So I have a Full Size Steel, 10mm of course, and so far I've run it on the OEM recoil spring. Even with the stock spring, it's a challenge to rack the slide. I got the Wolff recoil calibration pack, and after my last range trip, decided to drop the 18 lb. spring in, but had to drop back to the 16, I just could not rack the slide with that 18 in there, and I'm not exactly a weakling :o. So my question is, how do guy rack these things with .22 lb. springs?! Enquiring minds, don't ya know ;). Later.
Dave
the way the slide rides inside the frame really cuts down on the gripping surface but it can be done. I run a 20# spring and a flat bottom firing pin stop in my full size steel. its stiff but not really a problem. the price you pay for the mighty 10mm. lol
Hennings sells a rear sight that can be used to cock the pistol on a hard surface.
Are you cocking the hammer before racking the slide? That can take off quite a bit of force off to start the initial movement.