for the 1911 experts-- ambi safety loose: fix?

American1776

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My Dan Wesson Specialist commander has the factory ambi thumb safety. The right side (the side that a lefty would use) is getting loose. It will move a little, independent from the left side when wiggled.

Question: 1) could this problem lead to the gun not working when needed? 2) how should this be addressed?

thanks.
 
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The left side safety holds the grip safety in the frame, same as a single sided safety does.

The right side of the safety usually (but not always, my EEA Witness Custom .45 is slightly different) slots into the internal end of the left safety lever and locks both together, so that when one side of the safety is moved the other moves along with it.

It may be that this slot system has loosened.

It should not cause any problems in operation as it is the left safety that blocks the trigger from falling. The left side lever will have to be pushed fairly forcibly to move the left side lever out of the safety position. But if it is really loose (or just really bothers you) you have a couple of options.

Option 1: Replace the right side safety lever (as long as it has the slot and not the key that locks the two together. You could even replace both sides of the safety, especially as they usually come in a pair.

Option 2: Pull the right side lever out, and if necessary the left side as well, and try to close the interlocking slot slightly to tighten the fit. But be prepared to install a new lever if you break the attachment.
 
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