Resource to learn to do a trigger job

[crabo]

Anyone have a suggestion for the best resource for learning to do a 1911 trigger job correctly?

Thanks,

Crabo

[Lee N. Fielder]

If you want to learn from a book then the Kuhnhausen book is probably as good as you will find.

If you prefer video then the American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) sells videos.

I'd get both unless you never intend to do another trigger job after this one.  It's not hard to do but it is tedious and requires close attention to detail to get it right.

You will also need a few specialized tools, but none are particularly expensive.  We're talking India stones, Hard Arkansas stones, feeler gauges, and a small fine-cut file with one safe edge.  You should be able to get everything you need for less than $100.

One of the simplest solutions is to buy a Chip McCormick matched hammer and sear.  This will automatically reduce your stock trigger pull weight and give a nice crisp release.  If you have a trigger better than this then you don't need to work on your gun.  Last time I bought a set it was $35 as I recall.

Finally, here's some good info that won't cost you anything:

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=61238

Holp this heps.  Good luck with your project.

-Lee

[lonewolf5348]

http://www.brownells.com/aspx/NS/GunTech/NewsletterArchive.aspx?p=0&t=1&i=349
I found chip McCormick sear and hammer was a drop in on my SA 1911 and it you tweak the sear spring you should be squared away I would also add a new trigger my choice was Wilson combat simple task polish the bow of the trigger you have to remove some material off the shoe to fit the frame

[Lee N. Fielder]

Forgot to mention one caveat about the Chip McCormick hammer & sear.  It's a Commander pattern which means that you will need to change out or modify your grip safety if your 1911 is currently sporting a spur hammer.

Also, the Chip Mcormick hammer is no longer available through Brownell's, although the sear still is.  I'm not sure why.  Last time I got one I had to order from CDNN.

A bargain hammer that requires a little stoning but works really well and is dimensionally correct is made by John Masen.  You can get them from Brownell's in either blue or stainless for under $15 in spur pattern and less than $20 in Commander pattern.

[Questor]

You may want to search for how-to videos from reputable sources. I've seen some available.  Although I've seen the books, I learn this kind of thing better when it's actually demonstrated. It's a great use for video.

One useful tool I've found is the Brownells trigger track honing tool. It's a great polishing tool and does fabulous work not on just smoothing the trigger track, but polishing mating surfaces too. It's not very expensive either.