Elevate Your 1911's Performance with the Wilson Combat Match-Grade Barrel Bushing

For devoted 1911 enthusiasts, custom builders, and competitive shooters, achieving peak accuracy and unwavering reliability isn't just a goal—it's an obsession. Every component within the iconic 1911 platform plays a critical role, but few are as crucial to precision as the barrel bushing. This often-underestimated part dictates the barrel's alignment and lock-up with the slide, directly impacting shot-to-shot consistency and the overall feel of the pistol. When seeking to significantly upgrade an existing 1911, embarking on a new custom build, or rectifying issues like excessive barrel play, the choice of barrel bushing becomes paramount.

The Wilson Combat #29B Blued Barrel Bushing for 1911 Government Model pistols emerges as a premier solution for those who demand the absolute best. Far from a simple replacement part, this is a specialized, "pistolsmith grade" component engineered to provide a foundation for unparalleled accuracy and long-term durability. It addresses the nuanced needs of gunsmiths and advanced users, offering an unparalleled opportunity to achieve the tightest possible barrel-to-slide fit, translating directly into superior shooting performance.

The Heart of 1911 Accuracy: Understanding Barrel Bushings

At its core, the barrel bushing is the interface between the barrel and the slide at the muzzle end of the 1911. Its primary function is to precisely align and support the barrel, ensuring it consistently returns to the same position after each shot. This consistent "lock-up" is the bedrock of a 1911's inherent accuracy.

• Consistent Barrel Alignment: A well-fitted bushing minimizes movement of the barrel at the muzzle, ensuring that the bore axis remains true to the sights.
• Reduced Barrel Play: Too much play between the barrel and bushing leads to inconsistent lock-up, causing shot groups to open up and reducing overall precision.
• Enhanced Reliability: A properly fitted bushing contributes to smoother cycling by controlling the barrel's movement during recoil and battery.
• Mitigation of Wear: High-quality materials and precise fit reduce friction and wear on both the barrel and the slide.

Stock or worn bushings can introduce undesirable play, leading to "walking" groups, inconsistent point of impact, and a general lack of confidence in the pistol's capabilities. Upgrading to a premium, oversized bushing like the Wilson Combat 29B is often the most impactful step an owner or gunsmith can take to unlock the true accuracy potential of a 1911.

Unveiling the Wilson Combat #29B Blued Barrel Bushing: A Precision Component for Discerning Builders

The Wilson Combat #29B is not just any barrel bushing; it is a meticulously crafted component designed for ultimate performance and the specific requirements of custom firearm building. Every aspect of its design, from the material selection to its unique dimensions, contributes to its superior functionality.

Engineered for Exacting Standards: Match-Grade Construction

The term "Match-Grade" isn't merely a marketing buzzword for Wilson Combat; it signifies a commitment to the highest level of precision manufacturing and performance. A match-grade barrel bushing is produced to exceptionally tight tolerances, ensuring consistency and minimal deviation from spec. This translates into:

• Optimal Barrel Lock-up: The precise dimensions facilitate a tighter, more consistent fit between the barrel and the slide.
• Improved Grouping: By eliminating slop, the barrel returns to the same position shot after shot, leading to significantly tighter groups on target.
• Enhanced Feel: A precisely fitted match-grade bushing contributes to a more solid, precise feel during the cycling of the slide, instilling greater confidence in the firearm.

This level of precision is critical for anyone striving for competitive accuracy or simply wanting their 1911 to perform at its absolute peak.

Superior Material Science: Top-Quality Steel for Enduring Performance

Durability and resistance to wear are paramount in a component that endures the forces of recoil and repeated cycling. The Wilson Combat 29B is produced from top-quality steel, chosen specifically for its robust properties. This superior material offers several key advantages:

• Maximum Reliability: The inherent strength of the steel ensures the bushing can withstand countless cycles without deformation or failure.
• Exceptional Wear Resistance: Unlike softer materials, the high-grade steel resists abrasion and peening, maintaining its critical dimensions over the long term. This means the precise fit you achieve through careful gunsmithing will endure.
• Consistent Performance: The structural integrity of the steel ensures that the bushing maintains its shape and tolerances even under sustained use, guaranteeing consistent accuracy shot after shot.

