Venturing Beyond the .40 S&W: The Allure of the Conversion Barrel
The Glock 27, a compact powerhouse chambered in .40 Smith & Wesson, has earned a reputation for reliability and concealability. Its manageable size and robust design make it a popular choice for concealed carry and personal defense. But what happens when you want to explore the potential of your G27 with different calibers? Enter the conversion barrel, a modification promising versatility by allowing you to shoot various rounds using the same firearm. However, this seemingly simple upgrade can sometimes introduce issues. This guide delves into the world of Glock 27 conversion barrels, examining the common problems users encounter and how to navigate these challenges for a safer and more enjoyable shooting experience.
The primary motivation behind using a conversion barrel is to change the caliber of your Glock 27. The ability to shoot rounds like 9mm or .357 SIG in your existing Glock frame can be extremely appealing. It eliminates the need to purchase an entirely new firearm and allows you to diversify your ammunition options. This is especially convenient for those who want to practice with more affordable ammunition (like 9mm) while still having the option to carry their preferred defensive round (.40 S&W). The cost savings and the added flexibility are often the initial draws to this modification. This article examines the potential pitfalls to be aware of.
Decoding the Dilemma: Common Problems with Conversion Barrels
While offering an attractive proposition, conversion barrels in the Glock 27 are not without their challenges. Several common problems arise when utilizing a conversion barrel, ranging from mechanical malfunctions to concerns about accuracy. Understanding these potential issues is crucial to safe and effective use of your converted G27.
Navigating Reliability Hurdles
One of the most significant concerns with conversion barrels revolves around reliability. The G27, designed for a specific caliber, is engineered with specific tolerances. Introducing a conversion barrel can disrupt these finely tuned mechanics, leading to a variety of malfunctions.
Failure to Feed (FTF) is a frequent issue. This occurs when the round fails to properly chamber into the barrel. Several factors can contribute. A conversion barrel may not be perfectly compatible with the specific bullet profile of the new caliber. Some rounds, like certain types of hollow points, might experience issues feeding smoothly. Extractor problems, as well, may be a contributor. The extractor is designed to remove the spent casing, but may not be operating at the ideal function, which affects the subsequent round from seating properly. Magazine compatibility also plays a crucial role. Conversion barrels may require specific magazines designed for the new caliber, and using an incorrect magazine will likely lead to FTF.
Failure to Extract (FTE) is another common problem. This happens when the spent casing fails to be removed from the chamber. This can be a result of a poorly designed or improperly manufactured barrel, causing the chamber to grip the casing too tightly. Issues with the extractor itself, like wear or damage, can also cause FTEs. In some cases, the recoil spring, if it’s not matched to the new caliber, could contribute by not cycling with enough energy to eject the casing.
Closely related to FTE is Failure to Eject (FTEj), which is the failure of a spent casing to be ejected from the pistol. While FTE focuses on the casing’s removal from the chamber, FTEj addresses its successful ejection from the slide. A weak ejection might be a symptom of a problem with the extractor or the ejection port, or the way it interfaces with the slide, or other mechanical issues that make the case get caught.
Stovepiping, where the spent casing gets stuck partially ejected, is another frustration. The casing stands vertically, resembling a stovepipe. Stovepiping, often the result of low-powered ammunition, a weak extractor, or excessive friction, can disrupt your shooting rhythm and potentially lead to further malfunctions.
Accuracy Challenges: A Different Perspective
Beyond reliability, conversion barrels can also impact accuracy. While the base Glock 27 is accurate, the conversion process introduces variables that can affect where your shots land.
Point of Impact (POI) shift is a common occurrence. When you change calibers, you are changing the bullet weight and often its velocity. These factors affect the bullet’s trajectory, leading to changes in POI. You may find that your shots consistently land lower, higher, or to one side. This requires an understanding of ballistics and often requires adjusting your aim point or even changing the sights.
Group size, or how closely your shots cluster together, can also be affected. If a conversion barrel has manufacturing imperfections or has a poor fit, it might not be able to consistently guide the bullet down the barrel. Barrel quality, as well as the type of ammunition, can affect the tightness of the group.
Locking issues, if the conversion barrel doesn’t lock properly with the slide, or doesn’t fit properly to the slide, can cause significant accuracy problems. This can lead to inconsistent shot placement and make it difficult to achieve tight groupings.
Examining the Barrel’s Fit and Function
The physical characteristics of the conversion barrel itself play a crucial role.
Tight chamber issues can create their own problems. If a conversion barrel has a chamber that is too tight, it can cause the spent casings to stick inside the barrel. This can lead to extraction problems, malfunctions, and may even cause the casing to break.
