Let’s Talk About ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs
The ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs is marketed as an upgrade to the factory Glock firing pin safety, promising improved performance and reliability. ZEV Technologies is a well-known name in the Glock modification arena, so expectations are often high. This review will dissect the ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs, exploring its features, performance, and overall value based on my experience and observations.
I was looking for a way to smooth out the trigger pull on my Glock 19. Many believe that an improved firing pin safety can contribute to a smoother, crisper trigger, so I decided to give the ZEV Technologies offering a try. Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the finish wasn’t as polished as I anticipated from the product photos; it had a rather matte appearance, which raised some concerns about its potential for smoothness.
Comparing it to the OEM Glock firing pin safety and a similar product from Apex Tactical, the ZEV Technologies version didn’t immediately inspire confidence. The Apex part had a smoother, more refined finish. My first impression was disappointment, hoping the performance would prove me wrong about the aesthetics.
Real-World Testing: Putting ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs at my local indoor shooting range, installing it in my Glock 19 Gen 4. I focused on slow, deliberate trigger pulls to feel any differences in smoothness or grit. Immediately, I noticed a gritty sensation during the trigger pull, a stark contrast to the smoother factory setup.
Performance was not improved; in fact, it felt worse than the stock Glock plunger. The gritty feel persisted with every shot, regardless of how carefully I manipulated the trigger. This was quite surprising, as I expected an improvement, or at least a comparable performance to the OEM part.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a few weeks, the gritty feeling remained. There was no improvement with use, suggesting the surface finish wouldn’t smooth out over time. I disassembled the slide several times to clean and inspect the firing pin safety, but found no visible wear or damage other than the consistently rough finish. It appeared durable enough, but the functional impact on trigger feel was negative.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket firing pin safeties, like the Apex Tactical, the ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs was disappointing. The Apex version offered a noticeable improvement in trigger smoothness, while the ZEV Technologies part detracted from the overall shooting experience. This reinforced my initial concern that the matte finish was impacting performance.
Breaking Down the Features of ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs
Specifications
The ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs is constructed from stainless steel and is designed as a drop-in replacement for the factory Glock firing pin safety. It is compatible with Glock models 17, 19, and other similar platforms chambered in 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, .357 Magnum, and 10mm Auto. The small size of the component is standard for Glock safeties.
The choice of stainless steel is intended to provide durability and corrosion resistance. However, the finish – or lack thereof – significantly impacts the performance. A smoother, more polished finish is crucial for a firing pin safety to minimize friction and contribute to a smoother trigger pull.
Performance & Functionality
The core function of a firing pin safety is to prevent unintentional firing. The ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs does perform this basic safety function adequately. However, the gritty feel imparted to the trigger pull undermines any potential benefits. The product falls short of expectations, providing no tangible improvement over the stock part and even detracting from the overall trigger feel.
The primary weakness is the unpolished surface, which introduces friction and a gritty sensation during the trigger pull. The product does not meet the expectation of improved trigger feel, which is the primary reason for upgrading this component.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is similar to the OEM Glock part, making it a simple drop-in replacement. The use of stainless steel suggests good build quality, but the lack of a polished finish is a significant drawback. The feel in hand is unremarkable; the matte finish doesn’t offer any ergonomic advantages.
There’s no learning curve to installation, but the resulting trigger feel is far from user-friendly. The gritty sensation is immediately noticeable and detracts from the shooting experience.
Durability & Maintenance
Stainless steel should ensure reasonable longevity. Routine cleaning is recommended to remove any fouling or debris that could exacerbate the gritty feel. The component is simple to inspect and clean, requiring only basic tools and solvents.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Its purpose is to be a direct replacement part. It’s compatible with various trigger systems and springs, but it doesn’t inherently enhance the performance of other aftermarket components. The gritty feel of the plunger will still be evident regardless of the other modifications you have made.
Pros and Cons of ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs
Pros
- Direct drop-in replacement for Glock pistols.
- Stainless steel construction for durability.
- Functions as a firing pin safety, preventing accidental discharge.
- Compatible with a wide range of Glock models and calibers.
- Easy to install for experienced Glock users.
Cons
- Unpolished surface creates a gritty trigger feel.
- Does not improve trigger pull; may worsen it compared to stock.
- Overpriced for the lack of added value and subpar finish.
Who Should Buy ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs?
This product is suitable for individuals seeking a basic stainless steel replacement for a damaged or worn-out Glock firing pin safety. However, those looking for a tangible improvement in trigger pull or smoothness should avoid this product. Individuals prioritizing a polished finish and enhanced trigger feel are better served by alternative aftermarket options.
A must-have modification to consider if you choose this product would be thorough polishing of the plunger surface. However, at that point, you might as well opt for a different, higher-quality safety plunger from the start.
Conclusion on ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs
The ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs is a disappointing offering from a reputable manufacturer. While it fulfills its basic safety function, the unpolished surface results in a gritty trigger feel, negating any potential performance benefits. The price of $21.49 is not justified considering the lack of added value and the potential for a degraded shooting experience.
I would not personally recommend this product. There are better alternatives available at a similar price point that offer a smoother, more refined trigger pull. If you’re looking to upgrade your Glock’s trigger, explore other options before considering the ZEV Technologies Firing Pin Safety w/ Springs.