Broken S&W 1911PD

[jay1313g]

Just over a week ago, I visited my local gun shop and found myself in a tough decision between a new Kimber Pro Carry in stainless or a barely used S&W 1911PD. I really liked the S&W and I had always read good things about them so I made the choice and the S&W 1911PD came home with me.

I finally got to the range today and after just 30 rounds, I was trying to engage the safety and it wouldn't go all the way up. I looked at it and the plunger tube has broken off the frame. (Sheared the 2 pins holding it on.) I really liked how it shot for those 30 rounds but, now it will go back to S&W for repair. At least they will pay for the shipping so I do feel better about that.

It's hard not to think I should have went wih the NEW Kimber although it could have broken the same part or any other one.

Arrrrrrgggggghhhhhhh!!!!!

Jay

[Lumber_Jack]

I can understand your frustration, but any qualified gunsmith could fix that without much trouble. He hardest part is removing the old material from the whole. Rest assured that S&W should fix it

[DavidD]

Bummer. Someone once told me the plunger tube attachment was the worst part of JMB's design, but in 100 years no one has come up with a better solution.

[DavidD]

I stand corrected regarding my comments above. Apparently Ruger's new SR-1911 has an integrally cast plunger tube. Although I know this has been done before, I can't recall who (brand) did it and I applaud Ruger's effort to fix this.

[jay1313g]

Hats off to S&W. I dropped the 1911PD off at FedEx on July 20th and it was back at my door on the 1st of August. Not a bad turn around!

I've yet to shoot it but, was impressed with how easy it was to get it repaired. In the meantime, I received my OS/PRO holster from HBE Leatherworks. This is my second OS/PRO and they are GREAT holsters.

Jay

[I_Like_Pie]

The kimber would have done exactly the same thing....Knowing certain people with their penchant for bad luck and all.

Looks like they turned it around pretty quick...would be surprized if it gave you any more problems.

[TNWNGR]

I wouldn't fret to much over the plunger tube problem, it's not uncommon at all and is one of those "bread and Butter" type of repair job's for gunsmith's. FWIW I believe that the S&W was a good selection and that you will enjoy it.

[TGO David]

You will find that S&W's customer service is second to none. Hopefully this will be your last and only experience having to use their CS department, though.

[alwaysonjohn]

so did S&W pay for shipping? I can't stand companies that make you pay to ship in a gun to get it fixed.

[TGO David]

so did S&W pay for shipping? I can't stand companies that make you pay to ship in a gun to get it fixed.

My experience has been that they pay shipping both directions.

[jay1313g]

so did S&W pay for shipping? I can't stand companies that make you pay to ship in a gun to get it fixed.

Yes sir! They paid for it both ways!

[Guest 556or762]

I have the 4in 1911PD I carry it almost every day and havent had any issues yet I love the way it shoots and its light for a 1911, Im glad to hear S&W fixed it without question. On another note I also have a Kimber and I have had issues with it ( it is 10 years old though oh well) I Had to replace my barrel link and Ive changed springs twice and changed the spring rate to one it likes better. I have to say of all my 1911's I have had very few issues and I have tried 4 manufacturers all in all it is an excellent reliable platform in my book, good luck with the PD.

[QuietDan]

Glad it all worked out. Best it has a minor problem early than a major problem later.

Now it's gotten the good once over -- you're golden!

[tnhawk]

Glad to hear that S&W gave you excellent customer service on the pistol. Let us know how it shoots after the next trip to the range.