Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit Review

First Impressions of Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit

The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit promises a smoother, lighter trigger pull for 1911 pistols equipped with the Series 80 firing pin safety system. Cylinder & Slide is a well-respected name in the 1911 world, known for quality parts and gunsmithing services. This kit aims to address a common complaint about Series 80 1911s: the trigger pull can be heavier and less crisp than those without the firing pin safety.

For years, I’ve championed the 1911 platform, both in competitive shooting and as a reliable sidearm in the field. I was drawn to this kit because I recently acquired a beautiful Series 80 1911 that, while accurate, had a trigger that felt mushy and heavier than I preferred. The promise of a cleaner break and reduced pull weight was too good to pass up.

Upon opening the package, the parts appeared well-machined and of high quality. They were noticeably smoother than the factory components I removed from my 1911. My initial thought was optimistic; this looked like it could be a significant improvement.

I had been considering trigger work from a gunsmith, and a drop-in trigger kit from Wilson Combat. Ultimately, the Cylinder & Slide kit was more affordable and promised similar results with easier installation. My first impression was positive, and I was eager to get it installed and test it out.

I felt a blend of excitement and cautious optimism. I’ve tried similar kits before with mixed results, but the reputation of Cylinder & Slide gave me hope for a noticeable improvement.


Real-World Testing: Putting Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit and immediately headed to my local shooting range. The installation process was straightforward, thanks to several online tutorials and the relatively simple design of the 1911. My test pistol was my Colt Series 80 1911 Government Model in .45 ACP.

The difference was immediately noticeable. The trigger pull felt significantly lighter, and the gritty feel of the stock trigger was gone. The trigger break was much cleaner and crisper.

I experienced one initial issue. After about 50 rounds, I had a couple of failures to fire. Upon inspection, I realized the sear spring needed a slight adjustment to ensure reliable ignition. A quick tweak with a small tool solved the problem.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and hundreds of rounds downrange, the Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit has performed exceptionally well. The trigger pull has remained consistent, and I have experienced no further malfunctions after the initial sear spring adjustment.

The kit has proven to be durable, showing no signs of wear or degradation despite regular use. I’ve cleaned and lubricated the components as part of my regular firearm maintenance routine, and they continue to function flawlessly.

Compared to my previous experiences with 1911 trigger kits, this one stands out. Many others either didn’t deliver on their promises or caused reliability issues. The Cylinder & Slide kit has exceeded my expectations by providing a tangible improvement in trigger feel and maintaining the reliability of my pistol.

Breaking Down the Features of Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit

Specifications

The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit is specifically designed for 1911 pistols that incorporate the Series 80 firing pin safety mechanism. This system adds two levers to the 1911’s design, which can negatively impact trigger feel. The kit aims to reduce the friction caused by these levers.

The Manufacturer is Cylinder & Slide, a reputable company known for producing high-quality 1911 parts. This kit is compatible with all 1911 platforms utilizing the Series 80 system.

The key specification is its ability to reduce the trigger pull weight and smooth the trigger action. The kit achieves this by using precision-machined components and improved geometry to minimize friction within the Series 80 mechanism. The difference is significant, potentially reducing the trigger pull weight by 1-2 pounds and providing a much cleaner break.

Performance & Functionality

The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit significantly improves the trigger performance of Series 80 1911s. It delivers on its promise of reducing trigger pull weight and smoothing the trigger action.

The strengths of this kit lie in its ability to transform a mushy and heavy trigger into a crisp and predictable one. The reduced friction in the Series 80 mechanism makes a noticeable difference. The only weakness I encountered was the need for a minor sear spring adjustment, but that is not uncommon with drop-in trigger kits.

The kit met and slightly exceeded my expectations. It breathed new life into my Series 80 1911, making it a more enjoyable and accurate pistol to shoot.

Design & Ergonomics

The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit is designed with precision and attention to detail. The components are well-machined and finished, ensuring smooth operation and a long service life.

The kit is relatively easy to install, requiring only basic gunsmithing skills and common tools. The design focuses on improving the internal mechanics of the trigger system without altering the external ergonomics of the 1911.

Durability & Maintenance

The components of the Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit are made from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. With proper maintenance, the kit should last for thousands of rounds.

The kit is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the components are all that’s needed to keep it functioning optimally.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit is designed to work with the existing 1911 fire control components. While it doesn’t come with any specific accessories, it can be used in conjunction with other aftermarket parts such as hammers, sears, and triggers. It is compatible with most standard 1911 parts, allowing for further customization.

Pros and Cons of Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit

Pros

  • Significantly reduces trigger pull weight.
  • Smooths out the trigger action, eliminating grittiness.
  • Provides a cleaner and crisper trigger break.
  • Relatively easy to install with basic gunsmithing skills.
  • Maintains the reliability of the 1911 platform.

Cons

  • May require minor adjustments, such as sear spring tuning, for optimal performance.
  • Specifically designed for Series 80 1911s; not compatible with other models.


Who Should Buy Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit?

This kit is perfect for 1911 owners who are looking to improve the trigger pull on their Series 80 pistols without the expense of a full trigger job. It is also suitable for those who are comfortable performing basic gunsmithing tasks and want to enhance the performance of their firearm.

Individuals who are completely unfamiliar with the internal workings of a 1911 or uncomfortable disassembling their firearm should probably skip this product. It is best left to those with some mechanical aptitude or the willingness to learn.

A must-have accessory for this kit is a set of small gunsmithing tools, including punches, a hammer, and a sear spring tool. A good quality gun oil and grease are also essential for proper lubrication.

Conclusion on Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit

The Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to improve the trigger pull of their Series 80 1911. It delivers on its promises of reduced trigger pull weight, smoother action, and a cleaner break.

At a price of $49.69, the value proposition is excellent. It offers a significant performance upgrade at a fraction of the cost of a professional gunsmithing job.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Cylinder & Slide 1911 Series 80 Trigger Pull Reduction Kit to any 1911 owner looking to enhance their shooting experience. If you’re ready to transform your Series 80 trigger from mushy to marvelous, this kit is the way to go. Order yours today and experience the difference!

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