The Rock Island Armory 1911 is a popular and highly sought after pistol for gun enthusiasts, collectors, and professionals alike. It is a reliable and durable firearm with a long history of use in military and civilian applications. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 10 ways to tune your Rock Island 1911 to make it an even more impressive and accurate shooting machine.Introduction to Rock Island Armory 1911
Rock Island Armory 1911
The trigger is one of the most important components of any firearm, and this holds true for the Rock Island Armory 1911 as well. By upgrading to a lightweight and adjustable trigger, you can improve the overall feel and performance of your 1911. A lighter trigger pull and the ability to adjust the pull weight can lead to more accurate and consistent shots.1. Upgrading the Trigger
Rock Island Armory 1911
A match-grade barrel is a must-have for serious shooters who want the best possible accuracy from their 1911. These barrels are made to tighter tolerances and can significantly improve the precision of your shots. Look for a barrel that is made from stainless steel or titanium for maximum durability and longevity.2. Installing a Match-Grade Barrel
Rock Island Armory 1911
The standard grips on the Rock Island Armory 1911 may not be the most comfortable or grippy, especially for those with larger hands. By upgrading to custom grips, you can find a more ergonomic and textured grip that will give you better control and reduce recoil. Grips made from g10 or aluminum are popular choices for their durability and aggressive texture.3. Custom Grips for Better Control
Rock Island Armory 1911
The beavertail grip safety is a popular modification for the 1911, as it allows for a more comfortable and secure grip on the pistol. It also helps to prevent the hammer from pinching your hand during recoil. Look for a beavertail grip safety that is extended and contoured for maximum comfort and control.4. Adding a Beavertail Grip Safety
Rock Island Armory 1911
The standard sights on the Rock Island Armory 1911 may be functional, but they may not be the most accurate or easy to use. By upgrading to night sights or fiber optic sights, you can improve your target acquisition and accuracy in low light or bright conditions. Make sure to choose sights that are compatible with your specific model of 1911.5. Upgrading to Better Sights
Rock Island Armory 1911
The extractor is a small but crucial part of the 1911, responsible for extracting spent casings from the chamber. By properly tuning the extractor, you can improve the reliability and ejection pattern of your 1911. Look for an oversized or titanium extractor for maximum performance.6. Tuning the Extractor
Rock Island Armory 1911
A rough or unfinished feed ramp can cause feeding issues and jams in your 1911. By polishing the feed ramp, you can improve the reliability and smoothness of the feeding process. This can easily be done with a dremel tool or by taking it to a professional gunsmith.7. Polishing the Feed Ramp
Rock Island Armory 1911
The Rock Island Armory 1911 is a powerful handgun, and the recoil can be felt after extended shooting sessions. By adding a recoil buffer, you can reduce the felt recoil and improve the longevity of your pistol. Look for a polymer or rubber buffer for the best results.8. Adding a Recoil Buffer
Rock Island Armory 1911
For those who want a unique and personalized touch to their 1911, custom finishes are a great option. You can choose from a variety of cerakote or hydro-dipping patterns to give your 1911 a one-of-a-kind look. Not only does this add a personal touch, but it also adds a layer of protection to your firearm.9. Custom Finishes for a Unique Look
Rock Island Armory 1911
Enhance Your Shooting Experience with a Customized Rock Island 1911
Transform Your Kitchen Table into a Gun Smith's Workshop
The Rock Island 1911 is a popular choice among gun enthusiasts for its reliability and affordability. However, like any firearm, it can benefit from some fine-tuning to truly reach its full potential. With the right tools and knowledge, you can easily turn your kitchen table into a gun smith's workshop and customize your Rock Island 1911 to your exact specifications.
Kitchen Table Gun Smithing: A Cost-Effective Solution
Many gun owners are hesitant to take their firearms to a professional gunsmith due to the high costs involved. However, with a little research and practice, you can become your own gunsmith and save yourself a significant amount of money. All you need is a few basic tools and a passion for tinkering with firearms.
Get to Know Your Rock Island 1911
Before you start making any modifications to your firearm, it's crucial to understand how it works and what its limitations are. The Rock Island 1911 is a single-action, semi-automatic pistol that operates on the short recoil principle. This means that when the gun is fired, the barrel and slide move back together for a short distance before separating. This movement unlocks the barrel from the slide, allowing the spent casing to be ejected and a new round to be chambered.
Identify Your Goals and Needs
The first step in customizing your Rock Island 1911 is to determine your goals and needs. Are you looking to improve accuracy, reduce recoil, or enhance the overall look of your firearm? This will help you narrow down the modifications you need to make and ensure you don't waste time and money on unnecessary changes.
The Right Tools for the Job
To transform your kitchen table into a gunsmith's workshop, you'll need a few essential tools such as a gun vise, punch set, and torque wrench. These tools will help you disassemble and reassemble your firearm safely and accurately. Additionally, you may need specialized tools for specific modifications, such as a sight pusher or barrel bushing wrench.
Start Customizing Your Rock Island 1911
With your goals, needs, and tools in mind, you can now start making modifications to your Rock Island 1911. Some popular upgrades include replacing the trigger and hammer, installing new sights, and upgrading the grip and thumb safety. However, it's essential to research and follow proper guidelines to ensure your modifications are safe and legal.
Conclusion
Transforming your kitchen table into a gunsmith's workshop may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a rewarding and cost-effective experience. By customizing your Rock Island 1911, you can enhance your shooting experience and truly make the firearm your own. So gather your tools and start tinkering - your customized Rock Island 1911 awaits!
