What is the recoil spring for Glock 17?🤔
It is a critical component of the firearm’s operating system. It is also commonly referred to as the recoil assembly or guide rod assembly. Its primary function is to absorb and manage the recoil generated when a round is fired from the pistol.
Features⌛️
The recoil spring for a Glock 17 is a crucial component of the firearm’s operation. It is designed with specific features to ensure reliable and consistent performance. Here are the key ones:
🔶 Material Composition: Glock recoil springs are typically made from high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or music wire. These materials ensure the spring’s longevity and functionality under various environmental conditions.
🔶 Spring Rate: The spring rate, or stiffness of the recoil spring, is carefully chosen to match the caliber and load of the ammunition the Glock 17 is designed to shoot. This ensures that the slide cycles reliably, regardless of the ammunition used.
🔶 Guide Rod: The recoil spring is installed on a guide rod, which is an essential part of the assembly. Glock guide rods are usually made of steel or polymer, depending on the generation and model. They are designed to withstand the forces generated during the firing cycle.
🔶 Recoil Reduction: The recoil spring’s primary function is to absorb and manage the recoil energy generated when a round is fired. It plays a role in reducing the felt recoil, making the pistol more controllable for the shooter.
Benefits🤩
The recoil spring in a Glock 17 offers several benefits that contribute to the reliable and effective operation of the firearm. These benefits include:
⭐️ A well-designed recoil spring can help reduce muzzle flip or muzzle rise. This means that the front of the gun stays relatively level during firing, making it easier for the shooter to stay on target and reacquire the sight picture quickly.
⭐️ This spring is instrumental in the proper cycling of the Glock 17’s slide. It ensures that the slide moves smoothly and consistently, allowing for reliable feeding, chambering, firing, and ejection of cartridges. This contributes to the pistol’s reputation for reliability.
⭐️ A properly functioning recoil spring can help reduce wear and tear on other critical parts of the firearm, such as the slide and frame. This can extend the overall service life of the pistol.
⭐️ A properly functioning recoil spring is essential for the safe operation of the firearm. It helps ensure that the slide fully cycles, allowing the pistol to function as intended without the risk of jams or malfunctions.
Importance of different spring weights💡
The importance of different pistol recoil spring weights lies in their ability to fine-tune the performance and behavior of a firearm to suit the shooter’s preferences, the ammunition used, and specific shooting conditions. Recoil spring weight plays a crucial role in how a pistol operates. A general overview of the typical spring weights:
| ✅ Standard or Factory Weight: Most pistols come from the factory with a standard recoil spring weight that is designed to work reliably with the ammunition specified in the owner’s manual. This weight is typically suitable for a wide range of loads, making it versatile for general use. |
| ✅ Lighter Recoil Springs: Such springs are often used for specific purposes, such as competition shooting or reducing perceived recoil. These springs allow the slide to cycle more quickly and may be paired with lighter target loads or in situations where rapid follow-up shots are critical. The exact weight can vary but is usually lighter than the factory standard. |
| ✅ Heavier Recoil Springs: They are employed to manage recoil and potentially increase the pistol’s reliability with hotter or +P ammunition. These springs slow down the slide’s cycling, which can be advantageous for reducing felt recoil and ensuring proper extraction and ejection. The weight depends on the firearm’s design and caliber but is generally heavier than the factory standard. |
| ✅ Variable Weight Springs: Some pistols, particularly those used in competitive shooting, may feature variable recoil spring systems. These systems allow shooters to adjust the recoil spring’s weight by adding or removing weight segments. This level of customization permits precise tuning for different loads and shooting conditions. |
| ✅ Recoil Reduction Systems: Certain pistol models, such as the Glock Gen4 and Gen5, utilize dual recoil spring assemblies, which consist of two springs of different weights. This dual-spring design is intended to provide a balance between recoil management and reliability, accommodating a range of ammunition types. |
| ✅ Aftermarket Springs: Aftermarket manufacturers produce a wide variety of recoil springs with different weights and designs to cater to specific shooting preferences and needs. Shooters can often find aftermarket recoil springs that are lighter or heavier than the factory standard. |
📌 It’s important to note that when changing recoil springs, shooters should follow manufacturer recommendations, use high-quality replacement parts, and consider consulting with experienced gunsmiths or instructors who can guide them on selecting the right recoil spring weight for their specific needs. The goal is to achieve a balance between recoil management, reliability, and shooting comfort that aligns with the shooter’s goals and preferences.
