Quote Originally Posted by MW surveyor View Post
gb6491 - I'm glad that you posted the video. That's the same way I install my guide rod and spring on my CW9. A picture may be a 1000 words but videos have to get up into the 100,000s.
Do you have to reach around a camera tripod as I did?.......I know what you mean, but it still gave me a chuckle; thanks!
Quote Originally Posted by 2edgesword View Post
I got enough "practice" during that half hour session yesterday to last a lifetime, in addition to a sore and slightly bruised thumb. I don't know what the tolerance on the rod versus hole are but getting the rod through the hole while overcoming the spring tension using just my hands or even the slide braced against my body is not an easy task.

gb6491

The issue goes beyond just the basic design but rather the design, tolerance between the rod and hole, the angle of insertion required to make the insertion, shape of the breech end of the barrel and the spring tension. I have no problem getting the spring compressed without bending it but that last 1/16" push at just the right angle to get the tip of the rod started in the hole is very tight. If there 1/32" clearance (rod versus inside hole diameter) that clearance is even less given the rod is approaching the hole at an angle.

Actually, if the end of the rod was slightly rounded at that end it would make the job much easier.
Sorry friend, inclusive of "design, tolerance between the rod and hole, the angle of insertion required to make the insertion, shape of the breech end of the barrel and the spring tension" I'm just not having any issues inserting the guide rod and spring into a CW 45.
However, as you mention that a slightly rounded end would make the job much easier, I wonder if there is an issue with your guide rod.
Mine has the end beveled, perhaps yours isn't:

Regards,
Greg