1911 Hammer Half Cock Problem

[maxwindage1]

Newbe question: I have a USGI 1911 rebuild. When the slide is pulled back all the way and closes, the hammer falls to half cock position. The hammer can be manually pulled back to full cock position and it will stay there. What is likely the problem? Suggestions? Thank you.

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[The Wizard]

Most likely sear and or full cock notch in the hammer are out of specification.

[badabing]

Newbe question: I have a USGI 1911 rebuild. When the slide is pulled back all the way and closes, the hammer falls to half cock position. The hammer can be manually pulled back to full cock position and it will stay there. What is likely the problem? Suggestions? Thank you.

That's what the half cock was designed for, to stop the hammer from falling all the way should the full cock mode fail. You've got a potentially dangerous situation there and I would recommend finding a real gunsmith who can properly fix the problem. Judging by the fact that you asked this question, I assume you haven't had very much experience with this type of pistol and little or none in properly fitting a sear, hammer and disconnector. See a pro it's worth the extra dough!

[Rick S]

Probably what everyone else said.

Will add this. On a 1911 Colt never let the slide slam home on a empty chamber without holding the trigger back. Do this enough and the hammer will start going to half cock especially if someone has tuned the trigger pull.

Does your hammer stay back when you are shooting and it is bringing up ammunition from the magazine?

Can't recommend enough to take your 1911 to qualified smith, finding a qualified smith is another problem.

[maxwindage1]

Thanks, guys! Very helpful. I got the piece sometime ago as part of a trade. I have never shot it and wouldn’t with this problem. Taking it to a qualified gunsmith – provided I can find one is good advice – no truer words were ever spoken, Rick.