1911 Recoil spring weight question.

[DWS1117]

Could someone please explain the differences between the different weight springs and the effects on the pistol?

Isn't factoy recoil spring weight 16lbs? Why and in what situation would you change to a heavier or lighter spring?

 

[Jehzsa]

The main idea is, use the strongest rec spring that your pistol will cycle with properly and reliably. Less damage to the frame(except going into battery) and reduced felt recoil.

 

[Technosavant]

If your gun works fine with 16, use 16. If it is slinging empties into the next county and sometimes not returning fully to battery (like mine was), then a move to an 18.5 is in order.

Most 1911s work best with a 16-18.5# recoil spring (assuming "standard" or "factory" loaded ammo). If you like to load some hot stuff, go heavier. If you load it light for competition, go lighter.

 

[Ken Rainey]

Do a search for info from 1911Tuner - he's explained recoil spring function in detail. Bottom line was you don't need to use more than 16 lb springs (less depending on ammo) or you could be increasing wear/damage to other parts of your pistol. You have to remember that it's not a straight blow back design and that the extractor and ejector and even the firing pin stop have a lot to do with the ejection distance of your empties. I use to think that more was better until I found out just why it is that 16 lbs was used - JMB really did know what it took to make it work right.