This dedication to material quality underscores Wilson Combat's reputation for producing components that last and perform reliably for decades.

The "Pistolsmith Part" Advantage: More Material for Custom Fitting

One of the most defining characteristics and significant advantages of the #29B bushing is that it is explicitly designed as a "pistolsmith part." This means it features considerably more material on both its Outside Diameter (O.D.) and Inside Diameter (I.D.) compared to standard, drop-in bushings. This intentional oversizing is not a flaw; it's a strategic design choice that provides critical benefits for custom fitting and optimal performance:

• Achieving the Perfect Fit: The excess material allows a skilled gunsmith or advanced builder to precisely ream the I.D. to match the specific barrel's O.D., and to turn down the O.D. to achieve a snug, yet functional, fit within the slide's bore. This ensures zero play where it matters most.
• Addressing Barrel Variations: Production barrels, even from the same manufacturer, can have slight variations in their O.D. The 29B accommodates these minor differences, ensuring a custom fit that a standard "drop-in" bushing simply cannot provide.
• Solving Unique Situations: For instances where a barrel is slightly smaller than standard, or a slide bore is slightly larger, the additional material on the 29B allows for careful machining to achieve an optimal interference fit.
• Maximizing Accuracy Potential: A custom-fitted bushing dramatically reduces barrel movement during the lock-up phase, leading to superior accuracy. This level of customization is what separates a good 1911 from an exceptional one.

For the serious 1911 builder or gunsmith, having this extra material is a godsend, allowing them to precisely tailor the bushing to the individual nuances of each firearm.

Aesthetic and Protective Blued Finish

The #29B bushing features a classic blued finish. Beyond its traditional aesthetic appeal that complements most 1911s, bluing provides a layer of corrosion resistance, protecting the steel from rust and environmental degradation. This ensures the bushing maintains its appearance and integrity over time, even with regular use.

Solving Common 1911 Challenges with the Wilson Combat 29B

Users frequently ask how to enhance their 1911s. The Wilson Combat 29B directly addresses many of these common queries and desired outcomes.

"How can I improve my 1911's accuracy?"

Improving 1911 accuracy often begins with eliminating movement in critical components. The barrel bushing is paramount in this effort. By precisely fitting the Wilson Combat 29B, you effectively "bed" the barrel to the slide at the muzzle, ensuring a consistent point of aim for every shot. This reduction in play directly translates to tighter groups on paper and more precise shot placement in competition or on the range. It's a foundational upgrade for any 1911 owner seeking to extract every bit of precision from their handgun.

"What are the best parts for a custom 1911 build?"

For those embarking on a custom 1911 build, selecting components that allow for meticulous fitting is essential. The Wilson Combat 29B, with its oversized dimensions, is precisely such a part. It allows the builder to achieve the tightest possible barrel-to-slide fit, which is a hallmark of a high-performance, custom-built 1911. Integrating a match-grade component like this from the outset ensures the finished pistol will meet the highest standards of accuracy and reliability. When quality is the priority for your 1911 build, this bushing is a clear choice.

"My 1911 barrel has too much play. How can I fix it?"

Excessive barrel play is a common issue that can plague older 1911s or those with worn components. It manifests as a loose barrel that rattles when the slide is manipulated, and more importantly, leads to inconsistent accuracy. The Wilson Combat 29B is an ideal solution. Its oversized nature means it can be custom-fitted to take up any slack, restoring or even improving upon the original barrel-to-slide fit. This process typically requires reaming the bushing's I.D. to precisely match the barrel's O.D. and potentially turning down the bushing's O.D. to achieve an optimal fit in the slide. While professional gunsmithing is recommended for this procedure, the 29B provides the necessary material to effectively resolve barrel play issues.

"Is the Wilson Combat 29B suitable for Government Model 1911s?"

Absolutely. The Wilson Combat 29B is specifically designed for the classic 1911 Government model. This includes both full-size, military-spec 1911s and numerous commercial variants that adhere to the Government model specifications. Its design is universally compatible with standard 1911 Government barrels and slides, though, as a "pistolsmith part," it is intended to be custom-fitted rather than dropped in. This ensures that whether you have an original USGI 1911, a modern production full-size 1911, or are building a custom piece, the 29B can be precisely integrated.

