1911 Experts. Extended slide stop or not??

[Cocked & Locked]

I use and view the slide stop just as a take-down device for removing the slide from the frame.

No extension needed for me. I use the the sling-shot method with the slide.

For what its worth, I don't like front serrations on the slide either...or beaver tails (on firearms that is.)

 

[PALADIN85020]

I've been handling and shooting 1911s for over 50 years. I got my first one back in 1961. Over the years, I've experimented with a number of slide releases. I discovered that the Norwegian version of our .45 automatic had an extended slide release, and I obtained one to use on my pistol. It did indeed allow me (after modifying the left grip panel) to release the slide with my shooting hand. Here's a pic of that particular style on an original M1914 Norwegian:

Still, I found it quicker to activate the slide release with the thumb of my left hand, since it was already right there using a standard two-hand hold. Using the Norwegian release was no advantage, and I would be able to use a standard left grip on the gun.

Later on I experimented with releases that extended back closer to the rear of the gun. These were still awkward to activate with the right thumb, and occasionally they would self-activate through inertia because of their increased weight.

I wound up reverting to the original John Browning design, which works perfectly - I activate it with my left thumb, or retract the slide to release the slide over a fresh magazine load.

Bottom line - use the original. It works the way it was designed to work.

John

 

[A10]

I carried a Combat Commander for alot of years, had both the extended slide stop and ambi safety on it. I shoot southpaw so never had any interference with my grip and only once during a match unintentionally activated it. Once was enough, though, and I went back to the stock item. As far as front serrations, they came out of IPSC and were used by unlimited shooters so they could load/press check their scoped and guid rod equipped 1911's. I never saw any other use for them, but I guess some folks think they look cool.