Introduction
If you’re a gun enthusiast, you know that the 1911 pistol is a classic firearm that has been in use for over a century. However, even a well-maintained 1911 can suffer from feeding problems, which can be frustrating for shooters. One solution to this issue is to polish the feed ramp, which can improve the feeding of cartridges into the chamber. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of polishing your 1911’s feed ramp.
What is a Feed Ramp?
Before we dive into the polishing process, let’s discuss what a feed ramp is. The feed ramp is the inclined surface at the rear of the barrel that guides the cartridge into the chamber. It is a critical component of the pistol’s feeding system and must be properly maintained to ensure reliable performance.
Why Polish the Feed Ramp?
As a 1911 is used, the feed ramp can become rough and uneven, which can cause feeding issues. Polishing the feed ramp smooths out any imperfections, which allows cartridges to feed more smoothly into the chamber. This can result in fewer malfunctions and more consistent accuracy.
Tools and Materials Needed
To polish your 1911’s feed ramp, you’ll need a few tools and materials. These include: – A polishing wheel or dremel tool – Polishing compound – Masking tape – Safety glasses – Latex gloves – Cleaning supplies (i.e., gun oil, bore cleaner, cleaning patches)
Preparation
Before you begin polishing your 1911’s feed ramp, you need to disassemble the pistol and make sure it is unloaded. Once the pistol is disassembled, use masking tape to protect the frame and barrel from accidental scratches or damage. Put on your safety glasses and latex gloves to protect yourself during the polishing process.
The Polishing Process
The first step in polishing your 1911’s feed ramp is to clean it thoroughly with a bore cleaner and cleaning patches. Once it is clean, apply a small amount of polishing compound to the polishing wheel or dremel tool. Be sure to use a compound that is appropriate for use on firearms. Next, carefully polish the feed ramp using the polishing tool. Start at the bottom of the feed ramp and work your way up to the top, being careful not to remove too much metal. Use light pressure and take your time to ensure a smooth finish. Check your progress frequently to avoid over-polishing. Once you have finished polishing the feed ramp, clean it again with a bore cleaner and cleaning patches. Be sure to remove any residual polishing compound from the feed ramp and barrel.
Final Steps
Once the feed ramp is clean, reassemble your 1911 and test fire it to ensure proper feeding. If you still experience feeding issues, you may need to repeat the polishing process or seek the assistance of a gunsmith.
Conclusion
Polishing your 1911’s feed ramp is a simple process that can have a significant impact on your pistol’s performance. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can improve the feeding of cartridges into the chamber, resulting in fewer malfunctions and more consistent accuracy. Remember to always take safety precautions when working with firearms and seek the assistance of a professional gunsmith if you are unsure about performing any maintenance on your pistol.