Is here any way to cut down on the effort to work the slide on some Semi's? It seems as if you need to have hands like a gorilla to work them. Even the small .380's. I don't know if you can install a lesser tension spring or not. That may inhibit the recoil and action. I know most would tell me to get a revolver, but I sort of like the 9MM's and .40's with a large capacity mag.
The smaller the length of slide, the higher the spring tension.. Try a full-size 1911 and note how easy those draw back compared to a compact.. Putting in a lighter spring will only increase the speed of damage to the slide from use.. Not advisable - unless one is trying to match the spring rate to a specific lighter loading..
One of my compact pistols is quite easy to use the slide - the Ruger SR9C.. That, and 17 round capacity (9mm) is pretty awesome..
The Kahr's, however, do take some effort..