I checked out some of the posts in the Mods section. Wow, you have really gone deep into the construction (or de-construction) of these gloves. I do not have a photo handy, but as I had noted above prior to my game, I noticed a difference just after a short time of propping the glove open.
And post-game report, I have to say that I felt much better about my catching using the glove. I should note that I normally only play between the pipes part-time, and my glove would sit closed up in my bag for extended periods. However, for the next few months I will be playing on a weekly basis. But between propping it open for a while prior to my game, and after tightening the black leather tails a bit at thumb and pinky loops, the response was increased a LOT.
I have been playing against some lower level skaters in this current league, and the shots come a bit slower than what I am really used to, so I have had some timing issues.
One thing I have even noticed already, is that I don't think I want to leave it propped open the whole week between games, as that does feel like it might start to make it require more effort to close. But just taking the advice above, I think if I do that a day or so ahead of game time, I am going to be OK. Had some nice catches last game, and find that I really like the pocket on this glove, it's pretty deep and holds the pucks well once I get them in there. But I am feeling like I have solved the challenge I was facing.