First Thoughts on the ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD
The ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD promises to transform your Glock 17 Gen4 into a .22 LR plinking machine. This conversion kit from Advantage Arms offers a cost-effective way to train, practice fundamentals, or simply enjoy a day at the range without breaking the bank on ammunition. The kit is designed to be optics-ready and includes two 10-round magazines, making it a compelling option for California residents.
I was initially drawn to this product as a solution to the rising cost of 9mm ammunition. Regularly practicing with my Glock 17 was becoming prohibitively expensive. I needed a way to maintain proficiency and enjoy my time at the range without feeling the financial sting of each trigger pull.
My first impression upon unboxing the ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD was positive. The slide felt solid and well-made, with a durable matte black finish. The included range bag was a welcome addition, providing a convenient way to transport the kit and magazines.
Compared to a dedicated .22 LR pistol like the Walther P22 or the Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Compact, the appeal of this conversion kit lies in its ability to maintain the familiar ergonomics and feel of my Glock 17. This was a crucial factor in my decision, as I wanted a training tool that closely mirrored my primary carry weapon. I picked this kit because I like using my existing G17 lower receiver.
My initial excitement was tempered by a slight concern about potential reliability issues common with .22 LR firearms. However, the promise of improved accuracy and reduced ammunition costs ultimately outweighed my apprehension. The hope was to make plinking and training a more consistent experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD at my local outdoor shooting range on a clear, sunny day. The initial setup was straightforward. Swapping the Glock 17’s slide for the Advantage Arms conversion kit was quick and easy.
The first few magazines experienced several failures to feed. After about 50 rounds, the kit started to function more reliably. The point of impact was noticeably different than with 9mm ammunition.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and approximately 500 rounds fired, the ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD has proven to be relatively reliable, but not flawless. Proper lubrication is essential for smooth operation. Certain brands of .22 LR ammunition performed better than others.
The matte black finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. Cleaning the kit is relatively easy, similar to cleaning a standard Glock slide. It is important to clean the kit after each range session.
Compared to my previous experiences with dedicated .22 LR pistols, the ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD offers a more familiar shooting experience due to its Glock ergonomics. The reliability is somewhat less than a high-end .22 LR pistol but is still acceptable for training and plinking purposes. This has been a good experience overall.
Breaking Down the Features of ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD
Specifications
The ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD is designed for Glock 17 Gen4 pistols and chambered in .22 LR. The kit features a 4.49″ barrel, contributing to good accuracy for a .22 LR conversion. It includes two 10-round magazines, compliant with California regulations.
The slide is made from durable aluminum with a matte black finish. The kit is optics-ready, allowing for the easy mounting of red dot sights. These specs make for a fun and reliable range day.
Performance & Functionality
The ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD performs adequately for its intended purpose: providing a cost-effective .22 LR training option. Accuracy is reasonable at typical pistol ranges (7-15 yards), allowing for effective practice of shooting fundamentals. Reliability can be finicky, depending on the ammunition used.
One of the strengths is the ability to practice with the same trigger pull and grip angle as a Glock 17. A notable weakness is the increased sensitivity to ammunition types compared to dedicated .22 LR pistols. I have found that high-velocity ammunition yields the best results.
Overall, the kit meets expectations as a training tool, but falls short of the reliability of a dedicated .22 LR pistol.
Design & Ergonomics
The ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD mimics the design and ergonomics of a Glock slide, making the transition seamless for Glock users. The aluminum slide adds minimal weight to the pistol, maintaining a comfortable balance. The optics-ready design enhances versatility.
The kit is relatively user-friendly. Installation and removal are straightforward. However, some users may require a brief familiarization period to understand the kit’s specific quirks and ammunition preferences. It is mostly easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD appears to be reasonably durable, with the aluminum slide showing no signs of cracking or significant wear after several hundred rounds. Proper lubrication and cleaning are crucial for maintaining the kit’s longevity. The matte black finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion.
Maintenance involves standard cleaning procedures similar to those used for a standard Glock slide. Disassembly for cleaning is simple. Regular lubrication of the slide rails and other moving parts is recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD comes with a range bag and two 10-round magazines. The optics-ready slide allows for the mounting of various red dot sights compatible with the Glock MOS system. Aftermarket Glock sights can also be installed on the Advantage Arms slide.
The kit is designed to be compatible with standard Glock 17 holsters. This expands the customization options. Overall, the kit offers reasonable customization options for users to tailor their setup to their individual needs.
Pros and Cons of ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD
Pros
- Cost-effective training with .22 LR ammunition.
- Maintains Glock 17 ergonomics and trigger feel.
- Optics-ready design for red dot sight compatibility.
- Easy installation and removal.
- Comes with a convenient range bag.
Cons
- Ammunition-sensitive; requires high-velocity rounds for optimal reliability.
- Not as reliable as a dedicated .22 LR pistol.
- Magazines can be difficult to load.
Who Should Buy ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD?
The ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD is perfect for Glock 17 Gen4 owners looking for a cost-effective way to train and practice shooting fundamentals. It is especially beneficial for California residents due to its compliance with the state’s 10-round magazine capacity restrictions. This conversion kit is also suitable for casual plinkers who enjoy shooting .22 LR.
Those who should skip this product are individuals seeking flawless reliability or those who primarily shoot low-velocity .22 LR ammunition. Individuals looking for a dedicated .22 LR pistol may also want to explore other options.
Must-have accessories or modifications include high-quality .22 LR ammunition (CCI Mini-Mags are often recommended) and a reliable red dot sight for enhanced accuracy. Proper lubrication is also essential for smooth operation.
Conclusion on ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD
The ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD offers a valuable solution for Glock 17 Gen4 owners seeking a cost-effective training and plinking option. While it may not be as flawlessly reliable as a dedicated .22 LR pistol, it provides a familiar shooting experience and significantly reduces ammunition costs.
The price of $236.49 is justified given the cost savings on ammunition over time. The ability to maintain proficiency with the same ergonomics and trigger feel as a Glock 17 makes this kit a worthwhile investment.
I would personally recommend the ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD to Glock enthusiasts looking to expand their shooting options without breaking the bank. Purchase the ADV ARMS 22 CNV KIT G17 GEN4 CA 10RD today and experience the fun and affordability of .22 LR shooting with your Glock!