Bull-barrel 1911s: dirt + reliability problems?

[DreadPirateMoyer]

I've got a WC 1911 on order, and as of now, I've got a bull barrel optioned into the gun. It will look like this:



I just noticed that there's a fairly obvious gap between the barrel and guide rod/recoil spring. Do any of you have experience with bull barrel 1911s, and if so, do you know if this gap causes any reliability problems from environmental crud getting into the gun?

[DClan]

Looking at it from the front like that, what you are not seeing is the collar at the rear of the plug which butts up against the inside of the slide. It leaves very little room for debris to pass. Reliability with this design is a non-issue.

[nomad48]

Here is a link to a modification that someone came up with. thinking about doing this to my operator. http://forums.1911forum.com/showthread.php?t=338740

[DreadPirateMoyer]

That modification is awesome. On that note, I'm not too worried about dirt anymore after hearing your replies and looking around.

However, I'm now fearing rust. I got a full SS pistol with all SS parts, except the recoil spring is chrome-silicon. I'm worried this will rust quickly, especially with a hole in the plug like that.

Any advice on that front?

[The Hobbit]

just wipe it down with an oil cloth after being in the rain or using it. That should stop any rust from forming.

[thundrr1]

I replied on the 1911 forum,,,, as well. It's not an issue to worry about.....SS guns will be in your Great Great grandchildren' hands....specially if their a Wilson.

[ScreaminSS01]

I'm a 1911 newbie owner but wouldn't regular cleaning and lubing prevent rust?

[Pagoda240]

I'm a 1911 newbie owner but wouldn't regular cleaning and lubing prevent rust?

From someone that has spent time in the tropics. Surface rust can hit any firearm but nothing a proper cleaning and maintenance want control. As for the mod seems like overkill and you take the chance of making a reliable firearm not reliable.

[Pete D.]

I am not familiar with this bull barrel set up.
It looks neat but, that being said....what is the point of it? What is to be gained?
Pete

[DreadPirateMoyer]

The bull barrel's benefits are marginal, I think, but noticeable. The added weight helps reduce muzzle flip, and also adds strength for resisting any bending or pressure as the weapon gets hot (very marginal on that point).