fortunately,..I can use the rubber base pads in IPSC....they never break. When in the USA shooting in USPSA, (where the mags inserted in the gun have to fit in the box) I use the Xtreme or henning base pads. factory aluminum work well too for USPSA.
Just found something revieling about some mecgar mags. They don't fit well in my gun. I had a ft chamber...then another day i had a stove pipe. I can feel the slide getting caught. ..slowing it down. Stick with tanfo mags.
Try some clear or black nail polish...or semi permanent loctite. U can put some dirt or metal shavings in the loctite...adds friction. ...won't loosen up as easy
Factory is a 16lb hammer spring.some come with 15 lb. 16lb is the shortest spring...13 lb is the lightest and longest. Lighter is not always better.
14 lb is likely your all around best bet...unless you have a combat hammer....than i would go with a 15 lb.