First Impressions of Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull
The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull is a five-piece set designed to enhance the trigger performance of any 1911-style handgun. Cylinder & Slide promises a crisp, light trigger pull, improved lock time, and enhanced reliability with this drop-in kit. As a seasoned 1911 enthusiast, I’m always looking for ways to improve the feel and performance of my pistols, and a smoother, lighter trigger is always near the top of the list.
My interest in this particular kit stemmed from a desire to refine the trigger on my aging competition 1911. The factory trigger had become gritty and inconsistent over years of use. I was looking for a reliable, relatively simple upgrade that would provide a noticeable improvement without requiring extensive gunsmithing.
Upon receiving the kit, I was immediately impressed with the apparent quality of the components. The hammer, sear, and disconnector exhibited clean machining and a smooth, even finish. The parts felt substantial in hand, hinting at durability and precise engineering.
Having previously used trigger kits from Wilson Combat and Ed Brown, I was curious to see how the Cylinder & Slide offering would compare. While those kits are excellent, they also come with a higher price tag. I was hoping to find a more budget-friendly option that could deliver comparable performance.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The components looked well-made, and the advertised 3.5lb trigger pull was exactly what I was looking for. Time would tell if the Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull could live up to its promises on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull kit in my competition 1911 at my workbench. The installation process was relatively straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a punch set. I took it to the local outdoor range.
The weather was typical for a late summer afternoon – warm and slightly humid. I ran a series of drills, focusing on speed and accuracy, pushing the pistol through rapid-fire sequences and controlled pairs. The improved trigger pull was immediately noticeable.
The factory trigger, which once felt heavy and inconsistent, now broke cleanly and consistently at around 3.6 pounds (as measured by my trigger pull gauge). This made a remarkable difference. The crisp break allowed for more precise shots, even under pressure. There were no immediate issues or surprises after the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull kit has proven to be remarkably reliable. It has held up well. I’ve put several thousand rounds through the pistol since the installation.
There are no signs of significant wear or tear on any of the components. The trigger pull remains consistent, and there have been no malfunctions attributable to the new fire control parts. Cleaning and maintenance have been simple, requiring only occasional lubrication of the sear and hammer engagement surfaces.
Compared to my previous experiences with other trigger kits, the Cylinder & Slide offering holds its own admirably. While perhaps not quite as refined as the higher-end options, it provides excellent performance at a more accessible price point. It has exceeded my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull
Specifications
The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull is a five-piece set designed for 1911-style handguns. The set includes:
- Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer: CNC-machined and heat-treated to 50-54 Rc for enhanced durability and consistent performance.
- Sear: Also CNC-machined and heat-treated to ensure precise engagement with the hammer.
- Disconnector: Designed for smooth and reliable operation, contributing to the overall trigger feel.
- Trigger Spring: Ensures proper trigger return and consistent trigger pull weight.
- Sear Spring: Provides proper tension for reliable sear engagement and safe operation.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the overall performance and reliability of the 1911. The heat-treated components offer enhanced durability and resistance to wear, ensuring long-lasting performance. The precise machining ensures consistent engagement and a clean trigger break. The 3.5lb trigger pull provides a light and responsive feel, improving accuracy and shooting speed.
Performance & Functionality
The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull excels in delivering a consistent and light trigger pull, improving accuracy and shooting speed. The kit significantly reduces lock time, the time it takes for the hammer to fall and ignite the primer. This results in improved consistency.
The strengths of this kit lie in its ease of installation, reliable performance, and noticeable improvement in trigger feel. The primary weakness is that it may require minor fitting in some 1911s. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a drop-in trigger kit in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull prioritizes functionality and durability. The hammer is skeletonized and chamfered to reduce weight and improve lock time. The materials used are high-quality steel, heat-treated for enhanced strength and wear resistance.
The kit is generally user-friendly, with a straightforward installation process. However, some basic knowledge of 1911 mechanics is helpful. There is a slight learning curve for adjusting the sear spring tension for optimal performance.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull is built to last, with heat-treated components designed to withstand thousands of rounds of use. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the sear and hammer engagement surfaces are essential. This will ensure smooth and reliable operation over the long term. The kit is relatively easy to maintain and repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull is primarily a standalone upgrade kit and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of 1911 triggers and other fire control components. Aftermarket sears, hammers, and disconnectors can be used to further fine-tune the trigger pull and feel. The kit is also compatible with most standard 1911 grips and safety levers, allowing for further customization of the pistol.
Pros and Cons of Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull
Pros
- Noticeably lighter and crisper trigger pull: Improves accuracy and shooting speed.
- Enhanced lock time: Contributes to improved consistency and reduced muzzle movement.
- Durable, heat-treated components: Ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
- Relatively easy to install: Can be installed by most users with basic tools and knowledge of 1911 mechanics.
- Excellent value for the money: Provides significant improvement over factory triggers at an accessible price point.
Cons
- May require minor fitting: Some 1911s may require slight adjustments for optimal performance.
- Not a drop-in solution for all 1911s: Installation requires some knowledge of 1911 mechanics.
Who Should Buy Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull?
The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull is perfect for competitive shooters, 1911 enthusiasts, and anyone looking to improve the trigger feel and performance of their 1911-style handgun. It’s a great option for those seeking a noticeable upgrade without the expense of a full custom trigger job.
Those who should skip this product are individuals completely unfamiliar with 1911 mechanics. They also shouldn’t use it if they are unwilling to do some fitting, or those who prefer a heavier trigger pull for duty or carry purposes.
Must-have accessories or modifications include a quality set of punches for installation, a trigger pull gauge for measuring and adjusting the trigger pull weight, and potentially a gunsmith for fitting if you are not comfortable doing it yourself.
Conclusion on Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull
The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull offers a significant upgrade to the trigger performance of any 1911-style handgun. The kit delivers a lighter, crisper trigger pull, improved lock time, and enhanced reliability. This results in greater accuracy and shooting speed.
The price is justified given the quality of the components and the noticeable improvement in performance. The kit provides excellent value for the money.
I would personally recommend the Cylinder & Slide 1911 Ultra Light Chamfered Hammer 3.5lb Trigger Pull to anyone looking to upgrade their 1911 trigger without breaking the bank. It is an exceptional upgrade. Take your 1911 to the next level.