The Glock 22, a popular .40 S&W handgun, is known for its reliability and ease of use. However, like any firearm, it can benefit from upgrades to enhance performance and longevity. One popular upgrade is the recoil spring. Upgrading your Glock 22's recoil spring can lead to smoother cycling, reduced felt recoil, and improved accuracy, particularly when using hotter or heavier ammunition. This guide explores the reasons for upgrading, the types of springs available, and what to consider when making your choice.
Why Upgrade Your Glock 22 Recoil Spring?
Several reasons motivate Glock 22 owners to upgrade their recoil springs:
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Reduced Recoil: A heavier recoil spring can absorb more recoil energy, making the gun feel softer to shoot, especially during rapid fire or extended range sessions. This translates to improved control and faster follow-up shots.
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Improved Reliability with +P Ammo: Using +P ammunition, which generates higher pressures, can stress the standard recoil spring. An upgraded spring, typically a heavier-gauge spring, helps ensure reliable cycling even with this more powerful ammunition.
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Smoother Cycling: A properly chosen recoil spring can improve the overall smoothness of the Glock 22's cycling action. This can lead to improved reliability and potentially increased accuracy.
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Extended Spring Life: High-quality aftermarket recoil springs are often made from more durable materials, extending their lifespan compared to the factory spring. This reduces the need for frequent replacements.
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Reduced Wear and Tear: By absorbing more recoil, an upgraded spring can lessen the stress on other components of the firearm, potentially extending the overall life of the gun.
Types of Glock 22 Recoil Spring Upgrades
Several types of recoil spring upgrades are available for the Glock 22:
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Heavier Gauge Springs: These springs offer increased tension and are best suited for use with hotter loads or for shooters who want to reduce felt recoil. The increase in spring weight will be specified in pounds (lbs).
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Reduced Power Springs (lighter): While less common as an upgrade, some shooters might opt for lighter springs, often for use with reduced-recoil ammunition or for specific competition scenarios. Using a lighter spring is generally not recommended unless you have a specific reason and understand the potential implications on reliability.
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Tungsten Recoil Springs: These springs use tungsten, a dense metal, to achieve a heavier weight without significantly increasing the spring's overall size. This can be beneficial for maintaining proper fit and function within the Glock 22.
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Capture Springs: These are often included as part of a complete spring kit and feature a design that helps retain the spring assembly more securely.
Choosing the Right Glock 22 Recoil Spring
Selecting the appropriate recoil spring depends on several factors:
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Ammunition Type: If you frequently shoot +P ammunition, a heavier recoil spring is recommended. Standard pressure ammunition may work well with a standard or slightly heavier spring.
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Shooting Style: For competition shooting or rapid fire, a slightly heavier spring might offer improved control.
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Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best recoil spring is the one that feels most comfortable and provides reliable operation for you and your specific shooting style.
Caution: Always ensure that any recoil spring upgrade is compatible with your specific Glock 22 model. Improperly selecting or installing a recoil spring can compromise the firearm's safety and reliability. Consult your firearm's manual and seek guidance from experienced gunsmiths if needed.
Installation and Maintenance
While installing a Glock 22 recoil spring is generally straightforward, it's crucial to follow the proper procedures to avoid damage to the firearm. Numerous video tutorials are available online demonstrating the correct installation method. Regular cleaning and inspection of your recoil spring are essential for maintaining its performance and extending its lifespan.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified firearms professional before modifying your firearm or undertaking any maintenance or repair work. Improper modifications can lead to malfunctions, injury, or damage to the firearm. Safe gun handling practices should always be followed.
