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jt, 6/1/10
I also have wondered how springs are rated and was interested in measuring recoil spring tension in new springs and then later on after heavy use, especially when it came down to the springs in my 1911 Springfield ultracompact which went through recoil springs quickly.
My answer was to get a six inch long, 1/4" thick bolt and drill a hole in my work bench just big enough for the bolt to fit. I then put a flat washer on the bolt and put the bolt through the spring and into the hole in the work bench. I then flipped my portable postal scale upside down and compressed the recoil spring to full compression and recorded the values. The recorded values were always within one pound of the new coil spring rating. I also use the same technique to check my Ultracompact mag springs.
I know the above method is low tech, but it works and is cheap (as am I, but that is my parent's fault). Good luck.
best wishes- oldandslow
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