Springs for Checkmate Mags

[DrHenley]

I just started getting some 3 point jams and noticed that the springs are getting weak(er) on my Checkmate (Colt branded) mags. I have quite a few and have been rotating them periodically (every few months) so I don't believe they should be wearing out yet. They just haven't been used that much. Some of them have always been a little weak (too easy to insert first round) but it's now starting to impact function.

When you take the follower out, how far out should the spring be? On some of these only one coil was showing. On one mag, over 4 coils were showing and it was still pretty stiff empty.

I have stretched the springs for now to match the mag that was still good, and will only load 7 until I can remedy this.

What is the best spring for the 8 round Government Checkmate mag? How long will stretching the springs get me? I imagine it will hasten the demise of the springs.