How to Increase Trigger Weight on a 1911

It is safer to alter a separate sear spring or main spring, so you may revert to the original trigger weight in the future.

Main sear spring tension controls trigger weight in Colt 1911s. Usually the factory weight is set to 18 pounds, though you might be issued a 20-pound trigger if in law enforcement in certain cities.

Things You'll Need

• Extra sear spring
• Heavier mainspring

Instructions

1. Release the magazine and clear the chamber of any cartridges. When alterations are not being performed, turn the safety, located below the hammer, to the "on" position.

2. Pull the slide back two inches, or roughly 1/4 of its normal travel distance. Press down on the recoil plug and rotate the barrel bushing counter-clockwise.

3. Release the recoil plug slowly, careful not to allow the recoil spring to eject forcefully from the slide. Remove the plug and spring with care.

4. Cock the hammer, and pull the slide off the 1911. You now have access to the trigger assembly.

5. Remove the main center spring. Replace it with the heavier spring, making sure to attach the ends to the same trigger loops.

6. Bend the left spring inward to the desired tension level, if you require more trigger weight.

7. See a gunsmith if even more weight is desired.

Tips & Warnings

• Bend and tweak your extra springs, and save your originals.

• Always perform maintenance on unloaded firearms.

References

• M1911 Pistol Organization: Trigger Weight
• Steves Pages: Colt 1911 Manual