First Thoughts on the ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD
The ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD promises to transform your Glock 19 or 23 Gen 3 into a .22 LR plinking machine. This conversion kit boasts a threaded barrel, optics-ready slide, and comes complete with magazines. It seemed like the perfect solution for affordable range time and honing my Glock skills without breaking the bank on 9mm or .40 S&W ammo.
I was looking for a cost-effective way to practice fundamentals with my Glock 19. Rising ammunition costs made frequent range trips a luxury. The ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD, with its promise of reliable .22 LR conversion, seemed like the ideal answer.
The kit arrived in a surprisingly compact box. The slide felt solid and well-made, although lighter than the original Glock slide, as expected. The magazines appeared robust enough for rimfire ammo. My initial thought was, “This looks promising, but will it hold up?”
I considered the Tactical Solutions .22 LR conversion kit and the Nelson Precision Arms kit. I chose the ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD primarily due to its threaded barrel and optics-ready slide at a more palatable price point. The other options seemed a bit overkill for my primary goal of affordable practice.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see how the kit would perform, but also a little skeptical about the reliability of converting a centerfire pistol to rimfire. I was definitely excited to hit the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD was at my local outdoor range. I wanted a controlled environment to assess its performance. I brought a variety of .22 LR ammo, from budget bulk packs to higher-end target rounds.
The kit performed best with higher velocity ammo. Standard velocity rounds caused several failures to eject. The wet conditions that day exaggerated the ammo sensitivity, with increased malfunctions when the gun got slightly damp.
Installation was straightforward, just like swapping slides. The lighter weight of the converted pistol took some getting used to. I experienced a few initial failures to feed but eventually found the ammo it liked.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and about 500 rounds through the ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD, its reliability has improved with the right ammo. I’ve learned to stick to high-velocity rounds like CCI Mini-Mags for consistent cycling. The thread protector on the barrel did loosen a couple of times, requiring periodic tightening.
Durability seems decent so far, with no major signs of wear on the slide or barrel. The magazines, however, are showing slight wear marks from repeated use. Cleaning is simple; the slide disassembles easily, and a quick scrub removes any .22 LR residue.
Compared to my previous experiences with other .22 LR pistols, this kit offers a similar level of accuracy but requires more attention to ammunition selection. It’s not as reliable as a dedicated .22 LR pistol but serves its purpose for affordable practice.
Breaking Down the Features of ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 LR. This allows for inexpensive practice and target shooting.
- Barrel Length: 4.02″ Threaded. The threaded barrel allows for the addition of suppressors or other muzzle devices.
- Compatibility: Fits Glock 19/23 Gen 3. This makes it a versatile upgrade for existing Glock owners.
- Optics Ready: Yes. The optics-ready slide allows for easy mounting of red dot sights, improving accuracy and target acquisition.
- Magazine Capacity: 15 Rounds. The higher capacity provides extended shooting sessions between reloads.
- Sights: Fixed. The fixed sights are basic but functional for general shooting.
- Finish: Black. The black finish provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing look.
These specifications are significant because they transform a duty-sized pistol into a budget-friendly trainer. The threaded barrel and optics-ready slide add versatility that many other conversion kits lack.
Performance & Functionality
The ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD performs adequately when fed the right ammunition. Accuracy is acceptable for plinking and training within 25 yards. Reliability is its main weakness.
Its strengths are its ease of installation and the added versatility of the threaded barrel and optics cut. The biggest weakness is its ammunition sensitivity. It consistently performs better with high velocity ammo.
The kit meets expectations for affordable practice, but falls short of the reliability of dedicated .22 LR firearms. It’s a good tool for working on fundamentals.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is generally good, with a solid-feeling slide and reasonably durable magazines. The lighter weight compared to the original slide does change the feel of the pistol.
The kit is fairly user-friendly, with a simple installation process. There is a slight learning curve in finding the right ammunition for reliable cycling.
Durability & Maintenance
The ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD should last for thousands of rounds with proper care and maintenance. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent malfunctions caused by .22 LR residue.
The kit is easy to disassemble and clean. Replacement parts are available directly from Advantage Arms.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit includes two 15-round magazines. It comes with a thread protector for the barrel.
The optics-ready slide is compatible with many popular red dot sights. Aftermarket Glock accessories like triggers and extended magazine releases can be used with the converted pistol.
Pros and Cons of ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD
Pros
- Cost-effective training: Significantly reduces ammunition costs for practice.
- Optics-ready slide: Allows for easy mounting of red dot sights.
- Threaded barrel: Enables the use of suppressors and other muzzle devices.
- Easy installation: Quickly converts a Glock 19/23 Gen 3 to .22 LR.
- High-capacity magazines: Comes with two 15-round magazines.
Cons
- Ammunition sensitivity: Requires high-velocity .22 LR for reliable cycling.
- Not as reliable as a dedicated .22 LR pistol.
Who Should Buy ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD?
The ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD is perfect for Glock 19/23 Gen 3 owners looking for a cost-effective training tool. It’s also ideal for those who want to introduce new shooters to pistol shooting with a familiar platform and reduced recoil. This product also benefits those who enjoy plinking and target shooting without the expense of centerfire ammunition.
Those who prioritize absolute reliability and are unwilling to experiment with different .22 LR ammunition types should skip this product. Someone looking for a competition-grade .22 LR pistol might also be disappointed.
A must-have accessory is a reliable supply of high-velocity .22 LR ammunition like CCI Mini-Mags. A red dot sight is recommended to fully utilize the optics-ready slide.
Conclusion on ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD
The ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD provides a viable solution for affordable Glock training and recreational shooting. While it’s not without its quirks, especially regarding ammunition sensitivity, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for the right user.
At $319.99, the price is justified for the cost savings on ammunition alone, particularly for frequent shooters. The added versatility of the threaded barrel and optics-ready slide sweeten the deal.
I would recommend the ADV ARMS CONV KIT AAC19-23G3MOD to Glock owners seeking a budget-friendly training option. Embrace the rimfire revolution, save money, and keep your skills sharp!