How important is the buffer pad for a 1911?

[Osprey]

I hear so much conflicting info re: the polyurethane buffer pad for a 1911. Some people say it's absolutely necessary to keep the frame/slide fit from becoming too loose, other people tell me that the effects are so miniscule that you really don't even need to bother using one. For the record, I do. However, the recoil pad on my TRP (my only 1911) is shot to heck. I ordered a new one, but I was planning on shooting this week. Should I just hold off until the new one arrives? Or am I being too cautious? Thanks in advance.

[gunrun45]

I've only used one on my para P14 that had an alum frame. I was worried about the notorious early para alum frame cracks. Never had a problem.

I've never used them on any of my other 1911 design and I've never had a problem.

[elsolo]

Most of the high volume IPSC shooters I know hat shoot 1911's do not use shok buffs, and they put more rounds through their guns in a year than most owners will in a lifetime.

[bwiese]

I think these are solutions looking for problems.

At best, they may compensate for a worn or inappropriate tension recoil spring.

At worst, they either mask problems that should be dealt with immediately or add another failure point.

If a gun is having issues in higher-round count service, something's wrong with the design (say, Colt 10mm Delta Elites).

45ACP, even w/somewhat hotter loads, is a relatively mild on guns compared to other calibers/loadings.

[Mute]

I've owned quite a few 1911s over the years and have put a large number of rounds downrange. Not a single one ever needed a shock buffer. If you insist on using one, get the ones from CP. They seem to be the most durable.

[CSDGuy]

I hear so much conflicting info re: the polyurethane buffer pad for a 1911. Some people say it's absolutely necessary to keep the frame/slide fit from becoming too loose, other people tell me that the effects are so miniscule that you really don't even need to bother using one. For the record, I do. However, the recoil pad on my TRP (my only 1911) is shot to heck. I ordered a new one, but I was planning on shooting this week. Should I just hold off until the new one arrives? Or am I being too cautious? Thanks in advance.

Did your TRP come with one or did you put it in? I would imagine that it would perform just fine without the shock buffer installed. You probably could use the TRP without the buffer unless the manufacturer requires it.

[Riskas]

I initially used on when I first got my kimber. I shot around 2000 rounds through my pistol and took it out because I didn't want to buy more and have kept it out ever since. I'm at 4300 rounds now, and no signs of wear on the frame. I also noticed that with my pistol the buffer prevented me from slingshoting the slide closed.

-Brian