What is the Glock 26 recoil spring?π€
It is a critical component of the firearm’s operating system. It is a spring located in the slide (the upper part of the pistol) and is responsible for absorbing and controlling the rearward force (recoil) generated when the gun is fired. Like all semi-automatic pistols, the Glock 26 uses the energy generated by a round to cycle the firearm’s action, eject the spent cartridge casing, and chamber a new round from the magazine.
Featuresπ
The recoil spring for a Glock 26, like those found in most semi-automatic handguns, is designed with specific features and characteristics to ensure the reliable and safe operation of the firearm. Here are the key features and considerations:
βοΈ Material: Such springs are typically made from high-quality, durable materials such as steel. Glock uses high-quality music wire for their recoil springs to ensure longevity and consistent performance.
βοΈ Dual Springs: The Glock 26, like many modern Glock pistols, often features a dual recoil spring assembly. This design provides enhanced recoil management and helps reduce perceived recoil, making it easier to control the firearm during rapid fire.
βοΈ Caliber-specific: They are typically designed for specific calibers, so it’s important to ensure you have the correct recoil spring for your Glock 26 if you intend to change the caliber or ammunition type.
βοΈ Recoil Reduction: One of the primary functions is to absorb and dissipate the energy generated during firing, reducing the felt recoil and muzzle rise. This feature is essential for maintaining accuracy and control during rapid fire.
Benefitsπ₯
The recoil spring for a Glock 26, like in other semi-automatic pistols, offers several benefits that contribute to the firearm’s performance and user experience. Here are some of the key advantages:
β΄οΈ By mitigating recoil, it aids in keeping the muzzle of the Glock 26 down, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots. This is especially important for self-defense or competitive shooting scenarios.
β΄οΈ A properly functioning recoil spring is critical for the reliable operation of the firearm. It ensures that the slide cycles smoothly, extracts and ejects spent casings, and chambers new rounds consistently. This reliability is crucial for the safety and effectiveness of the pistol.
β΄οΈ Reduced recoil and consistent cycling contribute to improved accuracy. Shooters can maintain better target alignment and sight picture during and after each shot, resulting in more precise shooting.
β΄οΈ By absorbing and controlling the forces generated during firing, it helps reduce stress on the frame, slide, and other parts of the firearm. This can lead to a longer service life for the entire pistol.
βοΈ How to tune it?βοΈ
Tuning the recoil spring on a Glock pistol is a process that some experienced shooters may undertake to optimize the firearm’s performance for their specific needs. Here are the general steps to do it:
| π¦ Gather the Necessary Tools and Springs: |
βοΈ You will need replacement recoil springs with different spring rates (typically measured in pounds). These can be obtained from Glock or aftermarket manufacturers. βοΈ A Glock disassembly tool or punch. βοΈ Eye protection and hearing protection. |
| π¦ Field Strip the Glock: |
βοΈ Ensure the firearm is unloaded and safe. βοΈ Remove the magazine and clear the chamber. βοΈ Point the pistol in a safe direction and pull the trigger to release the striker. βοΈ Separate the slide from the frame by retracting the slide slightly and pulling down on the slide release tabs on both sides. |
| π¦ Remove the Recoil Spring Assembly: |
βοΈ Using the Glock disassembly tool or punch, push down on the rear end of the recoil spring assembly (located beneath the barrel) to release it from the slide. βοΈ Carefully remove the recoil spring and guide rod from the slide. |
| π¦ Replace the Recoil Spring Assembly: |
βοΈ Replace the factory recoil spring assembly with the one you want to test. Different spring rates may provide varying levels of recoil management. βοΈ Reassemble the recoil spring assembly in the slide by aligning it properly. |
| π¦ Reassemble the Glock: |
βοΈ Carefully reattach the slide to the frame, ensuring it locks into place. βοΈ Function-check the pistol to ensure it cycles properly and the slide locks back when the magazine is empty. |
| π¦ Test Fire the Glock: |
βοΈ Take the pistol to a safe and controlled shooting range. βοΈ Load ammunition suitable for testing recoil spring adjustments. βοΈ Fire several rounds, paying attention to how the pistol cycles and the felt recoil. βοΈ Assess whether the recoil spring adjustment meets your desired performance characteristics. |
| π¦ Repeat as Necessary: |
βοΈ If you’re not satisfied with the performance, you can repeat the process with different recoil springs until you find the one that suits your needs. βοΈ Keep track of the spring rates you test for reference. |
| π¦ Regular Maintenance: | βοΈ Recoil springs can wear out over time, so even if you’ve tuned your Glock, it’s essential to follow Glock’s maintenance schedule and replace the recoil spring assembly as recommended by the manufacturer. |
π Always prioritize safety when working with firearms and consider seeking assistance from a qualified gunsmith or instructor if you have any doubts about your ability to perform these adjustments safely and effectively. Improperly tuned recoil springs can affect the pistol’s reliability and safety.
