Safety First: A Paramount Consideration
Before we delve into any mechanical steps, it’s crucial to address the most vital aspect of firearms ownership: safety. Disassembly is a process that demands unwavering attention and adherence to safety protocols. Failing to prioritize safety can lead to serious injury or worse. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded, even if you believe it is unloaded. This mindset will prevent mistakes and create safe habits.
The first and most critical step is verifying that your Kimber 1911 is unloaded. This requires more than a cursory glance. Begin by removing the magazine. Then, with the firearm pointed in a safe direction (never at anything you don’t intend to destroy), lock the slide back and visually and physically inspect the chamber. Look into the chamber and make sure there is no cartridge present. Run your finger inside the chamber. Feel for any objects inside. Ensure there are no rounds present in either the chamber or the magazine well. This double-check procedure is crucial. An empty chamber flag is a useful tool to further ensure chamber emptiness. Inserting this visual indicator assures everyone that the gun is currently empty.
Your work area also deserves careful consideration. Select a clean, well-lit space, free from distractions. A gun mat or cleaning pad is highly recommended; it protects the firearm from scratches and provides a stable surface for your work. Ensure you have enough space to organize all your parts and tools.
Next, protect yourself. Safety glasses are non-negotiable; they shield your eyes from any potential debris or accidental discharges. Consider wearing gloves; they can improve your grip, keep your hands clean, and prevent oils and solvents from damaging your skin.
Essential Tools: What You’ll Need
Successfully disassembling and reassembling your Kimber 1911 requires specific tools. Gathering these items beforehand will streamline the process and prevent frustration.
- Empty Chamber Flag or Safety Flag: This indispensable item acts as a visual indicator, signaling that the firearm is unloaded.
- Appropriate Punch: A punch, often a non-marring type, is used to remove the slide stop. Avoid using metal punches, as they can damage the firearm’s finish.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver (or Specialized Tool if Required): This is used to remove the grip screws. Some Kimber 1911 models have specialized grips, and you may need a specific screwdriver.
- Gun Cleaning Solvent/Degreaser: These will remove carbon buildup, grease, and other contaminants.
- Gun Oil/Lubricant: Applying oil to the right places is crucial to maintaining the smooth and efficient operation of your Kimber 1911. Use a high-quality gun oil, and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Cleaning Brush and Patches: These are fundamental for cleaning the barrel and other components.
- Optional Tools: Gun vise or holder, magnetic parts tray, and detailing brush. These additions can increase the ease and quality of cleaning and maintaining your Kimber 1911.
Field Stripping Your Kimber 1911: The Core Process
Field stripping is the most common level of disassembly, allowing for thorough cleaning and basic maintenance.
- Remove the Magazine: Depress the magazine release button. The magazine will drop free. Remove it and set it aside.
- Cycle the Slide and Recheck: Pull the slide back fully and lock it into place. Visually and physically inspect the chamber for any ammunition. Make absolutely sure your pistol is unloaded.
- Remove the Slide Stop: Locate the slide stop lever on the left side of the frame. From the right side, push the slide stop pin through the frame. You may need to apply some pressure to overcome spring tension. The slide stop, along with the pin, will now come out.
- Separate the Slide from the Frame: With the slide stop removed, the slide can now be removed from the frame. Holding the frame firmly, slide the slide forward off the frame.
- Remove the Recoil Spring and Guide Rod: Carefully compress the recoil spring and guide rod. They can then be removed. Be very aware of the spring’s tension; it can be under considerable force.
- Remove the Barrel Bushing: Rotate the barrel bushing. The amount you need to rotate will depend on the model of your Kimber 1911. Once rotated, slide the bushing off the front of the slide.
- Extract the Barrel: At this point, the barrel can be lifted out of the slide.
- Field Stripping Complete: At this stage, the field stripping is complete. The firearm is in its component parts. This is sufficient for thorough cleaning.
Deep Cleaning: Beyond the Surface
Once you’ve field-stripped your Kimber 1911, the next step is cleaning. Proper cleaning is essential to the reliability and longevity of your firearm.
- Cleaning the Slide: Use solvent and a brush to clean the interior and exterior surfaces of the slide. This includes the firing pin channel.
- Cleaning the Frame: Focus on cleaning the frame rails, the magazine well, and the feed ramp. Use a cleaning rod with patches to clean the feed ramp.
- Cleaning the Barrel: Use a cleaning rod, solvent, and a brush to clean the barrel. This will remove powder residue, fouling, and other contaminants.
- Lubrication: After cleaning, apply gun oil sparingly to the appropriate parts. Refer to your Kimber 1911 owner’s manual for specific lubrication points. Typically, oil is applied to the slide rails, the barrel bushing, and other areas where metal parts rub against each other.
Reassembly: Putting It Back Together
Reassembly is the reverse of the disassembly process. Proceed with care, paying close attention to each step.
- Reassemble the Barrel in the Slide: Place the barrel back into the slide.
- Reassemble the Barrel Bushing: Slide the barrel bushing back onto the slide, making sure it is seated correctly.
- Insert the Recoil Spring and Guide Rod: Carefully compress the recoil spring and insert it and the guide rod back into place.
- Reassemble the Slide on the Frame: Carefully slide the slide back onto the frame.
- Insert the Slide Stop: Align the slide stop lever and reinsert it from the right side of the frame. This is the most difficult step of the reassembly process, but patience and careful alignment will get the job done.
- Function Check: Once the Kimber 1911 is fully reassembled, perform a function check. Cycle the slide several times to ensure smooth operation.
Important Considerations: Addressing Specifics
- Kimber Model Specificity: While the general process is the same, some Kimber 1911 models may have slight variations. Always consult your Kimber 1911’s owner’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations. The owner’s manual contains information specific to your exact model, which can improve safety, maintenance, and reliability.
- Identifying Potential Problems: During disassembly, closely examine all parts for wear, damage, or signs of corrosion. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more significant problems down the line.
- Seeking Professional Assistance: If you encounter any difficulties, or are unsure about a particular step, don’t hesitate to seek help from a qualified gunsmith.
