Addressing issues with a Kimber Custom II 1911 handgun.

by Michael Priego

Subscribe to our free newsletter.
https://americangunsmith.info/newsletter/

I recently had a customer bring in a Kimber Custom II 1911 chambered in 45 Addressing issues with a Kimber Custom II 1911 handgun.to examine. This pistol was having issues with light strikes on the primer during the firing operation. During the chambering operation the slide moved forward but when the trigger was pulled, the hammer would strike the firing pin, forcing it to make contact with the round seated in chamber.

Most issues with light strikes can create bigger issues that can lead to the primer to being delayed and firing the round without a moment’s notice. Light strikes can be caused by a broken firing pin or spring, massive build up and/or hardened deposits that slow the firing pin momentum, or any other restricted movement of the firing pin.

To get a good look at the firing pin, clear the pistol and remove the slide from the frame. Remove the slide stop pin holding the slide to the frame. Move the slide to the rear and press the rounded end of the pin at the same time the slide is moving reward so that the slide stop pin will come out of its groove and be slightly lifted. Use a soft plastic pry bar to lift it up and release the slide and allow it to be removed.

Now that the slide is off, remove the…

Read more in the August 2022 issue.

Don’t miss a single issue. Subscribe now or renew your subscription.
https://americangunsmith.info/subscribe/

For non-subscribers wanting free access, submit one free article to use on our site and we’ll send you a complete digital copy of any issue of your choice (April 2006 to current).