If applied properly, none of the various Gunkote's will increase friction. We use the 2400 Series of Gunkote in our Tuff-Gun finish and it will
reduce friction due to the built in lubrication qualities of the Mollybdenum Disulfide. Again, that's assuming it was properly applied.
When we refinish a semi auto pistol, all of the metal parts are coated (Ex. springs & little pins) inside and out. (Ex. the bore) The frame and slide are both coated inside and out. However, the slide and frame rails must then be lapped to match each other.
If the finish wasn't properly cured, it will cause "wooly buggers" to form at all friction points. This is caused by the finish being to soft to burnish and instead, it just rolls up into little balls. This
WILL cause an increase in friction!
Here's a couple of things to try: (Not in any order)
1...Degrease the slide, disassemble it and cure it again for an hour at 300'. Remove Tritium sights and make sure it's degreased well. 300' will burn a lot of lubricants and turn them into glue.
2...Clean the rails with WD40 on a Q-tip and re-lube with a good lube. (WD40 is not a good lubricant but it cleans off gunk, adhesive, etc. really well!)
3...To check if the finish is really Gunkote and cured correctly, use a drop of Acetone on a Q-tip and rub the surface in a hidden spot. If the finish rubs off or gets smeary, it's either not Gunkote or not cured. Properly cured Gunkote can be soaked for days in Acetone and not be affected.
4...Check the chamber for any defects that could cause a hang up. Check the firing pin locking plate. Beveled versus a sharp edge can make a huge difference in the cycle speed.
5...Make sure the recoil spring is correct for the ammo, no hang ups in the slide action, different ammo, etc. Eliminate any possible mechanical problems. It's a lousy feeling when you spend money to fix a problem only to discover that the money spent had no effect on the problem.
...Hope this helps. Keep yer powder dry, Mac.
Tuff-Gun Finishes. The Name Says It All.
Mac's Shootin' Irons
http://www.shootiniron.com