Bushings

1911 Barrel Bushings

Every gun owner should know the internal components of their gun and how it operates. Barrel bushings are crucial components in a gun's mechanisms that most seem to overlook. It greatly ensures the slide fits in and moves during operation, improving accuracy and reliability. Read on to learn about the barrel bushings available and how to find the ideal prospect. Then, contact us at Fusion Firearms if you have any firearm-related questions; we'd be glad to help.

What are Barrel Bushings?

Barrel bushings are crucial components fitted in a gun's barrel. The bushings are removable and replaceable and work towards ensuring the slide maintains a consistent trajectory with every fire. Apart from improved accuracy, you'll also find it easier to operate a pistol fitted with the ideal barrel bushings.



The bushings streamline gun operations by providing clearance for the barrel to tilt as it recoils, making it easy to load the next round. They also center the barrel and give a more solid firing platform when the slide returns to the battery. The configuration achieved guarantees minimal wear on the slide while creating a more practical approach to keep things consistent.

Common Types of Barrel Bushings?

Fitting a barrel bushing in your firearm goes a long way in improving overall performance. There are different bushing designs available for varying barrel dimensions. The bushing type you select significantly depends on your gun and its barrel's diameter. The following are common types of barrel bushings available;

Standard Style Bushings (Mil-Spec Style)

The mil-spec variant is one of the most common bushings in most retail shops. The main distinguishing factor with these bushings is the slightly big lug featured in its exterior design. The lug focuses on providing you with a tight lockup without requiring a gunsmith.

The standard style bushing should fit in most factory-made pistols and only require light cleaning occasionally. In addition, it is the cheapest option and has a very straightforward installation process.

Gunsmith Fit Bushings

These bushings are slightly more complicated to install as they might require some special tools and skills. Gunsmith fit bushings are ideal for old guns that are out of tolerance or specialized pistols. It would be wise to consider other bushings types if your firearm is not handling severe functions.



Most manufacturers build gunsmith-fit bushings of varying diameters to ensure compatibility with numerous guns. Some are larger on the outside diameter and smaller on the inside diameter, while others are the opposite. The design makes it easy for you to turn down the outer measurements to achieve a better fit in the slide.

Match Grade Bushings

You can also consider match-grade bushings for your firearm. These bushings feature a unique design with a tighter lug, smaller inside, and larger outside diameter. Fitting it into your pistol will require you to file a small portion of the lug using a wrench. Although installing it is more involving than other options, you can still handle it at home. You only need a dremel tool or a hone to adjust the bore. It would be wise to understand that the materials used in all the types mentioned are standard.

What Are the Benefits of a Barrel Bushing?

Individuals fit double barrel bushings in their weapons to lock up repeatability by keeping the barrel properly aligned. Your gun will improve its accuracy when the barrel gets locked up and positions itself in the slide the same way with every shot attempt. Loose and sloppy bushings provide extra wear and tear on the barrel while decreasing the weapon's accuracy.

How Do I Choose Barrel Bushings?

Your ideal barrel bushing will depend on your gun type, its purpose, and how much money you are willing to spend. Gun type is crucial since the fitted barrels come in varying diameters. Therefore, before purchasing bushings, you must confirm your barrel's internal diameter to avoid incurring extra costs.



What you plan to use the gun for also dictates which barrel bushing is best. The standard fit bushings are perfect for individuals who rarely use their weapons, while match-grade bushings are ideal for professional shooters. Gunsmith fit bushings also guarantee to improve your weapon's functioning significantly but are relatively expensive and complicated to install.

Note that 1911 with a bull barrel does not require the bushing for optimal functioning. These firearms require a full-length guide rod for the barrel to ride against the slide. They also include a section providing support to the barrel's bottom part, preventing it from getting wedged in the slide during lockup.

Bottom Line

You must select a fitting barrel bushing for your weapon to enjoy improved accuracy and handling. This article has everything you need to know about barrel bushings and how to install one. For high-quality and durable components, you must find a reliable retailer. Visit our website to view the extensive barrel bushings catalog and buy one for your pistol.