Lock-up problems affect the reliability and the precision of your gun. If the barrel does not interface appropriately with the slide, it may fail to remain in the proper position. This leads to inconsistencies when the gun is fired.
Poor finishing can cause problems with barrel fit and function. If a barrel has surface issues, it may interfere with the operation of the firearm and may be difficult to insert and remove.
Understanding Component Compatibility
The installation of a conversion barrel will also require considerations about other components.
Magazines may require a change. The new caliber’s dimensions may necessitate new magazines. Using the incorrect magazine might not reliably feed or extract ammunition.
The recoil spring may also need to be addressed. As you alter bullet weight and powder charge (and therefore, pressure and recoil), you should evaluate your recoil spring. It may be necessary to use a stronger or lighter spring to accommodate the new caliber and ensure proper cycling.
Sights also need to be a consideration. The change in bullet weight, velocity, and recoil can cause a change to the point of impact. A lighter or heavier bullet, with a different flight profile, might cause a different impact point, and thus might require adjustments to the sights.
Prioritizing Safety in Operation
Safety is paramount when modifying any firearm. The use of conversion barrels introduces several safety-related concerns.
Pressure issues can be a major concern. Conversion barrels should only be used with ammunition that meets the chamber’s pressure standards. Failure to do so can lead to dangerous situations, even catastrophic failure of the firearm, or injury to the shooter and bystanders.
Bullet setback occurs when the bullet is pushed further into the casing due to the repeated impacts of the bullet against the feed ramp or the chamber wall. This can dramatically increase the internal pressure of the round when fired, potentially leading to dangerous overpressure situations.
Preventing Problems: Proactive Measures
While conversion barrels come with potential downsides, many problems can be mitigated through careful choices and practices.
Making the Right Barrel Selection:
Selecting a high-quality conversion barrel is the first critical step.
Barrel brands should be researched. Choosing a brand with a reputation for manufacturing high-quality barrels, using high-quality materials, and with appropriate testing and controls is important.
Materials and construction are important. The material of the barrel is critical. Stainless steel, for example, is an extremely common choice for its durability and resistance to corrosion.
Chamber dimensions must be appropriate. Verify the conversion barrel’s chamber dimensions against the caliber you intend to use. This will help prevent issues.
Finishing is important. The finish of the barrel, as well as the machining quality and overall attention to detail is an important component of a functioning and reliable barrel.
Installation and Maintenance: The Foundation of Function
Proper installation and ongoing maintenance are vital for a reliable and safe operation.
Follow manufacturer instructions carefully. Precise and proper installation will make the firearm more safe and reliable.
Lubricate and clean the barrel regularly. Keeping your barrel clean and lubricated is important for reliability.
Inspect for wear. Be sure to examine the barrel for wear, damage, or fouling.
Chamber check. Always double check the barrel, before shooting, to make sure it is the correct size for your caliber.
Ammunition and You: Considerations
Considerations for ammunition are as important as the barrel itself.
Use only correct ammunition. Use ammunition from respected manufacturers that’s known to function properly.
Bullet weight considerations can be helpful. A lighter or heavier bullet can produce different recoil characteristics, and may require adjustment of your technique or possibly the recoil spring.
Troubleshooting Steps
Even with the right equipment, issues can arise. Knowing how to diagnose and correct is important.
If FTF, FTE, or FTEj, you can check the extractor and the chamber.
If accuracy problems, check the barrel fit and the lock-up.
Consulting a gunsmith can save you time and money. If you have persistent issues, or are unsure about a problem, it’s important to consult a gunsmith.
Weighing the Options: Pros and Cons
It’s essential to evaluate the benefits against the potential challenges of Glock 27 conversion barrels.
Advantages
The most obvious benefit is the versatility to be able to fire other calibers.
The option to use less expensive ammunition for training, especially 9mm, can yield financial savings.
A larger variety of calibers can be available to you.
Disadvantages
Potential for malfunctions is increased.
The reliability can be diminished compared to the factory set-up.
Accuracy may be affected.
Extra expenses should be considered.
In Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
Conversion barrels, while promising versatility, can present a variety of challenges. By understanding the potential problems, making informed choices, and practicing proper maintenance, you can minimize the risks and potentially enjoy the benefits of adapting your Glock 27. Evaluate your priorities, weigh the pros and cons, and decide if the conversion barrel is the right choice. When in doubt, consult a qualified gunsmith.
Remember that firearm work can be dangerous. Always practice safety and consider your own abilities.
