Posted: 8/9/2008 4:46:38 PM EDT
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ok guys so while shooting my 1911 yesterday i noticed i had to shift my grip in order operate the slide release and the magazine catch. it feels like slimmer grips with a notch cut for the mag release would probably be sufficient. while properly gripping the gun the side tip of my thumb is able to touch the slide relase but i cannot positively operate. so what parts would i be better off swapping? |
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Sounds like you could benefit from some of the slim grip panels that are on the market. Keep in mind, you'll have to swap grip screw bushings as well, but they usually come with the grips. Whatever you do, do NOT get an extended slide release. They create more problems than they solve. The added weight gives it extra inertia under recoil that can cause slide locks with rounds still the chamber. You might want to attempt modifying your technique and try dropping the slide release with your left hand as it comes up from inserting the fresh magazine. |
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I ran into your problem a while back when I first started shooting 1911s. Now I manipulate the mag catch and slide release with my left hand. But, during one handed shooting drills I still had a hard time reaching the slide release with my right thumb so I changed it out with a Wilson Bullet Proof extended slide release for my Kimber. I have yet to run into the problem of the slide locking back with rounds still in the mag, maybe people were inadvertantly pushing up on the extended slide release with their thumb while shooting? YMMV I guess...good luck with it 
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I would suggest getting a slightly extended magazine release button. Something like this Wilson Combat tactical mag button would be good Link I always release the slide with my left hand though. |
Most people can't operate the slide release with their right thumb. Try hitting it with your support side (left) thumb after inserting the fresh mag while you're regripping the weapon with your support hand. In my experience, this the most efficient method of reloading a 1911 from slide lock. |
Please don't do this. I too have similar reach issues. Part of me wants to be ok with it - so nothing gets inadvertently activated, yet I also dislike having to shift my grip. I've been practicing with my left hand as well. |
Is not the recomended technique not to use the slide realease, but rather retract the slide and let it go? |
While it is actually a personal preference as to which style you use I prefer to use my support thumb to hit the slide release. It's fastest and simple. 
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I usually slam the magazine in with such force the gun loads itself. I need to do softer reloads. |
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Going to a mag change at speed, being right handed, I flip the gun gun slightly inward into my thumb instead of trying to do 'a reach around' with my thumb and then I realign it with my incoming left hand. It's fluid and indicernable. In a mag change you're going to have to regain your grip either way. |
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I had to put an extended Ed Brown mag release button on my game gun. I tried shifting my grip to get my thumb on the standard button, but realized I didn't want to be screwing with my grip on the clock. The extended mag release can also trap your magazine if you push it in too far, so I had to remove some metal on the left inside of the part. |
Bad idea IMO if this is a carry pistol. While handy for speed shooting in competition, they are a liability for a carry pistol. I have had mags drop on me during carry in standard 1911s before. Making the surface bigger or worse, higher, merely raises the likelihood of occurance. They don't do it for me aesthetically, but Wilson Combat offers a grip (possibly 3rd party like VZ) with a thumb bevel for easier manipulation. That's as far as I would advise if you are carrying. As for the slide release/slingshot debate, it's been hashed and solved: Both are acceptable and for manu including me, the slide release is preferable. I wouldn't slam the mags in like that either. Some one above put it well about you controlling the gun instead of the reverse. Not to mention, I can't imagine that being good for the life of the mags. |
I have had the same wilsons since the gun was new. still going strong, excpet for some weak magazine springs. Finally after 8 years they no longer hold the slide back. |
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