Hi All. I was thinking of replacing the full size guide rod in my SW1911 (not E series)and installing the GI short guide rod and cap. I have read that this will not hurt the performance or function and will make it easier to field strip. Has anyone done this and how did it work out? Thanks.
I replaced the full length guide rods on the two 1911’s I own that had them. I much prefer the short GI style. I’ve seen no difference in function or performance and yes they’re much easier to disassemble. Over the years I’ve tried two piece and single piece full length and always returned to the GI style.
The short guide rod and standard plug make the 1911 easier to field strip and reassemble. You should have no problems with replacing the full length rod and hollow plug with an original John Moses Browning designed style rod and plug.