How A Model 1911 Works

These detailed diagrams show in very simple illustrations and description exactly how a 1911 design pistol functions. It is particularly interesting to note how the pressure of the gas in the barrel while the bullet is traveling through the barrel binds the locking lugs to the slide until the bullet exits the barrel completely and the pressure begins to drop. This would lead one to believe that the barrel bushing type compensators are in fact effective to a degree. I have heard many claims that these types of compensators are worthless... i have always had good luck with them and they don't mess with the accuracy in my experience.

Anyway, I found these diagrams to be very helpful in better understanding the 1911 design function. Click on the pictures to view them full size.