Looking to change the recoil spring on my 659... Factory spring is 14 lbs. Replacing with Wolff. Shooting factory ammo only, no hot or +P... should I stay with 14 lbs. or go up or down. Wolff goes from 8-12 lbs. reduced power, 14 lbs. factory, 16-22 lbs. xtra power .Thanx... George K.

I'm no gospel on the subject...BUT...

I was always told that the factory rating is what you want to stick with as it was designed and tested to function perfectly with the caliber of the gun and the standard spec loads that go with it. If you go up, you risk the gun not cycling properly and causing feed or ejection issues, if you go down the spring can't do it's job to properly buffer and protect the gun from the recoil, and can cause damage from the repeated 'slamming'.

Only time you mess with the weight of your recoil springs is if you're changing the load you're shooting...if you're shooting hotter loads than standard, you'd want a heavier spring to protect the gun. Lighter loads, a lighter spring so that it cycles properly.

Of course, changing out your factory 14# spring for a Wolff 14# would be a great idea as part of routine gun maintenance.

Again, I'm no prophet on the subject but this is the knowledge my grandfather passed down to me about it. Others may have different views.

__________________
-Dan-

I think your grandfather was spot on.

Thank you 915 and HCH for your response.... Looks like your response makes sense. Factory #14 is the way to go.... They, (most of the time), know best...Thanx George K.

I concur as well. I could see using a stock spring for target loads, and a 16# if you carry +P loads for concealed carry. Just my 2 cents.

14 pound spring for the 4 inch barreled 9mm metal receiver S&W pistols. Change the spring every 5000 rounds. As for a 16 pound spring, maybe with +P and +P+ loads, but definitely not for standard pressure loads. My 439 is completely reliable with 115 to 147 grain standard pressure loads and a 14 pound recoil spring.

Thank you stansdds...That's a hands on answer....14 lbs. it is...!! Thank You everyone for your help...All is appreciated.. G.K.