Is this normal for a 1911?

That shouldn't be an issue at all. The 1911 is really meant to be "dropped" into battery. I had mine out at the range today (cold! 15 degrees and windy!). If I gently ride it home, it won't go into battery, and this is a very reliable Remington R1 with maybe 5,000 rounds through it. If it functions fine with live ammo, I would just be grateful since 1911s can actually be pretty frustrating and finicky at times. If you really feel the need, a very small smear of Mother's or some other metal polish on a piece of denim can really polish the contact surfaces as long as you stop before you change the shape of the part.

Try to rack the slide and release it. With an empty mag in, and again without one.

Any difference?

Edit: If it does this with an empty mag in, and doesn't when the mag is removed- then its right.

If it only does it when you are gently lowering the slide- you may be holding th slide lock up with your thumb???

Edit 2: Okay- got it- disconnector. Beyond me. Thats deeper than I have been in a 1911.

The disconnector does not hold the slide back, you are referring to the slide stop. The disconnector is inside the frame.

I recommend a thorough cleaning and lightly oiling the slide. Also where the slide meets the rear of the barrel. With it unloaded, move the slide back and forth and take note of where it starts to hang.

???? Your misusing terms. There is no dis connector on the gun. Do you mean the slide lock?

Lana....it does have a disconnector.Google a sematic