An improved barrel link for consistently and reliably placing a barrel of a semi-automatic pistol into battery is disclosed. One embodiment of the present invention extends the width of the barrel link beyond that of the receiving channel of the barrel lug legs so as to substantially equal the exterior dimension of the barrel lug. In addition, the portions of the barrel link extending beyond the width of the channel of the barrel lug are designed to provide multiple points of contact with the front face of the barrel lug in both vertical and horizontal positions so as to reliably and consistently place the barrel into battery. The additional width of the barrel link and additional contact between the link and barrel lug aids in stabilizing lateral and rotational forces prolonging the life of the weapon.