• Reading time:28 mins read
  • Post category:Glock
  • Post last modified:August 30, 2023
  • Post published:October 20, 2022

Best Glock 19 Recoil Spring

What is Glock 19 Recoil Spring?🧐

It is a crucial component of the Glock 19 pistol, a popular firearm known for its reliability and performance. The spring assembly substantially increases the life of the system. It is designed to absorb and manage the recoil generated by the pistol’s firing process, effectively reducing muzzle flip and making the pistol easier to control, especially during rapid firing. This contributes to the Glock 19’s reputation for accuracy and ease of use.

Our Top Pick
Centennial Defense Systems Stainless Steel Guide Rod Competition Kit
This steel guide rod eliminates flex and prevents chipping, cracking, or breaking like plastic guide rods. It provides a lifetime of reliable service. The kit includes 11-pound, 13-pound, and 15-pound springs, as well as the rod, screw, washer, and Allen key. The flat-wound recoil springs are made of certified aerospace-grade materials and are heat-treated, shot-peened, and stress-relieved for maximum durability.
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Why Does a Good Recoil Spring Matter?🤔

A well-functioning spring is integral to the overall performance of a firearm, particularly semi-automatic pistols like the Glock 19. Its primary function is to absorb and effectively manage the kinetic energy generated during firing. This not only reduces the wear and tear on the pistol’s frame but also makes it safer and more comfortable for the shooter.

💡 Without a good spring, shooters would have to contend with the full force of the pistol’s recoil every time they fired a shot, leading to decreased accuracy and potential safety risks.

💡 Additionally, a compromised spring might fail to return the slide to its forward position after a shot, interrupting the cycle of operation and causing a malfunction, popularly known as a ‘jam’. This could be critical in high-pressure scenarios where reliability is paramount.

💡 Moreover, a good item significantly contributes to the longevity of the firearm. By absorbing much of the stress and strain associated with the firing process, it shields other components of the gun from excessive wear. Hence, investing in a quality spring ensures that your Glock continues to function optimally and reliably over a longer period, offering better value for your money.

What Makes a Good Spring?😎

  • Material Quality: A good one is made from high-grade, strong, and resilient materials. These materials ensure the spring can withstand the stress of repeated firings without deforming or breaking, maintaining consistent performance over time.
  • Proper Tension: The right amount of tension in the spring is crucial. Too much or too little tension can affect the cycling rate of the firearm, potentially causing malfunctions and reducing the gun’s accuracy.
  • Durability: A sign of a good one is its longevity. It should be able to endure rounds upon rounds of firing without losing its efficiency or causing wear and tear on the firearm.
  • Compatibility: It should be specifically designed to fit and function within the firearm model it is intended for. A good item, for instance, will work seamlessly with other parts of the Glock system, enhancing the overall performance of the pistol.
  • Ease of Installation: It should be easy to install and replace. This ensures minimal downtime during maintenance and allows for efficient operation of the firearm.

Assembly Types🤔

🔰 Captured Recoil Assembly A captured assembly is comprised of a spring and guide rod designed to stay together as one unit. This design simplifies the disassembly and reassembly process, making it easier for the average shooter to perform maintenance. Captured recoil assemblies are often found in modern firearms, such as the Glock series, due to their ease of use and convenience.
🔰 Non-Captured Recoil Assembly On the other hand, a non-captured assembly consists of a spring and guide rod that are not connected and come apart during disassembly. This design allows for greater flexibility, as it makes it possible to change out springs of different strengths based on the shooter’s preference or situational needs. However, non-captured recoil assemblies can be more challenging to work with, especially for those unfamiliar with the assembly process, as they require a higher level of care during disassembly and reassembly to avoid potential issues.

Best Glock 19 Recoil Spring Reviews

#1 DPM Recoil Rod Reducer System for Glock
DPM Recoil Rod Reducer System for Glock

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The DPM Recoil Rod Reducer System for Glock is exactly what you need if you want a recoil reducer that doesn’t require changing the configuration of your gun. This system has a multi-spring intricate rod (three springs) that controls the functionality of the gun, so your slide will never hit the frame. Accompanying this system are two separate springs so you can fine-tune the weapon for your personal standards. The longer spring (more coils) is stronger and has a heavier pound rating than the shorter spring, resulting in less felt recoil and faster follow-up shots. It’s also highly durable, so you can rest assured knowing that it’s worth the price.

