Thinking about changing the recoil spring on my 4.5" XDM .45

11B CIB

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Discussion starter · #1 · Jul 13, 2013

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Like the title says, I'm thinking about changing the recoil spring on my 4.5" XDM .45 ACP (possibly my 5" Kimber .45 but I am testing the stock springs tomorrow) so I can run some light handloads I've been working on with Clays and Titewad. The current weight of the recoil spring, after some research since Springfield doesn't post it, is 18lbs. Trying not to derail my own thread, I'm reluctant to increase the powder charge I'm using (3.3gr Titewad, 1.25 OAL = 767fps @19,400 psi) even though it's SO close to functioning I feel like I'd be better served swapping out the recoil spring. Since the factory spring is 18lbs, my decision is going to either a 16lb spring or a 14lb spring. I'd prefer to make the smallest possible swap to gain function, but I also don't want to buy a spring that doesn't fix the problem. And if I DO go to the 14lb recoil spring, would it be wise to run a reduced power striker spring as well? Recommendation on who/where to buy the spring(s)?

I have no experience running anything other than stock springs so hopefully y'all can shed some light on it for me. Thanks!

 

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Walt Sherrill

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#2 · Jul 16, 2013

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I don't have an XDM, but Wolff Springs says (as you have determined) the factory spring weight for this model is 18 lbs.

Why not get one of the Wolff calibration packs (the lower-weight version has a 14, 16, and 18 lb. springs) and see what works best with your loads? (A too light spring isn't likely to harm the gun, but it may not cycle the slide properly. No real risk...)

http://www.gunsprings.com/Semi-Auto%20Pistols/SPRINGFIELD/XD%28M%29%204.5%20INCH/cID1/mID60/dID418

 

Masterspydog

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#3 · Jul 16, 2013

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if you go too lite you'll bang the frame. but if you are wanting a lite recoil load are you shooting comp? if so are you going to stay in the correct power load?

 

11B CIB

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Discussion starter · #4 · Jul 16, 2013

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I'm not competing, just making a load that is comfortable to shoot for extending shoot sessions. Saves powder, my wrist, etc.

I actually loaded up the same load I tested in my 4.5" XD-M and shot it through my 5" Kimber 1911 Stainless TLE II: some 230gr FMJs over 3.3gr Titewad (YES, Titewad, NOT Titegroup) at 1.265" OAL. It cycled perfectly in my 1911 with a 16lb recoil spring. I know Clay's is a popular powder for .45s and I saw some loads on Hodgdon's site...and since Titewad is available and Titegroup isn't...thought I could make it work.

I'm not sure if the recoil spring alone made the difference, or if the 1911's design assisted in the function of the lighter powered loads.

I think I will drop down to a 16 pound spring in the XD-M and go from there. I think dropping 2lbs won't require changing the striker spring (14lb I think I should swap it).

But if anyone is looking for a .45ACP load, try Titewad! It's super soft shooting; I fired some factory loads intermittently while shooting the hand loads and WOW.