Hey Dave 75. I have a Springfield 1911 government size. It's not the mil-spec but the slide was extremely stiff when it was new. I've shot a couple hundred rounds and that has loosened it up some. Should get easier with more use. Recoil springs are inexpensive so it wouldn't hurt to try. Maybe some other folks on here have tried it and can give you their results.I recently acquired a Springfield Armory Mil Spec 1911. I have arthritis in both my hands and have great difficulty charging the slide on this new pistol. I am wondering, since I load my own ammunition, if changing to a lighter recoil spring might help me in some way? I appreciate any comments or insights that anyone may have on this. I would like to shoot this pistol, but I need to find a way to cut down on the pain involved.
All semi automatic pistols 1911 etc can have the recoil spring replaced with a much lighter spring. Also the hammer or mainspring can be replaced. Both are very simple to change out and DO NOT in any way damage the pistol. Many pistols come from the manufacturer with 16 or 18 Lbs recoil springs. The pistols come in .45 and 9mm. Both pistols can have reduced recoil springs by reducing them by 4 lbs, the same applies to a hammer spring.I recently acquired a Springfield Armory Mil Spec 1911. I have arthritis in both my hands and have great difficulty charging the slide on this new pistol. I am wondering, since I load my own ammunition, if changing to a lighter recoil spring might help me in some way? I appreciate any comments or insights that anyone may have on this. I would like to shoot this pistol, but I need to find a way to cut down on the pain involved.