Extractor spring fatigue

[pratel]

Hi everybody, I would like to have my pistols (BG 380, MP9...) constantly loaded all year long. Is it good idea regarding probable extractor spring fatigue/weakening? I think, this is similar situation as with fully filled magazine - spring is continuously compressed and is weakening.

Generally, it should be valid for all kinds of weapons with extractor. What do you think, is it real issue or not? I am affraid of fails to extract/eject.

 

[robkarrob]

No issue, as actually there is only pressure on the extractor spring when it is moving, when the ejector hits the casing which causes the extractor to move. I leave my guns loaded most all the time, and have no issues with the extractor, or any of the springs, for that matter. I also load the chambered round by dropping it into the chamber and allowing the slide to slam closed. This causes the extractor to open and close on the rim. I've been doing this for years with no issues, even though there are some that say it will cause the extractor to fail. I have done this on my Rugers, Springfields (not 1911s), and S&W models pistols, without a single issue for many years.

Springs wear/fatigue from movement, not static compression like a loaded magazine. The mag springs, like all springs, fatigue from motion, such as filling a magazine (compressing the spring), and the unloading of the magazine (decompression of the spring). But is takes a lot of motion to fatigue a spring, as they are designed to take the cycling. Your mags, like the extractor spring, should last for many years of use.

Bob

 

[Jiman]

As Bob already there's no spring issues with keeping your weapon(s)/mags loaded, 1911's hammers cocked, etc...

Not to go off on a tangent, I have seen many extractors fail due to manual loading though. As a whole for our issued Sigs, it's THE number one breakage that we see and have to deal with as range instructors.

The tell-tail sign of someone who regularly manually feeds is a half-moon breakage of the extrator claw from fatigue as it rides over the case rim. It's not designed to run that way so over time it can eventually break.

If you look up Control Feed Round you'll see what I'm talking about. Most semi-autos feed in this way. Manual feeding makes the extractor snap over top of the case rim.

Just something to consider. YMMV.

 

[pratel]

Sorry guys, I would disagree with you. Springs fatigue not only when they work (compression, decompression), but also when they are constantly fully compressed for a long time period. It is well known fact. A lot of information over the internet about it.

For example, check this FAQ, mainly question nr. 4 and 5.
Wolff Gunsprings - Firearm Springs for Semi-Auto Pistols, Revolvers, Rifles, & Shotguns
I think it is valid for all kinds of springs (magazine, extractor, cock...).

Please note picture 1 and 2. The pistol is unloaded, the extractor is in the rest position, its rear part is raised and the extractor spring is not compressed. Regarding picture 3 and 4, it is obvious, the situation is different. Loaded gun, extractor's end is lowered and spring is compressed. After long time I expect spring fatigue and possible problems when shooting.

I quarterly rotate my magazines and fill them 10-20% below maximum capacity. But probable issue with extractor spring, I have realized only recently. Regarding this, revolver might be a better solution as constantly loaded gun.

 

[curlysir]

Sounds like your mine is already made up on this. You should buy a revolver if this really concerns you. Have never heard of this being a problem on any gun forum I frequent. I have several guns of various brands that have been loaded for years and no extractor spring failure yet.

 

[Norm66]

Why ask the question if you 'know' the answer? I agree with the other posts, it'll be fine.

 

[Llando88]

Sorry guys, I would disagree with you. Springs fatigue not only when they work (compression, decompression), but also when they are constantly fully compressed for a long time period. It is well known fact. A lot of information over the internet about it.

For example, check this FAQ, mainly question nr. 4 and 5.
Wolff Gunsprings - Firearm Springs for Semi-Auto Pistols, Revolvers, Rifles, & Shotguns
I think it is valid for all kinds of springs (magazine, extractor, cock...).

Please note picture 1 and 2. The pistol is unloaded, the extractor is in the rest position, its rear part is raised and the extractor spring is not compressed. Regarding picture 3 and 4, it is obvious, the situation is different. Loaded gun, extractor's end is lowered and spring is compressed. After long time I expect spring fatigue and possible problems when shooting.

I quarterly rotate my magazines and fill them 10-20% below maximum capacity. But probable issue with extractor spring, I have realized only recently. Regarding this, revolver might be a better solution as constantly loaded gun.

I heartily recommend you sell your semi autos and buy a revolver.

Problem solved.

 

[Bkreutz]

Must be true, it's on the internet.

 

[hpfenning]

Must be true, it's on the internet.

Bon Jour

 

[Jiman]

With respect, there is just as much information saying the opposite.

In regards to magazines, Wilson Combat has recently started offering one with a flat spring which they state will never require replacement (ETM HD). I own 6. I have way over the normal replacement round count in all of them and so far so good.

That obviously has nothing to do with your original extractor question, but I point it out to say that the technology is there. Springs don't necessarily have to fatigue.

Improvements in metallurgy and design have made this possible in some applications. One thing to consider is that for spring manufacturers, creating a life time spring is bad for business, just like if battery, light bulb, motor oil, etc.., companies designed a product that never needed replacement or extended the 'normal' life of the product exponentially.

 

[pratel]

Thanks for your opinions. Just wanted to know them. May be, I am affraid of this uselessly and overengineering it a bit. I normally carry my full size pistols unloaded. But new member of collection (Bodyguard 380) would allways be loaded, so therefore my concerns.

...and no, I won't sell my pistols .