Rock island 1911

[Fat Boy]

This may be better in gunsmithing but I am looking for direction. I have acquired a 1911 RI -

I shot it today, brought it home and cleaned it. On reassembly, I cannot get the barrel bushing/collar to go into place. It is unbelievably tight. The only other 1911 I have worked with in disassembly was an older edition, years back and I could do this step with my fingers. I don't want to put pliers on it. I have seen ads for a wrench - are the newer guns made tighter and require a wrench? Or am I doing something wrong?

Thank you

 

[BYJO4]

Some 1911s require a bushing wrench. I have a Baer that absolutely requires one even after 8,000 rounds.

 

[CNobbe]

Sounds like you're in need of a bushing wrench.

The right tool for the job, but I know some folks will use the base of a magazine (with a rubber bumper) to press the plug in.

I've owned several series 70 Colts, and I know what you're going through...they can be tight!

 

[Liberty1776]

ayep... my RI is tighter than any 1911 I've ever handled. a bushing wrench is a necessity...

 

[bigfatdave]

Some 1911s need a bushing wrench - the plastic ones aren't particularly expensive.

Chances are that the bushing will wear a bit and by the time your cheap plastic bushing wrench is looking ratty, you won't need it any more.

BTW - this isn't unique to RIA or Armscor 1911s, although the Tac2 and Match guns tend to have tighter bushings from Armscor, while others tend to be a bit looser.

 

[mbopp]

Will the bushing turn easily in the slide w/o the barrel? Is it a slip fit over the barrel by itself?
If you can, try reassembling it with the slide held open 1/4" or so to get it off the bell at the muzzle.
Yeah, my Springfield TRP is tight in the slide and I use a wrench.

 

[fpgt72]

Agree....I can't do my Remington without a wrench....just don't have the finger strength.

They are nice enough to give you one when you buy the gun.

 

[PJSprog]

Yes, my RIA Tactical is tight as well. Some days I can manage with my fingers, other days I'm simply not in the mood to do that to my fingers. Use the base of your magazine, or buy an inexpensive wrench.