EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 Review

The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 Made a Bold First Impression

The 1911 platform. A true American classic. But even the most meticulously maintained 1911 can experience issues related to primer flow and shear, especially when subjected to hotter loads. I was experiencing light strikes and inconsistent ignition in my custom-built .45 ACP competition 1911, and the EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 seemed like a promising solution.

My search for a firing pin that could reliably ignite primers, even with my preferred handloads, led me to EGW. I’ve used EGW parts before with excellent results, trusting their reputation for quality and precision engineering. The promise of eliminating primer flow and shear, detailed in the product description, was exactly what I needed.

The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 arrived in a simple, no-frills package. The pin itself appeared precisely machined with a clean, consistent finish. The EGW firing pin felt substantial and well-made.

I considered a standard-sized replacement firing pin from Wilson Combat and an extended firing pin from Ed Brown. However, the EGW pin’s .092 diameter and the company’s claim of precise fit within .001″ of the slide swayed my decision. It seemed like the most direct approach to solving my primer flow issue.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 looked like a high-quality component, but the proof would be in its performance. Would it solve my light strike problem, or would I need to explore other potential causes?

Real-World Testing: Putting EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 took place at my local shooting range, using a variety of .45 ACP ammunition including my standard handloads and some factory ammunition. This included Federal, Winchester, and my own recipe, using CCI primers. I wanted to see if the firing pin would solve my light strike issues across different primer types.

The firing pin performed flawlessly in dry conditions. Ignition was positive and consistent with every round fired. The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 seemed to be doing its job.

I did not experience any issues during my first range session. The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 performed exactly as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and hundreds of rounds fired, the EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 continues to function flawlessly. My previous light strike issues are completely gone. Confidence in my 1911 has been restored.

I’ve seen no signs of wear or tear on the firing pin. The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 appears to be made from high-quality steel. Routine cleaning and lubrication of the firing pin channel are all that’s required for maintenance.

The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 has far exceeded my expectations. It has completely eliminated the light strike issues I was experiencing. In comparison to my previous frustrations, this has been a monumental improvement.

Breaking Down the Features of EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092

Specifications

• Caliber: .45 ACP (Designed for GI .45 ACP 1911s). The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 is optimized for the .45 ACP cartridge.
• Diameter: .092 inches (Oversized to reduce primer flow). This slightly larger diameter is intended to create a tighter seal around the primer.
• Length: 2.260 inches (Standard length, not extra long). This standard length ensures proper function within the 1911 firing pin channel.
• Material: Steel (Unknown exact steel alloy). The material appears to be a hardened steel suitable for withstanding repeated impacts.
• Fit: Government, Commander, and Officer 1911 models. The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 is designed to be a drop-in replacement for most common 1911 frame sizes.

These specifications are vital for addressing primer flow and ensuring reliable ignition. The slightly oversized diameter fills the firing pin channel more completely, preventing primer material from flowing back around the pin during firing. The precise fit ensures that the firing pin strikes the primer with sufficient force to ignite the powder charge.

Performance & Functionality

The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 performs its job exceptionally well. It delivers consistent and reliable ignition, even with hotter handloads. The light strike issues I previously experienced are completely gone.

The primary strength of the EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 is its ability to eliminate primer flow and shear. This leads to more reliable ignition and prevents misfires. There are no apparent weaknesses.

The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 has exceeded my expectations by solving my light strike problems completely. It has restored my confidence in the reliability of my 1911.

Design & Ergonomics

The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 is a simple, robust design. The materials used appear to be high-quality and durable. The pin’s weight is consistent with other 1911 firing pins.

Installation is relatively straightforward, though some gunsmithing knowledge is helpful. There is no real learning curve. You must ensure the firing pin channel is clean and free of debris.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, the EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 should last a long time. The steel construction is resistant to wear and tear. Regular cleaning of the firing pin channel is the only necessary maintenance.

The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 is designed to be a drop-in replacement. If needed, a competent gunsmith can easily replace it.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 does not come with any accessories. It is a standalone replacement part. There are no specific customization options for the firing pin itself. However, it is compatible with most standard 1911 firing pin retaining plates and springs.

Pros and Cons of EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092

Who Should Buy EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092?

The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 is perfect for:

• 1911 owners experiencing light strikes or misfires.
• Reloaders using hotter loads.
• Competitive shooters seeking increased reliability.
• Anyone looking to upgrade their 1911’s ignition system.

Who should skip this product?

• If your 1911 is functioning perfectly, there’s no need to replace the firing pin.
• If you are uncomfortable disassembling your 1911, seek professional installation.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A 1911 disassembly tool.
• A new firing pin spring (optional, but recommended for a complete refresh).

Conclusion on EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092

The EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 is a simple but effective solution for improving the ignition reliability of your 1911. It directly addresses the problem of primer flow and shear, leading to more consistent and dependable firing.

The price of $9.49 is more than justified by the performance gains. I would wholeheartedly recommend the EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 to anyone experiencing light strikes or misfires in their 1911. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference. Don’t let light strikes ruin your shooting experience; upgrade to the EGW Oversized Firing Pin 1911 .092 and experience the difference!