As the M1911 grows in popularity more and more gun owners are returning to the old War Horse for self-defense and concealed carry. For the new gun owner, the transition is somewhat less complicated as a blank slate. However, for those who have been shooting striker-fired pistols with no external safety, it can be complicated. How does the transition work and what are the best practices for safety manipulation? Since most high-quality M1911 pistols have a crips 3-pound trigger it is incredibly important users of all skills subscribe to best practices to mitigate the risks of negligent discharges. Let’s take a closer look at safety manipulation for the M1911 pistol.
The M1911 is equipped with multiple safety mechanisms, the manual thumb safety, grip safety, and half-cock notch. The manual safety is the most obvious. Located on the left side of the frame, this safety can be engaged to lock the slide and prevent the trigger from being pulled. The grip safety is located on the back of the grip. The pistol will not fire unless the grip safety is depressed, ensuring it is only operational when held properly. The half-cock notch, while not a true safety prevents the hammer from striking the firing pin if accidentally released from full cock. The proper handling of an M1911 pistol starts with a familiarity with the safety features. The next step is how to use them focusing on the manual thumb safety.
The M1911 pistol was designed to be carried in “Condition 1”; which means a round chambered, fully loaded magazine inserted, hammer cocked and safety on. For the shooter to fire there are a series of steps to perform. It starts by locating and identifying the target. In most cases, the pistol is used in a training or practice environment where this step is overlooked. However, it is absolutely critical to positively identify the target as a deadly force threat. From there, move the firearm from the point of carry to the target and confirm the sights. It is at this point the debate begins about when the safety comes off. There will always be a speed component that cannot be ignored, but caution is necessary.
Plenty will argue the moment the gun clears the holster the safety should come off. Again, caution is necessary. I recommend when two hands are firmly placed on the gun the safety comes off. This is also an excellent point to train for the safety to go back on. When the weak hand breaks away the safety should go back on. In this condition, it is implied the pistol is returning to the holster. No M1911 pistol should ever be holstered with the safety off. So, the best practice is safety off with two hands and safety on with one hand. Meaning as the pistol travels to the target and a two-hand firing grip is obtained the safety comes off. As the pistol returns to the holster and the firing grip is broken the safety goes on.
By following these best practices for manual safety usage, M1911 owners can ensure their firearm is handled and carried safely while being at the highest state of readiness. Always prioritize safety, safety is free. Continuous training and practice to make this action automated does not take much, but it does take effort. Just remember, it takes longer to positively identify a threat, than disengage the safety.