First Impressions of Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel
The Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel promises to transform a standard Glock 17 or P80 940v2 frame into a compact, accurate carbine when paired with the Meta Tactical APEX Bullpup conversion kit. This aftermarket barrel, boasting a 16-inch length and polygonal rifling, aims to enhance both ballistic performance and overall handling. Its sleek design and nitride finish also hint at durability and resistance to the elements, making it a promising upgrade for Glock enthusiasts looking to explore the carbine conversion realm.
I’ve been a Glock armorer and tactical gear specialist for over a decade, always seeking ways to improve platform performance. The allure of a pistol-caliber carbine, particularly one built on the reliable Glock system, has always been high, especially for situations demanding greater accuracy and control.
My first encounter with the Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel was admittedly tinged with a bit of skepticism. Out of the box, the barrel’s black nitride finish looked immaculate, and the machining appeared precise. However, the weight was surprisingly light, which initially raised a question about its potential for heat dissipation during rapid firing.
I considered other options like a KKM Precision or a Faxon Firearms barrel. Ultimately, I selected the Meta Tactical barrel due to its advertised compatibility with the APEX Bullpup kit and the promise of optimized performance within that system. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping that the combination of Meta Tactical engineering and the Glock platform would deliver on its claims.
Initial excitement was tempered by the need to thoroughly test its claims and determine if it truly offered an advantage over a standard pistol configuration.
Real-World Testing: Putting Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel to the Test
First Use Experience
I conducted my initial testing at a private shooting range, focusing on accuracy and reliability with the Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel installed in a Glock 17 Gen 4, within the APEX Bullpup conversion kit. The weather was relatively dry, with a slight breeze, making for ideal shooting conditions.
The immediate impression was a significant improvement in accuracy compared to the stock Glock barrel at distances beyond 25 yards. Groups tightened considerably, and the longer sight radius of the carbine configuration aided in precise target acquisition. I quickly discovered that the extended barrel required a slightly different aiming point at closer ranges (within 15 yards) compared to the standard pistol setup.
The first few magazines ran flawlessly, with no malfunctions or feeding issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and approximately 500 rounds fired, the Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel has proven remarkably reliable. The barrel shows no signs of significant wear, and the nitride finish has held up well against cleaning solvents and general handling.
Cleaning the barrel is straightforward, requiring only standard bore cleaning tools and solvents. I’ve noticed minimal copper fouling, likely due to the polygonal rifling. Compared to my experience with standard Glock barrels, the Meta Tactical barrel definitely delivers a noticeable increase in accuracy at extended ranges, making it a worthwhile upgrade for anyone looking to enhance their Glock’s capabilities within a carbine conversion system.
It outperforms a stock Glock barrel significantly when installed in a carbine conversion, especially when engaging targets at 50-100 yards.
Breaking Down the Features of Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel
Specifications
The Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel is specifically designed for Glock 17 (Gen 3-4) and P80 940v2 frames. It is chambered in 9mm Luger, ensuring compatibility with readily available ammunition.
The barrel boasts a 16-inch length, maximizing ballistic performance and making it compliant with NFA regulations when used in a rifle configuration. Constructed from Chrome Moly steel, the barrel offers a balance of strength and heat resistance. The barrel has a 1-10 twist rate, optimized for stabilizing common 9mm bullet weights. The finish is a Nitride coating, providing excellent corrosion and wear resistance.
The barrel also features Polygonal Rifling, which is known to provide better gas seal and potentially increase bullet velocity, and does not have flutes.
Performance & Functionality
The Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel excels in its primary function: increasing the accuracy and effective range of a Glock 17 or P80 build when converted to a carbine. The extended barrel length translates to higher bullet velocities and a flatter trajectory, making it easier to engage targets at longer distances.
The polygonal rifling seems to contribute to consistent bullet stabilization, resulting in tighter groupings. One potential drawback is that the longer barrel length might slightly affect the balance of the firearm, especially when used outside a conversion kit, but is countered when used with the APEX Bullpup chassis.
The Meta Tactical barrel meets expectations by delivering enhanced accuracy and reliability in a carbine configuration.
Design & Ergonomics
The Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel features a clean, minimalist design with a matte black nitride finish. The Chrome Moly steel construction gives it a solid feel without being excessively heavy. When combined with the APEX Bullpup kit, the ergonomics are significantly improved, providing a stable and comfortable shooting platform.
There’s virtually no learning curve involved, as installation is straightforward for anyone familiar with Glock disassembly and reassembly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Nitride finish on the Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel is exceptionally durable, resisting scratches, wear, and corrosion effectively. With proper care, including regular cleaning and lubrication, this barrel should last for thousands of rounds.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only standard bore cleaning procedures. The Chrome Moly steel is also fairly resistant to heat-induced warping, so it can withstand fairly high-volume shooting without issue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel is primarily designed to be used with the Meta Tactical APEX Bullpup Carbine Conversion Kit. It is compatible with standard Glock 17 (Gen 3-4) and P80 940v2 frames.
While it doesn’t require specific proprietary accessories, the compatibility with standard Glock components allows for a wide range of customization options, such as different triggers, sights, and magazine extensions. It is not specifically designed to work with compensators or suppressors without modifications.
Pros and Cons of Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel
Pros
- Significantly enhances accuracy at longer ranges.
- Durable Nitride finish provides excellent corrosion resistance.
- Polygonal rifling promotes consistent bullet stabilization.
- Straightforward installation for Glock enthusiasts.
- Optimized for use with the Meta Tactical APEX Bullpup Carbine Conversion Kit.
Cons
- Primarily designed for carbine conversions; limited benefit in standard pistol configuration.
- The $300 price point may be a barrier for some users, especially when combined with the cost of the conversion kit.
Who Should Buy Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel?
The Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel is perfect for Glock enthusiasts looking to convert their pistol into a compact, accurate carbine. It’s well-suited for recreational shooters, home defense scenarios, and tactical training exercises.
Individuals primarily interested in concealed carry or standard pistol shooting may not find the extended barrel length beneficial.
A must-have accessory is the Meta Tactical APEX Bullpup Carbine Conversion Kit. Also, consider investing in high-quality 9mm ammunition for optimal performance.
Conclusion on Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel
The Meta Tactical Gen 3-4 Glock 17 / P80 940v2 Barrel delivers on its promise of enhanced accuracy and ballistic performance when paired with the APEX Bullpup Carbine Conversion Kit. While the price point may seem high initially, the improvement in accuracy and the durability of the barrel make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to transform their Glock into a versatile carbine platform.
The price is justifiable given the increased range and accuracy potential.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking to build a Glock-based carbine. Upgrade your Glock today and experience the difference!