AE Grip Safety
 

Should there be a return spring on an AE #3021X 9mm Luger? (Similar to a 1911).This one only protrudes when the side safety is engaged.

Yes.
It may be in place and assembled incorrectly.

Sir, I've had new ones of these made. PM sent TH

Received the replacement spring yesterday and installed. Minimal fitting required. Works great.
Thanks Luger Doc!

... :confused: ...

Could you describe what fitting the spring required??? Maybe a pic???

Rich,
Having done that operation myself I can say that it is really a simple process...drift out the old stub of the spring, lightly needle file any burrs on the frame hole, check for fit of the new spring and lightly touch up with a file any excess difference in size between the spring base and the gun frame (it should be a reasonably tight interference fit) and tap it home.
Ron

That's about what I did. It entered the recess okay, but even though bottomed out in the slot, a bit extended over the frame. Just enough to interfere / rub/ drag on the grip safety underside. Judicious touch up with the needle file and light fine emery cloth did the trick. Good for another hundred years!