1911 experts-- grip safety problem

[Pict]

I'm having trouble with reliable disengagement of the grip safety on a mini-1911 (RIA compact). I'd just as soon not take the thing apart and shave down the engagement arm, so I'm thinking about building up the "bump" pad a bit. Any recommendations?

I'd like to be able to use the little guy as an everyday CC, but right now I have to go out of my way to remember to keep my thumb underneath the thumb safety in order for my hand to be positioned right-- and that's not how I handle my full-sized 1911, so I foresee trouble should I ever be in an emergency situation.

Epoxy? Solder? Candle wax?

 

[David E]

Do it right if you're going to do it.

Take it out and carefully file the engagement. You can also file the feet on the MSH and grip safety so it swings out further. Then it'll disengage earlier as you acquire your grip.

 

[raco]

Went to Gunsite back in the '80s and Col. Cooper didnt like the grip safety for a variety of reasons. Had mine "pinned" by a gunsmith, where it is always disengaged. Yes there are legal ramifications if you happen to shoot someone. But if you have to use it with your weak hand or shoot someone on your back then your gun will work as long as you can work the thumb safety.

 

[klutchless]

Carry one every day just put a slip over grip on it to hold the safety in and the finger grooves help when shooting weak hand.You might want to look into getting a extended slide release to.Those things get slippery shooting one handed with sweaty hands.You might have to trim the rubber around the thumb safety to get it to function but it isn't a big deal with a sharp utility knife.

 

[Zerodefect]

Sensitize it by grinding down the bit that blocks the trigger.

I had tons of trouble shooting from the retension position after a quick draw with a high tang grip. With both my K and DW.

Once I spent some time with an Arkansas stone it got a ton better. After doing a little bit of stoneing after each range trip, I finally have my grip safetys absolutely perfect.

Any kind of weak grip, even with my thumb way high over the safety, even with my thumb pointed straight up pulling the web of my hand off the grip saftey, it still goes off reliably from the retention position.

Just do it right and sensitize that safety. They are set super safe at the factory. After my intense sensitizing, I still have more tham 1mm blocking the trigger bar. (I didn't measure, just Mark 1 eyeball)

 

[CAWalter]

Sensitize is the answer. Safety? If it blocks, it's safe, and doing it's job.

CAW

 

[Ankeny]

Sensitize is the answer. Safety? If it blocks, it's safe, and doing it's job.

Absolutely.

 

[Pict]

Thanks for the replies, y'all. Guess I'm gonna have to take the dang thing apart and fiddle with it.