Glock guide rod question - Which weight is best?

[msternin]

All,

I've never deviated from factory guide rods, but after reading some articles online and watching a few videos I've decided to replace my factory rods with steel rods from Brass Stacker.

That said my question is about spring weight. I have an G17 and G22. Should I stick with 17lbs or go with 20 or 22lbs. What are the pros/cons to the various weights. I don't compete so I imagine that might factor in. Thanks in advance.

[tonyxcom]

If you don't compete there is no reason to mess with recoil springs or steel rods. Factory will work best for a wider range of ammo and be the most reliable.

That being said, I switched my Gen 4 17 and 34 to steel Jager rods and 13lb ISMI springs and the difference was night and day with 115gr factory ammo. But the improvement was the fact that the front sight was back on target after recoil. Bigger difference in my 34 than 17. With the factory 17lb spring the front sight was dipping.

No difference in felt recoil or any of that nonsense. But follow up shots were faster and the shot timer proved it.

[SimonBirch]

........

If you don't compete there is no reason to mess with recoil springs or steel rods. Factory will work best for a wider range of ammo and be the most reliable.

That being said, I switched my Gen 4 17 and 34 to steel Jager rods and 13lb ISMI springs and the difference was night and day with 115gr factory ammo. But the improvement was the fact that the front sight was back on target after recoil. Bigger difference in my 34 than 17. With the factory 17lb spring the front sight was dipping.

No difference in felt recoil or any of that nonsense. But follow up shots were faster and the shot timer proved it.

Even if you don't compete, a heavy stainless steel guide rod makes the gun a pleasure to shoot.

[crufflers]

I used a 13 lb spring to shoot 115's through a 9mm conversion barrel in a Glock 22. Other than that scenario you don't need them if your gun is working.

[SDM44]

A heavier guide rod helps add weight to the front of the gun, thus aiding in recoil management.

A heavier (or lighter) recoil spring should only be used when you're running different weight & powered ammo, or if you're slide is a different weight like if you cut "speed holes" into it (that's what Homer Simpson calls them )

[msternin]

Thanks all for the great info. Much appreciated.

[Voo]

To be honest, there is no best, really.

I own and have run SS, OEM, and tungsten rods for my G34 and it doesn't really do much. Even with a full length tungsten rod it's still a very small amount of mass out on the end of the gun. It doesn't have enough effect on muzzle flip to be worthwhile.

If you're trying to change the way the gun handles (ie recoil), then changing the spring weight will change the impulse of the gun. You'll get more snap than push if you go light.

This is just my take from having shot over a lot rounds through my G34 in practice and USPSA matches, however, YMMV

[Sigmund99]

I run the tungsten rod from the Glockstore and like them. I like added weight and they come back on target quicker. I have no complaints about the factory rod but like the one I have now better.

[DArBad]

I always replace the factory " polymer " guide rods on my Glocks (17 and 21) and Berretta (92FS and M9). Its personal preference, I just find the metal ones satisfying to have.

As to spring weights, I stick to factory specified weight.

[Garv]

I run the tungsten rod from the Glockstore and like them. I like added weight and they come back on target quicker. I have no complaints about the factory rod but like the one I have now better.

+1
My wife shoots my G34 better since we went tungsten.

[Lead Waster]

Too see if forward weight does anything for you, attach a flashlight to the rail (if your Glock is railed).

[Tri750]

I've had now 2 Tungston guide rods from Glockmeister come apart while shooting my 21SF.
The first, I called and got sympathy but no warranty.
It blew apart and the front threaded bit blew forward.

After a few months, I called back, was assured they do Loctite them. Ordered another.
Last weekend, during a class, the rear bit unthreaded and blew off and the rod shot out the front.

Quickly changed to the G35 also with a GM Tungston. During a break, I got the 21 apart put the rod together with the Blue Loctite I had and continued.
Now what. I guess I'll call them again.
I normally have a stock rod with me, my spares box is MIA.

I'de say 3k rounds since the first rod blew apart. I've never checked the second for tightness. Why would I have to?
Well, mine had stock Glock springs on them. Beginning to wonder about going to stock and staying stock .

[Garv]

I've had now 2 Tungston guide rods from Glockmeister come apart while shooting my 21SF.
The first, I called and got sympathy but no warranty.
It blew apart and the front threaded bit blew forward.

After a few months, I called back, was assured they do Loctite them. Ordered another.
Last weekend, during a class, the rear bit unthreaded and blew off and the rod shot out the front.

Quickly changed to the G35 also with a GM Tungston. During a break, I got the 21 apart put the rod together with the Blue Loctite I had and continued.
Now what. I guess I'll call them again.
I normally have a stock rod with me, my spares box is MIA.

I'de say 3k rounds since the first rod blew apart. I've never checked the second for tightness. Why would I have to?
Well, mine had stock Glock springs on them. Beginning to wonder about going to stock and staying stock .

Eeeww, do not like to hear that, will keep an eye out, thank you.
Got mine from Glockstore, hope it lasts longer.
(Or forever, as all glocks do!) : )

[Tri750]

If I keep them, I plan on disassembling and using Loctite red or even epoxy to put back together.
I'm in a holding pattern now.

Depends on the outcome is from Glockmeister when I finally call.
My last communication with them about wanting to make a purchase of a trigger assy was for the first time, dismal.

[heidad01]

Use factory everthing. They designed the darn things and have the expertise to do so and then test it.

It is amazing how all these after market gadgets pour into the market designed by some dude in Reseda or Riverside (with a sixth grade education and no engineering knowledge) and are supposed to make your factory gun so much better!!
Well, wouldn't you think that all the engineers working at the manufacturere already looked into and decided against such doodads?

Do not buy into hypes and aftermarket this and that. They just take your money and your gun will shoot the same if not worse.