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HOW TO FIELD STRIP 1911s FOR THE EVERYDAY PERSON STEP BY STEP // Complete 1911 series 70 Field Strip

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By Jason Schaller

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1911 field strip

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Working on a 1911 isn’t just about taking it apart—it’s an experience that connects you to its long history. For many, the first field strip is an intimidating process, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re new to the 1911 or just want to brush up on your skills, this step-by-step guide will make disassembling your Series 70 1911 easy to follow and safe to do.

TL;DR: Field Stripping Your 1911

Essential Tools and Safety First

Before you get started, make sure you have all the tools you’ll need. It’s easy to miss something or not have the right tool, so let’s make sure you have everything for a smooth disassembly.

Not sure which tools to grab? Check out the full tools guide for a breakdown of everything used.

Step-by-Step Field Strip

Now, let’s dive into the disassembly process. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a safe and efficient field strip.

Step 1: Check for Unloaded Firearm

First and foremost, safety is key. Make sure your firearm is unloaded:

  1. Lock the slide to the rear.

  2. Use a zip tie or similar tool to confirm that the chamber is empty.

Step 2: Guide Rod Identification

There are three main types of guide rods you’ll encounter in your 1911:

  1. Standard Guide Rod: Solid plug at the front.

  2. Full-Length Guide Rod: Hole in the front of the plug.

  3. Bushingless Guide Rod: Similar to the full-length, but with no bushing.

Step 3: Remove Recoil Spring, Plug, and Barrel Bushing

For the Standard Guide Rod:

  1. Push in on the recoil spring plug and rotate the barrel bushing to the 9 o’clock position.

  2. Release the spring pressure and pull off the plug.

  3. Rotate the barrel bushing to the 4 o’clock position and remove it from the slide.

Step 4: Remove Slide Stop and Slide

  1. Locate the half-circle notch on the left side of the slide.

  2. Cock the hammer and move the slide to the rear until the notch aligns with the slide stop hump.

  3. Rotate the gun, push the slide stop with your finger, and remove it.

Step 5: Remove Recoil Spring Assembly

  1. Pull the recoil spring rearward until it clears the slide.

  2. Twist and pull the guide rod out of the spring.

Step 6: Remove the Barrel

  1. Push the barrel link forward.

  2. Pull the barrel from the front of the slide until it clears.

Step 7: Reassemble the Slide

  1. Insert the barrel back through the front of the slide.

  2. Rotate the barrel bushing to the 4 o’clock position, then rotate it to the 9 o’clock position.

Step 8: Install the Slide Stop

  1. Align the barrel link hole with the slide stop hole in the frame.

  2. Push the slide stop into place and lock the slide to the rear.

Step 9: Reinstall the Recoil Spring Plug

  1. Insert the recoil spring plug over the spring.

  2. Push it into place until the barrel bushing clears.

For Full-Length Guide Rod and Bushingless Guide Rod systems:

The disassembly procedure is similar, but you won’t have to deal with the barrel bushing on the bushingless system.

Video Index

Here’s a breakdown of the video sections for easy navigation:

  • Intro: 0:00

  • 1911 History: 0:41

  • Checking for an Unloaded Firearm: 1:31

  • Guide Rod Identification: 2:09

  • Standard Guide Rod: Removing the Recoil Spring, Plug, and Barrel Bushing: 2:51

  • Standard Guide Rod: Removing the Slide Stop and Slide: 4:02

  • Standard Guide Rod: Assembling the Slide: 6:01

  • Standard Guide Rod: Installing the Slide Stop and Slide: 7:18

  • Full Length and Bushingless Guide Rod: Disassembly: 9:13

  • Full Length and Bushingless Guide Rod: Removing the Slide Stop and Slide: 10:05

  • Full Length and Bushingless Guide Rod: Assembling the Slide: 12:48

  • Full Length and Bushingless Guide Rod: Installing the Slide Stop and Slide: 14:09

Wrapping It Up

Field stripping your 1911 is a vital skill for maintaining and ensuring your firearm’s functionality. As you complete each step, you’ll get more comfortable with the process, and soon, it will feel like second nature. Remember, precision is key. Don’t rush, and always double-check your work.

FAQ: 1911 Field Strip

Q: What tools do I need to field strip my 1911?

A: You’ll need a flathead screwdriver, hammer, calibration weight, and 1/16” & 3/32” punches. These are essential for disassembling the 1911 safely and effectively.

Q: Can I field strip a 1911 with any guide rod system?

A: Yes! Whether it’s a standard, full-length, or bushingless guide rod system, the steps are nearly the same, with slight differences in the bushing and recoil spring assembly removal.

Q: Do I need a special tool for the recoil spring plug?

A: No, you can use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to release the spring pressure when removing the recoil spring plug.

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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.

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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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