Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80 Review

Unboxing & First Thoughts on the Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80

My search for a more robust firing pin stop for my 1911 platform, specifically for its ability to handle heavier recoil, led me to the Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80. As an enthusiast who pushes gear to its limits across various demanding environments, I’m always on the lookout for components that promise enhanced reliability and durability. This particular part caught my eye with its promise of solving common 1911 issues related to extractor function and slide movement.

The specific issue that prompted this purchase was an increasing desire to reliably run .45 Super cartridges through my Sig Tac-Ops 1911. While the pistol is fundamentally sound, the added pressure and slide velocity of .45 Super rounds can sometimes stress standard components. I was looking for a part that wouldn’t just “work,” but would actively contribute to smoother operation under adverse conditions.

Upon receiving the firing pin stop, my initial impression was of a solid, precisely machined component. The steel felt robust, and the finish was even and consistent. It exuded a sense of quality that is often missing in smaller, less glamorous firearm parts. I had briefly considered a standard-sized replacement from another manufacturer, but their less aggressive design didn’t inspire the same confidence for my intended application. This EGW offering, however, immediately sparked a sense of anticipation for its performance.

First Use Experience

My testing regimen for the Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80 centered on its intended application: managing the increased stress of .45 Super ammunition in a 1911. I installed it in my Sig Tac-Ops 1911 at my workbench, where the fitting process began. This was not a simple drop-in part, as the product description clearly states; it required careful filing to achieve a perfect fit within the slide recess.

The initial fitting was a tactile experience. I used fine files and stone to meticulously shave down the oversized dimensions, constantly checking the fit against the slide. This process, while requiring patience, allowed me to appreciate the raw material and the potential for a truly custom lockup. Once fitted, the slide cycled with a new, more controlled feel, free from the slight side-to-side play I might have previously overlooked.

After the fitting was complete, I took the pistol to my personal range. I cycled through several magazines of standard .45 ACP rounds first, to ensure basic function. The ejection seemed crisper, and the slide felt more “positive” in its movement. Then, I loaded up with .45 Super. The increased recoil was managed well, and the extraction and ejection were consistently flawless, even with rapid firing. There were no instances of stovepipes or FTEs (failures to extract), which can be a concern with higher-powered rounds and standard components.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several range sessions and a few hundred rounds of both .45 ACP and .45 Super, the Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80 has proven its worth. The initial fitting was critical, and once achieved, the part has been a silent, dependable performer. I haven’t encountered any further need for adjustment or modification, indicating a stable fit.

Durability-wise, there are no discernible signs of wear or degradation. The steel shows no scratching beyond the minor marks from the fitting process, and the function remains as smooth and reliable as it was on the first day. It has maintained its tight lockup, preventing any unwanted lateral movement that could affect the firing pin’s travel or the extractor’s engagement.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A simple field strip and cleaning are all that’s required, just as with any other pistol component. The robust steel construction means it’s unlikely to be damaged by typical cleaning solvents or methods. Compared to the standard firing pin stop I used previously, which felt more prone to developing slight play over time, this oversized unit feels significantly more robust and built to last.

Specifications

The Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80 is a precisely engineered component designed to enhance the reliability of 1911-style pistols. It’s crafted from hardened steel, tested on the Rockwell 48 Rc scale, ensuring significant strength and wear resistance.

Its primary distinguishing feature is its oversized dimensions. This width prevents the extractor from rotating out of position, a common cause of ejection malfunctions. Furthermore, its increased thickness eliminates lateral movement within the slide, contributing to a more consistent lock-up and firing pin engagement.

The inside corners are radiused to prevent stress risers and potential cracking, significantly extending the part’s lifespan. A specific .015 radius on the back corner serves a dual purpose: breaking the sharp edge while maintaining a square profile that effectively slows the slide opening, thus reducing battering on the frame and preventing premature wear.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of this firing pin stop is to contribute to more reliable cycling and ejection, and in this regard, the Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80 excels. The increased width of the stop is paramount, providing a positive barrier that keeps the extractor properly seated. This detail alone significantly smooths out the ejection process, especially under the higher stress of potent ammunition like the .45 Super I tested it with.

