Why Opt for a 9mm Conversion?
Advantages of 9mm Ammunition
Choosing to convert a Glock 27 to 9mm offers several key advantages, making it an appealing option for a variety of shooters. The benefits go beyond mere convenience; they can significantly impact your overall shooting experience and cost-effectiveness.
One of the most immediate advantages is the reduced cost of ammunition. 9mm Luger ammunition is generally more affordable than .40 S&W. This difference can quickly add up, especially for frequent shooters or those who engage in regular practice. For example, during times of supply chain disruptions, 9mm ammunition might be more readily available and more economically accessible compared to less common calibers like the .40 S&W. This is particularly important for shooters on a budget, who still wish to maintain a high level of training.
Recoil management is another critical aspect. The 9mm Luger round typically generates less felt recoil than the .40 S&W, which can be particularly noticeable in a compact handgun like the Glock 27. The lessened recoil makes follow-up shots faster and more accurate. This is beneficial for rapid target acquisition and maintaining accuracy during defensive shooting scenarios. The ability to control the weapon effectively is a cornerstone of proficient shooting.
Furthermore, 9mm ammunition is available in a wider variety of bullet weights, types, and designs. This versatility allows shooters to tailor their ammunition to specific purposes, whether it be target practice, self-defense, or competition. Finding the right bullet profile for your needs is often easier with the vast selection of 9mm rounds available.
Finally, the conversion can potentially offer an increase in magazine capacity, depending on the magazine used. Though the Glock 27’s frame dimensions remain the same, certain aftermarket magazines designed for the Glock 26 (which is inherently a 9mm pistol) can offer greater capacity than standard .40 S&W magazines. This can provide a tactical advantage in certain situations.
Personal Preference
Beyond practical advantages, personal preferences also contribute to the popularity of this conversion. Some shooters simply find 9mm a more comfortable round to shoot. Reduced recoil can translate into a more enjoyable and less fatiguing shooting experience, particularly during extended range sessions. The familiarity with 9mm, as a common caliber, can be a factor as well, as many shooters may have other firearms chambered in 9mm, leading to convenient ammo interchangeability.
The Conversion Process: Essential Components
Successfully converting a Glock 27 to 9mm involves replacing or modifying several key components. Understanding these components and their function is critical to a safe and effective conversion.
Barrel
The heart of the conversion is the barrel. The Glock 27’s original barrel is chambered for the .40 S&W cartridge, and the 9mm conversion requires a barrel specifically designed for the 9mm Luger round. Conversion barrels are available in two main types: drop-in and custom. Drop-in barrels are generally easier to install as they are made to fit the existing slide without modification. Custom barrels, on the other hand, may require some gunsmithing but can offer improved accuracy.
When choosing a conversion barrel, material and quality are crucial considerations. High-quality barrels are typically made from durable materials like stainless steel or carbon steel, ensuring long-term performance and reliability. Look for barrels with features such as match-grade rifling, which can enhance accuracy. Numerous reputable manufacturers offer conversion barrels for the Glock 27. Researching the specific features offered by brands and reading customer reviews is a smart investment before making a purchase.
Magazines
Along with the barrel, a reliable magazine is essential. The Glock 27, being a .40 S&W pistol, does not inherently use 9mm magazines. You have several options. The first is to utilize magazines designed specifically for the Glock 26, which is a subcompact 9mm Glock pistol. These magazines will fit and feed reliably. Another possibility would be to find a magazine made by a third party to provide a similar function to the Glock 26 magazine. Ensuring compatibility between the magazine and the barrel is vital for reliable feeding. Testing the converted pistol with various types of ammunition during the function test is important.
Other Optional Parts
Other parts are considered optional, but worth considering. While the Glock 27 can often function with the existing recoil spring assembly, some shooters choose to replace it. A recoil spring assembly designed for 9mm may optimize the pistol’s cycling and potentially improve reliability. Whether to change out the extractor and ejector is a common question. Some people prefer to swap these parts out, while others leave the existing ones in place. This ultimately comes down to experimentation and testing.
Trigger upgrades are entirely optional, but can definitely enhance the shooting experience. Upgrading the trigger mechanism can improve trigger pull and smoothness, leading to improved accuracy. Several trigger upgrades are available for the Glock platform, allowing customization to personal preferences.
Step-by-Step Conversion Guide
Converting a Glock 27 to 9mm is a straightforward process. Following these steps carefully, with proper safety precautions, can lead to a successful conversion.
Safety Precautions
Before anything else, safety is paramount. Make sure the firearm is completely unloaded. Remove the magazine and visually inspect the chamber to ensure it is empty. Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from potential debris. Perform the work in a well-lit and uncluttered space.
Disassembly
Field stripping the Glock 27 is the initial step. With the firearm unloaded, remove the slide from the frame. This usually involves retracting the slide slightly, disengaging the takedown lever, and sliding the slide forward off the frame. Disassemble the slide further by removing the original .40 S&W barrel.
