Thinking about working on your 1911 and not sure what tools you’ll need?
This guide breaks down the tools I used (or close replacements) during my complete Series 70 1911 disassembly and reassembly process. You’ll find links to the exact or comparable tools I trust—plus links to the video that shows each step in action.
No guesswork. No fluff. Just tools that work.
TL;DR: What Tools Do You Need to Work on a 1911 Series 70?
- This guide covers every tool used in my 1911 Series 70 disassembly and reassembly videos
- Some tools are the exact ones I used, others are comparable replacements I trust
- Each section links directly to the matching video so you can follow along without guessing
- A few links are affiliate links—they help support the channel at no cost to you
- Starter kit recommendations:
- 1/16” & 3/32” punches
- A bench vise with soft jaws
- Brownells Magna-Tip handle with 150-4 bit – or a solid set from Wheeler or Real Avidif you’re just getting started
- Tweezers & extractor tool (Brownells)
🛠 Watch the full video series here: 1911 Series 70 Breakdown & Rebuild
Tool Source Disclosure
Some tools in this list are affiliate links, which help support the channel at no cost to you.
All Brownells tools listed are the exact ones I used.
Everything else is a comparable alternative because the originals are discontinued or came from old kits.
Field Strip
- Tactical Paperclip – Simple, cheap, and it works.
Slide Disassembly & Reassembly
- Brownells 1911 Extractor Removal Tool – Removes the Firing Pin Retainer and Extractor Why I Use It: Easy to use, safe for parts, and makes the job way faster than trying to improvise.
Frame Disassembly
Grip Removal
- 3/32″ Allen Wrench – Removes grip screws Modern replacement for the one used in the video.
Removing Safety, Slide Stop Plungers & Spring
- 1/16″ Punch – Pushes out the plungers and spring
Mainspring Housing Removal
- 3/32″ Punch – Removes the Mainspring Housing Pin
- 20g Calibration Weight – Compresses the mainspring Mine came from a reloading scale set. Don’t use it for calibrating afterward.
- 1/16″ Punch – For removing the Mainspring Cap Pin
Hammer, Sear & Disconnector
- 1/16″ Punch – Removes the Hammer and Sear Pins
Magazine Catch & Trigger
- Brownells Magna-Tip Handle with 150-4 Bit – Turns the Magazine Catch Lock Why I Use It: Magnetic tip holds tight, doesn’t strip the catch, and works like it should. You can also go with a Real Avid or Wheeler set if you’re just starting out.
Frame Reassembly
Magazine Catch Install
- Brownells Magna-Tip Handle with 150-4 Bit – Again, best tool for the job
Sear & Disconnector Install
- Tweezers – To set the Sear onto the Disconnector and place into the frame My original set isn’t sold anymore—this is a solid replacement.
- 1/16″ Punch – Holds parts in place for fit and function checks
Mainspring Housing Assembly
- 4½″ Bench Vise – Compresses spring and cap
- Vise Jaws – Prevents marring your housing finish
- 20g Calibration Weight – Used again to push cap down for pin install
Installing Housing & Grip Safety
- Brownells Universal Pistol Armorer’s Block – Solid support block, or use a 2×4 with drilled holes
- 3/32″ Punch – For installing the Mainspring Housing Pin
- 8 oz Ball Peen Hammer – Taps everything in place Mine came from a set years ago—this is a comparable modern option.
Thumb Safety Install
- Precision Screwdriver Set – Used to compress the Safety Plunger
Grip Panel Install
- 3/32″ Allen Wrench – Same wrench from earlier—reused for final assembly
FAQ: 1911 Series 70 Tool Guide
Q: Are these the exact tools you used in the videos?
A: Only the Brownells tools. The rest are close replacements since my originals aren’t sold anymore.
Q: Will these work on other 1911 models?
A: Yes. Most of these tools work on Series 80 and other standard 1911 platforms. Always double-check fit if you’re working on a clone or custom model.
Q: Do I need everything listed?
A: Nope. You can get by with just a few core tools if you’re not doing a full detail strip. I’ve noted the minimums above.
Q: Where should I buy my tools?
A: Brownells is my go-to—they back their tools. Amazon links are there for stuff Brownells doesn’t stock or when you want quick shipping.
Q: Are the links affiliate links?
A: Some are. They don’t cost you anything extra, but they help support this content.
Q: Can I use Harbor Freight tools instead?
A: Some tools, yes. But don’t skimp on punches or screwdriver tips—they’re small, easy to break, and bad ones will damage your gun.
Ready to follow along step-by-step?
Watch the full video series here: 1911 Series 70 Breakdown & Rebuild