[Investigator]

Has any one heard that Colt is "staking" the grip bushings on the Government Lt. Wt. Government 45 ACP? I have attempted to remove the grip bushings with no success and upon further observation it appears the grip bushings have been "staked" in.

 

[JudgeColt]

I believe the bushings have always been staked. All of mine from the oldest to the newest are staked.

Why do you want to remove the bushings?

(Apologies to anyone offended by "delivery.")

 

[dfariswheel]

Colt has always staked bushings, since 1912.
Often in the 70's and 80's they didn't do a great job of it and they sometimes came out with the grip screws.
Other makers use Loctite.

If you need/want to remove bushings, buy a bushing driver from Brownell's. This supports the bushing and prevents either tearing the bushing up or stripping the hole in the frame.
DON'T try to remove or install a bushing with a screwdriver:

MAGNA-TIP® 1911 AUTO BUSHING DRIVER? BITS | Brownells