Best Glock 26 Recoil Spring Review
1# Lasermax Guide Rod Laser Sight for Glock
The Lasermax Guide Rod Laser Sight is the best quality laser sight for Glocks on the market! This internal sight can’t be knocked out of alignment, and it’s compatible with all your favorite grips and aftermarket accessories. Installation is quick and easy – simply drop it into place and replace the original recoil spring guide. The included recoil spring is captive (it’s integrated into a spring-guide rod unit with end caps to retain the spring on the rod), making this model ambidextrous. The deliberate on/off activation switch is located in a custom take-down lever, so there’s no need to squeeze the grip or shake the sight to activate it. And the pulsating beam is easy to see, even in low light conditions. Plus, this sight is factory-aligned (1911 models are also user-adjustable for fine-tuning). When you buy it, you’re getting a high-quality product that has been live test-fired for your safety and peace of mind.
2# DPM Telescopic Recoil System for Glock
The DPM Telescopic Recoil System for Glock is the perfect choice for anyone looking for faster follow-up shots, improved firing speed, and enhanced accuracy. As a result of our tests, we determined that this innovative recoil system provides superior slide and frame protection while eliminating jams, and significantly reducing recoil for better double-tap concentration and control. With its cutting-edge design, this recoil system is the perfect choice for Glock enthusiasts of all levels.
3# DPM Recoil Reduction System Slide Extended
Check out the DPM Recoil Reduction System Slide Extended! As a result of using this product, we found that this easy-to-install upgrade will help you get the most out of your gun by reducing recoil, eliminating jams, and providing better control and double-tap concentration. Plus, it’s built to last with slide and frame protection to keep your gun in top condition. So don’t wait – pick up such a reduction system today and see the difference!
4# Centennial Defense Systems Stainless Steel Guide Rod Assembly
Centennial Defense Systems’ Stainless Steel Guide Rod Assembly is an excellent, high-quality product that you can count on for durability. This dual spring unit is made from solid stainless steel, so you can rest assured that it will not chip, crack, or break like plastic guide rods. Plus, the recoil springs are manufactured of certified materials and heat-treated for maximum durability. So why wait? Get this guide rod assembly today!
How to change the recoil spring and why?π§βπ§
Changing the guide rod and recoil spring in a Glock pistol is a relatively straightforward process that can be done for several reasons, including routine maintenance, customization, or addressing specific performance issues. Here’s how to change the guide rod and recoil spring in a Glock:
π£ Changing the guide rod and recoil spring in a Glock:
βοΈ Tools Needed:
- π οΈ Glock disassembly tool or punch.
- π οΈ Eye protection.
- π οΈ A replacement guide rod and recoil spring (if necessary).
βοΈ Procedure:
π· Field Strip the Glock: Remove the magazine, check, and clear the chamber. Point the pistol in a safe direction and pull the trigger to release the striker. Separate the slide from the frame by retracting the slide slightly and pulling down on the slide release tabs on both sides.
π· Remove the Recoil Spring Assembly: Using the Glock disassembly tool or punch, push down on the rear end of the recoil spring assembly (located beneath the barrel) to release it from the slide. Carefully remove the recoil spring and guide rod from the slide.
π· Replace the Recoil Spring Assembly: If you are replacing the existing assembly with a new one or a different one, ensure that the new guide rod and recoil spring are compatible with your Glock model. Insert the new recoil spring and guide rod into the slide, making sure it is properly aligned and seated.
π· Reassemble the Glock: Carefully reattach the slide to the frame, ensuring it locks into place. Perform a function check to ensure the pistol cycles properly and that the slide locks back when the magazine is empty.