Pros:
  • Faster follow-up shots
  • Improved firing speed
  • Slide and frame protection
  • Significant recoil reduction
  • Better double-tap concentration
  • Better control and greater accuracy
Cons:
  • Cycling issues reported

 

#2 Centennial Defense Systems Stainless Steel Guide Rod Assembly
Centennial Defense Systems Stainless Steel Guide Rod Assembly

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The Centennial Defense Systems Stainless Steel Guide Rod Assembly is a top-quality, durable drop-in unit made from solid stainless steel. This guide rod assembly eliminates flex and ensures that it will not chip, crack or break like plastic guide rods, providing a lifetime of reliable service. The recoil springs are manufactured from certified materials, heat treated, shot peened and stress relieved to maximize durability. This product is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a high-quality, long-lasting guide rod assembly for their Glock 19.

Pros:
  • Dual spring system eliminates guide rod flex
  • Solid stainless steel for reliability
  • Fits with ease and is flush with the slide
Cons:
  • None

 

#3 Wilson Combat Shok-Buff Recoil Buffers
Wilson Combat Shok-Buff Recoil Buffers

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The Wilson Combat Shok-Buff Recoil Buffer will protect your pistol from frame damage during recoil better than any other buffer on the market. This 1/10″ thick poly fibre buffer sandwiches the slide and frame contact areas, preventing the slide from damaging the frame. Not only does this provide optimum protection for your pistol, but it also delivers superior shock absorption and longevity. And since it’s easily replaceable, you can keep your pistol looking and working like new for years to come. So don’t wait any longer, pick up a package of 6 Wilson Combat Shok-Buff Recoil Buffers today and rest assured that your pistol is protected!

Pros:
  • Prevents the slide from battering the frame during recoil
  • Absorbs up to 1,000 rounds of repeated firings
  • Slides over the recoil spring guide between the guide and spring
  • Cheap
Cons:
  • Could absorb recoil better

 

#4 Centennial Defense Systems Stainless Steel Guide Rod Competition Kit
Centennial Defense Systems Stainless Steel Guide Rod Competition Kit

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The Centennial Defense Systems Stainless Steel Guide Rod Competition Kit for Gen 1-3 G17 is a complete drop-in unit made from solid one-piece stainless steel. This eliminates guide rod flex and ensures it will not chip, crack or break like plastic guide rods providing a lifetime of reliable service. The kit includes 11lb, 13lb and 15lb springs as well as the rod, screw, washer and Allen key. Flat wound recoil springs are manufactured of certified aerospace spec materials which makes them heat treated, shot peened and stress relieved to maximize durability. The screw tip is quickly and easily removed so that the user can switch out spring weights according to their Ammunition of choice. This way, they can fine-tune recoil springs for a better experience.

Video review

Pros:
  • One-piece stainless steel construction
  • Eliminates guide rod flex
  • Certified aerospace spec materials
  • Maximizes durability
  • Easily removed screw tip
Cons:
  • None

 

#5 Lone Wolf Arms Complete Glock Guide Rod Assembly

Lone Wolf Arms Complete Glock Guide Rod Assembly

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When firing a gun, many things can go wrong if the guide rod is made of cheap plastic. It could chip, crack, or break; causing feeding or ejection failures. Not to mention that accuracy problems arise from guide rod flex. To avoid all these issues get The Lone Wolf Guide Rod Assembly. Made with high-quality materials, it guarantees reliability and safety for as long as you use it.

Precision CNC machined from stainless steel, this complete assembly is a great upgrade for any Glock owner. The Gen 1-3 assembly comes with a removable 3/32 Allen head tip, while the 17/22 and 20/21 models feature Lone Wolf’s own 17lb flat wound recoil spring. And all models are calibrated to factory spring weights.

But the best part of the Lone Wolf Arms Guide Rod Assembly is its durability. It’s 75% heavier than the OEM part, meaning it will stand up to even the most intense shooting sessions. So if you’re looking for a top-quality, long-lasting guide rod assembly, go with Lone Wolf Arms. You won’t be disappointed!

Video review

Pros:
  • Stainless steel construction
  • More durable and longer lasting than factory recoil spring
  • Calibrated to factory weights
  • 75% heavier than the OEM part
Cons:
  • May be too strong for some firearms

 

#6 Glock OEM Dual Spring Recoil Assembly
Glock OEM Dual Spring Recoil Assembly

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Looking for a reliable, complete guide rod assembly for your Glock? Look no further than Lone Wolf Arms! Our guide rod assembly is designed for optimal performance and durability and is a must-have for any Glock owner.

