How to Take a Kimber 1911 Apart: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Kimber 1911 is a iconic semi-automatic pistol renowned for its reliability, accuracy, and durability. For many gun enthusiasts, regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to ensure the pistol functions flawlessly. In this article, we will guide you through the process of disassembling a Kimber 1911, highlighting key steps and important considerations to keep in mind.
Before You Begin
Before taking your Kimber 1911 apart, make sure you have the following essential tools:
- A screwdriver (flathead or hex key)
- A punch or drift (for the recoil spring plug)
- A cleaning rod and patch kit
- A magazine
- A soft, dry cloth
Removing the Magazine
The first step in disassembling your Kimber 1911 is to remove the magazine. To do this:
- Pull the slide back until it locks into position.
- Release the slide and allow it to spring forward.
- With your thumb, press the magazine release button located at the base of the magazine well.
- Gently pull the magazine out of the pistol.
Disassembling the Upper Assembly
To disassemble the upper assembly, you will need to remove the following components:
- Slide
- Barrel
- Recoil spring
- Recoil spring guide
Removing the Slide
To remove the slide, follow these steps:
- Pull the slide back until it locks into position.
- Locate the slide stop pin on the right side of the frame.
- Use your screwdriver to remove the slide stop pin.
- Gently lift the slide off the frame, taking care not to scratch the finish.
Removing the Barrel
To remove the barrel, follow these steps:
- Hold the slide in your non-dominant hand, with the ejection port facing upwards.
- Locate the barrel lug, which is the portion of the barrel that fits into the frame.
- Use your screwdriver to remove the barrel lug set screw.
- Carefully lift the barrel out of the frame, taking care not to scratch the finish.
Removing the Recoil Spring
To remove the recoil spring, follow these steps:
- Locate the recoil spring plug on the right side of the frame.
- Use your punch or drift to remove the plug.
- Gently lift the recoil spring out of the frame, taking care not to scratch the finish.
Removing the Recoil Spring Guide
To remove the recoil spring guide, follow these steps:
- Locate the recoil spring guide on the right side of the frame.
- Use your screwdriver to remove the guide pin.
- Gently lift the guide out of the frame, taking care not to scratch the finish.
Disassembling the Lower Assembly
To disassemble the lower assembly, you will need to remove the following components:
- Frame
- Trigger group
- Safety
Removing the Frame
To remove the frame, follow these steps:
- Hold the slide in your non-dominant hand, with the ejection port facing upwards.
- Use your screwdriver to remove the frame screws.
- Gently lift the frame off the slide, taking care not to scratch the finish.
Removing the Trigger Group
To remove the trigger group, follow these steps:
- Locate the trigger group screws on the right side of the frame.
- Use your screwdriver to remove the screws.
- Gently lift the trigger group out of the frame, taking care not to scratch the finish.
Removing the Safety
To remove the safety, follow these steps:
- Locate the safety screw on the right side of the frame.
- Use your screwdriver to remove the screw.
- Gently lift the safety out of the frame, taking care not to scratch the finish.
Reassembly
Reassembly of your Kimber 1911 is the reverse of disassembly. Make sure to follow these steps carefully:
- Reattach the safety
- Reattach the trigger group
- Reattach the frame
- Reattach the recoil spring guide
- Reattach the recoil spring
- Reattach the barrel
- Reattach the slide
Tips and Considerations
- Always handle your Kimber 1911 with clean, dry hands to prevent dirt and oils from affecting the pistol’s function.
- Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the pistol after cleaning or disassembling.
- Make sure to store your Kimber 1911 in a dry, secure location to prevent damage or unauthorized access.
- Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to ensure the pistol functions flawlessly.
Conclusion
Disassembling your Kimber 1911 is a relatively straightforward process that requires attention to detail and care. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your pistol is properly maintained and function flawlessly. Remember to always handle your Kimber 1911 with care, and to store it in a secure location to prevent damage or unauthorized access.