1911 barrel bushing

[handymanDon]

I have a stainless Colt 1911, Gold Cup National Match pistol. Series 80. Built in 1987. I understand that for some 1911 owners, field stripping and reassembly is a breeze...not even needing to use a barrel bushing wrench. I've had this pistol for 2 years and I've always needed to use the bushing wrench. Usually the whole process goes without much trouble...but sometimes the bushing doesn't want to turn far enough to allow the spring and cap to come out or go back in. Do these have to be replaced from time to time ? It isn't bent. I do feel some tiny burs that maybe I should smooth off with emory paper. Are stainless pistols more prone to fitting problems like this because the metal is so hard and unforgiving ? ...and more likely to not cooperate because of small burs. Launched the main spring cap across the room 3 times yesterday trying to put it back together. Never done that before. I'd guess some pistols are more cooperative than others. Any thoughts on this ? Pre-shate it.

[elliotf]

It is possible that its fitted tight and needs the bushing wrench. Are you following the directions in the manual?
"Push the slide back about 1/4 inch, press down on recoil spring plug (locatedjust below muzzle) and at same time rotate the barrel bushing clockwise about 1/4 turn using barrel bushing wrench if necessary; this will free plug and recoilspring. Keep pressure on plug to prevent it being ejected by the spring, then allow the plug and spring to gradually extend out of the slide."