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December 5, 2010
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Do mainsprings lose strength over time? I’m asking because I have a small frame 357 magnum that misfired when shooting double action. In 2014 I sent it to the factory where they replaced the hand, bolt, added a headspace shim and a new spring kit. The gun worked fine when I got it back, but now I have the same double action misfiring issue again. I’ve tried different ammo brands but that hasn’t made any difference. I can't imagine all those new parts the factory added wore out because I don't shoot that often. I’m wondering if a new mainspring (or a stronger mainspring) would help.
DWF Supporters
July 12, 2020
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From my understanding the compression and release movement and/or corrosion is what causes a spring to fatigue, not sitting static in either position. So unless you have shot many rounds the spring should not have weakened. Even officer sized springs in a 1911 platform have a 1000 round recommended maintenance replacement.
October 17, 2017
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When the factory replaced the main spring did they specify what strength they used? A lighter tension certainly makes double action shooting easier, but at the cost of sometimes being less reliable over time. A “standard” spring will be a little heavy in double action, but will provide reliable ignition. Also, be aware that when you change out the grip on a DW you need to be careful to check that the grip screw is not interfering with the action by going in farther than on the previous grip, especially on rubber grips. Not saying you did this; I’m just trying to explore the many possibilities for what you are experiencing with your DW. I would try a heavier main spring. Just my 2 cents.
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