Understanding the Foundation: The Glock 19 and Glock 22
The Glock 19
The Glock 19. A name synonymous with reliability, accuracy, and widespread adoption by law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian gun owners alike. Its compact size and ease of use have made it a perennial favorite. But what if you could experience the power of a different caliber, specifically the popular .40 Smith & Wesson, without having to purchase a whole new firearm? Enter the world of Glock 19 22 Conversion, a process that allows you to modify your existing Glock 19 to chamber and fire .40 S&W rounds. This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know about this conversion, from understanding the two firearms involved to a step-by-step process and the pros and cons of making the switch. Before we delve into the mechanics, remember that firearm safety is paramount. Always handle firearms with care, and ensure you are familiar with the rules of safe gun handling.
The Glock 22
To fully appreciate the Glock 19 22 conversion, it’s crucial to understand the two firearms involved. The Glock 19, chambered in 9mm, is celebrated for its balance of concealability and firepower. Its compact size makes it ideal for everyday carry, while its generous magazine capacity provides ample rounds. The Glock 19’s polymer frame contributes to its lightweight design, and its straightforward design, with minimal controls, makes it easy to operate and maintain. This ease of use combined with its inherent reliability makes it a favorite for those new to firearms, as well as experienced shooters. The 9mm cartridge itself is widely available, relatively inexpensive, and offers manageable recoil, making it a comfortable round for extended range sessions. However, some shooters may find the 9mm lacks the stopping power of other rounds.
The Glock 22, on the other hand, represents the .40 S&W option from Glock. Introduced as a service pistol, it shares a similar frame size and overall design with the Glock 19. The primary distinction, of course, is the caliber. The Glock 22 is specifically designed for the .40 S&W round, known for its increased power and potential stopping capability when compared to the 9mm. Many law enforcement agencies adopted the .40 S&W due to its perceived performance benefits, although the trend has been shifting back towards 9mm in recent years. The Glock 22, much like its 9mm counterpart, benefits from Glock’s reputation for reliability, durability, and simple operation. It offers a similar user experience to the Glock 19, but with a different feel at the range, particularly in regard to recoil.
A Comparison of Calibers: 9mm vs .40 Smith & Wesson
Ballistics and Recoil
Before you consider the Glock 19 22 conversion, it’s essential to understand the differences between the 9mm and the .40 S&W cartridges. Ballistics are crucial to understanding a cartridge’s performance. The 9mm typically offers a higher velocity than the .40 S&W, but the .40 S&W generally delivers more energy at the target. This extra energy can translate to a perceived increase in stopping power, though this is always a complex topic. Recoil is another key difference. The .40 S&W generates significantly more recoil than the 9mm. This can affect follow-up shot speed and accuracy, especially for newer shooters.
Cost and Availability
The cost of ammunition is also a major factor. Historically, 9mm ammunition has been more affordable than .40 S&W, making it a more economical choice for frequent practice. However, market fluctuations and supply chain issues can influence prices. Availability of ammunition is another point. Both 9mm and .40 S&W are widely available, but availability can vary depending on your location and the current state of the firearms market.
Why Consider the Conversion?
Cost and Availability
The question of why someone would consider a Glock 19 22 conversion often arises. There are a number of compelling reasons to do so. One major factor, as mentioned previously, is the potential cost benefit when it comes to ammunition. The cost of .40 S&W could be less than 9mm in certain markets, which might make the conversion a more economically sound option.
Another reason can be linked to ammunition availability. If 9mm rounds are difficult to obtain due to local events or global factors, the conversion allows you to potentially continue shooting using the .40 S&W ammunition, if that’s more readily available in your area.
Experience and Competition
For some, the conversion offers the opportunity to experience shooting .40 S&W without the immediate expense of purchasing a whole new firearm. This allows you to assess your preferences before making a more significant investment.
For those involved in tactical shooting, or competitive sports, the caliber choice can be a significant one. The .40 S&W round can give the shooter extra power, which might prove advantageous in particular competitions. A Glock 19 22 conversion allows the shooter to change calibers with minimal investment in equipment.
