1911 Full Length Guide Rod???

[JekyllTidesFisher3181]

I know there are tons of opinions on this, looking to hear some more. Is there any advantage to a Wilson Combat full length guide rod in a 5” Government 1911? Specifically, a new model Colt with the dual spring recoil system. Is the WC FLGR an upgrade or is it a downgrade to the dual spring system? Thx ODT

 

[jpm2953]

No benefits to a FLGR. GI spec all the way.

And to the people who shoot 200 rounds a year saying it adds weight and helps recoil….. BS.

 

[medium187mph]

I’ve used both and take down was a bit of a chore with the WC FLGR.

Agree with statement above as I didn’t notice any real difference when shooting

 

[MidniteFlame]

Colt 1911's are just fine the way that they show up in the box. I would be hesitant to go changing things.

 

[charlie hotel lima]

Personal preference all the way. I've never seen an advantage in any sense, but as mentioned, only adds a step to disassmbly/reassembly.

 

[charlie hotel lima]

I should ad, only a Boomer knows for sure...

 

[Winterborne]

Yes/No

Take down is more difficult..till you get use to it.

Also FLGR can change the recoil impulse a bit...but most shooters will not notice it.

Dawson Precision use to make a few nice ones.

 

[GFB]

I change everything to GI guide rods

 

[Uncle Grinch]

Some of the recent 1911’s can’t use GI parts. My Springfield RO Compact has a proprietary guide rod with a take down tool.

 

[1006]

I prefer the GI rod. I do not need any of the marketed benefits of the full length rod.

However, if the gun is only used as a target gun, a two piece rod with an Allen Wrench takedown design is nice, provided you carry the Allen wrench in your shooting bag. You will need the tool to tighten the rod when it comes loose, as well as to field strip the gun.

Be aware that -as far as I know- all full length guide rods are two pieces, and they can come apart at the most unexpected times. If you look closely, you can see the joint.

Also, be aware, not all guide rods are interchangeable or created equal. I have seen some minor differences lock the gun up. And, I have seen at least one tungsten guide rod break at the back end.

I particularly do not like the full length rods that require twisting the barrel bushing with the barrel fully locked up-in battery. The bushing will turn easier if you can push the slide back out of battery a 1/4 inch or more.

Google: full length 1911 guide rod types.
Select images, and you will see several types of rods.

I would not bother changing the rod in a new gun, unless I was planning to use it for self-defense. Buy ammo.