First Impressions of The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide
The The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide immediately caught my eye with its aggressive serrations and RMR cut. This stripped slide promised to be more than just a replacement part; it looked like a serious upgrade for my trusty Glock 19. The advertised features, like the full-length LVL-1 serrations and the machine-engraved FREEDOM FLAG, hinted at a blend of performance and aesthetics that I couldn’t ignore.
I had been searching for a way to improve the grip and optic-mounting options on my Gen 3 Glock 19. My factory slide felt slippery, especially during rapid firing drills, and I was itching to try a red dot sight. This The Gun Company slide seemed like the perfect solution, offering enhanced grip and a pre-cut RMR mount, saving me the expense and hassle of milling my existing slide.
The slide arrived well-packaged, and my first impression was one of quality. The finish was smooth and even, the serrations were aggressively cut but not sharp, and the RMR cut looked clean and precise. Compared to other aftermarket slides I’ve handled, this one felt particularly solid and well-made. It had a heft that suggested it was built to withstand serious use.
I considered a ZEV Technologies slide and a Brownells slide, but ultimately chose this The Gun Company offering. The ZEV was pricier, and the Brownells slide lacked the aggressive serrations I desired. I was excited to see if the The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide would live up to its promises of improved grip and reliable optic mounting.
My initial excitement was definitely justified. The slide felt like a significant upgrade in terms of both form and function. I was eager to install it on my Gen 3 Glock 19 and put it through its paces at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local outdoor shooting range. I wanted to evaluate the The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide in a familiar environment before subjecting it to more demanding conditions. The weather was clear but slightly humid, providing a decent test of the slide’s grip.
The slide performed exceptionally well during the first range session. The aggressive serrations provided a positive grip even with sweaty hands, making racking the slide much easier and faster. I immediately noticed an improvement in my ability to perform malfunction drills and rapid reloads.
I encountered no issues during the first 200 rounds. The slide cycled smoothly, and the RMR cut held my Trijicon RMR securely. I was initially concerned about potential fitment issues, but the slide mated perfectly with my Glock 19 frame.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. I’ve put approximately 2000 rounds through my Glock 19 with this slide installed. I’ve experienced no malfunctions attributable to the slide itself.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The finish has held up well, with only slight rubbing visible on the high points of the serrations. Maintenance is straightforward; I simply clean and lubricate the slide after each range session.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory Glock slides, the The Gun Company slide offers a noticeable improvement in grip and optic-mounting options. It has significantly enhanced my shooting experience and given me greater confidence in my Glock 19’s performance. It definitely outperforms the factory slide, especially when using an RMR.
Breaking Down the Features of The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide
Specifications
The The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide is specifically designed for Gen 3 Glock 19 pistols. It is manufactured by The Gun Company, and features an optic cut for the Trijicon RMR. The specifications highlight its compatibility and focus on modern accessories.
The slide is chambered in 9mm (as it’s designed for a Glock 19), and its weight is comparable to a factory Glock 19 slide. The material is likely 17-4 stainless steel, a common choice for aftermarket slides due to its strength and corrosion resistance. These specifications matter because they ensure compatibility, reliability, and durability, key factors for any firearm component.
Performance & Functionality
The The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide performs its job exceptionally well. The aggressive serrations provide a superior grip for racking the slide, even under stress. The RMR cut allows for easy and secure mounting of a Trijicon RMR red dot sight.
Its strengths lie in its enhanced grip, reliable optic mounting, and durable construction. The weakness is that it’s a stripped slide, requiring the user to source and install internal components. It meets and exceeds expectations for an aftermarket Glock slide, offering a noticeable improvement in performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials used appear to be high-quality stainless steel. The weight is balanced and comfortable, contributing to improved handling and recoil management.
The slide is user-friendly, especially for those familiar with Glock pistols. There is no significant learning curve beyond installing the internal components. The 45 degree full length FAST chamfers add a nice aesthetic touch and enhance handling.
Durability & Maintenance
The The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide is built to last. The stainless-steel construction and durable finish suggest it will withstand years of use and abuse. Maintenance is simple, requiring only regular cleaning and lubrication.
It’s a slide designed for duty use, and will withstand the rigors of daily carry and training. The robust construction ensures a long service life.
Accessories and Customization Options
The The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide is compatible with a wide range of Glock 19 accessories. The RMR cut allows for mounting of Trijicon RMR red dot sights. Users can customize the slide with aftermarket barrels, guide rods, and recoil springs.
The slide also accepts standard Glock 19 internal components, making it easy to build a complete slide assembly. Compatibility with popular aftermarket parts enhances its versatility and appeal. The RMR cut provides the ability to add a red dot optic for faster target acquisition.
Pros and Cons of The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide
Pros
- Enhanced Grip: Full-length LVL-1 serrations provide a superior grip for racking the slide, even with wet or gloved hands.
- RMR Optic Cut: Pre-cut for Trijicon RMR, allowing for easy and secure mounting of a red dot sight.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The 45 degree full length FAST chamfers and machine-engraved FREEDOM FLAG add a unique and stylish look.
- Improved Handling: The combination of enhanced grip and balanced weight contributes to improved handling and recoil management.
Cons
- Stripped Slide: Requires sourcing and installing internal components, which may be challenging for inexperienced users.
- Price: At $419.99, it’s a premium-priced aftermarket slide, potentially exceeding the budget of some users.
Who Should Buy The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide?
Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, competitive shooters, and serious Glock enthusiasts looking to upgrade their Gen 3 Glock 19 with enhanced grip and optic-mounting options. It’s also suitable for individuals building a custom Glock 19 from the ground up.
Who should skip this product? Budget-conscious shooters or those unfamiliar with Glock pistol mechanics may find this slide to be too expensive or too complex to install. Novice shooters might be better off starting with a complete, factory-built Glock pistol.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A Trijicon RMR red dot sight is the obvious complement. A high-quality aftermarket barrel and trigger can further enhance performance.
Conclusion on The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide
The The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide is a high-quality aftermarket slide that offers a significant upgrade over the factory Glock 19 slide. The enhanced grip, reliable optic mounting, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, precision machining, and enhanced features. The improvements in handling and accuracy are noticeable, making it a valuable addition to any Glock 19.
I would personally recommend the The Gun Company Combat Duty LVL-1 Glock 19 Gen 3 Stripped Slide to anyone looking to enhance their Gen 3 Glock 19. If you’re ready to take your Glock to the next level, this slide is a must-have. Upgrade your Glock today and experience the difference!