1911 recoil buffers?

[PinnedAndRecessed]

I've got a highly modified 1911 with a Wilson recoil buffer. I shoot mostly reloads (200 grain copper plated ahead of about 6 grains Unique).

Lately the gun has had some ejection problems. Some of the pros on this forum suggested the recoil spring is too strong (18.5 pound Wilson). I'm going to drop to a 16 pounder.

But what about the recoil buffer? Is this as important as some say? My smith said he would not use one in his defense 1911 because the buffers have been known to break and jam the gun. Others say the buffer is necessary to keep the slide from cracking the frame.

Thanks in advance.

 

[sc1911cwp]

I use one on my Delta Elite to prevent damage, but its a 10mm. However, I would say if you are using reloads or target type loads, there is really no need for these. They do not come standard on guns as far as I know. They are supposed to be relaced every 1000 rounds or so. IMO, I would remove them from any defensive gun as you can not afford to have any problems. You will not damage your gun. I believe they are used more by those who shoot full power loads ect.

 

[PinnedAndRecessed]

Thanx KB. Very insightful.

 

[Siggyboy]

What type of ejection problems are you experiencing? It might be due to the combo of type of ammo and weight of recoil spring, weak mag springs, extractor, etc.

As for shock buffers, they are not necessary. However, I like the feel of them because they do noticibly buffer the metal on metal contact at the end of the recoil cycle. What your smith says is an important consideration. I think for instance, that the FBI does not allow buffers in their 1911's for that reason. However, if you are concious of how many rounds you have fired and use a tough buffer, you should not have any problems. Ditch the Wilson buffers as they are way too soft and don't last long at all. I use CP Bullit Tough Buffs, which are made of a very tough material that still buffers well and they last forever.

 

[Richard.Howe]

If you change your buffers out every 1000 rounds, there is NO reason to be concerned about them on a carry gun. Just make sure you stick with a reputable manufacturer. I have never had one go out, and have used a single buffer from Les Baer for over 10,000 rounds. It's still got good elasticity and rebound.

That having been said -- if you have a 1911 that is a dedicated carry-only gun, there's no reason to install a buffer in the first place. It adds *zero* functionality (note that I didn't say longevity) and does, indeed, add another failure point in the component pyramid.

Long story short: buffers in range guns, carefully maintained buffers in range/carry guns, and no buffer in carry-only guns.

YMMV

Take care,
Rich

 

[molonlabe]

I have been using a kings buffer for years on my Gold Cup as I shoot full power loads with an 18 pound spring. It's a nifty device that is a spring loaded buffer that slides over the recoil spring. I was never too hot about replacing the rubber buffer and this one has served me for years.

PS. This won't break.

They are located here.
http://www.kingsgunworks.com/

 

[stans]

I would not put the shock buffer in a defensive 1911. Now something like the spring loaded type like King's or Sprinco's might be fine, but it is still one more thing to break when you need it most. I will not shoot my Delta Elite without a shock buffer and CP Bullets is my prefered brand. For 45 ACP, especially reduced loads, I don't think they do that much to lengthen the lifespan of the gun. That being said, if you just want to use one and it does not induce malfunctions, go ahead. If it induces a malfunction, then it has told you something very important about your particular gun... it doesn't like them! And some Government models don't!