Stiff magazine release - advice?

[Jetskidawg]

I have a 1911 with a stiff magazine release.  Should I order a reduced power spring or is it ok to clip coils?  If clipping coils is ok, how many is enough/too much?

[RJH]

I clip them. You can go 1/2 a coil at a time to get where you want. Worse case, you got to buy a new spring, but I have never had to. Good luck 

Edited July 2, 2022 by RJH

[tomjerry1]

+1 for RJH, these springs are also made in reduced tension.

[Jetskidawg]

Thanks for the advice, much appreciated!

[zzt]

Take the release out and polish it.  The holes in the frame may also need polishing.  Also, make sure the retaining tab is not too long.

[Distant Thunder]

12 hours ago, Jetskidawg said:

I have a 1911 with a stiff magazine release.  Should I order a reduced power spring or is it ok to clip coils?  If clipping coils is ok, how many is enough/too much?

 

Does the mag catch move freely in the frame without the spring installed or is this only an issue with the strength of the spring itself?

[Jetskidawg]

I believe it’s an issue with the spring itself, the catch moves freely without the spring.