Quick dumb question

[424D57]

On a 1911 leaf spring at the top of the sear leg is a little tab that extends above the surface which contacts the left sear foot and is often bent forward (towards the muzzle).

What is its purpose?

I suspect the answer is out there somewhere but I've not yet come up with precise enough search terms here or on google so I figured I'd man up and ask. The curiosity is killing me.

-424D57

[Steve RA]

Some have it, some don't. I imagine it's there to keep the sear portion of the sear spring from slipping from its location on the sear.

[424D57]

Wow. With 137 views and only one answer that includes "imagine" I think I'll have to strike the dumb part of the question.

Thanks Steve!

-424D57

[matgyver]

It can be used to remove the mag catch...maybe there's another purpose?

http://www.sightm1911.com/lib/tech/toolbox.htm

[dhenry132]

learn something every day

[38superfan]

Wow first I've heard of that listing.

[Steve RA]

I think originally you could disassemble the whole 1911 with various parts, like the above with the sear spring working on the mag release. Think the right leg of the sear spring would do the grip screws - first thing was remove the safety and use it to remove the pin holding the main spring housing in place. JB was a clever little devil !!!

Honest, I didn't look at the above link before I posted the above, remembered reading it years ago in a magazine or book.

Edited September 14, 2013 by Steve RA

[424D57]

It can be used to remove the mag catch...maybe there's another purpose?

http://www.sightm1911.com/lib/tech/toolbox.htm

I have to say I really like this answer!

-424D57