1911 question

[Milkmaster]

You 1911 guru's probably already know this answer, so I will use your talent and expertise to answer a question please. Can I buy a separate barrel for a standard full size 1911 and then install it into my pistols without hand fitting? I was thinking about buying an extended barrel to use with a supresser. I would not use it all of the time. I just need to know if I have to have it fitted for proper lockup or not. I have a Ruger 1911 and also a Colt 1911.

 

[MaterDei]

I don't claim to be a 1911 guru but I do know that changing barrels is generally NOT a plug and play operation, especially if you want to maximize accuracy. New 1911 barrels generally need to be fitted to the gun you are installing them in. Specifically the locking lugs, sides of the hood, bottom lug/feet and bushing may need fitting.

You can buy a 'drop-in' barrel which will come with a pre-fitted bushing but you still may need to fit the lug.

I'm sure some here will tell about their experiences buying barrels, dropping them in the gun and having them work accurately and perfectly. I'm just saying, don't count on it. Best to buy a barrel fitting kit with the barrel, IMO.

Good Luck

 

[Reloadron]

MaterDei pretty much covered it well.
Barrel Fitting the 1911 Auto.

The link covers it well, including the barrel link. Changing the barrel is not a really difficult job but the new barrel will require fitting. The forum member who is really good at this is 1911Turner. Hopefully he will come along.

Ron

 

[bannockburn]

Milkmaster

I would think to get the utmost reliability and accuracy out of a 1911 barrel it should be fitted to the specific gun that you're going to use it in.

Years ago I had a Colt Gold Cup barrel assembly (barrel, bushing, link, and link pin), that I use to drop in to an older, well worn 1911 and it improved it's accuracy quite a bit but a proper fitting by a qualified gunsmith would have probably worked wonders on turning it into a real tackdriver.

 

[stchman]

Could the OP get a barrel and bushing matched for the barrel to help?

 

[Reloadron]

Could the OP get a barrel and bushing matched for the barrel to help?

Absolutely. Most barrels are labeled "semi drop in" and you have to love the terminology. Semi drop in is sort of like it almost fits but you may have to.... Here are some examples of barrels and barrels with a fitted bushing. However, you still need a link. A barrel link kit with six links runs about $25.00 from Brownell's where one of the six should allow a good fit to the gun. Barrel link kit.

Ron