When 1i was 13 yeas old I figured out how to change a recoil spring just using a Philips screw driver that fit the hole and was big enough to get a grip on. sometimes.
Folks over complicate these things

Albert Einstein said something like
"Everything should be made as simple as possible, but no simpler."
As for my needs, this tool conforms to that advice.

Jim

:thumbup: I would like to point out that Jim is also an accomplished grip checkerer (after training from a master :evilgrin:) and if my 10-12 week turnaround is too long for some of you, he may be able to restore your grips faster.:thumbsup:

And I do it with a drift punch, it's really not too difficult. However, I can see a need for a tool if you do it on a more regular basis.

I have heated and bent a screwdriver-I changed a '37 recently.
I do believe in the right tool for most jobs.
Some go as far as grinding screwdrivers to fit. I think that is a good idea.
I also learned about field expedience and innovation.

I use a cotter pin puller to install my coil mainsprings. Jim's tool would look good in a Luger display, matched up with a restored [Thor] Luger and a cleaning rod like the one in Ed's carbine thread. And an old box of ammunition. In a fitted wood case. Lined with velvet. :)

Don't forget, a nice brass plaque on the box!

Jim,

Please see my PM regarding buying one of your recoil spring tools.:cheers:


Sieger

Recoil tool
 

I recently purchased the book, published 1965, entitled "Lugers Unlimited" by F. G. Tilton, MSgt, USAF. And, on page 17, found the following photograph and information. It could have been the basic design of the older tool which I had seen earlier, and the one which I used to design my reproduction which I offer for sale here on the Luger Forum.

I will add to this thread to say that I have one of Jim's tools - and it sure works better and a LOT faster than the screwdriver I was using before! Nicely made and beautiful to look at too!

I think the tool is on the Bender book too

I had to replace the mainspring on my Luger, and I liked your idea so much I made one out of a nail and an old chisel handle. Took me about 20 minutes. Thanks for the idea! Worked like a charm.

The basic design appears to work well....
Jim

I have finished a new lot of recoil tools. They are made of spalted.maple, couple from black walnut, and a couple from Bradford pear.
If interested, PM or send email to dent2@frintiernet.net

Jim Solomon

I think it interesting how many folks can use other tools. I have done that also, but using one of Jim's tools, saved me a lot of time and slipping that happened before!

:)

I just received a black walnut handled tool from Jim's latest run; and I am really glad I did.

Used it tonight to change the mainspring in a "baby" frame I'm building.

I could not have done it with my old "use a punch that fits the hole" system!:thumbup:

Great tool and great price for the $40 too!:cheers:

Me too!
 

Just got mine! Excellent workmanship! .....:)....Can't wait to use it.... Thanks Jim, best to all, til...lat'r...GT....:cheers:

Bump

Jim, that tool is beautiful and well crafted. I am glad I bought one from you. I know someday I will be glad I have it when changing that spring. You are very talented. :)

Bump