First Impressions of EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel
The EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel promises a lot: enhanced accuracy, reliable performance, and the ability to shoot 9mm rounds out of your .40 S&W or .357 SIG Springfield XD. The allure of a cost-effective caliber conversion, coupled with the EFK Fire Dragon reputation for quality, made this a compelling purchase. Was it all hype, or a genuinely useful upgrade?
I was looking for a way to reduce my ammunition costs without sacrificing the familiar feel of my Springfield XD 4in Service Model. Shooting 9mm is significantly cheaper than .40 S&W, and the idea of a simple barrel swap, rather than buying a whole new pistol, was very appealing. The EFK Fire Dragon name kept popping up in online forums as a reputable manufacturer of conversion barrels.
Upon unboxing, the barrel’s nitride finish looked clean and professional. The stainless steel felt solid and well-machined, inspiring confidence in its durability. The weight felt comparable to the stock barrel, which was a plus for maintaining the pistol’s balance.
I considered a Lone Wolf conversion barrel, as well as a cheaper, generic option found on eBay, before ultimately landing on the EFK Fire Dragon. While the Lone Wolf had a similar reputation, the EFK Fire Dragon seemed to have better reviews regarding accuracy and consistent lockup. The generic option was immediately dismissed due to concerns about quality and potential safety issues.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The barrel looked the part, but the proof would be in the performance. I hoped it would deliver on its promise of improved accuracy and reliable cycling.
Real-World Testing: Putting EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first trip to the range with the EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel was at an outdoor range on a relatively clear day. I brought along several brands of 9mm ammunition, ranging from 115 grain FMJ to 124 grain JHP, as well as dedicated 9mm magazines for my XD. I wanted to ensure consistent feeding and reliable cycling.
The barrel was surprisingly easy to install, dropping in with minimal fuss after field stripping the XD. The first few magazines experienced a few failures to feed, but after about 50 rounds, the cycling smoothed out considerably. The felt recoil was noticeably less than with .40 S&W, as expected.
There were no immediate red flags, although the initial cycling issues were a bit concerning. After a few magazines, the gun started to perform as anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds, the EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel has proven to be quite reliable. The initial cycling issues disappeared after the break-in period, and I’ve experienced very few malfunctions since. The nitride finish still looks great, with no signs of wear beyond normal use.
I’ve primarily used it for target practice and occasional informal competitions at my local range. Cleaning the barrel is straightforward, just like the original barrel. The barrel has proven itself durable, and requires the same general maintenance of any other pistol barrel.
Compared to shooting .40 S&W, the 9mm conversion is significantly cheaper and easier on my wrists. The accuracy, while not match-grade, is more than acceptable for my needs, and has improved over time. Overall, it outperforms my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel
Specifications
The EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel is designed to convert Springfield XD 4in Service Model pistols chambered in .40 S&W or .357 SIG to 9mm Luger. The barrel is constructed from type 416 stainless steel, known for its strength and corrosion resistance. This ensures longevity and reliable performance, even under heavy use.
The barrel features a black nitride finish for enhanced durability and wear resistance. The barrel’s length is 4 inches, matching the original XD Service Model barrel. This maintains the pistol’s original handling characteristics and holster compatibility. It’s designed for use with 9mm magazines, and EFK Fire Dragon recommends using dedicated 9mm magazines for optimal feeding.
Performance & Functionality
The EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel performs admirably in its intended role. The accuracy is on par with, or slightly better than, the original .40 S&W barrel, grouping consistently within 3-4 inches at 25 yards. This makes it suitable for target practice, self-defense, and even some competitive shooting. The reliable cycling, once broken in, is a major strength.
The conversion is easy to install and use, making it a practical option for those wanting to shoot 9mm from their XD. However, the initial break-in period with potential cycling issues is a slight weakness. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds expectations for a conversion barrel.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel is excellent. The stainless steel construction and nitride finish provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing product. The weight is almost identical to the stock barrel, maintaining the pistol’s balance and handling.
The barrel’s design is user-friendly, requiring no modifications to the pistol beyond a simple barrel swap. There’s minimal learning curve, making it accessible to both novice and experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel is built to last. The stainless steel and nitride finish provide excellent resistance to wear and corrosion. With proper maintenance, this barrel should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the barrel is simple, requiring only regular cleaning and lubrication. No specialized tools or procedures are needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel doesn’t come with any specific accessories beyond the standard thread protector for threaded models. However, it’s compatible with any standard 9mm XD magazines. No specific EFK Fire Dragon parts are required for use, ensuring user flexibility.
The barrel itself is a conversion component, so accessory options focus primarily on compatible magazines and potentially a new recoil spring tuned for 9mm. While not essential, a dedicated 9mm recoil spring may further improve cycling reliability, particularly with lighter loads.
Pros and Cons of EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel
Pros
- Significantly reduces ammunition costs by allowing you to shoot 9mm instead of .40 S&W or .357 SIG.
- Improves shooting comfort due to the lower recoil of 9mm.
- Maintains or improves accuracy compared to the original barrel.
- Durable stainless steel construction with a wear-resistant nitride finish.
- Easy to install and use.
Cons
- May require a break-in period with potential cycling issues.
- Requires dedicated 9mm magazines for optimal performance.
Who Should Buy EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel?
The EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel is perfect for Springfield XD 4in Service Model owners who want to reduce their ammunition costs without sacrificing the familiar feel of their pistol. It’s also ideal for those who find the recoil of .40 S&W or .357 SIG to be excessive and prefer the softer shooting characteristics of 9mm. Casual range shooters and those participating in informal competitions would benefit most.
Those who demand match-grade accuracy or are unwilling to deal with a potential break-in period might want to skip this product. It’s also not necessary for those who already own a dedicated 9mm pistol.
A must-have accessory is dedicated 9mm magazines. While the original magazines might work in a pinch, reliable feeding is significantly improved with the correct magazines. A 9mm recoil spring could also be beneficial for optimal cycling.
Conclusion on EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel
The EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel is a worthwhile investment for Springfield XD owners looking to shoot 9mm. It offers a cost-effective way to enjoy a wider variety of ammunition and experience reduced recoil. The price of $239.99 is justified by the quality of materials, improved shooting experience and potential long term savings in ammunition costs.
I would personally recommend the EFK Fire Dragon XD 4in Service Model 9mm Conversion Pistol Barrel to anyone seeking an affordable and reliable caliber conversion for their Springfield XD. If you’re looking to save money on ammo and enjoy shooting 9mm out of your XD, give the EFK Fire Dragon a try – you won’t be disappointed!