[Gun Nut]

Ok guys, I was trying to break down my Colt Defender to see how hard it would be to replace the plastic trigger. I need to remove the mag catch, but the screw is so tight I can't get it off and I stripped it pretty good. It seems pretty soft and it gave way on the bit.

I used a screw driver set from Dillons that was supposed to be for armory work. I looked at the bit and the screw even bent it a tad. Anyone have any suggestions on how I can get this screw out? Am I missing something (besides needing to replace the screw...)?

 

[Bob Brown]

That isn't a screw...it is a lug on the lever. Just push the left button towards the right side while holding a screwdriver in the "screw" slot and put pressure on it to twist it counter-clockwise until the mag release itself comes right out. Take a good look at it when you get it out and you'll see where a little lug fits into a slot in the receiver

 

[Jim Watson]

In the first place, the magazine catch lock is not a screw. It is a quarter turn mechanical lock. To remove the magazine catch press the button flush with the frame as though removing a magazine and hold it there. Turn the lock a quarter turn to the left. You will need a skinny screwdriver because the head of the lock will now be recessed in its hole in the catch. You may have to feel around for the unlocked position, keeping light pressure on the screwdriver while easing the catch button in and out by very small amounts. It should not take much effort to turn the lock when it is lined up correctly. The lug on the lock turns out of its notch in the frame into a groove in the magazine catch. So when the lock is turned the magazine catch will drop right out of the right side of the hole with the lock and spring captive in their hole. To reinstall, drop the magazine catch back in the hole, hold the button flush with the left side of the frame, and turn the lock back to the right a quarter turn to move its lug back into the frame notch. Don't force it. Buy a new lock with unboogered head.

 

[Gun Nut]

Doh! I knew I wasn't doing something right! You guys are awsome. Thanks!

 

[bman2219]

I wish I had read this post before I ruined three screwdrivers. I was thinking I might need an impact screwdriver. I will have craftsman replace my screwdrivers and try it again.

 

[Jim V]

Tsk, tsk, ya'll have not been reading your 1911 "HOW TO'S" and FAQ forum. To find the posting that tells how to remove the magazine release you may have to set your "show threads" selection to from the beginning.

There is a lot of good information posted there.