Let’s Talk About Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits
The Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits promise to enhance the performance and functionality of your P80 build. These kits, manufactured by Cross Armory, offer a drop-in solution for common upgrades, focusing on improving the user experience. Having spent years tinkering with various firearms, I was intrigued to see how this kit would stack up against individual aftermarket parts.
My primary motivation for seeking this kit stemmed from a frustrating experience with a P80 build plagued by a mushy magazine release and difficult pin removal. I wanted a reliable, all-in-one solution to address these issues without piecemealing together different brands. The Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits arrived in a simple, no-frills package. Initial inspection revealed that the components were machined with precision and finished in a clean black.
The stainless steel pins felt noticeably more robust than the factory polymer ones. Compared to other upgrade kits I’ve seen, the Cross Armory offering seemed more focused on practical improvements rather than purely aesthetic enhancements. I chose this kit over others primarily for its promise of improved functionality and ease of installation. I was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits on my P80 build and took it straight to the range. The range was a typical indoor setup, offering a controlled environment to assess functionality. The most immediate improvement was the magazine release.
The extended magazine catch allowed for quicker and more reliable magazine changes. It was particularly useful while practicing drills involving rapid reloading. The dimpled pins also proved their worth, making takedown and reassembly noticeably easier. I experienced no failures to eject or feed during my initial testing session, which was a welcome surprise.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits continue to perform flawlessly. The stainless steel components show no signs of rust or corrosion, even after repeated exposure to cleaning solvents. Regular cleaning is simple.
A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps the parts looking and functioning like new. Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket parts of questionable quality, the Cross Armory kit has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits
Specifications
The Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits is specifically designed for Glock P80 builds and includes the following:
- PIN SET: A set of stainless steel dimpled pins for easier takedown and assembly. These replace the often-fragile factory polymer pins.
- SLIDE LOCK: A precision-machined stainless steel slide lock with an improved finish for corrosion resistance. This ensures reliable slide operation.
- EXTENDED MAGAZINE CATCH: A 7075 T6 billet aluminum extended magazine catch with a smooth ramp. This is designed to improve magazine change speed, comfort, and efficiency.
These specifications are important because they directly address common pain points in P80 builds. Upgrading the pins provides greater durability, while the extended magazine catch enhances ergonomics.
Performance & Functionality
The Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits significantly improves the overall functionality of a P80 build. The extended magazine catch allows for faster and more intuitive magazine changes, even with gloved hands. The dimpled pins make disassembly and reassembly much easier.
The stainless steel slide lock offers enhanced reliability compared to the factory part. The only minor improvement I could suggest is slightly more aggressive texturing on the magazine release pad. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits boasts a sleek and functional design. The black finish complements the aesthetics of most P80 builds. The parts are lightweight.
The extended magazine catch offers improved ergonomics without interfering with holster compatibility. The learning curve is minimal. The installation is straightforward for anyone familiar with basic firearm disassembly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits, constructed from stainless steel and 7075 T6 aluminum, is built to last. The stainless steel components resist rust and corrosion. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that is needed to keep the kit functioning optimally.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits does not include any additional accessories beyond the three components. However, the kit is fully compatible with a wide range of aftermarket P80 parts and accessories. The extended magazine catch DOES NOT interfere with any holster.
Pros and Cons of Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits
Pros
- Improved Functionality: The extended magazine catch and dimpled pins enhance the user experience.
- Enhanced Durability: The stainless steel and aluminum construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: The kit is easy to install with basic tools and knowledge.
- Holster Compatibility: The extended magazine catch does not interfere with common holsters.
- Improved Aesthetics: The black finish complements the appearance of most P80 builds.
Cons
- Limited Customization: The kit only includes three components.
- Basic Packaging: The packaging is functional but lacks premium appeal.
Who Should Buy Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits?
The Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits is perfect for anyone building or upgrading a P80 pistol. It’s an ideal choice for shooters looking to improve the reliability and functionality of their firearm without breaking the bank. Those seeking purely aesthetic upgrades or extensive customization options might want to explore alternative products.
A must-have accessory to pair with this kit would be a high-quality set of gunsmithing tools.
Conclusion on Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits
The Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits offers excellent value for the money. The improved functionality, enhanced durability, and ease of installation make it a worthwhile investment for P80 enthusiasts. The price of $42.00 is more than justified.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking to enhance their P80 build. It’s a reliable and cost-effective solution to common upgrade needs. Upgrade your P80 with the Cross Armory 3-Piece Upgrade Kits and experience the difference!