The Rock Island Armory 1911 is a popular choice for both beginners and experienced shooters, known for its reliability and affordability. Proper disassembly and cleaning are crucial for maintaining its accuracy and longevity. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process for field stripping your RIA 1911. Always ensure the firearm is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction before beginning any disassembly.
Safety First: Essential Precautions
Before you even think about touching your Rock Island 1911, prioritize safety. These steps are non-negotiable:
- Unload the firearm: Visually and physically inspect the chamber to ensure it's empty. Double-check the magazine to confirm it's also free of ammunition.
- Point the firearm in a safe direction: This means pointing it downrange in a direction where a stray bullet would cause no harm. A safe backstop (like a sandbag) is recommended.
- Wear eye protection: Small parts can spring out during disassembly, and protecting your eyes is essential.
- Work in a well-lit area: Good lighting allows you to see every detail and avoid damaging parts.
- Use appropriate tools: You'll need a punch or similar tool for some steps, preferably one made of plastic or brass to avoid scratching the gun's finish.
Step-by-Step Disassembly
Now that safety is ensured, let's proceed with the field stripping:
1. Removing the Magazine
This is the most straightforward step. Simply depress the magazine release button and remove the magazine from the grip.
2. Locking the Slide to the Rear
Pull the slide back fully and lock it to the rear using the slide stop lever. This will keep the slide in position and make the next steps easier.
3. Removing the Slide Stop
With the slide locked back, gently push the slide stop lever down and out. It will move slightly and then release completely. Some slight force may be required, but excessive force indicates something is amiss; check for proper alignment.
4. Removing the Slide
Once the slide stop is removed, carefully allow the slide to move forward and off the frame. Support the slide to prevent it from falling and damaging any parts.
5. Removing the Recoil Spring and Guide Rod
Now you'll see the recoil spring and guide rod assembly. This assembly can vary slightly depending on the specific Rock Island model. Gently pull the guide rod and spring assembly straight out from the front of the slide.
6. Field Stripping Complete
You've now successfully field stripped your Rock Island 1911. You can now proceed to cleaning and lubricating the individual parts.
Reassembly: A Reverse Process
Reassembling your Rock Island 1911 is essentially the reverse of disassembly. Be sure to follow these steps carefully to ensure proper functionality and avoid damage:
- Install the Recoil Spring and Guide Rod: Carefully guide the recoil spring and guide rod assembly back into the slide.
- Install the Slide: Carefully place the slide onto the frame, ensuring it's aligned correctly.
- Install the Slide Stop: Insert the slide stop lever back into its slot.
- Release the Slide: Gently release the slide and let it move forward to its normal position.
- Insert the Magazine: Insert the magazine into the grip.
Important Note: Beyond Field Stripping
The instructions above detail field stripping, which is for regular cleaning and maintenance. For more involved repairs or deeper cleaning, you might need specialized tools and a more comprehensive guide. Always consult your owner's manual and consider seeking assistance from a qualified gunsmith for anything beyond basic cleaning and field stripping.
This guide offers a comprehensive approach to disassembling and reassembling your Rock Island Armory 1911. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult professional assistance when needed. Happy shooting!