Conversion Process
Installing the 9mm conversion barrel is next. Simply insert the 9mm conversion barrel into the slide, ensuring it fits correctly. Some drop-in barrels might require a small amount of fitting, but most will slide directly into place. Once installed, ensure the barrel is properly seated and that the slide can cycle smoothly.
Insert the correct magazines into the pistol. If you are utilizing Glock 26 magazines, insert them into the Glock 27’s frame. Make sure the magazine locks securely in place.
(Optional) If you have chosen to replace the recoil spring assembly, do so at this point. The recoil spring assembly sits beneath the barrel within the slide. Replacement is usually simple and straightforward.
Reassemble the slide onto the frame. Ensure the slide is properly aligned and that the slide locks forward.
Function Test
Finally, perform a thorough function test. Insert a magazine filled with 9mm ammunition. Rack the slide and allow the pistol to cycle. Observe whether the pistol cycles and ejects spent casings properly. Fire a few test rounds at the range to confirm reliability. If any issues arise, such as failure to feed, failure to eject, or stovepipes, carefully examine each component of the conversion. Make sure everything is assembled correctly and consider contacting a qualified gunsmith if the problems persist.
Performance and Reliability Analysis
Once the conversion is complete, assessing the pistol’s performance and reliability is essential.
Accuracy
Accuracy expectations after the conversion largely depend on the quality of the conversion barrel. High-quality barrels with match-grade rifling often deliver excellent accuracy. With a little practice, groups should be comparable to those achieved with the original .40 S&W setup.
Factors influencing accuracy include the quality of the barrel, the ammunition used, the shooter’s skill, and any potential modifications that improve the trigger feel. Experimenting with different bullet weights and types can help optimize accuracy with your converted Glock 27.
Reliability
Reliability is key. Several factors impact reliability, including the choice of ammunition, the condition of the magazine, and the fit of the conversion parts. Start with reputable brands of 9mm ammunition and test different bullet profiles. Ensure the magazine is clean and free of damage. The 9mm conversion barrel should seat firmly in the slide.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting potential problems is important. Failure to feed can be caused by magazine issues, incorrect ammo, or a problem with the barrel. Failure to eject could stem from a weak extractor, a dirty chamber, or again, issues with ammunition. If these issues arise, contact a gunsmith.
The Legal Landscape: Important Considerations
Modifying a firearm has legal implications, so awareness is critical.
Federal laws generally don’t prohibit converting a handgun to a different caliber, as long as the base firearm is legal to own. However, state and local laws vary widely. Some jurisdictions may have specific restrictions or require registration of modified firearms. Thoroughly research and understand your local laws before beginning the conversion. Penalties for non-compliance can be severe.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult with legal counsel or local law enforcement to ensure compliance with all applicable laws.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper cleaning and maintenance are vital to ensure the reliable performance of your converted Glock 27. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for any firearm, and the conversion itself does not change this basic requirement.
After each shooting session, thoroughly clean the pistol. Disassemble the pistol and clean the barrel with a cleaning rod, brush, and solvent designed for firearms. Clean the slide and frame with a suitable gun cleaner. Lubricate the components with a quality gun oil.
Pay careful attention to the barrel for fouling. The 9mm barrel may require slightly different cleaning techniques, but the general process is the same.
Inspect all components regularly. Check for wear and tear on the barrel, slide, and frame. If any components show signs of damage or excessive wear, replace them.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The 9mm conversion has both its benefits and drawbacks.
Advantages
- Reduced ammunition costs
- Softer recoil
- Wider range of ammunition choices
- Potentially, increased magazine capacity
- Improved shooting experience for some shooters
Disadvantages
- Requires additional parts and tools
- Potential for reliability issues if not properly done
- May void the original Glock warranty
- Barrel may not be as accurate as the original .40 S&W barrel
- Possibility of non-functioning original magazines
Conclusion: A Thoughtful Decision
The Glock 27 9mm conversion can be a worthwhile endeavor for shooters seeking to reduce ammunition costs, improve their shooting experience, and leverage the benefits of the 9mm Luger cartridge. The conversion process is relatively straightforward, but requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the components involved.
When done correctly, the conversion can transform your Glock 27 into a versatile and economical firearm. However, always prioritize safety and legal compliance throughout the process. Thorough research and experimentation with ammunition types are essential for optimizing performance.
By carefully considering the pros and cons and following this guide, you can make an informed decision and potentially unlock a new dimension of enjoyment and functionality from your Glock 27. Always prioritize safety, conduct thorough function checks, and stay informed about local laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable shooting experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the conversion reliable? Reliability depends on the quality of the parts and proper installation. Thorough testing is crucial.
- Is the conversion legal? This depends on your local laws. Research them thoroughly.
- What is the best conversion barrel? Many quality barrels are available from reputable manufacturers. Researching and reading reviews is recommended.
- Do I need to change the extractor/ejector? Some recommend it, but it may not be necessary. Test your setup to see if it functions reliably before making changes.
- What magazines should I use? Glock 26 magazines or third-party 9mm magazines designed to work with Glock 27 are viable choices.
- Will the conversion void my warranty? Yes, likely it will void the Glock factory warranty.
