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By Jason Schaller Former FFL holder and Gunsmith with over 10 years of professional experience Chief Instructor @ Freedom Crew University Creator of The Rogue Banshee Podcast Host – For The Love of Guns and The Undependant Podcast

1911 Slide Disassembly and Reassembly for the Everyday Person: Step-by-Step

Working on your 1911 slide doesn’t have to be intimidating. Whether you’re new to disassembly or you’ve done it a few times, this step-by-step guide is here to help you tackle the job with confidence. We’ll walk you through each step—from removing the firing pin stop to installing the firing pin and extractor. Let’s get started.

TL;DR: Disassembling and Reassembling the 1911 Slide

Essential Tools

To get started, you’ll need a few basic tools to handle the disassembly and reassembly process:

• Brownells 1911 Extractor Removal Tool: For removing and installing the extractor safely and efficiently. A 5/32″ Punch will work for this as well. 

  

Key Steps

1. Firing Pin Stop and Firing Pin Removal: Push and remove the firing pin stop. Pull out the firing pin, and remove the spring.

2. Extractor Removal and Installation: Gently push and remove the extractor. Reinstall by aligning the groove with the firing pin stop.

3. Firing Pin Spring and Firing Pin Reinstallation: Install the tapered end of the spring onto the firing pin, and reassemble the parts in the slide.

4. Firing Pin Stop Reinstallation: Ensure the firing pin stop is properly secured and everything is aligned.

Essential Tools and Safety First

Before jumping into disassembly, make sure you have the necessary tools at your disposal. Having the right gear on hand will ensure the process goes smoothly and prevent any accidental damage to your parts.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Brownells 1911 Extractor Removal Tool: This tool makes removing and installing the extractor safe, quick, and easy, compared to improvising with other tools.

  • A 5/32″ punch will work as well if you don’t want to spend the money on the tool. 

    

Step-by-Step Slide Disassembly

Now, let’s dive into the disassembly and reassembly of your 1911 slide. Take it slow and follow each step carefully for a successful reassembly.

Step 1: Removing the Firing Pin Stop and Firing Pin

• Push in the Firing Pin: Use a punch to push in the firing pin and down on the firing pin stop.

• Remove the Firing Pin Stop: Slide it out, releasing the pressure on the firing pin.

• Extract the Firing Pin: Gently pull the firing pin from the slide.

Step 2: Removing the Extractor

• Push the Extractor Out: Push in on the extractor from the front and gently remove it from the rear of the slide. Make sure to note the groove on the back of the extractor, as it will line up with the firing pin stop.

Extractor Removal Tool:

• Why I Use It: The Brownells 1911 Extractor Removal Tool is easy to use, safe for parts, and much faster than trying to improvise. It simplifies the job and ensures you don’t accidentally damage your components while removing the extractor.

Step 3: Reinstalling the Extractor

• Align the Extractor: Insert the extractor back into the large hole at the back of the slide.

• Check Alignment: Make sure the groove on the extractor lines up with the firing pin stop groove in the slide.

Step 4: Reinstalling the Firing Pin Spring and Firing Pin

• Install the Firing Pin Spring: The spring has a tapered end that needs to be placed onto the firing pin. Twist it into place until it meets the shoulder.

• Reinsert the Firing Pin: Push the firing pin into the spring, ensuring it’s properly seated.

Step 5: Installing the Firing Pin Stop

• Test the Firing Pin Stop: Before fully inserting it, ensure the firing pin stop slides into place properly.

• Secure the Firing Pin Stop: Push the firing pin into the hole and press the firing pin stop fully into place. This will lock the firing pin in place.

Final Assembly Check

Once everything is back in place, give your slide a quick inspection to ensure everything moves smoothly. Check that the firing pin is secure and that the extractor is positioned correctly.

Video Index:

Here’s a quick breakdown of the video sections so you can follow along:

• Intro – 0:00

• How to remove the 1911 Firing Pin Stop and Firing Pin – 0:41

• How to remove the 1911 Extractor – 1:43

• How to install the 1911 Extractor – 2:20

• How to install the 1911 Firing Pin Spring – 3:10

• How to install the 1911 Firing Pin and Firing Pin Stop – 3:43

Wrapping It Up

Disassembling and reassembling your 1911 slide might seem tricky at first, but with the right tools and a little patience, you can do it yourself. Every part you remove and reinstall brings you one step closer to understanding your firearm better, and trust me, that’s a rewarding experience.

By following these steps, you’re not only maintaining your 1911 but also building confidence in your skills. The next time you go to the range, you’ll know exactly what’s going on inside your gun.

FAQ: 1911 Slide Disassembly and Reassembly

Q: What tools do I need for slide disassembly?

A: You’ll need a flathead screwdriver, punches (1/16” and 3/32”), and a hammer for disassembling the slide. You’ll also need the Brownells 1911 Extractor Removal Tool for extracting and installing the extractor.

Q: Can I reuse the firing pin and extractor?

A: Yes, as long as they are in good condition. Always inspect them for wear or damage before reinstalling.

Q: Is there a specific order I should follow when reassembling the slide?

A: Yes, follow the steps in the guide to ensure proper reinstallation: starting with the extractor, then the firing pin and spring, and ending with the firing pin stop.

Q: How do I know if the extractor is properly installed?

A: Ensure the groove on the back of the extractor aligns with the firing pin stop groove in the slide.

Want more tips or resources?

• Check out the full playlist: For a detailed breakdown of the 1911 disassembly and reassembly process, check out the 1911 Series 70 Breakdown & Rebuild Playlist.

• Explore Tools Used in the 1911 Videos: Need tools? Check out the Tools Used in the 1911 Series 70 Videos.

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Original Content by The Rogue Banshee / My Rogue Solutions LLC.
Credit: Jason Schaller
Email: jschaller@trb.fyi

About the Author: Jason Schaller is a former FFL holder and founder of Eagle Eye Shooters Supply in Helena, MT, where he provided professional gunsmithing services and guided customers on all aspects of firearms ownership. Today, he teaches DIY gunsmithing at The Rogue Banshee and serves as a Chief Instructor at Freedom Crew University. With over a decade of hands-on professional experience with firearms and nearly 30 years in IT, Jason also holds top cybersecurity certifications including CISSP, CISA, and CRISC. When he’s not geeking out, he’s helping others build self-reliance, critical thinking, and firearms proficiency through real-world content.

Disclaimers:

Content Use & Compliance

The videos, articles, and images shared by The Rogue Banshee feature gear, tools, and products for informational and entertainment purposes only. All activities follow local, state, and federal laws where they were conducted in. All activities are conducted safely under professional supervision in approved locations.

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