An Entry Level (9x19major) G17?

[ChristopherG]

I've just joined USPSA after shooting IDPA for a couple of years--mostly revolver. I don't wanna stop shooting the wheelgun. But I've got a Glock 17 that I bought when I started competition (before I figured out the fun of wheels), and it's just gathering dust. Shooting production (or SSP) doesn't really appeal to me, 'cause it's too fun to beat those guys with a six-shooter; and if you're gonna shoot an autoloader, why not go all the way with it? So I'd like to make this gun a blaster.

I don't have a ton of money for this project, however, and I'm a big believer in the law of diminishing returns. So I'm trying to figure out what the lowest-end method would be for outfitting my Glock to shoot 9mm major safely and funly ;-). Here are the elements/components I've been cogitating over, and my thoughts on them: PLEASE offer any feedback or responses that come to mind.

1) JPoint and mount ($280). I know it's not a docter; but remember the project. I like the idea of the low-profile/iron-like sight acquisition, and the fact that it would enable me to adapt a holster I already have (rather than spend a hundred bucks on something to accomodate a frame mounted optic)

2) KKM barrel w/comp ($250). Having no experience with comps, I don't know anything about the relative effectiveness of the KKM comp or its competitors. If it would be just as good, I could save some dough with an EFK ported barrel for $170. Or, perhaps there's a better way that one of you will share.

3) THE brass magwell ($60). A few added ounces down low sounds like a good idea, even if an open gun won't be using its magwell but once a stage.

4) Taylor Freelance 170mm Baseplate ($40). You only really need one of these, right? I mean, if you can't finish a stage with one of these and a standard 17 rounder, I figure something's gone awry.

5) Stainless rod and (lighter) ISMI recoil spring ($20). Or Tungsten, for another 30 bucks, if it matters that much; but I'm not sure how much weight you want in the front end of a comped gun (see: my ignorance, under #2).

I've already done trigger work to the point I'm happy with right now. So that means $650 stand between me and my 9mm open budget-blaster. Am I missing anything? Would you do anything differently, or skip any of this, and why? Thanks for your experience and opinions.

PS--I understand that 9x19 major is basically a red-line project, and know how to attend to pressure signs; I have and use numerous manuals and a chrono, and have read everything I can find on this site on loading 9x19 major. Just looking for the feasibility of the proposed equipment at this point. If your advice on a particular comp includes loading suggestions, though, then fire away!

[Flexmoney]

Sounds like you have done your home work, and have done a ggod job spec'ing out what you want.

You may want a few 140mm extensions. There will be standards stages that require reloads...not sure if you will want to reload to the 170mm sitck...or stuff 17 rounders in with the magwell on.

[ChristopherG]

or stuff 17 rounders in with the magwell on

Ah--exactly the kind of experience-based insight I knew I'd overlook--'cause the magwell makes the opening basically recessed, right, so you need the extension as more-or-less a HANDLE on the mag? Brilliant.

[BSeevers]

An extended mag release although some don't like them and consider at least a couple 170mm's. Murphy's law. Other than that Holster, mag pouches and belt and welcome to Open.

[Little Bill]

I would look into spending just a little more money on a better comp, like what BrianH makes. I think that his website is: www.experimentalmachine.com

[ChristopherG]

Bill, I'd be happy to see what you're suggesting, but that website's a no-go. Maybe I can ask a really basic comp question while I'm at it. If you buy a comp that's separate from a barrel (say, a KKM barrel), does the barrel have to be threaded to accept the comp? Or do different comps attach to the slide (as it appears in some pics)?

Anyway, if you can point me at your suggestion, I'd appreciate it.

PS--nevermind; I did a name search and found it in his profile: experimentalmachinING.com

[Trey]

You will need an extension to properly seat any mag in a glock with a magwell. You don't necessarily have to get a 140mm or 170mm extension for all your mags though.

There will be standards stages that require reloads

Arredondo makes a nifty +0 extension (~$16) that you could pop onto a regular g17 17 round mag. (spring stays the same) And it's a whole LOT cheaper than a new 140/170 extension plus new spring.

[.40AET]

BrianH can be found at: Experimental Machining

Cool Stuff for Glocks

[MoNsTeR]

I think you're on the right track, though I'm skeptical of the JPoint.

I would go with the tungsten guide rod.

The KKM barrel/comp should be fine, and you can replace the comp with a custom one later if you like.

Don't short-change yourself on mags, especially since Glock mags are cheap. I'd want at least 3 small ones plus a big stick.

[eric nielsen]

Brian has put up new photos.

Brian's open glocks

I just bought a couple of new Glock 9mm mags with the factory +2 extensions and they load into the brass THE magwell easy and fast. 19rounds capacity. I still advise one or two 140mm extensions like Flex said. I'm very happy with mine, $35 with the spring [recommended] 140mm mag pads

Do a search on 9Major for 1.125 overall length. You'll likely need to be near Major just to make the gun function - Glocks are not adaptable to dropping the recoil spring weight very much. My $.02 is start with 7.5gr of HS6 and use ONLY 124/125 grain jacketed bullets.

You have thought this out pretty well and I wish you good luck. Hopefully mine gets finished before yours.

PS - I think the first mount is still free if you get the JPoint from JP.

[ChristopherG]

Caspian, you're right on the free mount; so there's thirty bucks I can spend on mag extensions! (I already have a fistful of high-caps--just need to put butts on at least some of 'em)

Thanks for the glock-specific reloading suggestions; I'll take it under advisement. I had been planning on using Zero's 125 jhp, and know HS6 is one of the powders that keeps coming up (and is cheaper than the various Finnish alternatives).