The OEM part from Glock is built for lasting performance, with a heavy buffer and recoil spring that make it one of the most important parts of the Glock operating system. The longer length of our Gen5 guide rod assembly provides a heavier lock load and reduced felt recoil, while the extra length also provides increased durability. Trust Lone Wolf Arms to keep your Glock running like new!

Pros:
  • Reliable and fits perfectly
  • Reduces felt recoil
  • Same specs as the original part
Cons:
  • None

 

#7 Rival Arms Guide Rod Assembly

Rival Arms Guide Rod Assembly
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If you’re an experienced shooter, you know that plastic guide rods can cause all sorts of problems – from feeding and ejection failures to accuracy issues. That’s why Rival Arms created their Guide Rod Assembly, which addresses all of these potential problems. Made from high-quality materials, this guide rod is built to last a lifetime. Plus, the spring is much stiffer than the stock option, making it easier to pull back – even for a 2-year-old. So if you’re looking for a reliable, top-quality guide rod assembly, look no further than Rival Arms. Thank you Rival Arms for making such an awesome product!

Pros:
  • Strong and well-made
  • Eliminates flex that can lead to inaccuracy
  • Stays in place
Cons:
  • None found

 

#8 ISMI – Flat Wire Recoil Springs For Glock

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When only the best will do for your Glock, look to Rival Arms and their Guide Rod Assembly. Created with precision from high-quality materials to Aerospace specifications, this guide rod assembly delivers dependability, consistency, and peak performance.

The Rival Arms Guide Rod Assembly is available in either chrome silicon or corrosion-resistant stainless steel and features a heat-treated, shot-peened, and stress-relieved design for a reduced spring set. It also comes in your choice of factory weight (17 lb. or 18 lb.) to perfectly match your needs. For even more precision, pair this guide rod assembly with Strike Industries S.S. guide rods.

Pros:
  • Corrosion resistant
  • Stainless steel or chrome vanadium construction for maximum durability
  • Heat treated, shot peened and fully stress-relieved
  • Fits large frames
Cons:
  • May be too strong for some pistols
  • Could potentially cause wear and tear on your gun

 

#9 LANTAC Flared Head Glock 19 Guide Rod
LANTAC Flared Head Glock 19 Guide Rod

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The LANTAC GR-19-N Flared Head Glock Pistol Guide Rod is the perfect choice for those looking for a high-quality, reliable guide rod that is backed by a lifetime guarantee. Made from 17-4PH stainless steel, this guide rod is machined to provide smooth, accurate cycling while maintaining lateral control. This guide rod is also finished with a black coating for superior corrosion resistance and long-term durability.

Pros:
  • Precision machined
  • More concentric and consistent lock-up of the slide, spring & rod
  • Provides smooth, accurate cycling
  • 17-4PH stainless steel for great strength, corrosion resistance, and long service life
Cons:
  • Not for use with flat wire springs

 

How to Tune🛠️

Tuning the spring can make a significant difference in its performance, especially if you’re using custom ammunition or have specific shooting requirements. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. 🧷 Materials Needed: You will need a new spring, your Glock, and a clean, well-lit workspace. Ensure that the spring you have is appropriate for your Glock model.
  2. 🧷 Safety First: As always, safety is paramount when working with firearms. Ensure the firearm is unloaded by removing the magazine and checking the chamber for any ammunition.
  3. 🧷 Disassemble the Glock: To remove it, you need to first field-strip your Glock. This involves pulling back the slide, depressing the disassembly lever, and then removing the slide from the frame.
  4. 🧷 Remove the Old Spring: It is located underneath the barrel in the slide. To remove it, simply press towards the muzzle and lift out the assembly.
  5. 🧷 Install the New One: Place the rear end of the spring assembly into the slot beneath the barrel. Push toward the muzzle and down into place. Ensure the assembly is seated properly.
  6. 🧷 Reassemble the Glock: Reattach the slide to the frame, making sure it’s on the correct rails. Pull the slide back to its rearward position and release it to move forward. This should reengage the disassembly lever, locking the slide back onto the frame.
  7. 🧷 Test: After reassembly, conduct a function check to ensure everything is working correctly. This involves cycling the slide to ensure it returns to its forward position, and dry firing the pistol in a safe direction.

Tuning can improve the performance of your Glock, reduce recoil, and increase the lifespan of your firearm. It’s a simple procedure that can yield significant benefits when done correctly. Always remember to follow the manufacturer’s guidance and use the appropriate parts for your specific Glock model. Safety should always be your top priority.

