How to Remove an STI Ambi Safety

An ambidextrous safety is one that can be locked from either side

Removing an STI ambidextrous safety is not difficult, but it can be tricky -- especially with the 2011 Edge pistol. The STI 1911's ambidextrous safety is not as finicky, but if not done properly, it is nearly impossible to pull out. The key to removing the ambidextrous safety is knowing where to align the mechanical parts of the pistol as there is a position -- when all of the parts are aligned -- that allows the safety to slide out easily. Removing the STI ambidextrous safety requires no tools, and once you get the hang of it, you'll realize how simple it is.

Instructions

1. Remove the magazine from the STI. Pull the slide back toward the hammer of the pistol, look through the ejection-port into the barrel and verify that there is not a chambered round.

2. Remove the slide-stop pin, slide, magwell and mainspring housing only after you are certain that your STI is unloaded. By removing these components, you take the tension off the hammer strut. This is necessary to remove the ambidextrous safety.

3. Half-cock the hammer and hold it in place. It will not stay half-cocked on its own. Slowly wriggle and twist the lever of the ambidextrous safety on the left side of the pistol -- the left side of the pistol when the firearm is pointed away from you, which it always should be, whether loaded or unloaded. Wriggle the lever and pin free, being careful to prevent the detention spring from flying from the plunger tube.

4. Turn the pistol in your hand so the right side is facing up. The right side ambidextrous safety lever should slide out easily by simply pulling up on it. You have successfully removed the ambidextrous safety on your STI.

References

• STI 2011 Manual
• STI Parts Diagram
• STI 1911 Review