1911 Live-Fire Function Test

by
posted on June 24, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
bboyd-image.jpg

By default, after any work to the hammer, sear or trigger it’s a good safety practice to load the first few magazines with no more than two rounds. The reasoning is simple. If your pistol is faulty, there’s a chance you might experience a “double” where two or more shots are fired per trigger pull) rather than a seven- or eight-round burst, most of which would likely go skyward.

Since this is the first time firing live ammo in your 1911, only load two rounds in the magazine.


Fire several magazines, each containing two rounds, just to make sure everything functioning correctly, your pistol should pass the following test:

8 rounds, slow-fire (with the magazine removed before each shot)

8 rounds, strong-hand

8 rounds, weak-hand

8 rounds, limp-wristed

8 rounds, rapid-fire

Function should be your primary concern the first time you shoot your 1911. A target isn't needed at this stage.


When your pistol passes this test, congratulations are in order. Now it’s time to test it for accuracy. (With a little luck, you’ll have some itty-bitty, Facebook-worthy groups.) Afterward, feel free to reload all magazines and proceed to cut loose. Wring it out, like it owes you money—until it’s too hot to handle or you run out of ammo—whichever comes first.

When you’re finished, case it up (don’t forget to police your brass) take it home, give it a good cleaning and feel free to punctuate your post-shooting session with your celebratory adult beverage of choice. You’ve earned it.

In the next entry, I'll discuss some last-minute fixes that needed to be made before sending the pistol out for its final finish.

Latest

Ruger LCP Max Thumb Safety
Ruger LCP Max Thumb Safety

First Look: Ruger LCP Max With Thumb Safety

Add a little more peace of mind to a popular pocket pistol.

I Carry: Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1 9mm Pistol in a Galco Holster

In this special Independence Day episode of "I Carry," we have the new Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1 pistol carried in a Galco Concealable 2.0 Belt Holster along with a Galco SB& Fancy Stitched Belt and Double Magazine Carrier.

First Look: Viktos Counteract 15 CCW Backpack

Built from the ground up for everyday carry.

Ruger Acquires Anderson Manufacturing

Ruger will integrate Anderson’s capabilities into its broader operations.

Review: Sunshine Safety Emergency Medical Gear

Because there's more than one way to be your own first responder.

First Look: CMMG Zeroed Suppressors

CMMG extends the Zeroed line of accessories into the world of suppressors.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.