Let's see if we can diagnose the problem by running three simple tests. These tests cover most of the possibilities. There are other more complex things that could be wrong such as an incorrect feed ramp angle that are not as easily diagnosed and would require accurate measurements to determine.
The first test is the "plunk test"
- Remove the barrel
- Hold the barrel vertically with the chamber up and the muzzle down
- Drop a factory round into the barrel. When the brass case mouth impacts the steel chamber ledge a distinctive sound will be made - the plunk
- Push the cartridge as far forward into the chamber as it will go and while maintaining forward pressure on the cartridge rotate it. It should rotate easily.
If it does not rotate easily or if it will not freely drop out of the barrel under its own weight, the barrel should be returned to the manufacturer to be finish reamed as
@2sharp2 suggested
Next is the extractor test
- Remove the extractor
- Lock the slide open
- Seat a fully loaded magazine
- Allow the slide to move forward at full speed by pushing down on the slide stop
If the first round out of the mag feeds fine, the extractor is the problem. It has incorrect geometry, too much deflection, too much tension, or all three. The extractor can be correctly fit using a couple of inexpensive tools and the knowledge of how to do it.
If the first round out of the mag does not feed, the extractor is not the problem.
Keep in mind that you're using live ammo for this test. If you want to avoid an unintentional loud noise followed by a .40 caliber hole in something, you can remove the firing pin before conducting this test.
Poorly fit extractors are common across most 1911 manufacturers.
The magazine height test
- Lock the slide open
- Seat a fully loaded magazine
- While forcefully pushing upward on the magazine push down on the slide stop to release the slide to come forward at full speed
If the first round out of the mag feeds okay, replace the OEM magazine catch with an
EGW Higher mag catch. This mag catch holds the magazine slightly higher and enhances feeding. FWIW, I put these EGW mag catches in nearly every 1911 that crosses my bench simply because it makes feeding smoother.