Best Glock 17 Recoil Spring Review
1# Glock OEM Gen 5 Dual Spring Recoil Assembly
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As a responsible gun owner, you know that part of owning a Glock is maintaining it regularly. Whether you’re a Glock enthusiast or just a casual shooter, you need to know that your weapon is in tip-top shape at all times. Based on our experience this high-quality replacement part is designed for use with Glock Gen5 pistols. The dual springs in the assembly contribute to the heavy lock weight and the back spring force of the pistol, making it more resistant to both felt recoil and overtravel. This results in a longer lifespan for your recoil assembly and ultimately means that your Glock will be more reliable when you need it most. Don’t trust your prized possession to just any replacement parts – trust only the best with your Glock. Order this spring recoil assembly today!
2# DPM Recoil Rod Reducer System
If you’re searching for a way to take your Glock shooting game up a notch, look no further than the DPM Recoil Rod Reducer System. This nifty little device will help you fire follow-up shots faster, improve your firing speed, protect your slide and frame from wear and tear, eliminate jams, and reduce recoil significantly. Plus, it’ll help you better control your shots and stay on target even when firing double taps. Whether you’re a competition shooter or just someone who likes to be prepared for anything, this system is a must-have piece of kit.
3# DPM Captured Upgraded Recoil Spring
The DPM Captured Upgraded Recoil Spring is the perfect way to upgrade your Q4 pistol. Using this product, our team found that this high-quality recoil spring is designed for easy installation on your slide and is made from stainless steel for superior durability. As always, DPM products are designed with safety as a priority, so you can rest assured that this product meets the highest standards. Don’t settle for anything less than the best – trust DPM for all your firearm needs!
4# Lone Wolf Arms Complete Glock Guide Rod Assembly
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Lone Wolf Arms Complete Glock Guide Rod Assembly is the most durable, longest-lasting system available today. The guide rod assembly is precision CNC machined to accept a removable 3/32 Allen head tip. Models 17/22 and 20/21 feature Lone Wolf Arms’ own 17lb flat wound recoil spring. Models 19/23 use a Lone Wolf Arms 18lb flat wound recoil spring. Spring weight is calibrated to factory weights. The guide rod assembly is 75% heavier compared to the OEM part. (1.4oz vs .8 oz). These combined features make this guide rod the most durable, longest-lasting system available today.
5# Lone Wolf Arms Guide Rod Assembly
Lone Wolf Arms Guide Rod Assembly is precision CNC machined from solid stainless steel for durability. Because of our knowledge gained through practice, the guide rod accepts a removable Allen head tip for easy spring changes, and the springs are made from 17-7 stainless steel for reliable performance. This guide rod assembly is a must-have for any serious shooter. Don’t wait – order it just now!
6# Centennial Defense Systems Guide Rod Recoil Spring
The Centennial Defense Systems Guide Rod Recoil Spring is the best choice for a durable and reliable recoil spring if you have a Gen 4 Glock 17. Made from high-quality stainless steel, this spring is designed to withstand the rigors of competition and self-defense use. The guide rod recoil spring is a critical component in maintaining the proper function of your firearm, and CDS springs are designed for maximum durability and reliability. Don’t trust your life to anything less than the best – choose CDS springs for your Glock today.
7# Centennial Defense Systems Stainless Steel Guide Rod Carry Kit
The Centennial Defense Systems Stainless Steel Guide Rod Carry Kit is the perfect way to ensure that your Glock 17 will always be ready for action. As our tests have shown this complete drop-in unit is made from solid one-piece stainless steel, which eliminates guide rod flex and ensures that it won’t chip, crack, or break like plastic guide rods. Flat-wound recoil springs are manufactured from certified aerospace spec materials, heat-treated, shot-peened, and stress-relieved to maximize durability. The screw tip is easily removed to allow the user to change spring weights and fine-tune the recoil spring to the ammunition of choice. With this kit, you can be confident that your Glock 17 will always be ready for whatever you throw at it.
