will be refinished in black armory coat without charge. Should have the pistol back in two or so weeks. I'll follow up again upon receipt.

[dafitch]

It's back with a new slide. Black Armory Coat is hard to photograph, but here it is:

http://dafitch.com/auctions/10-08-2008/images/pa080012.jpg

Haven't shot it yet, but I expect it will be fine.

[dafitch]

Cocking serrations are cut crooked. Pistol's going back again. Not very pleased.

[Jim Watson]

I can't see "crooked" but they sure have more tool marks than mine. Mine is the Loaded model, maybe they take less care with the plain version.

[dafitch]

Not so much crooked, but the serrations are not cut evenly at the top. Almost as if they slapped a blemished slide on my pistol just to get it out the door.

The serrations on this slide are incorrect for the pistol also. Now I have a nicely finished parts gun.

[dafitch]

Can't say enough good about SA, Inc. My defective pistol is being replaced with a new TRP Stainless. I had to cough up a nominal amount of cash, however, I really feel like SA has taken care of me.

Thank you, Springfield Armory.