Metal guide rod for glocks

[Bennies]

I have heard it is a good idea to replace the factory guide rods with metal ones for glocks. Any of you fellow glock fans agree with this being a good idea?

[A-R]

Have heard the same. But my OEM plastic guide rod & spring on my G23 lasted 12 years before I replaced it just recently. And I didn't even NEED to replace it, as it was functioning fine. I just figured 12 years was long enough (kept the old one as a spare).

If you're going to change something in your Glock, change the standard connector to an "n" or "-" connector (basically a 3.5-pound connector instead of standard 5-pound). Or even go with a Wolf connector something like that. Best single improvement you can make to a Glock, IMHO (other than loads of practice of course).

[marksiwel]

Have heard the same. But my OEM plastic guide rod & spring on my G23 lasted 12 years before I replaced it just recently. And I didn't even NEED to replace it, as it was functioning fine. I just figured 12 years was long enough (kept the old one as a spare).

If you're going to change something in your Glock, change the standard connector to an "n" or "-" connector (basically a 3.5-pound connector instead of standard 5-pound). Or even go with a Wolf connector something like that. Best single improvement you can make to a Glock, IMHO (other than loads of practice of course).

What does that do?

[A-R]

Have heard the same. But my OEM plastic guide rod & spring on my G23 lasted 12 years before I replaced it just recently. And I didn't even NEED to replace it, as it was functioning fine. I just figured 12 years was long enough (kept the old one as a spare).

If you're going to change something in your Glock, change the standard connector to an "n" or "-" connector (basically a 3.5-pound connector instead of standard 5-pound). Or even go with a Wolf connector something like that. Best single improvement you can make to a Glock, IMHO (other than loads of practice of course).

What does that do?

The connector? Reduces the trigger pull weight and quite often smooths the trigger and shortens reset too. I've had good luck with both my G23 and G27, using same connector in both, though for some reason (maybe because it's newer?) the G27 trigger pull is smoother than the G23.

All sorts of stuff beyond that you can do, but really more for competition guns. Anything beyond the connector swap could leave you with a hair trigger that might be dangerous in a self-defense gun (but to each his own).

Easy to install yourself if you know/learn how to disassemble the lower receiver. You're supposed to be a certified Glock armorer to do so ... but again, to each his own/use at your own risk etc.

Also should've said "Lone Wolf" not "Wolf" ... Lone Wolf and Ghost Inc both make even lighter connectors than the Glock brand - or n 3.5-pound connector, which comes standard on the long-barrelled competition/tactical models (G34 and G35 I think are the model numbers?)

Anyway, lots of info at these links:

http://glockmeister.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://glockparts.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.parts.cc/glock/disassembly/Disassembly1.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[couzin]

Don't do it - the plastic/poly guide is just fine in my opinion. Glocks are fine straight outta the box, run forever, require very little maintenance, require very small amounts of lube. Issues with the steel rod have been reported as: the rod requires lube, lube attracts dirt, gunk is not your friend in a glock because it is designed 'loose'; the steel guide rod does not 'flex' like the plastic and may cause wear. I realize a lot of folks have steel guide rods for added weight, supposed better durability, high volume shooting like USPSA, just because they thought it would be better, etc., and for whatever reason they have had no problems with the steel (or tunsten) guide rod. Like I said, IMHO - not needed.

Edited to add - I no longer carry a Glock so I guess I don't really have an opinion. I started finding myself carrying smaller and lighter (KT PF9, KT P3AT, and Airlite S&Ws). The Glock is a great pistol and if it is comfortable for you, and you take it with you everywhere, then perfect. But if you tinker with it, be sure it runs 100%.

[Mike from Texas]

Is it necessary? No. That being said, all of mine have been replaced with Wolff steel guide rods and Wolff springs. They seem to be smoother and don't sound like fingernails on a chalkboard when you work the slide.

[paynewp]

I changed one of my G22 to a lone wolf guide rod and spring. I have done just about everything that can be done to a glock and to tell you the truth it is wasted money. I am not a expert but I could not tell of any difference from the stock rod from the lone wolf. The trigger change is really the only one that made a difference in my shooting. Save the money for rounds down range

[Bennies]

Thanks for the imput everyone. I think I am going to save my money and use it on other things. I'm thinking of trying out idpa so I'm going to spend the cash on those fees and on a mag pouch.

[jbirds1210]

Many people use an aftermarket guide rod to add a little weight to the front of the gun and reduce muzzle flip. I have never put anything other than a stock guide rod inany of my Glocks. Guide rod springs are a different story.