"Lock-time" is defined as the "time interval between sear release and the firing-pin striking the primer". The basic premise is - a reduction in lock-time will cause your rifle to hit closer to where you held the point of aim when you pulled the trigger. This is because less time passes for human errors to impact the path of the bullet.

The 1903A3 has a locktime of somewhere around 6.5 milliseconds, depending on firing pin spring weight. The Remington 700 long action has a locktime of 3.0 milliseconds, the Remington short action 2.6 milliseconds.


Below from Wolff springs:

"Wolff coil-type replacement rifle and shotgun springs are designed to replace weakened, damaged or broken springs in many popular models. These springs, unless otherwise noted, are ready for immediate installation and require no fitting.
BLITZSCHNELL™ precision speed-lock rifle striker springs for bolt-action rifles are made from the highest quality, high-tensile round section wires, as are all Wolff Springs. Each Blitzschnell striker spring has squared ends and is individually hand ground to provide flat seats, cleaned and oiled for long life and solid performance and require no fitting. Blitzschnell striker springs provide dramatic improvement in lock-time over fatigued and factory springs which can greatly improve accuracy and reliability of bolt-action rifles. Load ratings indicated are with the striker (firing pin) in the cocked position and for rifle actions equipped with standard factory parts and designs. Custom triggers and bolt modifications may change the specified ratings. We also suggest that you check for proper protrusion of the striker end from the bolt face. The optimum protrusion should be about .060" and no more than .065" to prevent primer puncture. Each Blitzschnell striker spring is individually packaged and identified, and is ready for immediate installation and use."

Lock time effects accuracy, a 50 year old + worn firing pin spring that rubs the inside of the bolt will greatly effect accuracy. A new spring decreases lock time and promotes better accuracy.

Ten rounds 50 yards



5 rounds, 50 yards PH-5C sight



Go ahead and use your old weak firing pin springs, I'll keep using new springs with faster lock times. Please note only new military Enfield firing pin springs were used, I have yet to test any Wolff springs which are stronger than military.

Alan de Enfield

"It should not be less than 3.4" long. Now let's not fall out about this. If it IS shorter and the rifles fires perfectly, then so far as we were concerned, it's serviceable!"

I'm not looking for just "serviceable!" and enough force to ignite a primer, I'm looking for faster lock times and accuracy. If just going "bang" is good enough for you or anyone else and your not concerned with improving accuracy then go ahead and use these weaker springs.