What Exactly *Is* a 1911 Firing Pin Stop?
The legendary 1911 pistol, a design that has stood the test of time, continues to captivate firearm enthusiasts worldwide. Its legacy of reliability and accuracy stems from its carefully engineered components, each playing a critical role in its smooth operation. One often-overlooked but crucial part is the **1911 firing pin stop**. This guide delves deep into the intricacies of this vital component, exploring its purpose, the different types available, potential issues, effective upgrades, and essential maintenance practices.
Simply put, the **1911 firing pin stop** is a small, yet incredibly important, piece of metal situated within the slide of the 1911 pistol. Its primary function is straightforward: it retains the firing pin, preventing it from inadvertently exiting the slide. This seemingly simple task is paramount to the safety and functionality of the firearm. Without the firing pin stop, the firing pin would be free to move forward with potentially dangerous consequences.
The firing pin stop is typically located at the rear of the slide, right above the grip safety. It’s secured in place by the extractor, the firing pin itself, and often, the spring pressure exerted by the firing pin spring. The relationship between the **1911 firing pin stop** and the other components is crucial. The firing pin passes through a hole in the stop, allowing it to strike the primer of the cartridge when the trigger is pulled. The extractor, which hooks onto the rim of the cartridge case to extract it from the chamber, also interacts intimately with the firing pin stop. The contour and fit of the stop directly influence the extractor’s position and performance. The barrel hood also comes in contact with the stop, working in tandem to provide optimal case head support.
How the 1911 Firing Pin Stop Works
The primary job of the **1911 firing pin stop** is to act as a barrier, preventing the firing pin from escaping the slide. This critical role is vital for two fundamental reasons: safety and reliable operation. By securely holding the firing pin in place, the stop ensures that the pistol functions as designed, minimizing the risk of accidental discharges.
Beyond its role as a safety device, the firing pin stop also plays a supporting role in the slide cycle, particularly during the extraction and ejection process. The extractor, which pulls the spent cartridge case from the chamber, relies on the angle and design of the **1911 firing pin stop** to work efficiently. A properly shaped stop can provide optimal support for the extractor claw, facilitating reliable ejection of spent casings. Conversely, a poorly fitted or damaged stop can interfere with the extractor, leading to extraction failures, stovepipes, or other malfunctions. The shape and fitment contribute to the reliable operation of the firearm, allowing the extractor to correctly cycle rounds during firing.
Examining the Different Kinds of 1911 Firing Pin Stops
The **1911 firing pin stop** isn’t a one-size-fits-all component. There are variations in design, shape, and material that cater to different needs and preferences. Understanding these variations helps shooters select the right stop for their specific application.
You will commonly find the factory or stock firing pin stops. These stops are usually made of steel and have a rounded or slightly angled bottom. These are designed to function correctly within the operational envelope of the firearm, and offer a robust foundation. These are adequate for most shooters, especially in a standard 1911 configuration.
Aftermarket firing pin stops offer a wider array of options. One popular upgrade is the squared-bottom firing pin stop. This design features a flat or squared-off bottom edge, which is often favored by competition shooters and gunsmiths. The squared design helps to provide better support for the extractor and can often lead to improved extraction performance. These stops often allow for finer tuning of the extractor, leading to enhanced reliability and consistent ejection patterns.
Another type to consider are extended or oversized firing pin stops. These are often used to make disassembly and reassembly easier. They can also give a slightly different look to the slide. This type can also be used to help with the process of removing the slide from the frame, making it easier to manipulate.
Beyond shape, material also matters. While many **1911 firing pin stops** are made of steel, some aftermarket manufacturers offer stops made of stainless steel or even more exotic tool steels. These materials often provide enhanced durability and corrosion resistance, making them a great choice for firearms used in harsh environments or those subjected to heavy use.
Common Troubles and Their Causes
Even though it is a strong component, the **1911 firing pin stop** can encounter problems, leading to malfunctions and decreased performance. Knowing the potential issues helps in troubleshooting and preventing problems.
One common issue is failure to extract. A poorly fitted or damaged firing pin stop can interfere with the extractor, causing it to fail to pull the spent casing from the chamber. This can lead to a jam, preventing the firearm from cycling correctly. If you experience frequent extraction failures, the firing pin stop should be inspected for damage and correct fit.
