Let’s Talk About Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70
The Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70 is a small but vital component in the venerable 1911 platform. It’s designed to prevent the firing pin from moving forward unless the trigger is pulled and the grip safety is engaged. Evolution Gun Works (EGW) is a well-respected name in the firearms parts industry, known for producing quality components.
My journey to finding the Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70 started when I noticed excessive wear on my original firing pin stop. The original part was showing its age after thousands of rounds, and I wanted a reliable replacement that wouldn’t require extensive gunsmithing. I needed a simple, effective solution to maintain the safety and reliability of my Series 70 1911.
Upon opening the package, I was immediately impressed with the EGW firing pin stop’s clean machining and solid feel. The blued carbon steel looked durable, and the dimensions appeared precise. It felt like a significant upgrade over the MIM (Metal Injection Molded) factory part it was replacing.
I considered other drop-in firing pin stops from Wilson Combat and Ed Brown. I ultimately chose the EGW primarily due to EGW‘s reputation for tight tolerances and the drop-in nature of this particular model, promising minimal fitting. The price point was also attractive, offering excellent value for what appeared to be a high-quality part.
My first impression was positive and hopeful. I anticipated a smooth installation and improved reliability without needing to spend hours filing and fitting. The promise of a true “drop-in” part for my beloved 1911 was exciting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70 at my local outdoor shooting range. I installed it in my Series 70 Colt Government Model 1911. The weather was sunny, with a slight breeze – ideal conditions for a range day.
The installation was indeed straightforward, requiring no filing or modification. It dropped right into place as advertised. Function testing – checking for proper firing pin retention and safety engagement – proved successful.
Initially, I fired about 100 rounds of .45 ACP through the pistol. There were no noticeable issues or malfunctions. The firing pin stop appeared to be functioning perfectly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including approximately 1000 rounds fired, the Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70 continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of wear or deformation. The bluing remains intact, showing no rust or corrosion.
Maintenance is simple. I clean the firing pin stop along with the rest of the pistol after each range session, using standard gun cleaning solvents and lubricants. I have not encountered any need for specialized care or maintenance.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket 1911 parts, the EGW firing pin stop stands out for its true “drop-in” fit and consistent performance. I’ve previously spent hours fitting other parts, but this EGW part required zero modifications, saving me significant time and frustration.
Breaking Down the Features of Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70
Specifications
The Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70 features the following specifications:
- Caliber: .45 ACP
- Material: Blued Carbon Steel
- Compatibility: GI 45s and Government Models (Series 70)
- Installation: Drop-In (No fitting required)
- Color: Black
These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and lifespan of the part. The carbon steel construction ensures durability and resistance to wear. The .45 ACP caliber specificity ensures proper fit and function in .45 ACP 1911 pistols. The drop-in design is crucial for ease of installation, especially for those without gunsmithing experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70 performs its job admirably. It reliably prevents the firing pin from moving forward unless the grip safety is engaged and the trigger is pulled, maintaining the pistol’s intended safety features.
Its key strength is its ease of installation and reliable function. A potential weakness could be its limited compatibility; it’s specifically designed for GI 45s and Government Model Series 70 1911s. It may not fit other models or calibers without modification.
The EGW firing pin stop meets and exceeds my expectations. It provides a durable and reliable replacement for the original part without requiring any gunsmithing.
Design & Ergonomics
The Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70 is designed with functionality in mind. The blued carbon steel provides a solid and durable feel. Its weight is negligible, adding no discernible weight to the pistol.
It is exceptionally user-friendly due to its drop-in design. There is no learning curve; simply remove the old firing pin stop and install the EGW replacement.
Durability & Maintenance
The blued carbon steel construction suggests excellent durability. With proper care and maintenance, it should last for thousands of rounds.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning and lubrication along with the rest of the pistol. I anticipate no issues with long-term maintenance or repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70 does not come with any accessories. As a small internal part, there are no real customization options directly associated with it.
It is compatible with standard 1911 firing pins and related components. It won’t interfere with any other modifications or accessories added to the pistol, such as grips, sights, or triggers.
Pros and Cons of Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70
Pros
- True Drop-In Fit: Requires no filing or modification for installation.
- Durable Construction: Made from blued carbon steel for long-lasting performance.
- Enhanced Safety: Ensures proper firing pin retention and prevents accidental discharge.
- Cost-Effective: Offers excellent value for a high-quality replacement part.
- Reliable Performance: Functions consistently and reliably over extended use.
Cons
- Limited Compatibility: Specifically designed for GI 45s and Government Model Series 70 1911s.
- Basic Finish: The blued finish, while durable, isn’t particularly fancy or corrosion-resistant compared to some higher-end finishes.
Who Should Buy Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70?
The Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70 is perfect for 1911 enthusiasts who own a GI 45 or Government Model Series 70 and are looking for a reliable and easy-to-install replacement firing pin stop. It’s also ideal for those who want to maintain the safety and functionality of their 1911 without requiring extensive gunsmithing.
Someone should skip this product if they own a 1911 model other than a GI 45 or Government Model Series 70, as it may not fit properly. Also, if they are looking for a firing pin stop with specific aesthetic features or a more corrosion-resistant finish, they may want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory would be a basic 1911 disassembly tool for easy removal of the original firing pin stop and installation of the EGW replacement.
Conclusion on Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70
The Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70 is a reliable and affordable upgrade for any GI 45 or Government Model Series 70 1911. Its true drop-in fit, durable construction, and enhanced safety features make it an excellent choice for maintaining the functionality and reliability of this iconic firearm.
The price of $14.99 is more than justified. Considering the quality and ease of installation, it represents excellent value for the money.
I would personally recommend the Evolution Gun Works Drop-In Firing Pin Stop Series 70 to any 1911 owner looking for a dependable and hassle-free replacement part. Upgrade your 1911 today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is functioning safely and reliably!