1911 barrel replacement question

[z0mbi]

I bought a used S&W1911 the other day. When I was stripping it, I noticed the rifling on the barrel was pretty worn in spots. I was wondering if there is anything I need to know about putting a new barrel in? Is it just 'drag n drop' simple like it seems? Or are there factors at play that I'm not aware of as far as matching barrels for make/models or anything of the sort?

 

[M1911]

I bought a used S&W1911 the other day. When I was stripping it, I noticed the rifling on the barrel was pretty worn in spots. I was wondering if there is anything I need to know about putting a new barrel in? Is it just 'drag n drop' simple like it seems? Or are there factors at play that I'm not aware of as far as matching barrels for make/models or anything of the sort?

In general, 1911 barrels need to be fitted. When you replace the barrel, you usually replace the barrel bushing and link as well. It's not just a drop-in job. The barrel and bushing will need to be fitted to the slide and you will choose which dimension link fits the best as well.

I suggest that you first test fire and see how it groups. If it groups well, leave it alone. If not, then take it a gunsmith.

 

[z0mbi]

Ah. Does S&W do that at the factory?

 

[M1911]

Yes, but why send it to S&W? You'll get a better barrel and better service from someone like Greg Derr.

 

[z0mbi]

Understood. Thanks for the info!

 

[Cross-X]

Greg Derr will almost certainly recommend that you get a Kart barrel.

 

[jim42]

Kart is good, along with Barsto

 

[Supermoto]

KKM makes great barrels also.

Are you sure the barrel is worn? It takes alot of rounds to burn out a barrel on a .45. What exactly are you seeing that causes alarm?

 

[rscalzo]

Might be worth checking with S&W. They may do the work under warranty. Or it could be lead or copper fouling.

 

[Jake L]

I can fit a new Remsprt Match barrel for you with a national match bushing.
let me know. The price would be under $200.00. And that will include crowning the barrel.
Just a reminder Remsport is the supplier of barrels to most of the barrel seller co, out there.

 

[Gammon]

I bought a used S&W1911 the other day. When I was stripping it, I noticed the rifling on the barrel was pretty worn in spots. I was wondering if there is anything I need to know about putting a new barrel in? Is it just 'drag n drop' simple like it seems? Or are there factors at play that I'm not aware of as far as matching barrels for make/models or anything of the sort?

.45 ACP barrels rarely wear out unless they are really abused. The appearance of the rifling could well be an optical illusion. I would shoot the gun, paying close attention to accuracy and only replace the barrel if accuracy becomes a problem. Most .45s are a lot more accurate than their owners.

 

[Jake L]

I agree with Gammon. It also may be leading this would give the illusion of a worn out barrel. Gammon has also mentioned this.
Get some good lead removing cleaner and a new brush and clean the hell out of the barrel and then see what it looks like. I can still do a barrel for you if want to move up to a match barrel, however the S&W stock 1911 barrels are very good.