How to do a 1911 Pistol functions test

Performing a 1911 functions test involves initiating the pistol’s firing mechanism and this should be done in safe conditions and making sure that no necessary hazard is around. Do not ever attempt to conduct a functions test until you have made sure that the gun in unloaded and always point it to a safe direction, away from harmful objects and people.

You would have to completely remove the magazine and then lock the slide back that engages the slide stop. After this, look inside the chamber to certain that there is no live ammunition present. Use your little finger to feel inside the chamber if you have to. Although you have done a thorough check and you know that you are holding an unloaded firearm, nevertheless, point it to a safe direction when performing the next step.

Step 2: Basic Test

Holding the pistol normally in your firing hand and with the slide forward, cock the hammer with the thumb safety off and pull the trigger. The hammer should fall off effortlessly.

Step 3: Functions Test

While still holding the gun in your firing hand, leave the trigger pressed and then pull the slide back and release it. The hammer should now be fully cocked. Release the trigger now and then pull it again. After doing so, the hammer should fall out.

Step 4: Half Cock Test

Using your thumb pull the hammer back until you can hear the first audible click. At this point, the hammer should be at the half cock notch. Now grip the gun as you normally would and attempt to pull the trigger. The hammer at this point should not fall at all for any reason.

Step 5: Sear Engagement Test

Now you would have to lock the slide back and gripping the gun normally, release the slide stop allowing the slide to slam home with force. Again, the hammer should not fall for any reason. If this ever does, then it indicates that the sear engagement is too weak. You can repeat this test again if you want to be sure.

Step 6: Thumb Safety Check

Holding the gun again with your firing hand, you have to slide forward with the hammer cocked and the thumb safety ON. Now pull the trigger. Just like the previous tests, the hammer again should not fall and you shouldn’t feel any perceptible movement of the internal parts of the gun. Now release the trigger and disengage the thumb safety. At this point, the hammer again should not fall and if it does, then the thumb safety or the sear is faulty.

These are some of the standard functions test that you can carry out on your 1911 pistol to check for any faulty parts.

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