8# Lasermax Guide Rod Laser Sight
The Lasermax Guide Rod Laser Sight is an internal, self-aligning laser sight that is quick and easy to install. It is compatible with your favorite grips and aftermarket accessories and requires no permanent modification to your gun. The included recoil spring is captive and integrated into a spring-guide rod unit with end caps, making it simple to install and remove. The ambidextrous switch is located in the custom take-down lever for deliberate activation, and the pulsating beam is highly visible for increased safety. This laser sight is factory-aligned but can also be fine-tuned by the user for a precise fit. Quality assurance includes live test firing of each unit to ensure optimal performance
9# L2D Combat Glock 17 Gen 3 Standard Frame Guide Rod
Do you want a better Glock 17? Check out the L2D Combat Glock 17 Gen 3 Standard Frame Guide Rod! This guide rod is made of stainless steel and provides a sleek installation with no visible exterior retainer screw protruding from the front of your slide. You can interchange springs with this guide rod by using the reinforced screw at the rear of the assembly, providing a clean single-piece appearance. Our research has shown that guide rods feature signature fluted shaft design and ship assembled with a premium quality ISMI recoil spring. Please note that this guide rod will not accept the OEM factory recoil spring due to having a slightly larger shaft diameter; we only recommend running ISMI recoil springs for maximum performance, service life, and reliability.
10# CM Products Recoil Buffer
The CM Products Recoil Buffer is the perfect way to protect your 1911-style pistol from wear and tear. Made from a 1/10″ thick poly fiber, the buffer is sandwiched between the slide and frame contact areas to prevent the slide from battering the frame during recoil. Easily replaced after absorbing up to 1,000 rounds of repeated firings, the shok-buff slides over the recoil spring guide and fits snugly against the inside of the frame. Don’t risk damage to your pistol – pick up this recoil buffer today!
11# Wilson Combat Shok-Buff Recoil Buffer
Look no further if you want a reliable 1911 recoil buffer to protect your weapon from high-performance loads. The Wilson Combat Shok-Buff Recoil Buffer is ideal for this purpose. Based on our observations this tough little buffer sandwiches a 1/10″ thick poly fiber buffer between the slide and frame contact areas, absorbing up to 1,000 rounds of repeated firings and keeping your gun in optimum balance between shock absorption and longevity. Easily replaceable, the Shok-Buff is a must-have for any serious 1911 owner.
12# Wolff Recoil Springs
When you need better performance from your Glock, look no further than Wolff Recoil Springs. These replacement springs are designed to tailor the recoil function of your gun for a more customized feel, giving you the edge you need on the range or in competition. The factory weight on the Model 17 is 17 lb., but with Wolff Recoil Springs you can get a custom feel that fits your needs. Whether you’re searching for a lighter or heavier spring, Wolff has the right option for you. So don’t settle for factory performance when you can have a custom Glock that feels like it was made just for you. Check out these springs today!
13# Rival Arms Guide Rod Assembly
When it comes to your firearm, you can’t afford to take any chances. That’s why experienced shooters trust Rival Arms guide rods – because they know that plastic guide rods can chip, crack, or break, causing feeding or ejection failures. Our analysis of this product showed that this guide rod assembly is made from aircraft-grade aluminum for superior strength and durability, and they’re designed to address all of the issues that can plague plastic guide rods. So you can shoot with confidence, knowing that your firearm is in good hands.
⚙️How to tune it?⚙️
Tuning the recoil spring involves adjusting the recoil spring weight to optimize the performance of your pistol for your specific shooting needs, ammunition, and preferences. Here are the general steps to tune your recoil spring:
| ➡️ Understand Your Needs: | Determine your specific shooting requirements. Are you looking to reduce felt recoil, optimize reliability with specific ammunition, or enhance your pistol’s performance for competition or self-defense? Knowing your goals will help you make informed decisions. |
| ➡️ Consult the Owner’s Manual: | Refer to your pistol’s owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s guidelines to find information on recommended recoil spring weights and any specific instructions for tuning. The manual will often guide the factory standard spring weight and any available options. |
| ➡️ Select the Recoil Spring Weight: | Based on your goals and the manufacturer’s recommendations, choose a recoil spring weight that suits your needs. You can select a lighter spring for reduced recoil or a heavier one for enhanced reliability with specific loads. |
| ➡️ Gather Tools and Components: | Ensure you have the necessary tools, including a punch or disassembly tool to field-strip your pistol. You’ll also need the replacement recoil spring that matches your chosen weight. |
| ➡️ Safety First: | Before performing any work on your firearm, always follow proper safety procedures. Ensure the gun is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction, and remove the magazine. Check that the chamber is clear. |
