1911 magazine sticking at the mag release on insert.

[ArcadiaGP]

Hi, been a while.

Recent events led to me pulling my Colt 1911 out of the safe, and I discovered a problem when inserting the stock Colt magazine. It goes in smoothly until it reaches where the mag release is, then stops pretty hard. Can get it in with a hearty pound, but it certainly doesn't feel normal. Pressing in on the mag release button will allow it to smoothly go in.

Not sure what would have changed? I haven't shot this thing all that much, it was well oiled before going into the safe, but it probably had been a while. Is this a common issue that can come up with 1911s? Is there an adjustment I can make with the mag release button that would fix it?

Thanks

 

[mcapo]

Any other magazines to try?

 

[Robert Richardson]

Make sure the catch slides easily in the frame and isn't sticking. Pull ot the magazine catch and inspect for damage. Polish contact area.
Check the magazine lips for being slightly bent outward where it contacts the catch.
Some of the newer magazines are being made with a slight dimple at the contact area to help with this situation.

 

[88E30M50]

Several of my 1911s are like that. The Colts in particular. If it has not been like that before, try pulling the mag release out and see if there is anything in the spring channel that might be making it stiffer than it used to be. While out, check the mag release channel for anything that might be impeding the mags ability to push it out of the way when seating the mag.

Like mcapo says, try different mags to see if that helps too.

 

[ArcadiaGP]

Thanks. Checked some other mags, same issue. The mag release button feels very stiff.... so I expect the normal pressure of pushing a mag in isn't enough to depress the mag catch.

Never disassembled the mag release, I assume just unscrew that tiny screw on the opposite side of it... I'll give that a shot tonight.

 

[gregkl]

Thanks. Checked some other mags, same issue. The mag release button feels very stiff.... so I expect the normal pressure of pushing a mag in isn't enough to depress the mag catch.

Never disassembled the mag release, I assume just unscrew that tiny screw on the opposite side of it... I'll give that a shot tonight.

Yup, not really unscrew it but turn a quarter turn and it will pop out. If I recall, depressing the mag release slightly while turning.

 

[Robert Richardson]

If you've never removed one before, I'd suggest you drop some oil in it and work it back and forth. It may fix it without taking it apart.

 

[Robert Richardson]

Yup, not really unscrew it but turn a quarter turn and it will pop out. If I recall, depressing the mag release slightly while turning.

Yup