The thrust vector between the slide and bullet does that. The slide pulls the barrel backward.
I think I got this. Physics 101 - for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. The force of the exploding powder/gases is pushing the bullet out of the barrel and exerting force onto the barrel pushing it forward. At the same time the gases are pushing rearward against the spent cartridge and breechface.
If it weren't for the lugs locking the two together, the barrel would slide forward to the extent the link will allow and then stop. The slide would go rearward until the dustcover hit the frame bed. The gun would not come back into battery and the barrel would have to be "reset" by hand after each shot.
"The 1911 was the design, given by God to us through John M. Browning, that represents the epitome of what a killing tool needs to be. It was true in 1911 and it's true now." - Col. Robert Coates commanding, U.S. Marine Corp Special Operations Command Detachment 1 (DET 1)
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