How to Disassemble a Kimber 1911: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Kimber 1911 is a legendary handgun, known for its reliability, accuracy, and durability. As with any firearm, disassembling it regularly is essential for maintenance and upkeep. In this article, we will guide you through the process of disassembling a Kimber 1911, highlighting the most important steps and considerations.
Before You Start
Before you begin, make sure you have a clean and well-lit workspace. It’s also a good idea to wear eye protection and gloves to prevent accidental injuries.
Step 1: Remove the Magazine
The first step in disassembling your Kimber 1911 is to remove the magazine. This is a simple process that requires you to push the magazine release button located on the left side of the frame. The magazine should drop out of the gun, and you can set it aside.
Step 2: Field Strip the Gun
Once the magazine is removed, you can begin the field strip process. This involves removing the slide from the frame. To do this:
- Pull the slide back until it reaches the rear of the frame.
- Release the slide stop by pressing the button located on the right side of the slide.
- Allow the slide to fall forward until it comes to rest on the frame.
The slide is now removed from the frame, and you can set it aside.
Step 3: Remove the Barrel Linkage
The next step is to remove the barrel linkage, which connects the slide to the barrel. To do this:
- Pull the slide back until it reaches the rear of the frame.
- Pull the barrel linkage down and out of its slot.
- Release the linkage by pressing the button located on the underside of the slide.
The barrel linkage is now removed, and you can set it aside.
Step 4: Remove the Barrel
With the barrel linkage removed, you can now remove the barrel from the frame. To do this:
- Pull the barrel straight out of the frame.
- Release the barrel by pressing the button located on the underside of the frame.
The barrel is now removed, and you can set it aside.
Step 5: Remove the Recoil Spring
The next step is to remove the recoil spring, which is located in the slide. To do this:
- Pull the slide back until it reaches the rear of the frame.
- Pull the recoil spring out of its slot.
- Release the spring by pressing the button located on the underside of the slide.
The recoil spring is now removed, and you can set it aside.
Step 6: Remove the Slide
The final step is to remove the slide from the frame. To do this:
- Pull the slide back until it reaches the rear of the frame.
- Release the slide by pressing the button located on the right side of the slide.
- Allow the slide to fall forward until it comes to rest on the frame.
The slide is now removed, and you can set it aside.
Reassembling the Gun
Reassembling the Kimber 1911 is a reversal of the disassembly process. Make sure to:
- Replace the recoil spring in its slot.
- Replace the barrel in its slot.
- Replace the barrel linkage in its slot.
- Replace the slide on the frame.
- Pull the slide back until it reaches the rear of the frame.
- Release the slide stop by pressing the button located on the right side of the slide.
- Allow the slide to fall forward until it comes to rest on the frame.
Tips and Considerations
- Use a soft cloth to wipe down the gun during disassembly to prevent damage to the finish.
- Use a gun brush to clean the gun’s internal components.
- Use a cleaning solvent to clean the gun’s internal components.
- Use a gun lube to lubricate the gun’s internal components.
- Make sure to follow proper safety protocols when handling the gun, including wearing eye protection and gloves.
Table: Kimber 1911 Disassembly Steps
Step | Description |
---|---|
1 | Remove the magazine |
2 | Field strip the gun |
3 | Remove the barrel linkage |
4 | Remove the barrel |
5 | Remove the recoil spring |
6 | Remove the slide |
7 | Reassemble the gun |
Conclusion
Disassembling a Kimber 1911 is a relatively simple process that requires attention to detail and a willingness to learn. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your gun is properly maintained and remains in good working order. Remember to always follow proper safety protocols when handling the gun, and consider consulting a professional if you are unsure about any part of the process.