Essential Components: The Conversion Kit
The Barrel
The heart of the Glock 19 22 conversion lies in the components. You’ll need a conversion barrel, the .40 S&W magazine, and potentially, other things. A quality conversion barrel is the most critical part of the conversion. It is specifically designed to fit your Glock 19 slide but chambered for the .40 S&W cartridge. There are different types of conversion barrels available, including drop-in barrels and aftermarket barrels. Drop-in barrels are designed to be easy to install, generally requiring no modifications to your slide or frame. Aftermarket barrels may offer greater precision or features, but they might need more complex installation procedures. Always ensure the barrel is properly fitted to ensure safe and accurate operation.
Recoil Spring
While not always required, many shooters recommend replacing the recoil spring when converting to a different caliber. The .40 S&W generates significantly more pressure than the 9mm, so a heavier recoil spring can help manage recoil and ensure reliable cycling of the slide. You’ll have to pick the right spring for the load. Consult with reputable gunsmiths and manufacturers for guidance.
The Magazine
The final essential piece is the magazine. Glock 19 magazines are specifically designed for the 9mm cartridge. For the conversion, you will use Glock 22 magazines, which are made to accommodate .40 S&W rounds. These magazines are built to feed the larger ammunition in the same frame, but it’s crucial to avoid mixing and matching magazines with cartridges, as this can lead to malfunctions.
The Conversion Process: A Detailed Guide
Safety First
Before commencing the Glock 19 22 conversion, ensure that your firearm is unloaded and all magazines are cleared. It’s of utmost importance. Always follow the standard safety rules, which include:
- Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction.
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
- Be certain of your target and what is beyond it.
Disassembly
The first step involves disassembling your Glock 19. This procedure is well-documented and straightforward. Field stripping involves:
- Removing the magazine and ensuring the chamber is empty.
- Pulling the slide back slightly and pulling down on the takedown levers to lock the slide open.
- Pulling the slide forward off the frame.
- Removing the recoil spring and barrel from the slide.
Installation and Reassembly
Next, you will install the .40 S&W conversion barrel into the slide. This is often a simple drop-in process, but ensure the barrel fits correctly, and locks up properly. If you have replaced the recoil spring, install this now.
Finally, reassemble the slide onto the frame. Verify that the slide moves smoothly and locks into place.
Insert the .40 S&W magazine, ensuring that it locks securely.
Testing and Evaluation
After the conversion and reassembly, it’s crucial to test your firearm. Begin by visiting a shooting range where safety protocols are strictly enforced. Make sure the range officers know of the conversion. Following all safety procedures, load the magazine with .40 S&W ammunition and carefully insert it into the firearm. Fire a few rounds. Observe how the gun cycles. Is it feeding, firing, and ejecting the rounds reliably? Look for malfunctions, like failure to feed, failure to eject, or stovepipes. Accuracy is another important factor. Are the shots landing where you are aiming?
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
The advantages of a Glock 19 22 conversion are the flexibility it provides and the ability to switch calibers relatively inexpensively. You can experience the .40 S&W without buying a new gun.
Cons
The disadvantages of the conversion are several. A converted Glock 19 may not be as reliable as a dedicated Glock 22. The recoil differences can also require adjustment. Finally, depending on the quality of the components used, you might not get the same level of accuracy you would find from the Glock 22.
Legality and Compliance
Before starting any firearm modification, always ensure you are following all local, state, and federal regulations. Some jurisdictions may have restrictions on barrel replacements or caliber conversions. Research your local laws and understand any relevant regulations before beginning.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is critical for all firearms, including those that have undergone conversion. Clean the barrel thoroughly after each shooting session. Regularly inspect your firearm for wear and tear. Store your converted Glock 19 in a safe place.
Conclusion
The Glock 19 22 conversion offers a viable option for shooters who want to explore the .40 S&W caliber. It’s a process that provides flexibility and experience at a lower cost compared to buying a new firearm. However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks. Ultimately, whether or not you decide to pursue a Glock 19 22 conversion is a matter of personal preference, but with careful consideration and responsible practices, the decision can give you years of enjoyment. Always handle firearms with the utmost care. Remember to prioritize safety, follow all applicable laws, and consider the guidance from experienced gunsmiths.
Important Reminder: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Firearm modifications can be dangerous. You are solely responsible for your own safety and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Always exercise caution and seek professional assistance if needed.
Resources
[Link to a reputable conversion barrel manufacturer]
[Link to a reputable Glock accessory retailer]
[Link to a well-known firearms safety organization]
[Link to the Glock official website]
