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I bought a new 85FS in Nickel. It seems like a very nice gun and has been accurate to shoot. So far, I've put 400 rounds through it without a single misfeed.

However, the spring seems excessively strong. My wife is completely unable to pull the slide to load the first round. And unless I'm wearing my gloves, it is a real challenge for me too.

I've cleaned and lubricated it, but that has provided only minor improvement in the pull resistance.

My PX4 in 9mm and .380 Colt Mustang are no where near as difficult to pull the slide.

I was hoping this could replace the Mustang my wife uses for home defence since the Mustang is now a collectible and at nearly 20 years on, is starting to have misfeeds on the last round in the magazine. But if she can't pull the slide, it is a no go.

Are there replacement springs that I could get which would be weaker and therefore easier to operate? Or does something else need to be done?

It occurred to me that I could weaken the spring over time by storing it in the open position. But I'm reluctant to try that without some feedback.

I will be at a gun show in about 2 weeks, so if a part needs to be swapped, I might be able to get something if I know what to look for.

Please advise.

Thank you!