Who Benefits Most from the Wilson Combat #29B Barrel Bushing?

This specialized component is tailored for specific users who prioritize precision and customizability.

The Dedicated 1911 Enthusiast & Custom Builder

If you are passionate about the 1911 platform and seek to unlock its ultimate potential, the 29B is for you. This includes hobbyists who enjoy tinkering, upgrading, and pushing the boundaries of their firearms' performance. For those undertaking a ground-up custom build, the 29B offers the necessary raw material to achieve a truly bespoke, high-performance fit that mass-produced parts cannot.

Professional Gunsmiths and Armorers

For professional gunsmiths, the Wilson Combat 29B is an invaluable stock item. Its intentionally oversized dimensions provide the flexibility needed to address a wide array of barrel and slide variations encountered in their daily work. It allows them to provide precise, custom-fitted solutions for their clients, ensuring optimal accuracy and reliability. Its consistent quality also reduces unforeseen complications during fitting.

Competitive Shooters

Competitive shooters, particularly those in precision disciplines like Bullseye or USPSA Single Stack, understand that every fraction of an inch in group size matters. The 29B allows for the tightest possible lock-up, minimizing the variables that can affect shot placement. For these athletes, investing in a component that directly translates to improved accuracy is a non-negotiable step toward higher scores and greater success.

The Wilson Combat Legacy: Trusting a Name Synonymous with 1911 Excellence

When you choose a Wilson Combat part, you are not just purchasing a component; you are investing in decades of unparalleled expertise and a steadfast commitment to 1911 excellence. Founded by legendary gunsmith Bill Wilson, Wilson Combat has been at the forefront of 1911 innovation and manufacturing for over 40 years. Their reputation is built on:

• Precision Engineering: Every part is designed and manufactured to exacting standards, ensuring fit, function, and performance.
• Uncompromising Quality: Only the finest materials are used, undergoing rigorous quality control to meet the brand's stringent benchmarks.
• Real-World Performance: Wilson Combat products are extensively tested and proven in the most demanding competitive and tactical environments.
• A Legacy of Trust: Bill Wilson’s personal dedication to the 1911 platform has cultivated a brand synonymous with reliability, accuracy, and superior craftsmanship.

This legacy ensures that when you choose the Wilson Combat #29B barrel bushing, you are selecting a product that embodies the highest standards of the industry, a product trusted by professionals and enthusiasts alike. It is available for purchase from reputable firearm parts retailers like DEGuns.com, ensuring you receive a genuine Wilson Combat product.

Installation & Care Considerations

It is crucial to reiterate that the Wilson Combat 29B is indeed a "pistolsmith part." Achieving its full potential requires careful fitting. While a basic bushing wrench is useful for disassembly, the precise fitting of this oversized bushing will necessitate the use of specialized tools, such as:

• Barrel Bushing Reamer: To precisely enlarge the I.D. to match your barrel's O.D.
• Lathe or Fine Files: To reduce the O.D. for a snug fit within the slide.
• Calipers and Gauges: For accurate measurements throughout the fitting process.

If you are not comfortable with detailed gunsmithing, it is highly recommended to have a qualified gunsmith perform the installation and fitting. A professional can ensure the bushing is perfectly matched to your specific barrel and slide, maximizing the accuracy and reliability benefits.

For care, the blued steel finish benefits from regular light oiling to prevent corrosion, especially after handling or exposure to moisture. A clean, lint-free cloth with a small amount of gun oil will keep the bushing looking and performing its best for years to come.

In conclusion, the Wilson Combat Match-Grade Barrel Bushing (UPC: 874218000707) stands as a testament to precision engineering and a commitment to firearm excellence. For those seeking to significantly enhance the accuracy, reliability, and customizability of their 1911 Government model, this blued steel, oversized component offers the perfect foundation. It empowers gunsmiths and dedicated enthusiasts to achieve a level of barrel fit that truly unlocks the legendary accuracy potential of the 1911 platform.

Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Wilson Combat
Model	Barrel Bushing
MPN	29B
Firearm Fit	1911 Government
Color	Black
Material	Steel
Firearm Type	Handgun
SKU	2508
UPC	874218000707