Correct method of loading the 1911 pistol

Handgun Repair Shop, Gunsmith for modern and antique handguns, rifles, and shotguns.

The following letter was received at Handgun Repair Shop on May 14, 2004 from Springfield Armory.

(All semi-automatic firearms should always be loaded from the magazine, as this letter confirms.)

Dear Springfield 1911 Dealer/Distributor:

At Springfield Armory, our commitment to quality is matched by our dedication to gun safety. That commitment to quality and safety is reflected in our immensely popular Springfield 1911 pistol.

Because we know that you share our belief that every firearm should be handled in the safest manner possible, we are writing to inform you of specific steps that we have taken to prevent a potential hazard. It has come to our attention that some Springfield 1911 owners occasionally load the pistol by manually inserting a single round of ammunition into the chamber. This method of loading the 1911 is incorrect. The proper method, as described in the Springfield 1911 owner's manual, is to allow each round to be automatically fed into the chamber from the magazine.

To encourage safe handling of the 1911, we have issued a warning that will be enclosed with all new 1911s. It states:

Warning: Improperly loading the 1911 by manually inserting a single round into the chamber may cause accidental discharge. Always load the pistol using the magazine. When loading the pistol, always point the muzzle in a safe direction.

In addition, we are writing to current Springfield 1911 owners known to us, reminding them of the correct method of loading the 1911, and advising them to refrain from loading the pistol in the improper manner described above.

The Springfield 1911 is perfectly safe when loaded and used properly. We greatly appreciate your cooperation in promoting safe handling of the 1911. If you have questions or comments, please call us at 1-800-680-6866, or visit our website at http://www.springfield-armory.com.

Sincerely,

Dennis J. Reese

Co-Chairman of the Board