Glock build

[Harkrader]

I know I could probably get a lot of info by joining a Glock group, but I already belong to many groups and don't really need another to monitor. Besides, I own only one Glock, a 20 (Generation pre-zero) modified for 50GI.

I want to build a special Glock for a LEO relative who has a birthday approaching. He has long liked Glocks and carried them a lot until his department changed to H&K a few years ago. They had so many problems they are going back to Glock, now that Glock has addressed problems the department ran into before, such as failures with lights mounted on them.

I've been looking at Rival Arms parts, especially their slides and barrels. I'd want it fitted with an optic, red-dot, night-sight iron sights, rail for a light, and barrel threaded for suppressor.

Other parts might include an Apex trigger. I'd like to hear thoughts on strikers, guide rods and springs, and slide locks. How about thumb safeties?

Zev Technologies has some interesting things, too, though I like the Rival Arms slides better.

Since I haven't owned a Glock since Generation pre-zero, I know zip about the generations. I saw an interesting build on a Gen 3, but am hearing that the Gen 5 is the way to go. I'd appreciate thoughts on that.

A good picture of recommended ideas would be appreciated.

 

[Valmet]

Any reason you can’t just buy a brand new MOS Glock that is pre-cut for an optic? You can always pick up a threaded bbl. Some of your options sound needlessly expensive IMO.

 

[Harkrader]

No argument, Valmet. I'm looking for something fancy and I don't think the MOS slide makes that.

 

[Valmet]

Fair enough, I know that some of those customs Glocks are slick indeed. I’d be lying if I said I’ve never flirted with one of those ZEV triggers.

 

[boatbum101]

Only Glock I have is a 30S 45acp . It's for CCW only . I did install a factory minus connector which took all the pre travel out & allows for a clean 4.5lb break & a set of Meprolight night sights . I also put a KKM barrel in it which improved lockup , accuracy & increased dwell time before it unlocks . Added pluses are a fully supported chamber & the ability to safely shoot lead . I'm sure if you check with the action shooters on Brian Enos's forum you'll get a ton of ideas .

 

[Sevens]

This is a fantastic forum but if the PISTOL is the end goal, there are so many resources far better than here to seek great and very specific knowledge and opinions.

 

[Harkrader]

Thanks boatbum101, I will do that.

 

[Harkrader]

Sevens, that is exactly why I posted here. Ideas and resources. I'm totally Glock-deprived.

 

[Wise_A]

I had pretty good luck with the following setup:

Ghost Pro 3.3 Connector
Apex flat-face trigger w/ Gen3 trigger bar
Apex spring kit, including extra strength trigger spring

It's like a big squirt gun that spews 147-grain pills. Giggles all around (G34 MOS).

Remember--extra strength trigger springs lighten the pull. You might be happier with either the stock trigger spring or even reduced power.

You can also go with one of several sources for an "improved" stock connector--you'll still have a "wall", but it will be much cleaner and less spongy/crunchy than the stock. I would recommend that route if you want something holster-able.

If you're thinking of a carry gun, leave the trigger stock. Really. Spend the money on frame/grip work (redone grip texturing, and definitely an undercut trigger guard) and a match barrel (KKM Precision would be my choice).

Take a look at Wilson Combat's Paul Howe package for a real fancy-pants practical Glock.

Alternatively, personalize it. You can get a custom striker plate with your agency shield/emblem/logo/etc on it. One of those, plus a personalized slide (badge number would be good), and you're off to a good start.

KKM's drop-in barrel is well-regarded, and available in stainless. Pair it with their compensator, especially on a G34-size.

I cannot recommend the Zev triggers. Aftermarket triggers with non-OEM geometry have a long and extensive history of not being drop-safe. And by "not drop-safe", I mean "goes off if you hit it with your hand". Including Zev. Their new triggers are allegedly better, but I still wouldn't trust one.

If it doesn't use an OEM trigger bar and ejector housing, I'd stay away from it. And if a company claims to offer a "crisp" Glock trigger, I'd run like hell.

As far as Gens--pick whatever. I actually rather like my Gen4 with the large backstrap, even though I don't have huge hands. Gen5 wouldn't be a bad choice if you wanted a newer gun but without finger grooves.

Other stuff:

Striker--it'd be like spending $70 to say that you spent $70
Guide Rod--I kinda like my TTI captured guide rod, but again, it's sort of a silly thing to buy.
Thumb Safety--What is this I don't even.
Slide Stop--OEM competition one is fine.

 

[Ματθιας]

What is a Glock "Generation pre-zero"?

 

[EdinDenver]

I've built 4 glocks - both in .40 and in 9mm.

Glockstore.com sells the frames - they are Gen 3 frames. Every once in a while they will put them on sale for about $50 each.....you may think "Wow! What a great price!". I'm going to be straight - if you're building a plain jane gun, it's cheaper just to buy the gun outright.

They also have all the parts you mention and can answer any questions you have if you give them a call.

 

[Harkrader]

"Pre-Zero" = prehistoric. The very first ones imported. Just my weak attempt at humor in describing my iggorunce.

 

[Harkrader]

"Thumb safety". Told yuzz that I was unknowing of Glocks. I read / heard/ imagined that SOMEbody had said to SOMEbody that there was a thumb safety ala 1911 available. If not, my bad.

 

[Harkrader]

Thanks, everyone. I now have a number of things to look into. Hadn't thought of personalized striker plate and slide. That goes on the list.

 

[gdogs]

Zeroed In Armory sells slides as well as doing slide cuts on your equipment. $200 to cut your slide w/optic cut of your choice and cerakote. I haven't found a better deal and was pleased with the job they did on mine.

 

[326MOD10]

Take a look at Bowie Tactical.

I love what he did to my 43 and he offers many options.

You just can't be in a big hurry to get your work done but his product is worth the wait.

 

[Mrnurse]

Ive found mine work fine as Issued.

 

[Kanewpadle]

When considering a Glock trigger upgrade, I would go with a complete replacement.

Sometimes replacement parts from one company don’t work well with parts from another company. This includes OEM parts.

And unless Zev has improved their product, I would use caution. There are many, many aftermarket sources for Glock parts. Many you never heard of.

Have fun.

 

[Harkrader]

No argument, Mrnurse. My very early Sig 228 and 229 are as bone stock as they came, and will shoot with the latest from Sig any day. (Well, maybe not the P228. Many thousands of rounds through it and a lot of service overseas. It rattles. But still shoots as well as I ever needed.) But this is a birthday gift for a revered relative who likes, and has, stock Glocks. Want to make a special one for him. Some glitz but still a shooter.

 

[Kanewpadle]

Thanks, everyone. I now have a number of things to look into. Hadn't thought of personalized striker plate and slide. That goes on the list.

Keep in mind, some gun shops offer laser engraving.