A question that I have had for sometime is in regards to the spacing between the dust-cover and recoil spring plug area on the slide. I have a mid range production 1911 in which the slide is dead center in the dust cover. Now, one of my higher end semi customs "recoil spring plug section of the slide" is slightly off center (probably 1/32 on one edge and 1/64 on the other side) in the dust cover but it DOESN'T rub. The pistol functions great so I have no reason to worry but I have been in the market for another 1911 (probably Wilson or Brown) and have noticed this on quiet a few of them. Is this just a product of hand fitting? Is it a problem at all unless of course it is making hard contact? Is it something to gripe to the manufacturer about in a higher dollar 1911? This is my new hang-up when I go 1911 shopping so I want to put it to rest!
I've never heard of a 1911s dust cover, and don't see any part that would fill the role of a dustcover (a non essential, removable part that keeps dirt and debris out of a firearm's action). Which part are you referring to?
He is referring to the dust cover.
Yes, that is the proper term to use for the 1911 dust cover.
It is the thin foreward section of the frame that covers the recoil spring parts and keep dust & weed seeds out of the gun.
Yes, it is a byproduct of hand fitting & lapping a tight slide to the over- size frame rails.
A loose GI gun would have much more gap then that, and it would change back & forth when you rattled it.
As long as it isn't rubbing, it won't hurt a thing except your sensibilities.
But only if you dwell on it too much while staring down the muzzle!
I totally understand and on board with what you are saying. My focusing on something that may be inherent in a portion of hand fitted 1911's, and something that isn't affecting performance is taking away some of the enjoyment from my 1911 hobby.
On my Randall it rubbed a little glossy stripe on the satin shot peen of my slide when it was new. I took a dremel to the inside of the dust cover and thinned that spot down a bit. Never really bothered me too much it's shooter not a safe queen.