The Glock 17, a venerable and ubiquitous handgun, is a solid platform readily adaptable to individual needs and preferences. While the factory Glock 17 is reliable and accurate out of the box, several upgrades can significantly enhance its performance, ergonomics, and overall shooting experience. This guide explores some of the best Glock 17 upgrades, categorized for clarity and focusing on practical improvements rather than purely cosmetic changes.
Enhancing Accuracy and Trigger Feel
The trigger is often the first area Glock owners look to improve. Factory Glock triggers, while reliable, are known for their somewhat gritty feel and long travel. These upgrades can dramatically improve accuracy and shooting comfort:
1. Trigger Connector:
Replacing the factory trigger connector with a lighter or smoother variant (such as a -3.5 connector or a polished OEM connector) reduces trigger pull weight and travel, resulting in a crisper, more controlled shot. This is a relatively inexpensive upgrade with a significant impact on shootability. Note: Always ensure compliance with local laws and regulations regarding trigger modifications.
2. Trigger Job:
A professional trigger job involves carefully polishing and smoothing internal trigger components to minimize friction and improve the trigger pull. This is a more advanced upgrade, best left to a qualified gunsmith. A properly executed trigger job can transform the Glock 17's trigger into a significantly more refined and responsive unit.
3. Aftermarket Trigger:
Several aftermarket triggers offer significant improvements over the factory unit, often incorporating features like adjustable pull weight and a shorter reset. These are more expensive than simple connector swaps, but provide more substantial improvements for those seeking a customized trigger feel. Research brands and models carefully, ensuring compatibility with your Glock 17 generation.
Improving Ergonomics and Handling
Ergonomics play a crucial role in shooting comfort and accuracy. These upgrades focus on enhancing the Glock 17's grip and overall handling characteristics:
1. Grip Enhancement:
Textured grip enhancements, such as Talon Grips or stippling, improve grip security, especially in wet or sweaty conditions. This enhances control and reduces the likelihood of slippage, leading to improved accuracy and recoil management. Stippling can be done professionally or, with the right tools and caution, by the owner.
2. Extended Magazine Release:
An extended magazine release allows for quicker and easier magazine changes under stress. This is a simple, inexpensive upgrade with a significant benefit in practical shooting scenarios.
3. Backstrap Modifications:
Different backstrap sizes can alter the pistol's grip angle and overall feel in the hand. Some aftermarket backstraps offer a more customizable fit.
Enhancing Sights and Optics
Improved sights enhance target acquisition and accuracy, particularly in low-light conditions.
1. Night Sights:
Night sights significantly improve low-light shooting performance. There are various options available, ranging from tritium-based sights to fiber-optic enhanced sights.
2. Red Dot Sight (RDS):
Mounting a red dot sight on your Glock 17 via an adapter plate offers a significant advantage in speed and accuracy, particularly at closer ranges. This upgrade requires careful consideration of sight height and co-witness capabilities.
Reliability and Durability Upgrades
While the Glock 17 is already known for its reliability, these upgrades can further enhance its longevity and performance:
1. Enhanced Extractor Spring:
An upgraded extractor spring can improve reliability and reduce the chance of malfunctions, especially with different ammunition types.
2. Improved Recoil Spring:
A heavier recoil spring can help mitigate recoil and potentially prolong the life of the gun's internal components, especially with +P ammunition.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Upgrades
Selecting the best Glock 17 upgrades depends on your individual needs and shooting style. Prioritize upgrades that address your specific weaknesses or enhance aspects of the gun you find most important. Remember to always research compatibility and ensure any modifications are performed by a qualified gunsmith if necessary. A well-upgraded Glock 17 can be a truly exceptional and personalized firearm.
