[Redhat]

Can anyone tell me the min length before needing a new spring.

Thanks

[hoghunting]

If you're having doubts about your recoil spring or if you can see any bend in it, then replace it. They cost less than $10 and will keep your frame from getting banged up.

[1911Tuner]

When its free length is about 2 coils shorter than a new, identical spring with the same number of turns. Note that factory springs sometimes have fewer coils than aftermarket springs of the same load rating. Always check for coil bind when installing a new spring, especially in guns shorter than 5-inch...even if the package says it's made for the gun. Not normally an issue in 5-inch guns, coil bind is potentially destructive. If the spring stacks solid before the frame's impact surface stops the slide, the barrel bushing usually breaks, and I have known it to break a few slides.

[ball3006]

come in different weights so you can tailor the gun function to the ammo you are shooting to aid reliability.....chris3

[Serendipity]

Best to judge whether you need a new spring by observing how far brass is being ejected. If it's more than 8' or so, then you need a stronger or new spring.