Step-by-Step Guide from the Colt Owner’s Manual on How to Clean the 1911 Pistol

The Colt 1911 is an iconic handgun known for its reliability, performance, and historical significance. To ensure that your 1911 functions smoothly and maintains its legendary performance, regular cleaning is essential. This guide follows the instructions from the Colt Owner’s Manual, walking you through the steps to properly clean and maintain your 1911.

What You’ll Need (click "Gun Cleaning Gear" in navigation menu for Amazon links):

• Firearm cleaning solvent

• Gun oil or lubricant

• Bore brush and cleaning rod

• Cleaning patches

• Nylon or brass brush

• Microfiber cloth

• Cotton swabs or Q-tips

• Plastic or wooden cleaning picks (optional)

• Basic disassembly tool (bushing wrench)

Step 1: Ensure Safety

Before starting, ensure your 1911 is completely unloaded:

1. Remove the magazine.

2. Pull the slide back and lock it in place using the slide stop.

3. Visually inspect the chamber to confirm it’s empty.

4. Release the slide forward once the gun is confirmed safe.

Step 2: Disassemble the 1911

1. Remove the Slide:

• Ensure the slide is locked back.

• Turn the barrel bushing counterclockwise using a bushing wrench (optional but recommended).

• Remove the recoil spring plug carefully as it's under tension.

• Release the slide stop by aligning the slide stop notch with the raised portion of the stop. Push it out from the other side.

• Carefully slide the slide off the frame forward.

2. Remove the Barrel:

• Once the slide is removed, take out the recoil spring and guide rod.

• Turn the barrel bushing fully and remove it.

• Remove the barrel by sliding it forward out of the slide.

Step 3: Clean the Barrel

1. Apply solvent to the bore brush and insert it from the chamber end, pushing it through to the muzzle.

2. Run the brush through the bore several times to loosen carbon, fouling, and debris.

3. Use a cleaning patch attached to a cleaning rod and push it through the barrel until the patches come out clean.

4. Focus on cleaning the feed ramp and chamber area with a patch or cotton swab to remove buildup.

Step 4: Clean the Slide

1. Apply solvent to the inside of the slide, especially the breech face, slide rails, and extractor.

2. Use a nylon brush to scrub these areas, removing fouling and debris.

3. Wipe down the slide with a clean microfiber cloth to remove the solvent and residue.

4. Inspect the extractor and firing pin channel to ensure they are free from dirt and buildup.

Step 5: Clean the Frame

1. Apply solvent to the frame rails, trigger mechanism, and any area where dirt or fouling has accumulated.

2. Use a brush to scrub the rails and small crevices, making sure to get into the tight spaces.

3. Cotton swabs or a plastic pick can be useful to reach tight spots.

4. Wipe the frame with a clean cloth, ensuring all debris and solvent are removed.

Step 6: Clean the Recoil Spring and Guide Rod

1. Wipe down the recoil spring and guide rod with a solvent-soaked cloth or patch to remove any carbon or fouling.

2. Inspect the assembly to ensure it's free from buildup and dirt.

Step 7: Lubricate the 1911

Proper lubrication is critical to the smooth operation of your 1911:

1. Apply a small amount of oil to the barrel, especially around the locking lugs and the exterior.

2. Lubricate the slide rails lightly, ensuring smooth movement.

3. Apply oil to the recoil spring and guide rod to prevent wear.

4. Add a drop of oil to the trigger mechanism and other moving parts inside the frame.

5. Be sure to apply oil sparingly—excess oil can attract dirt and residue.

Step 8: Reassemble the 1911

1. Insert the barrel back into the slide.

2. Replace the barrel bushing, ensuring it’s properly seated.

3. Reinstall the recoil spring and guide rod.

4. Align the slide with the frame rails and carefully slide it back into position.

5. Insert the slide stop and lock the slide in place.

6. Replace the recoil spring plug and turn the barrel bushing to lock it into place.

Step 9: Function Check

1. Rack the slide to ensure it moves smoothly along the frame.

2. Dry fire the 1911 (after confirming it is unloaded) to check the trigger reset and overall function.

3. Inspect the gun for proper reassembly, and ensure there are no loose or misaligned parts.

Step 10: Final Wipe Down

After cleaning, give your 1911 a final wipe-down with a microfiber cloth to remove excess oil, fingerprints, and solvent residue. This final touch will help protect the finish and prevent corrosion.

Conclusion

By following this detailed guide based on the Colt Owner’s Manual, you’ll keep your 1911 in optimal working condition. Regular cleaning ensures reliability, accuracy, and longevity, helping your 1911 perform flawlessly when it matters most.