Coil main spring

[deermanok]

I looked through some old posts but couldn't find the answer I'm looking for.
Is a coil main spring harder to keep clean vs the typical V type flat spring?
Is one type better than the other?

 

[Phil Coffins]

A coil spring is less likely to break, on the other hand they don’t feel the same to cock. Cleaning is cleaning just different. Coil spring is easier to make so cheaper. How it’s set up in a lock can make a big difference.

 

[ohio ramrod]

Coil springs are harder to make which is why flat springs were used hundreds of years, Although I remember seeing a picture of a Polish in line flintlock made with a coil spring that was made in the 1700's Flat springs were the main springs due to being easier to make. Cleaning and oiling is really the same for both. Keep them clean and well oiled and both will last.

 

[Phil Coffins]

Coil spring WERE harder to make but now are a breeze, even I have made them. Making a good v spring can be a job.

 

[Col. Batguano]

Phil has it right. Before the invention of the modern short cut of using electric power, and a lathe-type tool, coil springs WERE harder to make. Modern industrial automated and mass manufacturing techniques have made them all about the same now.

 

[nhmoose]

Please just how could it be harder. Explain Eh?

Toothbrush or for those not from Mainer teeth brush, cleaner, scrub, oil scrub. Not hard.

 

[Phil Coffins]

First you have to make the wire with smooth and consistent gauge. Today we buy piano wire of the size we want and form it to the size and pitch we need.