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AR15.COM
9/21/2026 8:14:31 AM EDT
I’m putting together a new USPSA Carry Optics gun and want to run a 15lb recoil spring. However, every aftermarket Gen6 guide rod I can find says they aren’t recommended for the G17, and only for the 19/45, I believe it has something to do with how the guide rod protrudes into the longer 17 slide, but I’m not sure. My understanding is that the Gen6 19/45/17 all use the same factory RSA, so this is a little confusing.

How are you guys running reduced power recoil springs on these? I read somewhere that a person removed the end from the factory polymer guide rod and ran it with an uncaptured ISMI spring. Are there any other options?
9/21/2026 7:21:10 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Colt653][Edited] [#1]
Originally Posted By GimmeLibertee:
I’m putting together a new USPSA Carry Optics gun and want to run a 15lb recoil spring. However, every aftermarket Gen6 guide rod I can find says they aren’t recommended for the G17, and only for the 19/45, I believe it has something to do with how the guide rod protrudes into the longer 17 slide, but I’m not sure. My understanding is that the Gen6 19/45/17 all use the same factory RSA, so this is a little confusing.

How are you guys running reduced power recoil springs on these? I read somewhere that a person removed the end from the factory polymer guide rod and ran it with an uncaptured ISMI spring. Are there any other options?
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@GimmeLibertee

I use a non-captive steel Gen3 Glock 19 recoil spring guide, and a 15lb. ISMI spring.

I tried to use a captive G19.3 on my G17.6 but it would bind.


Attached File


9/22/2026 7:57:12 AM EDT
[Last Edit: GimmeLibertee][Edited] [#2]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Colt653:


@GimmeLibertee

I use a non-captive steel Gen3 Glock 19 recoil spring guide, and a 15lb. ISMI spring.

I tried to use a captive G19.3 on my G17.6 but it would bind.


https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/2275/IMG_2343_jpeg-3830840.JPG

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Good info, thanks.  I emailed this same question to NDZ and they said this will work.  When I asked why they don't indicate in the description or specs that it's compatible with the G17, they said "it just needs to be updated."  I went ahead and ordered one to try, but if it ends up not working, what brand of Gen3 guide rod is that?
Yesterday 6:43:37 AM EDT
[#3]
I used a ISMI 19 guide rod and spring.

It had some binding at first, but eventually wore in after cycling the slide a lot.

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