Possible barrel damage to 1911?

[rc109a]

First of all this is my first 1911 (own several other types of semi autos and revolvers) so if it sounds like I don't know what I am talking about, then your probably right. I was able to buy a springfield 1911 mil-spec off a guy for under 200 the other day. The finish was about 90-95 and is a pretty smooth fitting gun (slide to receiver). When taking it apart I noticed the barrel link would not lay down along the barrel without a bit of force (still finger pressure though). When I looked at where the linkage was connected I noticed that it appeared that the connector was dented (as if it was being struck by something) and I small bit of the metal was pushed into the grove preventing the linkage from laying down on its own. Is that normal? I can take a small file and fix it, but is there something else I need to be looking at as well? I have a few other questions so I will list them:
1. What is the difference between a series 70 and 80 and does that apply to all 1911's?
2. I am pretty good with tools and I want to replace the grip safety (with a beavertail), hammer, and trigger. Are these drop in parts or will I have to find a gunsmith to do them (or can they be done reasonably by a amature)?
Thanks for all the help....

 

[LHB1]

RC,
To save everyone a lot of redundant typing, check out website:
www.blindhogg.com and click on Gunsmithing. He has lots of 1911 specific info describing projects you list. The Search function will also reveal previous threads on this forum dealing with your questions. Good luck.

Good shooting and be safe.
LB

 

[rc109a]

LHB1 thanks for that link. It took care of almost all my questions in regard to parts. I still cannot find anything in regard to the damage to the barrel linkage holder. Maybe I am not wording it correctly. Thanks for the help...

 

[LHB1]

RC,
Maybe one of the resident expert gunsmiths will reply to that question for you. If you don't already have one, would recommend you get a copy of THE COLT .45 AUTOMATIC (SHOP MANUAL) by Jerry Kuhnhausen. It is an excellent reference book. Got mine from Brownell's. Best of luck with your project!

Good shooting and be safe.
LB

 

[DogBonz]

Is that normal?

No, it is not normal. The link should move move freely, but with out much play. I don't know what is wrong, but I know what is not right.

 

[rc109a]

After a few days underway, I was finally able to get home and do a closer inspection. I notice the guide rod matches up perfectly with the damaged portion. Is it possible the slide is striking it with that much force? Should I file down that area or replace the spring (what type) or both? Any other ideas? Thanks for the replies....

 

[ACORN]

Post this in the "Gunsmithing" forum and the resident Gurus will fix you right up.

 

[TX1911fan]

If you are moderately handy with tools, you can install a beavertail. I did it. Just make sure you get the one with the correct radius, and get the installation jig. I just used some cheap files from Home Depot, and it looks and works great. I had to do a little fitting on my thumb safety too, and that was easy. I looked up online how to do a safety check, and it all checks out. I'll have SA do a further check for me when I send it to them for checkering and refinishing, but I think I got it all done well enough.