Firing pin binding can occur if the firing pin stop’s hole is improperly sized or has burrs. This can restrict the firing pin’s free movement, potentially causing light primer strikes or misfires. Inspecting the firing pin and ensuring its free movement within the firing pin stop is crucial for reliable ignition.
The relationship between the firing pin stop and the ejector also needs consideration. The **1911 firing pin stop**’s angle helps to control the ejection angle, and a damaged or out-of-spec stop can alter the ejection pattern.
Over time, the **1911 firing pin stop** can also experience wear and tear. Repeated impact from the firing pin can cause it to deform or develop sharp edges. The shooter will notice signs such as loose parts or even damage, which can manifest as extraction issues or firing pin malfunctions. The source of this wear and tear includes friction, impact forces, and the pressures generated during firing.
Making Improvements: Upgrades and Customization
Upgrading the **1911 firing pin stop** can improve your pistol’s performance, reliability, and aesthetics. There are several reasons why someone would choose to upgrade this part, including improving reliability, performance, and the overall appearance.
A square-bottom firing pin stop, as mentioned, is a popular upgrade, particularly for competition shooters or anyone who wants to optimize their 1911’s extraction performance. The square shape provides a more positive surface for the extractor to work against, leading to more reliable extraction and ejection, especially under heavy use or with hotter loads. Tuning the extractor to work seamlessly with the square-bottom stop can result in remarkably consistent ejection patterns and improved overall reliability.
An extended or oversized firing pin stop can enhance ease of use. This upgrade can make it easier to manipulate the stop during disassembly and reassembly, and is a simple change that can be greatly appreciated by those who frequently clean or work on their pistols. These types can also offer a more distinctive look to the slide.
Before making any modifications, it’s imperative to understand the importance of proper fitting. The **1911 firing pin stop** needs to fit correctly within the slide to function as intended. Improperly fitted parts can lead to malfunctions or even potential safety hazards. Careful fitting and precise dimensioning is vital.
Troubleshooting, and Day-to-Day Care
Maintaining your **1911 firing pin stop** and understanding how to troubleshoot problems can help you keep your pistol functioning reliably. Regular inspection, cleaning, and lubrication are essential for optimal performance.
Begin by inspecting the firing pin stop for signs of wear, damage, or improper fit. Look for any dents, cracks, or sharp edges. Check to see if the hole for the firing pin is smooth and free of burrs. Also inspect your extractor tension. The extractor should maintain the proper grip on the cartridge case. The tension is important to keep the extractor from letting the cartridge escape.
Cleaning the area around the firing pin stop during routine maintenance is also important. Debris, buildup of unburned powder, and other contaminants can interfere with the firing pin’s free movement or contribute to extraction problems. Use a suitable gun cleaning solvent to remove any buildup, paying attention to the firing pin channel and the area where the firing pin stop resides.
Apply a light coat of quality gun oil or lubricant to the firing pin and the firing pin stop to ensure smooth movement and protect against corrosion. Avoid over-lubricating, as excess lubricant can attract dirt and debris, potentially hindering function.
If you experience extraction issues, inspect the firing pin stop for wear or damage, and check the extractor’s function. Ensure that the extractor hook is properly shaped and has adequate tension. If you are having firing pin binding issues, carefully examine the hole in the firing pin stop for obstructions.
For complex issues, consider seeking professional assistance from a qualified gunsmith. They can accurately diagnose the problem and provide appropriate solutions. Modifying a firearm can be dangerous. It is best to know how to maintain the firearm before any modifications are done.
In Closing
The **1911 firing pin stop** is far more than just a small piece of metal; it’s a critical component that contributes significantly to the 1911’s legendary reliability and safety. Understanding its function, recognizing potential issues, and knowing when and how to upgrade or maintain it will help ensure that your 1911 continues to function safely and reliably for years to come. Remember to prioritize safety at all times and, if necessary, seek professional assistance.
Resources
Brownells (various 1911 parts and accessories)
Wilson Combat (1911 parts and custom work)
1911Forum (Online forum for enthusiasts)
