1911 recoil spring buffer pad thoughts?

Power Pill

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I just picked up a new Para GI Expert off the EE and when disassembling it I noticed that it had a buffer pad installed.

I've owned a couple 1911 before and never even new there was such a thing.

What do you guys think about buffer pads in a 1911?
 
I use them in my WW1 1911 and also on my STI Sentinel (now that I got rid of the recoilmaster). 100 rounds or so on the old soldier (it doesn't get shot much) and over 1000 on the STI. Neither is even near worn out - but I field strip and clean after every range trip, so it's easy to keep an eye on them. I believe they at least meet the test of "do no harm" and probably offer some wear reduction. I would be concerned about pieces floating around if their condition was not monitored.

I also recently watched a video where the shooter uses very light recoil springs to reduce muzzle dip. He recommended the extra protection of buffs.

Good question - and so far my experience is minimal.
 
It's preventing me from "sling shot" releasing the slide when it's locked all the way back. The actual slide release still works, it's just a lot stiffer.
 
The buffer has no utility whatsoever with target or low power loads. They help prevent battering of the frame and recoil tunnel if overpower loads are used, but they are rather marginal with standard military loads. They do occupy space, may make slide release difficult, or in dimensionally tight pistols, prevent the slide from locking back altogether. I've seen and experienced all these.

Dr Jim
 
Only use a buffer when running 45-08 in my Norc. Without the buffer my guide plate gets mangled with these powerful rounds. Find with regular 45 loadings a buffer is unnecessary.
 
Useless piece of plastic, throw it away. Someone made a fortune selling to the gullible. John Browning would be rolling in his grave or laughing his ass off over the proliferation of aftermarket abortions to his venerable creation:p
 
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