Let’s Talk About Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit w/10-Round Magazine and Range Bag
The Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit w/10-Round Magazine and Range Bag offers Glock owners a cost-effective way to train, plink, and introduce new shooters to the platform. This kit allows you to convert your Glock 19 or 23 (Gen 1-3) into a .22 LR pistol, significantly reducing ammunition costs and recoil. It’s a well-regarded option for those seeking to enhance their shooting skills without breaking the bank.
I bought the Advantage Arms Conversion Kit because I wanted to practice more without the expense of 9mm or .40 S&W ammunition, especially with recent price fluctuations. Getting trigger time on my familiar Glock platform, but at a fraction of the cost, was the key selling point.
Upon unboxing, I was impressed with the apparent quality of the kit. The aluminum slide felt solid, and the included range bag was a welcome bonus.
I considered the Glock 44 and the Taurus TX22 before ultimately deciding on the Advantage Arms kit. The Glock 44 felt too different from my standard G19, and I wanted to maintain the same trigger feel.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism about reliability, given the .22 LR cartridge’s reputation for being finicky. However, the potential for cheaper practice outweighed my concerns, and I was eager to hit the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit w/10-Round Magazine and Range Bag to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at an outdoor range on a clear, sunny day. I ran a variety of .22 LR ammunition through the converted Glock, following Advantage Arms‘ recommendations on preferred loads. Installation was straightforward, swapping out the factory slide for the conversion kit took only seconds.
The kit performed reasonably well in the dry conditions, though I did experience a few failures to feed with some bulk ammunition. Using higher-quality ammunition, like CCI Mini-Mags, drastically improved reliability, as suggested by the manufacturer.
Initially, I needed to adjust to the lighter slide, which affected the recoil impulse, but the familiar Glock grip and trigger made the transition smooth. The difference in slide weight was immediately noticeable but did not affect accuracy significantly.
After the initial range session, I discovered the importance of using the recommended ammunition and keeping the kit clean and lightly lubricated for optimal performance. The occasional failure to feed was easily cleared, and I learned to anticipate and address potential issues quickly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Advantage Arms kit has proven to be a valuable training tool. It has allowed me to significantly increase my practice time without the high cost of centerfire ammunition.
The aluminum slide shows minimal wear, primarily around the contact points with the frame. Regular cleaning and lubrication have kept the kit functioning smoothly, and I’ve experienced fewer malfunctions as I’ve learned its preferences.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down and light lubrication after each range session keep it running reliably. Compared to shooting my 9mm Glock, the .22 LR conversion is much cheaper to shoot, making it a worthwhile investment.
The Advantage Arms kit has exceeded my expectations as a cost-effective training solution, despite its ammunition sensitivity. It’s not a perfect replacement for centerfire practice, but it’s an excellent supplement for building fundamental skills and maintaining proficiency.
Breaking Down the Features of Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit w/10-Round Magazine and Range Bag
Specifications
The Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit converts Glock 19/23 (Gen 1-3) pistols to .22 LR. It features a 4.02″ barrel and comes with a 10-round magazine.
The kit is finished in black and includes a range bag for convenient storage and transport. The Manufacturer is Advantage Arms.
- Caliber: .22 LR – This allows for cheaper practice and training.
- Barrel Length: 4.02 inches – A shorter barrel contributes to the lighter weight of the slide.
- Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds – While limited, it’s sufficient for training drills and recreational shooting.
- Material: Aluminum slide – Keeps the weight down and mimics the operation of a standard Glock slide.
- Compatibility: Glock 19/23 (Gen 1-3) – Ensures a proper fit and function with popular Glock models.
- Included: One 10-round magazine and a range bag – Provides immediate use and convenient storage.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the kit’s performance, reliability, and ease of use. The aluminum slide ensures reliable cycling with .22 LR ammunition, while the 10-round magazine provides ample capacity for training exercises.
Performance & Functionality
The Advantage Arms kit performs admirably as a training tool, offering acceptable accuracy and reliable cycling with the recommended ammunition. Its primary strength lies in its ability to replicate the Glock platform’s ergonomics and trigger feel at a reduced cost.
The kit’s main weakness is its ammunition sensitivity, requiring specific brands and loads for optimal performance. While accurate enough for training, it’s not a match-grade target pistol.
The Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit mostly meets expectations for cost-effective training, but the ammunition sensitivity is a notable drawback. The need for specific ammo brands might become frustrating.
Design & Ergonomics
The Advantage Arms kit is designed to closely mimic the appearance and feel of a standard Glock slide. The aluminum construction keeps the weight similar to a loaded centerfire slide, and the controls are familiar to Glock users.
The kit is relatively user-friendly, requiring no special tools for installation or removal. The familiar Glock operating system makes the transition seamless.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum slide appears durable and should last for thousands of rounds with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining its reliability.
The kit is easy to maintain, requiring only basic cleaning tools and lubricants. The simple design minimizes potential failure points.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit includes a basic range bag and one 10-round magazine. The iron sights are Glock-compatible, allowing for easy upgrades to aftermarket options.
The kit is compatible with most Glock holsters designed for the G19/23 platform. Fiber optic sights are a popular upgrade for enhanced visibility.
Pros and Cons of Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit w/10-Round Magazine and Range Bag
Pros
- Significant cost savings on ammunition.
- Maintains the familiar Glock ergonomics and trigger feel.
- Easy to install and remove.
- Provides a valuable training tool for new and experienced shooters.
- Includes a range bag for convenient storage and transport.
Cons
- Ammunition sensitivity can lead to malfunctions with certain brands.
- Only comes with one 10-round magazine.
- Aluminum slide may not be as durable as a steel slide.
Who Should Buy Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit w/10-Round Magazine and Range Bag?
The Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit is perfect for Glock owners who want to reduce ammunition costs, new shooters who need a low-recoil platform, and instructors who want to provide affordable training. It is also good for practicing shooting fundamentals such as sight picture, trigger control, and breath control.
Those seeking match-grade accuracy or expecting flawless reliability with all types of .22 LR ammunition should skip this product. People who are expecting to purchase inexpensive bulk .22LR ammo and use that without issue should avoid this product.
A must-have accessory is additional magazines, given the limited capacity of the included magazine. Fiber optic sights can also enhance the shooting experience.
Conclusion on Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit w/10-Round Magazine and Range Bag
The Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit w/10-Round Magazine and Range Bag offers a cost-effective and practical solution for training and recreational shooting. While it has its limitations, such as ammunition sensitivity and a limited magazine capacity, the benefits of reduced ammunition costs and familiar ergonomics outweigh the drawbacks.
The price of $279.49 is justified considering the savings on ammunition and the versatility it adds to your Glock. The savings can be substantial over time with regular use.
I would personally recommend the Advantage Arms kit to Glock owners seeking an affordable training tool. It’s a valuable addition to any Glock owner’s arsenal.
Consider the Advantage Arms Glock 19/23 .22 LR Conversion Kit if you want to shoot more, spend less, and maintain proficiency with your Glock!