My question probably doesn't have a simple answer, but here it is. I have a case full of various side springs, however I don't know how to tell a Manufacture #1 Gold from a Manufacture #2 Gold, leaving me always wondering if I'm putting a 5# spring on or a 15# spring on. Is there an easy or simplified way (other than squishing!) to tell what manufacturer or at least what # the spring is?

Try measuring the spring with a calipers generally a softer spring will be smaller in diameter.

if the wire size is the same, count the number of complete coils. the spring with more coils will be softer, less coils stiffer, assuming the same length, dia, and wire ga. you can also compare the color wolfe gold is alot diff the asc gold. hope that helps

could you set the spring on a digital scale and get a reading like that?by pressing down on the spring.

Niftech actually makes a device that does that for you. It uses a postal scale and a holder to push down on the spring to get a reading.

Throw them out and start new. That way is the best and easiest way that i know of!