The Cross Armory 4 Pin Set Dimpled Extended For Glock 17,19-23,26,27,29-35,40,41 Gen4 Red 4140 Steel Handgun Made a Bold First Impression
Glock pistols are known for their reliability and modularity, making them a favorite among law enforcement, competitive shooters, and everyday carriers. However, one area that often gets overlooked is the factory pins – they get the job done, but they’re far from exciting. Enter the Cross Armory 4 Pin Set Dimpled Extended For Glock 17,19-23,26,27,29-35,40,41 Gen4 Red 4140 Steel Handgun, a simple yet impactful upgrade promising enhanced ergonomics, improved aesthetics, and increased durability.
After years of using Glocks in various capacities, from duty carry to weekend plinking, I’ve learned that even small improvements can make a big difference in performance and feel. I was particularly interested in this pin set because I was experiencing some slight slippage with my Glock 19 Gen4’s pins after several thousand rounds – a common issue with high round count Glocks. This slippage, while minor, started impacting my confidence in the pistol’s long-term reliability.
The Cross Armory pin set came in a simple, no-frills package. The bright red color immediately caught my eye, a stark contrast to the factory black. The pins felt solid and well-machined in hand, definitely a step up from the stock polymer pins. I’ve used similar aftermarket pins before, like the those from Strike Industries, but the Cross Armory set’s dimpled design and extended length seemed like a more thoughtful approach to improving grip and ease of installation.
My initial reaction was definitely positive. The red anodized finish adds a touch of personalization without being overly flashy, and the promise of increased durability and easier installation was appealing. It felt like a worthwhile upgrade for a pistol I rely on regularly.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cross Armory 4 Pin Set Dimpled Extended For Glock 17,19-23,26,27,29-35,40,41 Gen4 Red 4140 Steel Handgun to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Cross Armory pin set on my Glock 19 Gen4 at my workbench, taking about 10 minutes total. The extended length and dimpled heads made pushing the pins into place significantly easier than with the flush factory pins, especially the trigger pin, which can sometimes be a pain to align. At the shooting range, I ran about 200 rounds of various 9mm ammo through my Glock 19 Gen4 after installing the Cross Armory pin set.
The extended pins provided a slightly more positive grip, especially around the trigger area. I tested it during a rainy day at the range, so the increased grip surface was a definite plus when my hands were wet. No issues arose, and the peace of mind knowing my pins weren’t backing out was worth the small price.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including weekly range trips and dry-fire practice, the Cross Armory pin set has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or loosening, and the red anodized finish remains vibrant. Cleaning is a breeze – a quick wipe-down with a cloth is all it takes to keep them looking new.
Compared to the stock polymer pins, the Cross Armory pins offer a noticeable improvement in both feel and reliability. The factory pins started showing some deformation after about 3,000 rounds, whereas the Cross Armory set shows zero signs of wear even after 1,000 rounds since installation. The improved grip and enhanced confidence make this an easy and cost-effective upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Cross Armory 4 Pin Set Dimpled Extended For Glock 17,19-23,26,27,29-35,40,41 Gen4 Red 4140 Steel Handgun
Specifications
The Cross Armory 4 Pin Set Dimpled Extended For Glock 17,19-23,26,27,29-35,40,41 Gen4 Red 4140 Steel Handgun features enhanced geometry that improves ergonomics and reduces installation time. It is precision machined, not cast, from 4140 Ordnance steel, which drastically increases its strength compared to the factory polymer pins. The surface is treated for improved finish and corrosion resistance.
The set includes four pins specifically designed for Gen4 models, including a longer backstrap pin. The extended dimpled pins are designed for easier manipulation, and the red anodized finish adds a touch of style. This set fits a wide range of Gen4 Glock models: 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 40, and 41.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Cross Armory pin set is to replace the factory Glock pins with more durable and easier-to-manipulate alternatives. In this regard, it excels. The pins are significantly stronger than the stock polymer ones, and the extended dimpled heads make disassembly and reassembly easier, especially in the field.
The enhanced grip around the trigger area is a subtle but noticeable benefit, improving overall control. While the pins are not a performance-enhancing upgrade, they certainly add to the overall shooting experience by providing added confidence and improved aesthetics.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cross Armory pin set is designed with both aesthetics and ergonomics in mind. The red anodized finish adds a pop of color without being gaudy, and the dimpled heads provide a tactile surface for improved grip. The pins are slightly extended, making them easier to access and manipulate, particularly when disassembling the pistol.
The build quality is excellent, with clean machining and a smooth finish. Installation is straightforward, even for novice Glock owners, and the pins fit snugly without any play.
Durability & Maintenance
Made from 4140 Ordnance steel, the Cross Armory pin set is built to last. Unlike the factory polymer pins, these pins are resistant to bending, breaking, and deformation under stress. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s needed to maintain them in top condition.
Based on my experience, these pins should easily outlast the pistol itself.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cross Armory 4 Pin Set Dimpled Extended For Glock 17,19-23,26,27,29-35,40,41 Gen4 Red 4140 Steel Handgun is a standalone upgrade and does not require any additional accessories for installation or use. They are fully compatible with most aftermarket Glock accessories, including triggers, slides, and frames. The red finish pairs well with other red accents, allowing for a cohesive custom build.
Pros and Cons of Cross Armory 4 Pin Set Dimpled Extended For Glock 17,19-23,26,27,29-35,40,41 Gen4 Red 4140 Steel Handgun
Pros
- Enhanced Durability: Made from 4140 Ordnance steel, these pins are significantly stronger than the factory polymer ones.
- Improved Ergonomics: The extended dimpled heads provide a better grip and make disassembly/reassembly easier.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The red anodized finish adds a touch of personalization to your Glock.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward installation process, even for beginners.
- Wide Compatibility: Fits a wide range of Gen4 Glock models.
Cons
- Potentially Overkill for Light Use: If you rarely shoot your Glock, the benefits may not be as noticeable.
- Color Preference: The red color may not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences.
Who Should Buy Cross Armory 4 Pin Set Dimpled Extended For Glock 17,19-23,26,27,29-35,40,41 Gen4 Red 4140 Steel Handgun?
The Cross Armory 4 Pin Set Dimpled Extended For Glock 17,19-23,26,27,29-35,40,41 Gen4 Red 4140 Steel Handgun is perfect for Glock owners who shoot frequently, appreciate enhanced durability, and want to add a touch of personalization to their pistol. It is also a great choice for those who find the factory pins difficult to manipulate. Competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, and anyone who relies on their Glock for self-defense will benefit from this simple yet effective upgrade.
Those who rarely shoot their Glock or are strictly concerned with maintaining a factory look might consider skipping this product. However, for the vast majority of Glock owners, the benefits outweigh the minimal cost.
A Glock tool is a must-have for easy disassembly/reassembly.
Conclusion on Cross Armory 4 Pin Set Dimpled Extended For Glock 17,19-23,26,27,29-35,40,41 Gen4 Red 4140 Steel Handgun
The Cross Armory 4 Pin Set Dimpled Extended For Glock 17,19-23,26,27,29-35,40,41 Gen4 Red 4140 Steel Handgun is an excellent value proposition. For a small price, you get a significant upgrade in durability, ergonomics, and aesthetics. The red anodized finish adds a touch of personality, and the extended dimpled heads make disassembly and reassembly a breeze.
I would definitely recommend this product to any Glock owner looking to enhance their pistol’s reliability and ease of use. It is a simple, cost-effective upgrade that makes a noticeable difference. Upgrade your Glock today and experience the difference!