M&P noncaptured guide rod

[ParaLarry]

I feel silly asking this but does anyone have any tips on installing the recoil spring with a Non Captured guide rod on a FS M&P?
I can't get the spring compressed enough to fit in the slide by hand.

[saudadeii]

What model do you have? My FS is captured, as well as my 9C.

On my Sig and Beretta, I just push harder. After a few 100 rounds and dozens of field strips, It's gotten easier.

It's the technique. Don't forget the pelvic wooo.....

[ParaLarry]

It's a FS .40 I'm trying to install a non captured guide rod with a different weight spring.

[ParaLarry]

Got it done; I took an old fork, broke off the center tines and made a little tool that worked; I just couldn't grip it with my fingers alone.

[Fate]

Tell us more about your new setup. DETAILS!!

[ParaLarry]

Better Idea

I came up with a better idea; an open ended 1/2 wrench fits right between the frame rails and captures the loose part of the spring like a third hand:




Just had to use thumb to push in the back of the recoil rod.

[autoduel]

You can also use a dowel the same diameter as the rod inserted from the end to guide the spring. If you think the M&P is difficult you try the P22 with the barrel fixed to the frame.