Springfield 1911 Mil-Spec Problems & Fixes

Hey guys! If you're a fan of the classic 1911, chances are you've come across the Springfield Armory Mil-Spec. It's a fantastic firearm, offering a blend of historical design and modern manufacturing. But, like any machine, it can sometimes run into issues. Let's dive deep into some common problems you might encounter with your Springfield Armory 1911 Mil-Spec and, more importantly, how to fix them.

Common Springfield Armory 1911 Mil-Spec Problems and Solutions

Failure to Feed

Failure to feed is a frustrating issue where the pistol fails to load a new round into the chamber after firing. This can manifest as the slide not fully returning to battery or the round getting jammed halfway into the chamber. Guys, this is one of the most common problems reported by 1911 owners, across various brands, not just Springfield Armory. This is a common issue that can leave you in a lurch, especially at the range or in a competition. It's crucial to understand the potential causes and how to address them effectively. Several factors can contribute to this malfunction, ranging from magazine issues to the firearm's internal mechanisms. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward resolving the problem and ensuring your 1911 operates smoothly and reliably.

Magazines are the lifeline of any semi-automatic pistol. A faulty magazine can easily cause feeding problems. If the magazine lips are bent, damaged, or out of spec, they might not present the rounds to the slide correctly. Weak magazine springs can also fail to push the rounds up with enough force, leading to misfeeds. A simple test is to try different magazines. If the problem disappears with a different magazine, you've likely found the culprit. Consider upgrading to high-quality magazines from reputable manufacturers like Wilson Combat or Chip McCormick. These magazines are known for their reliability and consistent feeding. Also, remember that magazines are wear items; even the best ones need to be replaced periodically. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your magazines can also prevent issues. Disassemble your magazines, clean out any debris, and lightly lubricate the spring and follower. This simple routine can significantly extend the life of your magazines and ensure they function flawlessly when you need them most.

The extractor plays a crucial role in the feeding cycle. It's the small, hook-shaped part that grips the rim of the cartridge, pulling it out of the magazine and guiding it into the chamber. If the extractor is worn, damaged, or improperly tensioned, it may fail to hold the cartridge securely against the breech face. This can cause the round to nose-dive or misalign as it enters the chamber, leading to a failure to feed. Checking the extractor involves a visual inspection for wear or damage and a tension test. You should be able to feel a slight resistance when you push a round under the extractor claw. If the tension is too loose or too tight, it can disrupt the feeding cycle. Adjustment of the extractor tension is a delicate process, and if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, it's best to consult a gunsmith. A properly tuned extractor is essential for reliable feeding, and ensuring it's in top condition is a key step in troubleshooting failure-to-feed issues.

The feed ramp, which is the polished surface at the bottom of the chamber, guides the bullet into the chamber. If the feed ramp is rough, dirty, or improperly angled, it can impede the smooth feeding of rounds. This is especially true for hollow-point or other unconventional bullet shapes. Regular cleaning and polishing of the feed ramp can make a big difference. Use a soft cloth and a quality metal polish to smooth out any imperfections. Be careful not to remove too much material, as this can affect the pistol's timing and reliability. If the feed ramp has significant damage or an incorrect angle, a gunsmith might need to perform a more extensive modification. A smooth and properly angled feed ramp ensures that rounds glide effortlessly into the chamber, reducing the likelihood of feeding issues and improving the overall reliability of your 1911.

A dirty or poorly lubricated firearm can cause all sorts of malfunctions, including failures to feed. Excessive carbon buildup and grime can slow down the slide's movement, preventing it from stripping rounds from the magazine and chambering them properly. Insufficient lubrication can create friction between the moving parts, causing the same issue. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining the reliability of your 1911. Disassemble your pistol after each range session and clean all the components thoroughly. Pay special attention to the slide rails, barrel, and other areas where metal parts interact. Use a quality gun oil to lubricate these areas, following the manufacturer's recommendations. A well-maintained 1911 will function smoothly and reliably, minimizing the risk of malfunctions and ensuring consistent performance.

Failure to Eject

Failure to eject, also known as stove-piping, occurs when the spent casing isn't fully ejected from the pistol after firing. The empty case can get caught in the ejection port, often standing upright like a stovepipe. This malfunction can be caused by several factors, and identifying the root cause is essential for effective troubleshooting. The failure to eject malfunction, a common headache for 1911 enthusiasts, is where the spent casing stubbornly refuses to leave the ejection port, often resulting in the casing getting caught and resembling a