August 12th, 2024
10:57 runtime
Iremember the very time I shot a 1911 pistol.
Based on what Ive learned, I hope to share some tips on how to shoot a 1911 pistol.
Clearly, the 1911 is a gun that can shoot well.
While the 1911 semi-automatic pistol may seem intimidating to a new shooter, it is a great platform to learn about. In this article, Dan Abraham offers tips on how to shoot a 1911 handgun.
I will admit, I wasnt totally ready for how light the trigger was.
It was easy to shoot well, but I was more accustomed to heavier triggers.
I missed a swinging 10 round steel target on a shepherds hook 10 yards every other shot.
Springfield Armory 1911 pistolsare available in 9x19mm Parabellum, 10mm Auto and .45 ACP. While the cartridges are different, the fundamentals on shooting a 1911 pistol are the same.
What was going on here?
So, how did I come around to understanding the benefits of the 1911?
Trigger: Pivot vs.
The trigger on a 1911 pistol is unlike other handguns. In fact, it is one of the primary features cited by fans of the platform. Learning to shoot a 1911 trigger is relatively easy to accomplish.
Sliding
TheSpringfield Echelon has the best triggerI have ever experienced with a polymer frame, striker-fired handgun.
Its smooth, has short travel and breaks at the perfect time.
This system features a pivoting trigger.
Many modern handguns do not have a thumb safety. Some shooters new to the 1911 platform are unsure on the best way to use it. The author helps you figure this out.
A 1911 trigger is, in my opinion, the greatest single-action trigger ever invented.
The trigger travel is short, the weight is light, and the smoothness is unmatched.
A 1911 trigger slides back and forth.
Can you drop the slide on an empty chamber? Will it harm the 1911 pistol in any way?
As a result, the trigger travel and trigger reset is much shorter than a pivoting trigger.
The trigger weight is also typically much lighter than a pivoting trigger.
Why does this matter?
Disassembling a 1911 pistol is straightforward, but it might be confusing to someone that is unfamiliar with the platform.
Also, the thumb safety should be engaged when the pistol is loaded and holstered.
As with most things involving carrying a pistol, muscle memory is extremely important.
When firing a 1911, I find it best for shooters to keep their dominant thumb atop the safety.
I have had this happen several times.
I had to learn to place my thumb over the safety to prevent an unintentional thumb safety engagement.
Its not a big deal.
With the 1911, the etiquette is to not do this.
Dropping a locked slide, using the slide stop, on an empty chamber goes against 1911 etiquette.
Will it damage the pistol?
Probably not, but it is viewed as a rookie move.
More importantly, it may create additional stress on the engagement of the sear.
Disassembly
Disassembling a 1911 is not a hard process, but it requires some practice and experience.
The disassembly or reassembly of a 1911 should never be rushed.
This all goes back to love, care and respect for the 1911s.
I timed the disassembly of both unloaded pistols to demonstrate the differences.
The Hellcat Pro took me 11 seconds to fieldstrip the pistol.
The 1911 Operator took approximately 31.5 seconds to disassemble.
Why did I do this?
[Be sure to read our in depth guide onHow to Disassemble a 1911.]
Obviously, there are more steps needed to disassemble a 1911.
Conclusion
Its my opinion that 1911 pistols are the greatest pistols ever created.
Springfield Armory 1911s are built with incredible craftsmanship using the finest materials.
You wont be disappointed.
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