I just put together a 1911 frame

[gladiator]

I just put together a 1911 frame, and made it so it could have a .40ACP slide which I had a gunsmith build for me. I installed a low power mainspring. My question is: HOW MANY POUNDS OF FORCE SHOULD THE RECOIL SPRING BE WITH A LOW POWER MAINSPRING? At the range, the slide would get stuck and cycle (when it did) slowly -w/ a 20 pound spring.

 

[Joe D]

You have other problems. I use a 17# MS and a 11-12.5 # recoil spring. My guns are as smooth as oil flowing over glass.

 

[gladiator]

Do you mean the weight springs you mention are for a .40 S&w? When I said I had a low power mainspring, it's because I asked for one and one was sent to me without saying what weight it was. I understand that if the casing is thrown less than 36 inches, I need a more strong recoil spring?