a spaced spring as a system is stiffer
a longer softer spring generally gives lower initial acceleration and less bounce
a stiffer spring can make more power (cylinder pressure raises faster) and gives a faster piston acceleration and a quick action.
I prefer softer, longer.
This is one reason why sleaved down HW80s shoot so nice - loads of spring room, so they have that softer (true) recoil.
but you might like it harder, quicker
Always looking for any cheap, interesting, knackered "project" guns. Thanks, JB.