We all know that the 1911 platform is a fine weapon, and we also know that they can be picky about the kinds of ammunition they will run. Â That is one of the many reasons why more than a few firearms instructors suggest guns other than a 1911 for self-defense purposes.
For years, I have seen gunsmiths offering a variety of packages to improve the reliability of the venerable 1911.  But, I did not realize that Colt offered one of those same packages at the factory. The Colt Enhanced Reliability Package is a deal offered through the company’s custom shop and can be purchased prior to the acquisition of the firearm to get it tuned before delivery.  Also, current Colt owners can ship their existing 1911 back to the shop for improving reliability.
Among the enhancements performed on the guns:
- extractor tension adjustment
- tuning of the sear and disconnector
- polishing and contouring of the barrel throat
- adjustment and test firing of all included mags
- adjustment of the ejector
- lowering and flaring of the ejection port
- polishing of the feed ramp
A cynic might suggest these things be done before any 1911 left Colt’s factory or that the above actions would be better titled “warranty work.” Â Some might point out that Glock doesn’t offer a “enhanced reliability” package on that company’s pistols.
I’m not here to bash Colt or 1911’s, but it does seem to me that if the company has to offer a package to enhance reliability, they might make at least some of these things standard with all of their pistols except maybe a GI-style gun.
Your thoughts?
8 replies on ““Enhanced Reliability” Package from Colt”
hahahahahaha “Warranty work!”
I think I’m like the author: own and like the 1911, but it requires tuning to run right. Even then the cheap plastic pistols like the XD, M&P and Glocks all are more reliable. My 1911s are for range time, not concealed carry.
Whatever. I’ll take my slabsided 1911 over any plastic gun. What do you think Patton was carrying?
Didn’t Patton carry a pair of pearl-handled revolvers?
Hi Dan,
If I recall correctly, Patton carried an ivory-gripped 1911 from WWI through the early 1940’s. After he deployed overseas in WWII, he was frequently seen carrying a single Colt .45 Peacemaker with ivory stocks. He was also known to carry a Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum during that time. Digging deep into my memory, I want to say that he also carried a .32 as a backup pistol, but I could be wrong about that.
I’ve read somewhere that the double revolver stories originated from an article written on him during WWII, but I don’t think he was known to carry two slung on his hips regularly.
Gen. Patton was also known to despise pearl handled pistols, suggesting they were fit only for New Orleans pimps.
-Richard
I have put many brands of ammo thur my ruger 1911 and a lot of them,I have yet to have a hiccup of any kind. I might have one today but so far so good.