The Glock platform is well-suited for the USPSA Carry Optics Division due to its affordability and reliability, offering excellent performance in capable hands.
Let’s explore some advantages of the Glock Gen 5 Platform, starting with mechanical accuracy. I have observed that the Gen 5 Glock consistently features a well-manufactured slide and barrel, providing precise lockup and straight barrel alignment within the slide. This results in exceptional accuracy, something not commonly found in other mass-produced platforms.
In terms of magazines, the Gen-5 Glock offers affordability and dependability. With the addition of Henning extensions and the MBX spring and followers, you can achieve a reliable 24+1 capacity in the gun and an easy 23+1 reload. The flared grip provides a generous opening, making reloading a Gen 5 Glock much smoother compared to other options in the division. Additionally, the factory Glock extended mag release is easy to locate and consistently releases magazines, even under pressure with rounds still in the tube.
Regarding mounting optics, the choice between MOS (Modular Optic System) and direct milling should be considered. It's worth noting that no federal agency has approved MOS Glocks. Glock only sells guns directly cut for optics to agencies for bulk orders. Direct mounting, with a full recoil lug cut, provides the most secure interface for the optic on a Glock slide, as it eliminates lateral stress on the screws and positions the optic slightly lower. Direct milling for the Holosun 507 Comp/SRO and Vortex Defender XL is a popular option, and both optics perform exceptionally well on this platform.
The Glock 17 and 34 share the same recoil assembly length, featuring an ideal combination of a longer spring and the weight of the Glock 17 slide. This setup generally offers superior performance compared to the shorter recoil spring configuration of the Glock 47 and 45, which utilize the Glock 19 Recoil Assembly. While the shorter assembly may feel faster to some due to the sharply felt recoil impulse, the perception of increased speed doesn't translate into actual performance gains. It may result in a marginal decrease in performance. Considering we are mounting a red dot, the Glock 17's weight and recoil spring space make it an optimal choice for Carry Optics. Additionally, the factory dual spring setup in the Glock 17 performs perfectly and does not necessitate lighter springs in the Gen 5.
The Glock Performance Trigger (GPT) provides a fully cocked striker and a better trigger feel compared to the factory setup. Some have raised concerns about the need to oil the rear housing of the GPT, finding it unacceptable. Overwatch Precision offers an upgraded version of the GPT with NP3 coating on all its metal parts. I prefer the shorter curved Faulx trigger shoe by Overwatch Precision. Adding a lightened wolf Firing Pin Block Spring and the Overwatch NP3 Coated Minus Connector for a lighter trigger pull can achieve a sub 3# trigger without any mush. When dealing with the right-side slide stops on some Gen 5 Glocks, removing some material with a mini belt sander and polishing the friction point can result in a more consistent and positive trigger pull and reset across multiple guns. The Glock platform is well-suited for the USPSA Carry Optics Division due to its affordability and reliability, offering excellent performance in capable hands.