Nope. The recoil spring is there to return the slide to battery while feeding the next round. Firing the pistol with no recoil spring will cause no harm. However, too heavy a recoil spring can cause wear over time by closing the slide with too much force. Some shooters "tune" muzzle dip by changing the recoil spring weight.

IMHO, thete is no reason for using a variable weight recoil spring. From your post I would think that a 14# standard recoil spring would suit your needs.

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Winner, winner chicken dinner!



This, along with reduced power loads! This is also a message from a higher power to buy another 1911 in 9mm!

 

A 15 or 16 lb. spring will work fine. Variable rate springs were developed for compensated pistols.

 

Yes, but if a "variable" spring helps you rack the slide, use it.

Original spec was about 13 3/4 lbs and a small radius firing pin stop.

And cock the hammer first.

 

Why not run Minor PF 45 ammo and spring accordingly. Punching holes is still just as rewarding and less punishing.
Shoot more with less fatique.

 

Don't reload anymore, mostly factory 230gr ball. I don't want to damage my 1911's. But I am getting much weaker in my hands and arms and a variable rate spring makes pulling the slide back eaiser. I have ALS and is really taking a toll on me quickly. Legs still work pretty good but hands and arms are going away.

 

Don't reload anymore, mostly factory 230gr ball. I don't want to damage my 1911's. But I am getting much weaker in my hands and arms and a variable rate spring makes pulling the slide back eaiser. I have ALS and is really taking a toll on me quickly. Legs still work pretty good but hands and arms are going away.

Try a different technique: pushing the slide back instead of pulling. Better leverage and easier to get a good, firm grip.

 

1911 .45acp and variable recoil spring....

If a person has issues pulling back the slide of a 5" 1911, one option is to get a 1911 9mm.....for range use, or even as a defense round, it is easier to manipulate and less stress on your joints than using a .45acp with 230 gr. hardball…..

 

We started shooting a 9mm quite a few years ago after many years of shooting major 45; it's kept us shooting much longer than we ever would have thought. Think about trying one.

We still shoot our 45ACP Geezer load with a Berry's 185 at about 750fps out of a full size 1911 with a 14# recoil spring. It's pretty soft and we can rack the slide.

 

If the variable rate spring helps, use it - it will do no harm to anything. The purpose is to allow an easier initial movement of the slide while also preventing battering with full-power loads. Pretty smart idea - once you get that initial movement, you find its easier to complete the motion. I use one in an original MKIV/Series'70 with its collet bushing - makes it a little easier to manipulate the bushing during takedown/assembly.

 

Hey buyamerican, First off let me express my heartfelt sorrow to you for having to deal with ALS. From those I have known who had this, it's about as tough as it gets. Hang in there and try to enjoy those things in life which bring you pleasure.

I would have to agree with those who have already suggested trying a 1911 in 9mm. I have full size SA Range Officer in 9mm. According to SA customer service the full size Range Officer in 9mm comes with a 9lb recoil spring and 19 lb main spring. It's so easy to rack the slide, you wouldn't believe it.

An additional benefit you would realize is IMO the recoil is about 1/2 of a .45 1911. Very soft and pleasant to shoot.

If you have a retail firearm store nearby, perhaps consider going to one or two and give a 9mm 1911 a look over. Just might be what you are looking for.

Good luck with everything!! John

 

Thanks to every one. I tried a Variable 16.5 Wolff and it does not look like anything on the gun is getting beat up. My shooting days of any kind are comiing to an end fast. Again thanks to all.