Re-assembly

• Replace the barrel by sliding it into the slide from the muzzle end. Align it so it locks in place.
• Insert the recoil spring and recoil spring guide rod from the chamber end. Make sure the guide rod rests on the barrel properly, directly in front of the barrel link.
• Verify the hammer is still fully cocked.
• Verify the safety is disengaged.
• Verify the firing pin plunger lever is down. If it’s flipped up, the slide will not go on.
• Put the slide back on the receiver and align the barrel link with the slide stop mounting hole. Insert the slide stop pin, making sure it passes through the barrel link. Push the pin all the way through. It will click into place (if you properly aligned the disassembly notch with the rearward portion of the slide stop).
• Next, replace the recoil spring plug. Take care in this step as you did during field-stripping; the plug will be under a great deal of pressure. Consider wearing eye protection in case the plug launches into the air. Move the slide forward so it is fully atop the receiver. Your barrel bushing will already be rotated to one side. Place the plug on the end of the recoil spring. Put the bushing wrench over the bushing and use one hand to compress the spring to the level of the wrench. Capture the edge of the plug with the wrench and press it down, rotating the bushing back into its original position to hold it in place. Alternately, use your thumb on the bushing and use the edge of the bushing wrench to push the plug low enough for the bushing to catch. Once the plug is compressed enough, you can simply rotate the bushing into place with your other hand.
• Work the action of your 1911 a few times to spread the lubricant and check basic function. Dry-fire in a safe direction if you wish.