[Branth]

I've been using mostly Blazer, but I haven't had trouble with any of the ammo I've put through it.

 

[Branth]

The trick is to put your finger over the spring and then pull the slide back until you can use the safety to manually lock the slide back. Then the barrel clips right in. It really isn't a problem once you get used to it.

If you take the short barrel and place it on top of the slide backwards (muzzle end up against the breech), that will hold the spring in place nicely. You can also use the narrow side of a magazine.

It's a bit of a bear to get used to, I know, but it's not too bad once you get a couple of tricks down. If you call Phoenix and tell them your recoil spring is wearing out, they'll send you a pack of replacements free. It's recommended you replace the spring every 500 rounds or so anyway to prevent frame cracks.