Dear Members, I have a S&W 1076 FBI gun documented. It shoots great but today I noticed a small sign of primer wipe on the spent cases. I believe that the cause is the the slide opens too early. It is an older gun and I am wondering if I need a new recoil spring. I am a handloader and shoot mostly lead at approximately 950-1000 fps. What weight spring should I be using? All replies would be greatly appreciated.

I have been using the Wolff Gun Springs 21 lb in my 1076 and the 22 lb in my 1006.

If you buy from Wolff they also include the firing pin spring also.

Thanks for the quick reply Shadow. I assume the 21lb recoil spring will stop the primer wipe. Am I correct? I believe the action is opening too quickly and the stonger spring will slow down slide travel. Thank You


Whenever there is any doubt, There is Doubt! Robert DiNero "RONIN"

The stock rate for the 1076 would be 17#, I wouldn't think you need anything stronger for the loads you're using. You might even need a lighter than stock spring for those loads. A good quick check would be to see how far the empty brass is being tossed, if falls right beside you the you need a lighter spring, more than 6' a stronger one.

I use a Wolff 19# in my 1066 and 1076.

I use a Wolff 20# in my 1006.

I shoot 180gr FMJ factory and reloads travelling around 1,000 fps. They work great! With these installed, each pistol throws the spent cases smartly and completely free of the pistol. But, they also don't come flying out like little rockets looking to crack the skull of the shooter next to me.

FWIW

__________________
1st Signal Brigade, RVN '70

If you use the stock springs you will see primer wipe. This is normal. If you go to a heavier recoil spring it can compromise reliability, depending on the load.

Note of INTEREST! I might suggest cleaning the firing pin channel of all debris before doing any thing else, could just be an accumilation or gumming up of years of use!

Hey Guys, Thanks for the info, will clean the firing pin tunnel and try a heavier recoil spring. Will report back when all is complete. Thanks again.

Regards Albatross.


whenever there is any doubt, there is DOUBT Robert DiNero "RONIN"

Wolff sells a variety of springs for the 1076:
For Use in:
4566, 4567, 4576, 4586, .45 ACP
1066, 1076, 1086, 10mm

Reduced Power...: 14 & 16 Lb.
Factory Standard.: 17 Lb.
Extra Power........: 18, 19, 20 & 22 Lb.



Recoil Calibration Pak includes 1 each 17 pound factory recoil spring and 1 each of 18, 19, 20 and 22 pound extra power recoil springs. 3 extra power firing pin springs are also included.

Springs for SMITH & WESSON NUMBERED SERIES Semi-Auto Pistols