Removing the Slide Assembly
1. Lock the slide back
Push the slide release lever located on the left side of the frame to hold the slide in the fully retracted position.
2. Remove the slide stop pin
2. Remove the slide stop pin
Locate the slide stop pin, usually a small pin positioned on the right side of the frame just below the slide. Depending on the 1911 model, the slide stop pin can be removed using a variety of methods:
| Pin Removal Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Push Pin | Use a punch or small tool to push the pin out from right to left. |
| Screw Pin | Use a small screwdriver to unscrew the pin counterclockwise. |
| Detent Lever | Push in the detent lever located next to the pin and then slide the pin out. |
Once the slide stop pin is removed, the slide can be moved forward slightly.
3. Lift the slide off the frame
Grasp the rear of the slide with one hand and firmly lift it vertically to disengage it from the frame. Once the slide is lifted, gently slide it forward off the frame.
Disassembling the Slide Assembly
Disassemble the slide assembly by following these steps:
1. Remove the Recoil Spring Assembly
Pull the slide back and depress the recoil spring plug as far as possible. Lift up on the plug and remove it.
2. Remove the Barrel
Tilt the barrel down and remove it from the slide.
3. Remove the Firing Pin Assembly
Step 1: Remove the Firing Pin Stop
Depress the firing pin stop with a punch and push it out from the left side of the slide.
Step 2: Remove the Firing Pin Sleeve
Grab the firing pin sleeve with a pair of pliers and pull it straight out of the slide.
Step 3: Remove the Firing Pin and Spring
Use a punch to push the firing pin out from the back of the slide. The firing pin spring will come out with the firing pin.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Depress the firing pin stop |
| 2 | Push the firing pin stop out from the left side of the slide |
| 3 | Grab the firing pin sleeve with pliers and pull it out |
| 4 | Push the firing pin out from the back of the slide |
| 5 | The firing pin and spring will come out together |
Disassembling the Grip Safety
The grip safety is a crucial component of the 1911 pistol, providing an additional layer of protection against accidental discharge. Disassembling the grip safety requires careful attention and proper tools.
1. Depress the Grip Safety
Firmly grasp the grip safety and push it down until it is fully depressed.
2. Remove the Thumb Safety
With the grip safety depressed, slide the thumb safety forward and up to remove it.
3. Remove the Grip Safety Screw
Locate the small screw holding the grip safety in place at the bottom of the grip safety. Using a suitable screwdriver, carefully unscrew and remove it.
4. Lift the Grip Safety
Gently lift the grip safety straight up and away from the frame to detach it.
5. Remove the Belleville Washer
Once the grip safety is removed, you will notice a small, spring-loaded Belleville washer behind it. Carefully remove the washer.
6. Remove the Grip Safety Plunger
Below the Belleville washer is the grip safety plunger. Use a small, pointed tool to depress the plunger and remove it from the frame.
7. Disassemble the Grip Safety Plunger
The grip safety plunger consists of two parts: the plunger and the spring. Compress the spring and carefully disassemble the two parts.
8. Clean and Inspect the Grip Safety Components
Thoroughly clean and inspect all the components of the grip safety, paying particular attention to any wear or damage. If necessary, replace any worn or faulty parts.
9. Reassemble the Grip Safety
Reverse the disassembly steps to reassemble the grip safety. Ensure all components are properly aligned and secured.
10. Install the Thumb Safety
Slide the thumb safety back into place over the grip safety and engage it.