| ➡️ Field-Strip the Pistol: | Disassemble your pistol according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves removing the slide from the frame. |
| ➡️ Replace the Recoil Spring: | Carefully remove the existing recoil spring assembly from the slide, taking note of its orientation and how it’s installed. Replace it with the new recoil spring of the chosen weight. Be sure to install it correctly, following any manufacturer markings or guidelines. |
| ➡️ Reassemble the Pistol: | Reassemble your pistol by carefully sliding the frame back onto the slide. Ensure all components are correctly aligned, and the slide fully seats on the frame. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for reassembly. |
| ➡️ Test Fire: | Take your pistol to the range and test-fire it with the new recoil spring in place. Pay attention to how it handles recoil, the cycling of the slide, and any potential issues like failures to feed or eject. |
| ➡️ Fine-tune as Needed: | Depending on the results of your test firing, you may need to further fine-tune the recoil spring weight. If you experience malfunctions or find the recoil management unsatisfactory, consider trying a different spring weight. |
| ➡️ Maintain and Monitor: | Regularly inspect and maintain your pistol, including the recoil spring. Ensure it is functioning correctly and replace it as needed due to wear or if your shooting needs change. |
| ➡️ Consult Experts: | If you’re uncertain about the recoil spring tuning process or encounter difficulties, consider consulting with a qualified gunsmith or experienced shooter who has expertise with your specific pistol model. |
❗ Remember that when tuning a recoil spring, your primary goal should be to achieve a balance between reliable firearm operation and your specific shooting preferences. It’s essential to prioritize safety throughout the process and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines to ensure the proper function and safety of your pistol.
FAQ😎
Conclusion😊
The Glock 17 recoil spring is an important part of the pistol that helps to control the recoil. It is important to choose the right one for your needs to ensure you have a smooth shooting experience. In this article, we have reviewed some of the best springs on the market and shared some tips on how to choose the right one for your needs. We hope you found this information helpful and are now better equipped to make a purchase that will meet your needs. Good luck!🤠👍
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Is it worth upgrading the recoil spring?
I believe it’s important to adjust the recoil spring when modifying the weight of your slide. In this context, it’s worth noting that tungsten, specifically referring to the guide rod and not the spring, primarily serves to add weight to the front of the gun. However, if you make changes to the slide’s weight, you should also consider altering the recoil spring to maintain proper firearm functionality.
As far as I understand, recoil refers to the force generated when the slide is pushed back and then returns to the battery. A lighter recoil spring seems to affect the speed at which the slide returns, but the slide’s behavior during the initial recoil appears to remain relatively unchanged unless a compensator is added.
I’m looking for the best recoil spring to replace the polymer one in my Gen 3 G17.
I use a Lone Wolf Arms Complete Glock Guide Rod Assembly in both my 17 and 21. While it might be a placebo effect, I feel that recoil is a bit more manageable with them installed, and it works well for my shooting experience. I’ve put around 2,000 to 3,000 rounds through the 21 with that guide rod, and I haven’t experienced a single malfunction. As for my 17, I don’t shoot it as frequently, so the round count is still under 1,000, but I haven’t encountered any issues with it either.
It’s a bit of a broad question, and the choice depends on what you’re aiming for in terms of reliability and the gun’s intended use, whether it’s for carry or competition, and whether you use standard ammo or reloads. There isn’t a single “best” option, but you can certainly tailor your Glock to meet specific purposes.
I’m currently dealing with cycling issues on my 17L and have tried a few things. First, I experimented with a Lone Wolf Arms Complete Glock Guide Rod Assembly, but I ended up experiencing stovepipes. Then, I switched to another rod, but this led to failures to eject. I’m seeking advice or thoughts on how to resolve this problem.
In my experience, I would recommend trying the DPM Recoil Rod Reducer System. I encountered similar issues when building a custom Glock, using factory and slightly heavier-than-factory spring weights. However, once I built my spring with less weight than both, I haven’t encountered any issues since. Please note that this is just my personal opinion, and I’m not a gunsmith.
I currently own a G17 Gen 5 and I’m considering an upgrade for the recoil spring to enhance its durability and reduce the risk of the plastic spring breaking. I’ve heard that stainless steel recoil springs are sturdy and can last a long time. I’m in search of a reliable brand from a reputable company to replace the stock spring. Any recommendations you have would be greatly appreciated!
I have a Centennial Defense Systems Stainless Steel Guide Rod Carry Kit, which I believe is a solid choice from a reputable company. My firearm is still completely stock, but I’m considering also a grip upgrade.