1911 Type (EMP) Thumb Safety Adjustment

[CDH]

I've got a Springfield EMP (which is basically a 1911 pistol) that has the ambi-safety.

I love this pistol and it's turned out to be one of my favorites. However, one little "glitch" is that the thumb safety appears to be way too easy to snick on or off. It's obvious to me that it would be easy to accidently bump it off while carrying.

I really don't want to go through the hassle of sending it back to Springfield since that's the ONLY thing that needs attention, so I'm wondering if you gunsmith type guys can recommend what to look at first to fix it.

From what I can see, I can either put a stronger spring in the plunger tube (if that's even possible to get), or I could re-file the angle on the thumb safety itself where it slides over the plunger.

Can someone recommend a good starting point?

TIA
Carter

 

[Walkalong]

Put a single Cylinder & Slide safety on mine.

 

[edSky]

Where did you get a replacement thumb safety for the EMP? I thought that was one of the 15 pieces Springfield redesigned for it.

I'm also trying to find out my recoil spring, guide rod, and mainspring housing options for the EMP. It's a great little pistol but very particular about what I feed it.

 

[rcmodel]

Replace the plunger spring if it is weak.

Or make a slightly longer plunger out of the proper size # drill bitt shank.

Otherwise, you need to place a tiny dimple on the safety right where the plunger rests when the safety is on.

I use a small round carbide dental burr in a Dremel to do it on regular 1911 safeties. Should work on yours too.

rcmodel

 

[Joshua M. Smith]

CDH,

Wilson makes a much stronger detent spring for the plunger. It comes in the kits I've installed on carry guns. Call them and let them tell you about it.

(It's strong enough that I usually cut a coil or two off... so it may be what you're looking for.)

Josh <><

 

[WmCC]

Good advice has been given with respect to virtually all 1911 pattern pistols. However, you might want to give Springfield a call. Debbie, in the Custom Shop, is well versed and should point you in the right direction. They may send you the EMP specific components that you need if they have seen or suspect safety detent issues. Just a thought.

 

[edSky]

Thanks, Bill.

While this site is very informative, the inability to easily

QUOTE

(and yes, I read all about it) makes for some pretty confusing threads. Perhaps I shouldn't have resurrected a two year old thread to ask a follow up question.

Anyway, besides Deb (she seems to be only one of two people who actually exist at SA ) I try to get as much info on EMP from other owners. I seem to be striking out on that count.

Thanks, and I agree. Deb's the one.


Ed