First Impressions of Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit
The world of Glock customization and home builds is vast, often fraught with the challenges of finding reliable, quality parts. The Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit promises a solution for completing a Gen 3 Glock 17 or Polymer 80 PF940V2 build, featuring an upgraded striker and stainless steel guide rod. This immediately piqued my interest, as those are two components often prone to issues in budget-friendly kits.
I was drawn to this kit because I’ve been planning a Polymer 80 build for a while and wanted a parts kit that offered a balance of quality and affordability. I’ve had experience with budget parts failing prematurely, and I hoped this kit would provide a step up in reliability. Upon unboxing, the parts appeared well-machined and the stainless steel guide rod was a welcome sight compared to the usual plastic offerings.
I considered other kits from brands like Brownells and Shadow Systems, but ultimately chose the Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit due to its advertised stainless steel guide rod and the promise of an upgraded striker at a competitive price point. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The components looked and felt better than the ultra-budget options, but the proof would be in the performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit was at an outdoor range, integrated into my Polymer 80 PF940V2 build. The weather was mild and dry, perfect for a day of shooting. Installation was straightforward, with all parts fitting snugly into the slide.
The initial 100 rounds went smoothly, with consistent cycling and no immediate malfunctions. The stainless steel guide rod offered a noticeable improvement in slide smoothness compared to the plastic guide rods I’ve used in the past. My surprise came with the trigger pull, which felt surprisingly crisp for a stock setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and approximately 300 rounds, my experience with the Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit took a significant turn. Disappointingly, the firing pin broke. This critical failure brought my build to a standstill.
I disassembled the slide, and upon inspection, the firing pin had fractured near the base. Despite the smooth cycling and good fit, the firing pin failure raised serious concerns about the overall durability. Cleaning and maintenance were standard, but the premature failure overshadowed any positive aspects.
Breaking Down the Features of Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit
Specifications
The Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit includes the following key specifications:
- Caliber: 9mm Luger, designed for Gen 3 Glock 17/Polymer 80 PF940V2 builds. This caliber is highly popular and readily available, making it a versatile choice.
- Material: Predominantly steel, offering enhanced durability. However, the extractor and backplate use other materials, impacting longevity.
- Stainless Steel Guide Rod: This is a notable upgrade over standard plastic guide rods, promising increased lifespan and smoother cycling. A high-quality guide rod is vital to reliable operation.
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for Gen 3 Glock 17 and Polymer 80 PF940V2 frames. Ensure compatibility with your specific build or existing Glock model.
- Components: Includes a full complement of parts: Striker, Guide Rod/Spring, Extractor, Extractor Spring, Extractor Depressor Plunger, Polymer Backplate, Channel Liner, Striker Spacer Sleeve, Spring Cups, Striker Spring, Safety Plunger, Safety Plunger Spring, and Bearing. All the necessary components should be included for a complete upper build.
These specifications influence the kit’s performance and longevity. While the stainless steel guide rod and steel construction are positives, the quality of individual parts like the striker is critical.
Performance & Functionality
Initially, the Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit performed admirably. Cycling was smooth, feeding was consistent, and the fit was good.
However, the early failure of the striker is a significant drawback. This dramatically impacts overall reliability. The upgraded striker promised more durability, but failed under relatively low round count.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit‘s design follows standard Glock Gen 3 specifications. The parts fit well within the slide.
No specific ergonomic enhancements are present, but the stainless steel guide rod does contribute to a smoother slide action.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel guide rod should theoretically increase the longevity. The failing firing pin creates significant concerns.
Maintenance is straightforward, but the durability issues raise questions about the long-term value. Regular cleaning and inspection are crucial to identify potential issues.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit itself doesn’t directly offer customization options, but its compatibility with Glock Gen 3 platforms opens the door for aftermarket accessories. Sights, barrels, and other internal components can be swapped out to customize the build.
Due to the early failure, upgrading key components like the striker is recommended, essentially negating the cost savings of this kit.
Pros and Cons of Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit
Pros
- Includes a Stainless Steel Guide Rod, offering an upgrade over standard plastic options.
- Parts generally fit well within Glock Gen 3 and Polymer 80 slides.
- Smooth initial cycling and reliable feeding before the failure.
Cons
- Premature striker failure after only 300 rounds.
- Questionable overall durability despite the promise of steel construction.
- Polymer backplate is less durable than steel alternatives.
Who Should Buy Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit?
The Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit is potentially suitable for budget-conscious builders seeking an entry-level upper parts kit with a stainless steel guide rod. However, given my experience, I would strongly caution against relying on it for self-defense or high-volume shooting.
Those seeking a truly reliable build should consider investing in higher-quality parts kits from reputable brands with proven track records.
Must-have modifications would include replacing the striker with a higher-quality aftermarket option from a trusted manufacturer.
Conclusion on Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit
My experience with the Cross Armory Standard Upper Parts Kit was ultimately disappointing. While the stainless steel guide rod and initial smooth cycling were promising, the premature failure of the striker is unacceptable.
At $79.99, the price might seem appealing, but the potential for early failure outweighs the cost savings. I cannot personally recommend this kit.
Consider investing in a more reputable brand to ensure a reliable build. It’s better to spend a little more upfront than to risk a critical failure when it matters most.