Prioritizing Safety: A Non-Negotiable Foundation
Before you even think about picking up a cleaning rod, the most critical step is safety. Firearm safety is paramount, and it’s not something to be taken lightly. The following procedures must be followed *every single time* before handling your Kimber 1911 for cleaning:
Unload the Weapon: The very first and most crucial step is to verify the weapon is unloaded. This might seem obvious, but complacency can be dangerous.
- Point the firearm in a safe direction, preferably downrange or a direction where an accidental discharge would not cause harm or injury.
- Remove the magazine.
- Pull back the slide fully and engage the slide stop to hold the slide open.
- Visually inspect the chamber, ensuring it is empty. Use a flashlight if necessary to make absolutely sure there is no ammunition present.
- Physically check the chamber by inserting a finger (safely) to feel for any remaining cartridge. Never insert your finger until you have completed the other steps and are 100% certain the firearm is clear.
- Release the slide and pull it back again, inspecting again. This ensures nothing remains.
Clear the Area: Ensure the cleaning area is free of distractions and other people. A dedicated, well-lit workspace is essential. Remove all ammunition from the area. Ammunition should be stored separately and away from the cleaning supplies and firearm.
Wear Protective Gear: Always wear appropriate safety glasses to protect your eyes from potential debris or splashes of cleaning solvents. Gloves are also recommended, especially if you have sensitive skin, to protect your hands from chemicals and lubricants.
Double-Check: Once you’ve finished the cleaning process, repeat the unloading and inspection steps *again* before handling your Kimber 1911.
Essential Tools and Supplies for the Task
Having the right tools and supplies will make the cleaning process more efficient and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to effectively clean your Kimber 1911:
Cleaning Rod and Swabs: Select a cleaning rod of appropriate diameter for your specific Kimber 1911’s caliber (typically .45 ACP or 9mm). Choose a rod made of a material that won’t scratch the bore, such as coated steel or aluminum. You will also need a generous supply of cleaning patches or swabs sized to fit your bore and cleaning rod snugly.
Cleaning Solvents and Lubricants: Select a high-quality gun cleaning solvent specifically designed for removing powder residue, carbon, and other contaminants. Choose a lubricant designed for firearms. Quality gun oil or grease provides corrosion protection and reduces friction. You might want to consider a bore cleaner, designed to break down copper and lead deposits within the barrel.
Brushes: You’ll need a bronze or nylon bore brush specifically sized for your Kimber 1911’s caliber. The bronze brush is ideal for stubborn carbon deposits. Also, include a variety of small detail brushes of nylon or other non-abrasive material to reach tight spaces and remove grime from harder to reach areas.
Cleaning Cloths or Patches: A supply of clean patches and a soft cleaning cloth are essential. Use patches for cleaning the bore and other internal parts, and a cloth for wiping down the exterior surfaces and any excess lubricant.
Additional Tools: Depending on your specific Kimber 1911 model, you might need a field stripping tool. Some models may require a small screwdriver for removing the grip panels, but this is uncommon. A good multi-tool can be very useful.
Disassembling Your Kimber 1911: The Field Strip
Field stripping is the process of taking your Kimber 1911 apart into its major components to facilitate thorough cleaning. This step is crucial for removing all traces of residue and ensuring optimal performance. Remember to work in a clean, well-lit environment.
Removing the Slide Stop: Begin by ensuring the weapon is unloaded and safe (see section above). With the magazine removed and the slide locked back, push the slide stop lever out from the frame. This can sometimes require a bit of gentle pressure, but avoid excessive force.
Separating the Slide from the Frame: With the slide stop removed, the slide can be separated from the frame. Grasp the slide and carefully slide it forward and off the frame rails. Be cautious not to damage the finish.
Taking Out the Recoil Spring and Guide Rod: Carefully remove the recoil spring and the guide rod. Different Kimber 1911 models might have full-length or shorter guide rods. Make note of the orientation of these parts for reassembly. Compress the recoil spring and the guide rod and carefully remove them from the slide.
Removing the Barrel Bushing: The barrel bushing sits at the front of the slide. You must first ensure that the slide is pointing away from you in a safe direction. Rotate the barrel bushing until it can be pulled off the slide. Be careful. The bushing is held in place by spring tension, and it can be ejected.
Removing the Barrel: With the bushing removed, the barrel can be removed from the slide. Carefully lift it out.
Cleaning Your Kimber 1911: A Step-by-Step Approach
Now that your Kimber 1911 is field-stripped, you can begin the cleaning process. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key.
Cleaning the Barrel: The barrel is the heart of your firearm. Proper cleaning here is absolutely essential for accuracy and reliability.
- Attach a cleaning patch to the cleaning rod. Make sure the patch is snug but not overly tight.
- Apply gun cleaning solvent to the patch.
- Insert the patch-covered rod into the chamber end of the barrel and push it through to the muzzle end.