Watch this video to find more information💻

FAQ❓

When to Replace Pistol Recoil Spring?

The spring on your Glock is one of the most significant parts that can wear down over time. Recognizing the right time to replace it is crucial in maintaining the overall performance of your firearm. The general rule of thumb is that your spring should be replaced after every 2,500 to 5,000 rounds fired. However, this can vary based on the specific model, usage frequency, and the ammunition used.

🟡  Signs that your spring may need replacing include increased recoil, difficulty in feeding and ejecting rounds, or your firearm not staying locked back after the last round. When you encounter such issues, it’s a good idea to inspect your spring and consider a replacement. Remember, regularly changing the spring helps to preserve the lifespan of your Glock and ensure a smooth, reliable shooting experience.

What is a buffer and guide rod?

The recoil buffer and guide rod are essential components of a firearm’s recoil system. The recoil buffer, typically made of a durable polymer or rubber, is designed to absorb the shock of the recoil and prevent the slide from battering the frame during firing. This not only reduces felt recoil and muzzle flip but also extends the lifespan of the firearm by minimizing wear and tear.

The guide rod, on the other hand, is a component that guides the spring and controls its compression and decompression. It ensures that the spring maintains its correct path, preventing any misalignments that could potentially lead to malfunctions. Guide rods can come in a variety of materials, but steel and polymer are the most common. Some guide rods are designed to be a part of a captured spring assembly, while others are standalone parts in a non-captured spring assembly.

Does the weight of spring matter?

Absolutely, the weight of the recoil spring can significantly influence the performance and shooting dynamics of your Glock. The weight of the spring is essentially its resistance to being compressed, measured in pounds.

🚩 A lighter spring, with less resistance to compression, will allow the slide to move rearward more easily upon firing. This can mitigate felt recoil, making it easier to maintain control and accuracy. However, a lighter spring may also lead to excessive slide velocity, potentially affecting the cycle of operation and reliability of the firearm.

🚩 On the other hand, a heavier spring, with more resistance to compression, will require more force to move the slide rearward. This can result in reduced slide velocity, potentially affecting the ejection of spent casings and the feeding of fresh rounds from the magazine. However, a heavier spring can also increase felt recoil, as more force is transferred to the shooter’s hands.

Selecting the appropriate spring weight for your Glock can depend on several factors. This includes the type of ammunition used, with hotter loads generally benefitting from a heavier spring to ensure reliable functioning. Personal shooting style also plays a role, as shooters with a more aggressive grip may prefer a heavier spring to manage recoil. Additionally, specific performance requirements, such as competition shooting or concealed carry, may influence the choice of spring weight.

Please watch this video to learn more information📺

Can I use a different recoil spring in my Glock 19?

Yes, you can use a different spring in your Glock 19. However, it is important to make sure that the spring is compatible with your gun. It should be the same length and diameter as the original spring, and it should have the same weight rating.

⚪ The weight rating determines how much force it takes to compress the spring. A heavier spring will require more force to compress, which can help to reduce recoil. However, a heavier spring can also make the gun more difficult to cycle, especially with lighter loads.

⚪ If you are using a variety of ammunition, it is a good idea to use a standard spring. This will help to ensure that the gun is reliable with all types of ammunition. If you are only using lighter loads, you may want to consider using a reduced-power spring. This can help to reduce recoil without making the gun less reliable.

❗ It is important to test the gun with the new one before you use it for self-defence or carry. This will help you to make sure that the gun is reliable and that you are comfortable with the recoil.

How to Change Glock Guide Rod or Spring?

Changing a Glock guide rod or spring is a standard maintenance task that every Glock owner should be familiar with. The first thing you should do is ensure the firearm is unloaded by removing the magazine and checking the chamber. Once you are sure the Glock is safe, the next step is to disassemble the Glock. This is achieved by pulling back the slide, depressing the disassembly lever, and then removing the slide from the frame.

✅ The spring is located underneath the barrel in the slide. To remove it, you simply press towards the muzzle and lift out the assembly. With the old spring removed, you can install the new one. You place the rear end of the  spring assembly into the slot beneath the barrel, push toward the muzzle, and down into place, ensuring the assembly is seated properly.

✅ After installing the new spring, you can reassemble the Glock. This involves reattaching the slide to the frame and making sure it’s on the correct rails. Pull the slide back to its rearward position and release it to move forward. This action should reengage the disassembly lever, locking the slide back onto the frame. After reassembly, you should conduct a function check to ensure everything is working correctly. This involves cycling the slide to ensure it returns to its forward position, and dry firing the pistol in a safe direction.

