Safety First: Essential Pre-Disassembly Procedures
Always, always, always point the muzzle of the pistol in a safe direction. This means a direction where an accidental discharge would not cause injury or damage. This can be to a safe backstop or a direction in your range.
The next and arguably most important step is to verify that your Kimber 1911 is completely unloaded. This means more than just glancing at the magazine well. Remove the magazine, visually and physically inspect the chamber through the ejection port, and ensure no round is present. Rack the slide fully to ensure it locks open and the chamber is clear. Then, physically check again. Perform the visual and tactile check of the chamber before any disassembly.
Once you’ve confirmed the firearm is unloaded, and only then, you can proceed. It’s highly recommended that you move all ammunition away from your workspace before you proceed. This mitigates any risk of accidental discharge.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Gathering the right tools and equipment is crucial for a smooth and safe disassembly process. This will ensure a successful takedown and protect your pistol from unnecessary scratches or damage. The following is a list of what you will need:
- A Clean Work Surface: A cleaning mat or a clean, clear workspace. This protects the pistol from scratches and keeps small parts from getting lost.
- Your Kimber 1911 Pistol: Ensure you have the specific Kimber 1911 model you intend to disassemble.
- The Magazine: The magazine is usually needed to help the slide to come off the frame.
- Cleaning Rod or Brush: You’ll want a cleaning rod or brush to clean any hard to reach spots on your gun.
- Optional: Gun Oil and Solvent: These are essential for cleaning and lubricating the pistol.
- Optional: A Small Punch or Similar Tool: Useful for removing the firing pin stop and potentially for certain other disassembly tasks, depending on your Kimber model.
Disassembly: The Slide’s Journey
Let’s start with the slide, one of the most intricate parts of the 1911 Kimber.
Begin by confirming, once again, that the magazine is completely removed. This is critical.
Next, lock the slide back. Pull the slide rearward and engage the slide stop lever (slide catch). This should hold the slide in the open position.
Now, you’ll need to remove the slide stop. Locate the slide stop lever on the left side of the frame. Push the slide stop lever from the right side of the frame to the left. It may require some gentle pressure. The slide stop should now be loose from its position.
With the slide stop removed, carefully ease the slide forward off the frame. The slide should move forward smoothly, separating from the frame.
The next step is to remove the recoil spring and guide rod. Usually, this involves compressing the recoil spring slightly and then removing the guide rod. Be careful when compressing the spring; it’s under tension. Some Kimber models may have a captive recoil spring assembly, where the guide rod and spring are permanently joined, but the basic process is the same: release the spring’s tension and remove the assembly.
Now you are ready to deal with the barrel bushing. The barrel bushing is the part that surrounds the barrel and fits inside the front of the slide. With the slide off the frame, locate the barrel bushing. Some models have a full-length guide rod. This can make removal more difficult and may require more steps than the basic model. Most 1911 Kimbers, however, have a conventional barrel bushing. Grasp the barrel bushing and rotate it. There should be a notch or recess in the bushing that allows it to be turned. As you rotate, you’ll be able to take it off.
With the bushing loose, you can remove it.
The final step in disassembling the slide is to remove the barrel. With the bushing out of the way, lift the barrel from the slide. That concludes the slide disassembly process.
Disassembly: Exploring the Frame (Optional but recommended)
While not strictly necessary for basic cleaning, disassembling the frame allows for more thorough cleaning. However, this is an advanced step.
Start by removing the mainspring housing. This is usually located at the bottom of the grip. There is usually a pin that goes through the mainspring housing. Carefully depress the mainspring housing pin. Once the pin is released you can remove the mainspring housing. Gently slide it downward and off the frame.
Removing the grip safety is optional, and its complexity varies by model. Refer to your Kimber manual for specific instructions. This can be more complex, requiring the removal of the mainspring housing and potentially other internal components.
To disassemble further, you may want to work on the firing pin and extractor.
Now you can work on the firing pin and extractor. This usually involves the following steps:
Locate the firing pin stop on the back of the slide. Push down on the firing pin and remove the firing pin stop. Be careful, as the firing pin and spring are under tension.
With the firing pin stop removed, the firing pin and firing pin spring can be removed. Be careful during this step as the firing pin spring is under tension.
Finally, remove the extractor. This part is responsible for pulling the spent casing out of the chamber. It often requires some careful manipulation to remove.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Preserving Performance
Now that your Kimber 1911 is disassembled, it’s time to clean and maintain the components.
Start by cleaning each component. Use a quality gun cleaning solvent and a brush to remove carbon buildup and residue. Pay close attention to areas like the slide rails, the barrel, and the chamber.
Wipe all parts thoroughly with a clean cloth. Remove any remaining solvent and ensure everything is dry before reassembly.
Once the parts are clean, apply a light coat of gun oil or lubricant to the pistol. Be sure to apply oil to the slide rails, barrel, and any other contact points where friction occurs. This lubrication is crucial for smooth operation and to protect against corrosion.
Do not over-lubricate. A thin film of oil is sufficient.
Reassembly: Putting It Back Together
To reassemble your Kimber 1911, follow the steps in reverse order.
If you disassembled the frame, begin by reassembling the frame components. Install the extractor, the firing pin and the firing pin spring, and the firing pin stop. Then, reassemble your grip safety. Replace the mainspring housing.
To reassemble the slide, start by inserting the barrel into the slide.
If your model has a barrel bushing, install the bushing. Rotate it into the locked position.
Now, insert the recoil spring and guide rod. Ensure that it’s properly seated.
Place the slide on the frame, aligning it with the frame rails. Guide the slide back onto the frame.
Insert the slide stop. Make sure the slide stop is correctly installed. It should sit flush and allow the slide to function smoothly.
Function Check: Ensuring Smooth Operation
After reassembly, perform a function check.
Manually cycle the slide several times, ensuring it moves smoothly and locks back properly. Check that the trigger functions correctly.
Also, test the safety mechanisms to confirm that they are working as designed.
Troubleshooting: Addressing Common Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly. Here are some common issues you might encounter during disassembly and reassembly and what to do:
If the slide stop won’t engage, make sure the slide is correctly seated on the frame and that the slide stop is properly installed.
If you find the recoil spring is binding, check the alignment of the guide rod and the spring. Make sure the spring isn’t damaged.
If the pistol is not functioning correctly, double-check that all the parts are correctly installed, and review the instructions. It is easy to miss a step. Consult your Kimber manual if necessary.
If you’re unsure about any step, stop and refer to the manual or seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith.
Your Kimber 1911 is a precision instrument, and proper care is essential. Remember the value of regular inspection and maintenance to keep it running in the best shape possible.
Conclusion
Disassembling and reassembling a Kimber 1911 might seem like a complex task. By carefully following the steps outlined in this guide, you can master this process. Remember to always prioritize safety. Always verify the firearm is unloaded. Take your time, pay attention to detail, and never force any part. With practice, you will be able to easily disassemble, clean, and reassemble your Kimber 1911.
Visual Aids
Consider finding high-quality photos of each step. Search online for diagrams and video resources to assist you in understanding the process.
Remember, your Kimber 1911 is a firearm and should be treated with respect and caution. By understanding how to disassemble it, you can ensure it remains a reliable and safe tool for years to come.