- Remove the patch and repeat the process with fresh, solvent-soaked patches until the patches come out clean, indicating the removal of loose fouling.
- Now, replace the patch with the bore brush.
- Apply gun cleaning solvent to the brush and carefully insert it into the chamber end of the barrel. Move the brush back and forth, scrubbing the bore. Be careful not to scrub it past the end of the muzzle.
- Remove the brush and run a clean patch through the bore again to remove any loosened debris. Repeat these steps, using new patches and applying solvent to the patches and brush until the patches come out clean.
- Once the bore is clean, run a lightly oiled patch through the barrel to leave a thin protective film.
Cleaning the Slide: The slide houses several critical components.
- Carefully clean the breech face, the area where the cartridge sits when fired, using a brush and solvent.
- Clean the extractor, the claw-like device that pulls the spent cartridge casing from the chamber. Use a small brush and solvent to remove any carbon buildup.
- Clean the firing pin channel with solvent. This will keep the firing pin from getting stuck and malfunctioning.
- Wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces of the slide with a clean cloth.
Cleaning the Frame: The frame houses the internal mechanisms of the pistol.
- Clean the feed ramp with a brush and solvent. This smooth surface is where the bullets feed into the chamber.
- Clean the slide rails, the tracks where the slide moves. This will ensure smooth operation.
- Clean the trigger components using a detail brush.
- Use detail brushes to reach hard-to-access areas such as the locking lug cuts or any areas within the trigger assembly.
Cleaning the Magazine: Clean magazines are essential for reliable feeding.
- Disassemble the magazine (if the design allows). If not, ensure you remove all debris.
- Wipe down the magazine body with a clean cloth.
- Clean the follower and the spring.
Lubrication: The Lifeblood of Your Kimber 1911
Proper lubrication is as critical as cleaning. Lubricant reduces friction, protects against corrosion, and ensures smooth operation.
Lubrication Points: The areas that need lubrication are often referred to as the “wear points.”
- Slide rails: Apply a thin film of oil or grease to the slide rails.
- Barrel bushing: Lightly lubricate the barrel bushing.
- Guide rod: Add a small amount of lubricant to the guide rod.
- Extractor: Lightly lubricate the extractor.
- Trigger components: Apply a small amount of oil to any accessible trigger components.
- Other moving parts: Any other moving parts should receive a light coat of oil.
Applying Lubricant: Use a small amount of lubricant. Excessive lubricant can attract dirt and grit, creating malfunctions. The goal is to have a thin layer of protection.
Reassembling Your Kimber 1911: Putting It All Back Together
Reassembly is simply the reverse of field stripping, so if you paid attention while taking the firearm apart, it should be straightforward.
Reinstalling the Barrel: Carefully put the barrel back into the slide.
Reinstalling the Barrel Bushing: Place the bushing back on the slide and rotate it until it is seated.
Reinstalling the Recoil Spring and Guide Rod: Reinstall the recoil spring and the guide rod, making sure to place them back in the same orientation as before.
Replacing the Slide on the Frame: Carefully slide the slide back onto the frame rails.
Inserting the Slide Stop: With the slide back on the frame, reinsert the slide stop.
Confirm Function: After reassembly, check to make sure everything functions correctly by cycling the slide and dry firing (after confirming the chamber is empty).
Final Inspection and Maintenance: Ensuring Optimal Performance
Complete the final checks to ensure everything is in order.
Check for Smooth Operation: Manually cycle the slide several times to verify it moves smoothly and doesn’t bind.
Dry Fire Check: After making sure the chamber is empty, dry-fire the pistol several times to ensure the trigger functions correctly.
Exterior Wipe Down: Wipe down the exterior surfaces of the pistol with a clean cloth and a light coat of gun oil.
Storage: Store your clean and lubricated Kimber 1911 in a safe and secure location. Preferably, keep it in a locked gun safe or container.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with diligent cleaning, problems can arise. These are common issues associated with a dirty firearm.
- Jams: Often caused by excessive fouling or lack of lubrication.
- Failure to Feed: This may be due to a dirty feed ramp or a weak magazine spring.
- Failure to Eject: Often related to carbon build-up on the extractor.
If you experience any of these problems, revisit the cleaning and lubrication steps. If the issue persists, seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith.
Conclusion: The Rewards of Meticulous Care
Cleaning your Kimber 1911 may seem like a chore, but it’s an essential part of responsible firearm ownership. By following these steps, you can ensure your Kimber pistol remains reliable, accurate, and a pleasure to shoot for years to come. Regular cleaning, careful lubrication, and safe handling practices are the keys to preserving your firearm’s performance and your own well-being. Owning a Kimber 1911 is a privilege. Take the time to care for it properly, and it will serve you well.
Remember always to prioritize safety. If you’re not comfortable with any step, or if you encounter any issues you can’t resolve, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a qualified gunsmith. Your safety and the longevity of your Kimber 1911 depend on it. Enjoy shooting your Kimber!
