1911 Recoil Spring

[getsome]

Does anyone know what pound recoil spring is stock for a S&W 5"1911 pistol?...Would it be the same as a Colt or Springfield Government 1911? My Smith started not going back into battery with 185 grain WWB during a weekend range visit....This pistol is fairly new but I don't really have an accurate round count but it's under 1000....

I called Wolff and they have 16 through 21 lb recoil springs available for that pistol....I thought about an 18 lb....Any suggestions from some of the more knowledgeable 1911 folks out there....As always thanks

[Bawanna]

I can't remember for positive sure but I believe 18lb is the standard spring for a 5".

I got the test kit from Wolff that had a 16 through a 22 or 24. It wasn't expensive and gives you some options if you change your feeding habits etc. I've never had to use anything but the factory weight spring myself.
If your suspicious of the spring I'd probably get the kit.
I used to use 185's a lot but last bunch of years I just stick with 230 all the time for carry and practice.

[gb6491]

What I've run:
16# for the Government Model (5")
18# for the Commander (4.25")
22# for the Officer's (3.5")

Here's Wilson Combat take: http://blog.wilsoncombat.com/1911/a-guide-to-1911-recoil-springs-by-wilson-combat/

Regards,
Greg

BTW: The spring pack/kit Bawanna recommends is a good idea.

[getsome]

Thanks guys, I appreciate it very much....It's nice to have so much knowledge and expertise available....Think I'll get a couple 16# and a couple 18# to see if it makes any difference....Thanks again!!!

[Exiledviking]

On 5" 1911s that are broken in and aren't being used with/for SD rounds I prefer a 16 lbs recoil spring paired with a 23 lbs hammer spring. If using SD ammo I like the 18 lbs spring.
Curious - is it well lubricated?

[getsome]

Yea it was well lubed and clean....Never had a problem before with any ammo before so I'm thinking its the spring...Ordered some today so hopefully that will cure it....