Colt Series 80 extractor issues

[Rhyyke]

I have a second hand colt series 80 enhanced model. i took it to the range for the first time today, and had some pretty bad extraction issues with it. i was shooting reloads through both the colt and my springfield loaded, which had limited to no extraction issues.

basically, the colt fte's every casing before it even reaches the stovepipe position. it gets stuck in the ejection port in a almost horizontal position. other times it simply does not extract at all; the gun fires normally and the slide cycles but the casing doesnt leave the chamber. does anyone know if i can fix this problem by changing out the extractor, or is it something wrong w/ the reloads? i dont think its the reloads, since my springfield doesnt have any issues with the same rounds. thanks guys!

[Kruzr]

Unless the hook is broken off, I would adjust the extractor before I replaced it. If it doesn't hold tension, then you replace it.

Take the slide off the frame. Take the barrel out of the slide. Slip a loaded round up the breechface with the rim under the extractor hook. Slide the round up so the primer is over the firing pin hole. You can slip it up further than that but......don't. Shake the slide with the round in it. It should wobble but not fall out. From what you described, I suspect it will fall out.

Then, you need to remove the extractor, clean the channel, and bend the extractor to give it more tension.

Here is a thread to read about how to do that.

http://forums.1911forum.com/showthread.php?t=73565

Keep in mind that with a Series 80 gun, you pull the extractor out until it stops, remove the FP safety plunger and spring, and then pull the extractor the rest of the way out.

[bountyhunter]

I have a second hand colt series 80 enhanced model. i took it to the range for the first time today, and had some pretty bad extraction issues with it. i was shooting reloads through both the colt and my springfield loaded, which had limited to no extraction issues.

basically, the colt fte's every casing before it even reaches the stovepipe position. it gets stuck in the ejection port in a almost horizontal position. other times it simply does not extract at all; the gun fires normally and the slide cycles but the casing doesnt leave the chamber. does anyone know if i can fix this problem by changing out the extractor, or is it something wrong w/ the reloads? i dont think its the reloads, since my springfield doesnt have any issues with the same rounds. thanks guys!

Most 1911's need an extractor tension of about 20 - 24 ounces. When mine drop below about 12 ounces, they start to "slip the rim" and give FTE problems. You may also need to sharpen the hook tip as they do round off with age. Weigand sells the tools to accurately measure extractor tension.

[Rhyyke]

thanx for the info guys! i'm gonna give adjusting the tension a shot right now.