1911 doesn't lock open on empty - try lighter recoil spring?

[BerksCountyDave]

I've worked up a .45ACP load that I really like to shoot, but I guess it's a bit too light to lock the gun open when it runs empty. The ammo cycles the gun perfectly and shoots like a dream, so I don't want to increase the powder charge.

Would using a lighter recoil spring possibly fix the issue?

[toml]

Have you tried different magazines?

[BerksCountyDave]

Have you tried different magazines?

I use Wilson 47D mags exclusively. The gun locks back using these mags with 3 other loads.

[IraIII]

If the mags work well, and lock back correctly with other loads I think the slide is not cycling far enough to the rear to let the slide lock work. I think you answered your own question, and I would try progressively lighter recoil springs until the slide locks back correctly.

[Lycanthrope]

Cycle down to a 14lb spring, but don't shoot full power loads without a shock buff......

Most buffs let the slide lock back, but you can't slingshot the slide. CP buffs are the best and Wilsons are the softest and fall apart easily.....which causes frequent malfunctions.

Lycantweakingthrope

[Shawn.L]

Cycle down to a 14lb spring, but don't shoot full power loads without a shock buff......

Most buffs let the slide lock back, but you can't slingshot the slide. CP buffs are the best and Wilsons are the softest and fall apart easily.....which causes frequent malfunctions.

Lycantweakingthrope

Ive got the CP buff in now. Well built for sure. It wouldnt let me slingshot until around 400+ rounds. It was tight, but reeeeeal close and after a little pounding it gave up that extra smidge.

I was killing Wilson buffs like one a month or just over depending.

I run an alluminum buff in my 9mm (thats niiiiiice) but I cant get it to run in the Wilson (45ACP).

[Lycanthrope]

I run an alluminum buff in my 9mm (thats niiiiiice) but I cant get it to run in the Wilson (45ACP).

File it and smooth to fit......

Lycanhasfilewilltravelthrope

[hzox221]

Try cutting one coil out of the spring. If it doesn't lock back cut a second coil out. Use a shock buff.