[MR.G]

How long will a Wolf Power Rib mainspring last in a S&W revolver before it causes light strikes ? The ribbed springs seem to loose tension over time, and with use. Havn't had any problems with any of the guns that I have them in, but some of them are geeting pretty light. Maby time to change them in the carry guns ?

[Old Fuff]

The spring(s) shouldn't be getting weaker. First check to be sure the mainspring strain screw hasn't backed out. Then check for cylinder end-shake (back and forth movement as opposed to rotational movement). If you don't find these conditions I'd call Wolff and request replacements.

[C.R.Sam]

What Fuff said.

Aside...
I run factory hammer springs. Used to change em once a season or 50,000 rounds, whichever came first.

I use factory single action trigger return spings...they lighter than the double action ones but same length.

Now I shoot a LOT less and they will outlast me.

Sam

[JoeHatley]

I imagine most anything will wear out eventually, but I've got a 625 with a Wolfe reduced power mainspring installed and this gun has well over 20,000 rounds through it. The strain screw was shortened to absolute minimum when the mainspring was installed, and I've had no misfires.

Good Luck...

Joe

[bountyhunter]

I don't think the springs actually weaken, but here's what does lighten them: The end of the strain screw will take on a taper after being run in and out a few dozen times because the surface the tip rubs against on the spring is not flat (it's the center of the "rib"). That effectively shortens the strain screw and reduces hammer force. had the same thing happen on my SW66.

FWIW: I would never put reduced power springs in a defense gun for safety reasons. Use the stock springs and cut 2 coils off the rebound spring if you want a slightly lighter pull. If your life is in danger, that 12# pull is going to feel like about 3# anyway.

[Standing Wolf]

Havn't had any problems with any of the guns that I have them in, but some of them are geeting pretty light.

Is that real, perceived, or six of one, half a dozen of the other? In such a situation, I believe I'd invest in a trigger pull gauge, write down the gun's pull, and repeat the process after X many months. Some guns' trigger pulls lighten a little with use, but not a great deal: an ounce or two at most, in my experience.

Someone probably knows a way to measure spring tension directly, but I don't.