Changing the guide rod follows a similar process. The guide rod is part of the spring assembly and would typically be replaced as a unit. However, in some cases, the guide rod can be a separate component. If this is the case, after removing the spring, you would remove the guide rod, replace it with a new one, and then reassemble the firearm as described above.

We believe this video can be helpful for you📺

Conclusion🤩

In conclusion, understanding the intricacies of your Glock 19, especially the recoil spring system, significantly contributes to your shooting experience. Whether it’s a captured or non-captured recoil assembly, the quality of the material, the correct tension, durability, compatibility, and ease of installation all determine the efficiency and lifespan of your firearm. Balancing these key features ensures optimal performance, safety, and value for your investment. So, never overlook the importance of a good spring — it’s the silent hero that drives the reliability and longevity of your Glock 19.

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ChicoWize
ChicoWize
4 months ago

My go-to G19 carry is equipped with a DPM captured spring, which effectively minimizes recoil while ensuring the prevention of operational issues.

    Fisherman
    Fisherman
    4 months ago

    Hello. Please help me. How to measure the spring?

      Natalia
      4 months ago
      Reply to  Fisherman

      There are a few ways to measure a recoil spring. One way is to use a spring scale. A spring scale is a device that measures the force required to compress a spring. To use a spring scale, you would simply place the recoil spring on the scale and compress it until it is fully compressed. The weight displayed on the scale will be the weight of the recoil spring.

      Another way to measure a recoil spring is to use a micrometer. A micrometer is a device that measures the diameter of a small object. To use a micrometer, you would simply place the recoil spring between the jaws of the micrometer and close the jaws until they touch the spring. The reading on the micrometer will be the diameter of the recoil spring.

      Here are the steps on how to measure a recoil spring using a spring scale:📐

      ✅ Gather your materials. You will need a spring scale, a recoil spring, and a flat surface.
      ✅ Place the recoil spring on the flat surface.
      ✅ Attach the spring scale to the recoil spring.
      ✅ Slowly compress the recoil spring until it is fully compressed.
      ✅ Read the weight displayed on the scale. This is the weight of the recoil spring.

      Here are the steps on how to measure a recoil spring using a micrometer:📐

      ✅ Gather your materials. You will need a micrometer, a recoil spring, and a flat surface.
      ✅ Place the recoil spring on the flat surface.
      ✅ Adjust the micrometer so that the jaws are closed around the recoil spring.
      ✅ Read the measurement on the micrometer. This is the diameter of the recoil spring.

        Merek
        Merek
        4 months ago

        I own a Gen 4 Glock 19 MOS, and I’ve noticed that the 13# spring performs incredibly well. It seems as if, within fractions of a second, the sights realign perfectly on the target. The experience left me grinning like a child with a generous slice of cake.

          Eforix
          Eforix
          4 months ago

          Can anyone advise on the appropriate recoil spring poundage to use if my compensator isn’t accommodating 115gr (or lighter) ammunition well?

            Hutis
            Hutis
            4 months ago
            Reply to  Eforix

            Consider switching to a less robust spring, but I would suggest increasing the grain weight first. Having more gas can enhance the compensator’s performance, reducing the muzzle flip. The 124g NATO has proven effective in managing compensators. If you’re thinking of adjusting the spring, do it gradually. Begin with a 16 lbs spring and gradually decrease its weight.

              Coach
              Coach
              4 months ago
              Reply to  Eforix

              Maintain the original spring and opt for a heavier one.

                Keveret
                Keveret
                4 months ago

                What is the weight of the Glock 19 recoil spring? I mean from the factory

                  Natalia
                  4 months ago
                  Reply to  Keveret

                  🟣 The factory recoil spring for the Glock 19 is 18 pounds. However, there are many aftermarket recoil springs available in different weights, depending on the type of ammunition you will be using and your personal preferences.

                  💠 If you are using a variety of ammunition, a standard recoil spring is a good option. If you are using lighter loads, a reduced power recoil spring may be a better choice.

                  Here are some of the most common recoil spring weights for Glock 19:

                  🔹 Standard recoil spring: 18 pounds
                  🔹 Reduced power recoil spring: 15 pounds
                  🔹 Extra-reduced power recoil spring: 13 pounds
                  🔹 Competition recoil spring: 11 pounds
                  It is important to test the gun with the new recoil spring before you use it for self-defense or carry. This will help you to make sure that the gun is reliable and that you are comfortable with the recoil.