π£ Reasons to change the guide rod and recoil spring:
| π£ Routine Maintenance: Recoil springs can wear out over time due to repeated cycling during firing. Replacing them as part of your Glock’s routine maintenance schedule helps maintain reliable performance. |
| π£ Customization: Some shooters may want to customize the recoil impulse of their Glock by installing aftermarket guide rods and recoil springs with different spring rates. This allows you to fine-tune the pistol’s performance to your preferences. |
| π£ Malfunction or Performance Issues: If your Glock is experiencing cycling problems, such as failures to eject, failures to feed, or excessive recoil, changing the recoil spring and guide rod can potentially address these issues. |
| π£ Caliber Change: If you’re changing the caliber of your Glock (e.g., from 9mm to .40 S&W), you may need to replace the recoil spring and guide rod to match the new caliber’s requirements. |
| π£ Maintenance After High Round Counts: If you have fired a high number of rounds through your Glock, it’s a good practice to inspect and replace the recoil spring assembly as needed to maintain reliability. |
β Always follow Glock’s guidelines and recommendations for maintenance and replacement intervals. Incorrectly installed or mismatched recoil springs can negatively impact the pistol’s reliability and safety, so it’s essential to ensure proper fit and function.
FAQπ
Conclusionπ
The Glock 26 recoil spring is an important part of the pistol that helps to control the muzzle flip and recoil. Itβs important to find the best one for your needs, so in this buyerβs guide, we are told about the different types of springs available and what to look for when making your purchase. Weβve also included different tips from experts to help you make an informed decision. Thanks for reading!ππ
Affiliate Disclosure: Rotorm.com sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Amazon, Optics Planet, Lucky Gunner, Brownells, Cabelas, Rainier Arms, 5.11 Tactical, Bass Pro Shop, etΡ. Clicking a link helps keep Rotorm.com free, at no extra cost to you!
About the author: Each article on our site is written by experts in survival and tactical equipment, gun enthusiasts, extreme travelers, military, law enforcement and desperate professionals, read about the author at the bottom of the article or visit "About Us" page.
Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency.
Are there any options for lighter recoil springs for the Glock 26 Gen 3?
When dealing with a barrel as short as the one in the Glock 26 Gen 3, it becomes quite challenging to achieve substantial velocity. One potential approach might involve using lighter loads to boost velocity, such as 90-grain high-velocity ammunition, which can reach speeds of around 1400 fps. However, this approach has its limitations. I’ve replaced the stock recoil spring assembly (RSA) with DPM Recoil Reduction System Slide Extended.
While I was cleaning my Glock last night, I noticed that the recoil spring had a slight bend. Surprisingly, the gun had been functioning perfectly fine, but I tend to be quite particular about the condition of my firearms. As a result, I started thinking about potential replacement options. I’m curious if you have any suggestions in this regard.
A lot of folks will recommend sticking with the DPM Telescopic Recoil System For Glock – some even get weirdly grouchy about it. As for me – I also recommend probably sticking with it. But, I will maybe qualify that with some extra info – in case you find it useful. There are maybe 4 reasons to “upgrade”: you need a new one (for whatever reason) and you find an aftermarket one on sale and the price difference is negligible; you want a specific color accent for the front of your gun; youβre a robot-level competitive shooter who is so skilled that the added weight can make a difference getting back on target; you just want to and itβs your damn gun and you can do whatever the hell you want to do to it! If you do decide to go aftermarket, just be sure about the spring weight.
I recently acquired a Glock 26 and I’m interested in upgrading the recoil spring to improve recoil management. Additionally, I’m considering potential barrel upgrades. I’d appreciate recommendations for a suitable recoil spring and any insights into barrel upgrades for this firearm.
When it comes to upgrading I recommend using a Centennial Defense Systems Stainless Steel Guide Rod Assembly. It’s a quality steel guide rod – try it!
I purchased a super heavy tungsten guide rod with a recoil spring. What do you think about it?
In the past, I also went with a 20lb spring because I thought it might help with recoil management. However, I’m not using +P+ ammo. In hindsight, I realize that replacing recoil springs, especially with such a heavy one, might not have been the best choice. It could potentially lead to cycling issues unless I’m using high-pressure ammunition, which would only increase recoil. I understand now that these heavy springs can be somewhat gimmicky and may not significantly reduce recoil, especially on a Glock 26. If this is indeed your carry gun, it might not have been the most practical modification to make.
What is the best guide rod and recoil springs?
Glock pistols are often referred to as “Glock Perfection” for a reason, and they tend to run reliably without many alterations. Aside from upgrading the sights, I don’t see a compelling reason to make changes. With the addition of night sights and a light, they’re usually good to go. It is just my thoughts!
Some say that a heavier guide rod can help with recoil, although I’m not entirely sure how much truth there is to that claim. Nevertheless, my Glock performs exceptionally well with DPM Recoil Reduction System Slide Extended.