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Old August 16, 2013, 08:02 PM   #1
Tucker 1371
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Wilson Combat 1911 Spring Kit

Just put a WC flat wire recoil spring kit (including short guide rod and shok buff) in my Colt 1911. I was wondering if anyone had any experience with this upgrade.


WC spring with guide rod and shok buff

Stock spring (left) vs WC spring (right)
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Old August 19, 2013, 01:01 PM   #2
Walt Sherrill
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What are the supposed advantages of the flat (coiled) spring over a round (coiled) spring?

I know it is supposed to make a difference with some of the higher-end SIGs, but have heard nothing about WHY this sort of "upgrade" is appropriate.
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Old August 19, 2013, 07:59 PM   #3
Tucker 1371
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Haven't had a chance to take it to the range yet but it is supposed to not bind up as easily as round springs, also WCs spring is reported to significantly reduce recoil. For $20 I figured I'd give it a shot, we shall see.
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Old August 19, 2013, 08:08 PM   #4
KyJim
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The only advantage I have heard about flat springs (they're made by ISMI) is longer life. The spring will not reduce felt recoil if they are the same "strength" such as 16 pounds. The shock buff might to a small degree. However, if you'll search this forum you'll find a difference in opinion about shock buffs. Count me in the crowd that think they are worthless at best and a potential problem incapacitating your gun at worst.
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Old August 20, 2013, 07:15 AM   #5
Tucker 1371
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I hear you KyJim, my Colt has been pretty rock solid reliable and accurate too, I couldn't resist a little tinkering though, especially for just $20. If it turns out to be a detriment as opposed to a benefit I'll put the stock spring back in. If it neither helps or hurts noticeably I'll leave it.
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Old August 20, 2013, 08:53 AM   #6
loose_holster_dan
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I did a full internals swap on my colt defender 45 back in the day. i can't remember if the recoil spring was flat or round tho. i honestly didn't notice a bit of difference either way.
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Old August 20, 2013, 07:07 PM   #7
Aguila Blanca
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Tucker 1371
Haven't had a chance to take it to the range yet but it is supposed to not bind up as easily as round springs,
People also claim full-length guide rods prevent the recoil spring from kinking.

Ever take a GOOD look at a 1911? The recoil spring is restrained above, below, and to both sides. Exactly where and how is it going to kink, or bind?

Did your Colt ever have the recoil spring "bind" with the factory setup in it? If not, how can you possibly know if this new spring is better?
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Old August 21, 2013, 05:26 PM   #8
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I have not tried them in any of my 1911's...( not even my Wilson's )....but I thought the only advantage was life of the spring...
------------------
Wilson's web site says the following - about the new flat wire recoil springs....:

The longest lasting handgun recoil spring made - Our special bullet proof flat wire chrome-silicon spring and standard length guide rod is now available as a drop-in assembly for your 5” 1911 pistol. This 17 pound spring is the ideal weight for most .45 ACP loads - our testing has indicated that these springs have a service life up to ten times greater than conventional coil springs.

Improves Cycling and Overall Operation
Improved Recoil Spring Life
Recoil Spring Guide Machined from Barstock
.250" Rod Diameter
17# Flat-Wire Recoil Spring
Compatible with Standard Recoil Spring Plug
Compatible with Shok-Buff® Recoil Buffers
---------------------------

So, I guess in theory, intead of 3,000 - 6,000 rds and replacing springs...these could run for 30,000 - 60,000 rds -- and save you some money ( but reduce recoil, no, I don't think so ..??)
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Old August 21, 2013, 09:03 PM   #9
buckhorn_cortez
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I have flat recoil springs in two Wilsons and a Bob Marvel custom. The Wilsons came with the flat springs and the flat spring in the custom was Bob's choice. In talking with Bob, the advantage to the flat spring is longer recoil spring life making the pistol run more consistently.
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Old August 22, 2013, 04:25 PM   #10
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Well spring fine but the rod and buffer will never be in my Colt or DW
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Old August 22, 2013, 08:48 PM   #11
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I guess I don't really understand it myself. Springs are cheap and if you have to replace the guide rod what exactly are you saving.
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