What recoil spring for my 1911 ?

[Richard.Howe]

What 1911 recoil spring ought I use for light loads, e.g. 185 gr. JHPs over 4.4 gr. Bullseye? These loads are moving out at about 720 fps in my 5".

As a follow-up: what's the general consensus on the choice between ISMI and Wolff springs these days?

Thanks!
Rich

 

[Zach S]

For some odd reason I feel compelled to answer with 14lb...

I dont know why. I dont handload, and normally run my springs a little heavy (18.5 lb).

I use wolf springs. That's what my dealer stocks.

 

[valor1]

ISMI or Wolff spring? Guess they are both good, only the ISMI is a few percentages better.

 

[Shmackey]

Do they not run right with a standard 16.5 spring?

 

[GaryP]

Colt factory fullsize 1911's come with a 16# conventional recoil spring. I would try this first and if there is a problem go with a 14# next and then a 12# if necessary. Colt ships their Gold Cup .45acp with a 16# (for 230 gr hardball) recoil spring & a 12# (for target loads) recoil spring. I assume your 1911 has the standard 23# hammer spring installed. If your gun has a lighter hammer spring like a 21# or 19# then all bets are off, that is why working your way back is the best method.

I prefer Wolff when it comes to gun springs - JMHO

 

[Richard.Howe]

My gun runs 99%. It's a Dan Wesson PTE-S that I've done a lot of work on.

Its only failure is an occasional refusal to lock back when the mag is empty. This has been the case with several magazines, but all while shooting PMC 230 FMJs.

My first step will be to decrease the recoil spring and give the mag time to catch up.

I may even go to the 12# for lighter loads and install a buff.

Thanks everyone!
Rich

 

[Model520Fan]

It is not a foregone conclusion that the occasional failure to lock back is due to the recoil spring, although that is certainly a possibility.

 

[Tman]

You can try the Wolff springs website.

http://www.gunsprings.com/SemiAuto/ColtNF.html#1911Recoil

Hope this helps.

 

[Jubei]

Check with Brownells, they have an adjustment pack that I think is from Wilson. It has several springs in a variety of tensions. It would also give you the extra springs if you choose to shoot more or less powerful loads.

Jubei