Typically on a 45 that is where it should be starting to ramp up into the barrel.

again, so far its only when I hit the slide release. but thats how I want to continue to reload, so I want to fix the problem instead of avoiding it. I have been kicking myself for swapping out the slide release for a while now, and that could be it. I wish DW would send me a new one... haha
but it is well lubed and cleaned now. always is.

I would then find out where it is binding and clean it up a little.

email kieth at dan wesson or call them for a replacement.

Springs wear from being cycled during use, not from compression from being loaded. Is this the only type ammo cauisng the failure? Are you using a shock buff? I'm with Aaron, sounds like the slide is moving too slow...how old and what weight is the recoil spring? That's where I'd look first...once your slide stop releases the slide, it's job is done unless it's binding

ETA: just saw you rpleaced the slide stop...unless you're lucky they seldom just drop in and need fitting...I'd check for binding like Aaron said, and check the recoil spring, as it can also cause a slow moving slide

I honestly wouldn't know how to check for binding. Nothing is glaring at me, but it looks and feels normal.
whats Keith's email? I sent a message to [email protected] earlier, is that a good contact email? what about the phone number, is it 607-336-1174?
Thanks again for all of the help

exactly, thats why I dont think its the mags.
This is the only ammo that I have encountered failing thus far
Definitely not using a Shok Buff
The spring is as old as the pistol, 1 year and 800 rounds or so.
And I can agree, but I wouldnt know how to check for binding and such

note: while I agree that I should have never swapped the slide release, It has been in this pistol for pretty much all of the rounds shot through it, so being that the problem just started now, i'm still not completely convinced. I really hope that DW will send another though

Wilson mags tend to "launch" the round into the chamber, not relying on the feedramp so much....the only two things I can suggest are

Try a new recoil spring just to try it

Use a Sharpie on the edge of your slide stop to see if something rubs it off.

If all else fails (and it may).....PM Dave Waits

im looking at the slide release now, and there are some wear points but I don't know exactly how to describe them.

Color it up with a Sharpie, release the slide a few times and see where the ink rubs off. If it does, that will give you an idea where to start looking. I'd buy a spare recoil spring and try it anyway..always a good thing to have on hand regardless

dissasemble the pistol and post up pics of the frame, frame rails, barrel link hinge pin, slide release holes, slide rails and slide release lever. Top bottom and sides of all the things listed.

Is this a full stainless gun?

at 800 rounds i would be surprised if you have a week spring. Many of my DW have over 5k with no problems on the recoil spring.


What specifically are you using for lube?

Where are you using it?

How much are you using?