new gun, some questions?

[03roushs1]

I recently picked up a 4" S&W 1911PD. I have a couple questions.

1. How hard is it to change the safety to ambi if I desire to do it myself? Are there any good links out there for some info on how to do this?

2. Has anybody that owns an S&W 1911 had any problems with the ACT-MAG magazines that were included? When I loaded one and tried to rack one in the chamber, it went in, but felt like the first time I shoot I will have some FTF problems. Felt like it was catching on the next round beneath the one that was being chambered. And yes I was using dummy rounds, LOL.

Thanks for any help.

 

[Supermoto]

A new safety will need to be fitted by a gunsmith

The mag problem may be because of the dummy rounds, see what happens at the range, they sometimes need 200 rounds to break in

 

[FPrice]

I have the 1911SC which was the predecessor to the PD and I like mine quite a bit. I think you will be happy with yours.

1. Depending upon how mechanically inclined you are it should be just as easy/difficult as doing this on the standard 1911A1. I would probably leave this job to a professional myself but your skills may be better than mine.

2. I have shot quite a bit out of both styles of magazines, the Wilson and the ACT. I've not had any problem with either with FMJ, Federal HS, or Winchester Silvertip. I have also used some Chip McCormick SS 8-round magazines with good results.

 

[Cross-X]

I recently picked up a 4" S&W 1911PD. I have a couple questions.

1. How hard is it to change the safety to ambi if I desire to do it myself? Are there any good links out there for some info on how to do this?

2. Has anybody that owns an S&W 1911 had any problems with the ACT-MAG magazines that were included? When I loaded one and tried to rack one in the chamber, it went in, but felt like the first time I shoot I will have some FTF problems. Felt like it was catching on the next round beneath the one that was being chambered. And yes I was using dummy rounds, LOL.

Thanks for any help.

As far as changing to an ambi safety, I let my gunsmith, Greg Derr, handle that. You'll need a set of replacement grips, because I don't think the stock S&W grips are relief cut on the right-hand side. Personally, I am fond of the Wilson Combat slimline grips.

For mags, I exclusively use Wilson mags. I like the 8 round 47D version. Reliable, robust, and handsome. Can't beat 'em!

 

[Pilgrim]

My new 4.25 in SC (predecessor of the PD) works great with the ACT and McCormick mags. I've tried about 200 rounds of a mix of brands and types of ammo without one failure or any kind. You're gonna love it.