Pistol Firing Spring: Designing a Starter Pistol

[recreated]

In the middle of designing a 'Starter Pistol/Game bird, dog training pistol'.



I am using the basic design of how a revolver works as the actual firing/reloading mechanism as shown here 'http://science.howstuffworks.com/revolver2.htm'.

Notice how long the spring is which is used to give a sudden jolt of energy to the hammer and hence smack the blank ammunition's casing and cause the reaction.
My design does not have enough space to house such a large spring. Is it actually necessary to use such a large one or would a short and stronger one be just as good? I understand it would be harder to compress but my design is something you squeeze in your hands so I think it would be easy to transfer the extra force needed.

My attempt? I believe a small spring with the right stiffness would go unnoticed to the hammer which is being suddenly pushed forward by it, I can not back this up with any science.

Also is there a particular name for this compressive spring? Would help a lot to know that I'm sure.

Thank you,
James

 

[Valkarie]

The type of spring you are likely looking for is a coiled compression spring. This type of spring is designed to be compressed and will provide the necessary energy to force the hammer forward when fired. They come in various sizes and strengths, so you can choose one that fits your design specifications. It's important to note that selecting the right spring is critical in order to ensure that the pistol works safely and reliably.