Meta Tactical LLC Apex Carbine Conversion Kit 16″ 9mm Luger, Black, Polymer Bullpup Chassis Fits Glock 17 Gen5 Review

First Thoughts on the Meta Tactical LLC Apex Carbine Conversion Kit 16″ 9mm Luger, Black, Polymer Bullpup Chassis Fits Glock 17 Gen5

The Meta Tactical LLC Apex Carbine Conversion Kit 16″ 9mm Luger, Black, Polymer Bullpup Chassis Fits Glock 17 Gen5 promises to transform a common handgun into a compact, more accurate carbine. It claims enhanced range and precision through its bullpup design and longer barrel, while maintaining compatibility with a standard Glock 17 Gen5. This kit immediately piqued my interest as I’ve always been intrigued by the idea of maximizing the utility of a readily available platform like the Glock.

My interest in this conversion kit stemmed from a desire for a more versatile and easily transportable firearm option. I wanted something with greater accuracy and stability than a standard pistol, without the bulk and weight of a full-sized rifle. I remember thinking, “If this kit delivers on its promises, it could be the perfect solution for home defense and situations where maneuverability is key.”

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the lightweight polymer construction. The Meta Tactical Apex chassis feels robust despite its weight, and the bullpup design is visually appealing, giving it a futuristic look. The build quality seems solid at first glance, though a closer examination would be required to assess its true resilience.

I considered other options like the Recover Tactical 20/20 Stabilizer Kit, and the CAA MCK (Micro Conversion Kit) but the Apex’s bullpup design and integrated 16″ barrel replacement ultimately swayed me. I hoped for a more rifle-like experience, something that could offer improved ballistic performance compared to a braced pistol configuration. The Apex promised that.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the design and lightweight nature were appealing, I remained skeptical about whether the kit could truly deliver on its promise of increased accuracy and reliability. I was excited to get it to the range and see how it performed in real-world conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Meta Tactical LLC Apex Carbine Conversion Kit 16″ 9mm Luger, Black, Polymer Bullpup Chassis Fits Glock 17 Gen5 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Meta Tactical LLC Apex Carbine Conversion Kit 16″ 9mm Luger, Black, Polymer Bullpup Chassis Fits Glock 17 Gen5 at my local shooting range. I specifically chose a day with moderate wind to evaluate stability and handling in less-than-ideal conditions.

The Apex kit proved remarkably easy to install, with my Glock 17 Gen5 fitting snugly into the chassis. Once assembled, the bullpup design felt surprisingly balanced, and the increased sight radius immediately improved my aiming.

There were no initial malfunctions or issues; the converted carbine ran smoothly from the first magazine. However, the trigger felt slightly mushier compared to the Glock’s original trigger, which required some adjustment on my part.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Apex kit has held up remarkably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the polymer chassis, even after being subjected to rigorous range sessions.

Cleaning the Apex kit is relatively straightforward; the polymer material wipes down easily. Regular lubrication of the Glock’s internal components remains essential for maintaining reliable operation.

Compared to my previous attempts at building a reliable pistol caliber carbine (PCC), the Apex kit significantly outperforms them. The accuracy increase from the 16″ barrel and stable chassis makes it a worthy addition to my arsenal.

Breaking Down the Features of Meta Tactical LLC Apex Carbine Conversion Kit 16″ 9mm Luger, Black, Polymer Bullpup Chassis Fits Glock 17 Gen5

Specifications

The Meta Tactical LLC Apex Carbine Conversion Kit 16″ 9mm Luger, Black, Polymer Bullpup Chassis Fits Glock 17 Gen5 boasts several notable specifications. These include a 9mm Luger caliber, compatibility with Glock 17 Gen5, and a black polymer frame and stock. The kit includes a 16″ black-finished barrel and is optic-ready.

The kit’s 3.25 lb weight (excluding the Glock) is significant as it contributes to the overall maneuverability and ease of handling. The 16″ barrel is crucial for increasing bullet velocity and improving long-range accuracy compared to a standard pistol barrel.

Performance & Functionality

The Meta Tactical Apex Carbine Conversion Kit excels in transforming a standard Glock into a more accurate and stable platform. The bullpup design shortens the overall length, enhancing maneuverability, while the 16″ barrel extends the effective range.

While the conversion kit enhances accuracy, the slightly mushy trigger detracts from its overall performance. The included ambidextrous charging handle and magazine release work flawlessly and cater to both left- and right-handed shooters. Overall, it meets expectations by significantly improving the Glock’s usability as a carbine.

Design & Ergonomics

The Apex Carbine Conversion Kit features a lightweight and durable polymer construction, ensuring it can withstand regular use. The bullpup design effectively distributes the weight, making it comfortable to hold and shoot for extended periods.

The design incorporates a built-in cheek rest for consistent eye alignment with mounted optics. Despite its unconventional appearance, the ergonomics are well-thought-out, with M-LOK slots for accessory attachments and a comfortable pistol grip. There is a slight learning curve with the bullpup configuration, but it’s manageable.

Durability & Maintenance

The high-quality polymer used in the Apex Carbine Conversion Kit is designed to withstand considerable wear and tear. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the Glock components, along with occasional wiping down of the chassis, are sufficient for maintaining optimal performance.

Given its robust construction, the Apex kit should last for many years with proper care. Replacement parts, should they ever be needed, can be sourced through Meta Tactical or authorized dealers.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Meta Tactical Apex Carbine Conversion Kit readily accepts various accessories. These include AR15-style grips, M-LOK compatible attachments, and a wide range of optics via the top Picatinny rail.

The kit’s compatibility with suppressor-height sights allows for co-witnessing with certain red dot optics, enhancing versatility. While it doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the shell deflector, the M-LOK slots and Picatinny rail offer ample customization options. The compatibility with aftermarket Glock slides and optics-ready slides adds an extra layer of adaptability.

Pros and Cons of Meta Tactical LLC Apex Carbine Conversion Kit 16″ 9mm Luger, Black, Polymer Bullpup Chassis Fits Glock 17 Gen5