free 1911

[Grumpyoldretiredcop]

The collet bushing isn't likely to fail unless the weapon is field-stripped incorrectly. To properly field-strip a Series 70, all one needs to do is retract the slide slightly - enough to move the bushing's "fingers" back to the smaller diameter portion of the barrel. Removing the bushing by pulling it over the muzzle may also hasten it's demise by overflexing the bushing's "fingers". Leave it on the barrel. Same for reassembly - slightly retract the slide when reinstalling the recoil spring and plug, and turning the bushing. It'll be a lot easier, too.

I've fired thousands of rounds through my Series 70 without a failure using this procedure. I wouldn't change the firing pin, either. Leave it original, shoot it, and remember your grandfather when you do.

[74elko]

its already been cleaned and lubed by me. what makes the gun even more special is that it first belonged to my now deceased uncle and hasn't been shot by anyone since he last shot it.

[hypnoman]

its already been cleaned and lubed by me. what makes the gun even more special is that it first belonged to my now deceased uncle and hasn't been shot by anyone since he last shot it.

Definitely a very special gift from someone special . . . I think that is a very wonderful aspect of this sport/hobby/past time/ lifestyle . . . we get to pass something we love to someone we love . . .

May you have many decades of enjoyment . . .

[WaR_ClouD-VII]

Nice gun man, congrats!

[spencerhut]

The only thing I'd change is that barrel bushing (and I wouldn't get rid of the original). After that, lube it with oil and go take it shooting. Don't replace the firing pin - there is no realistic point to doing so.

+1 Nothing wrong with the firing pin. I ditch the Titanium FP in my Springfields

[Citadelonline]

As Grumpyoldretiredcop said, the barrel bushing isn't likely to fail, so don't replace a perfectly good collet bushing with a solid one. Chances are individuals suggesting this have never had or even seen one break.
There is an internet fueled concept that collet bushings are prone to breakage. They do break, just like any other part eventually breaks, but you'll probably shoot out the barrel first. My series 70 Gold Cup has seen over 10,000 rounds, the collet bushing is fine and in 35 years I've never seen one break. Probably good for another 10k +. They're part of what makes the Colt an accurate pistol.

As for the "drop it and it will go bang" concept, there is some truth to that - however slight it may be - if you drop it just right...
If this is a concern just replace the factory firing pin with any modern made steel pin, the current production pins are slightly shorter than the USGI/factory pins and reduce the hazard, however small, of an accidental discharge by dropping. Replace the firing pin spring whether or not the firing pin is replaced.

Check the mag for rub marks by the trigger bow, sometimes the bow can push slightly inward interfering with the mag. But in my experience its always been the mag, it doesn't take much to hang it. Try a second magazine and see if it drops freely.

[GM4spd]

Circa--- 1975. Pete

[littlejake]

I ditch the Titanium FP in my Springfields

Which FP is need for a SA loaded model -- will the USGI type work; or does it require the FP with a groove for the trigger linked FP block?

[spencerhut]

My Springfield's are Series 70, no plunger in the slide. This is the firing pin I have used on the two I have.

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=321415