1911 Recoil spring

[XD45Sooner]

What weight recoil spring should I put in my 1911? Also should I get a wolff spring or a Wilson Combat?

 

[azredhawk44]

16 is standard, some folks go 18 if they shoot warmer handloads or +p routinely.

I've used Wolff for replacement springs in magazines, as well as revolver spring kits and automatic spring kits. Never had a bad spring from them, and they seem to last quite well.

Never used a Wilson or any other brand spring. Can't say anything bad about them... just never been disappointed by Wolff.

 

[XD45Sooner]

Seems like all the 16 pound wolff springs are sold out right now. I could get a 17 pound spring...would that make much difference? I will be shooting 98% standard 230 grain ball ammo out of this gun

 

[madmag]

17 lb. should be Ok. I like the variable rate springs at about 16.5 lbs from Wolff.

Check your ejection distance. Should be 5 ft. or so. If the casing just barely eject out and fall to the ground you know the spring rate is too high.

 

[john in jax]

I like Wolff springs, been using them for all kinds of guns for a long time.

I like a 18# springs, for some reason they just seem to work best in the 1911's I own(ed).

 

[madmag]

I should have mentioned. I have used up to 18#, but the ejection was a little weak. If you shoot Fiocchi, S&B, or American eagle FMJ it will be a little better. These are hotter than normal FMJ loads.

 

[Technosavant]

16 is normal, 18 not out of the question. Wolff makes good springs, I currently have a 18# ISMI in my carry 1911 (it tends to like stronger recoil springs).

 

[XD45Sooner]

I just ordered a Wilson Combat 16# spring. I will see how that works.

 

[LHB1]

FYI, Wilson Combat recoil springs are made by Wolff. Standard recoil spring for 5" 1911 is 16#. I run 16# Wolff springs in all my 5" guns, including the Wilsons.

 

[Stone Cold]

Depends on a couple things. Your mainspring weight, and whether you use an extended ejector, as well as ammo come to mind.

When I shoot full power loads, I use an 18# spring. But then, I use 19# mainsprings and extended ejectors in all my pistols. If I go to reduced target loads, I use a lighter spring. However, I won't change from an extra power spring in my carry piece.

 

[Jason_G]

What size 1911? It matters.

Jason