The enhanced thickness to eliminate lateral movement is another key performance benefit. This tighter fit leads to a more stable firing pin channel, ensuring the pin strikes the primer with consistent force and alignment. This contributes to both reliable ignition and a reduction in potential slide-related malfunctions.

The radiused corners, while subtle, speak to the thoughtful engineering behind this part. They mitigate the common failure point of cracking under stress, promising a longer service life than a less thoughtfully designed component. The strategic radius on the back corner also plays a role in recoil management by influencing slide speed, a critical factor in sustained shooting.

Design & Ergonomics

From a design perspective, the EGW firing pin stop is built for function over form, which is precisely what’s needed in a critical firearm component. The hardened steel construction gives it a substantial feel, and the precise machining is evident in its clean lines and consistent dimensions, apart from the intentionally oversized areas. The blued finish is uniform and offers a basic level of corrosion resistance.

Ergonomically, this component doesn’t have “feel” in the traditional sense, as it’s internal. However, its design directly impacts the ergonomics of the firearm it’s installed in. By reducing unnecessary play and ensuring positive extractor and slide function, it contributes to a smoother, more predictable shooting experience. The absence of sharp edges or burrs on the fitted surfaces is testament to its quality manufacturing.

The clear markings indicating Series 80 compatibility are helpful. The overall design philosophy is one of robust, no-nonsense engineering, aiming to solve specific problems encountered in high-performance 1911 platforms.

Durability & Maintenance

The anticipated durability of the Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80 is exceptionally high, given its material and design. Being made of hardened steel and tested to 48 Rc, it’s built to withstand the repetitive impacts and stresses within a firearm’s slide for tens of thousands of rounds, if not more. The radiused corners are specifically engineered to prevent the catastrophic failure of cracking, a common issue with lesser-quality parts.

Maintenance is as simple as any other internal firearm component. A basic field strip and cleaning are sufficient to keep it free of debris and carbon buildup. No specialized tools or lubricants are required, and its robust nature means it can handle standard cleaning agents without issue.

A potential, though minor, point of concern during installation is the need for careful fitting. If not properly filed, the oversized nature could lead to premature wear or malfunctions. However, once correctly fitted, the longevity of the part itself should not be an issue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80 is sold as a standalone component. It does not come with any additional accessories, nor does it have inherent customization options in terms of color or finish beyond the standard blued steel.

However, its compatibility with various 1911 models is a form of customization in itself. The product description explicitly states that Series 80 versions will work in Series 70 guns, offering a degree of interchangeability. More importantly, EGW offers caliber and series-specific firing pin stops, allowing users to select the exact part for their needs, which is a critical form of “customization” for optimal fit and function.

Pros and Cons of Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80

Who Should Buy Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80?

This firing pin stop is an excellent choice for experienced 1911 owners and gunsmiths looking to enhance the reliability of their pistols, especially those who frequently use higher-powered ammunition like .45 Super or +P loads. It’s ideal for individuals who understand that precision firearm components often require fitting and are comfortable with the minor work involved. Anyone experiencing ejection issues or seeking a tighter slide lockup will benefit significantly.

Those who should probably skip this product are beginners to 1911 platforms or individuals who expect all firearm parts to be simple, drop-in replacements. If you’re not comfortable with filing or making minor adjustments to your firearm, this might not be the best first upgrade. Additionally, if your 1911 functions flawlessly with standard ammunition and you have no ejection-related concerns, the benefit of this particular upgrade may be less pronounced.

Conclusion on Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80

The Evolution Gun Works Oversized Firing Pin Stop Series 80 is a thoughtfully engineered component that delivers tangible improvements in 1911 reliability, particularly under strenuous conditions. Its oversized design addresses common failure points related to extractor rotation and slide play, offering a more robust and consistent firearm operation. The $14.99 price point is an incredible value for the enhanced reliability and durability it provides, especially considering the precision machining and hardened steel construction.

I wholeheartedly recommend this firing pin stop to any 1911 enthusiast who is willing to perform the necessary fitting. It’s a small part that makes a significant difference, transforming a good pistol into a more dependable one, especially for those pushing the envelope with ammunition or seeking the utmost in operational smoothness. For anyone who values reliability and understands that quality parts sometimes require a personal touch, this EGW component is a superb upgrade.