Glock pistols are some of the most popular firearms in the world. They are known for their reliability, durability, and ease of use. However, many gun enthusiasts prefer to skip the paperwork and do not wish for the government to know what firearms they own. This is where Polymer 80 comes in.
Polymer 80 is a company that produces 80% pistol frames that are compatible with Glock parts. These frames are made from high-strength polymer and are designed to be easy to assemble and customize. With a Polymer 80 frame, gun owners can build a completely custom Glock that is tailored to their specific needs without the need for a serial number, background check, or registration.
One of the main differences between Glocks and Polymer 80 frames is that Glocks are factory-made firearms, while Polymer 80 frames are 80% finished frames that require some assembly and completion.
Additionally, Glock pistols are available in multiple generations including Gen. 2, 3, 4, and 5 models. For the most part Polymer 80s are only compatible with Glock’s Gen. 3 lower parts and slide kits.
However, we have discovered a few tricks to allow other generations of Glock parts to work with your P80 frame.
Key Takeaways
- Polymer 80 frames are 80% finished frames that are compatible with Glock Gen. 3 parts
- Glocks are factory-made firearms that are available in a variety of iterations Gen. 1 – 5
- Glock Gen. 4 slide kits and some lower parts can work either out of the box or with adaptors
Differences between Glocks & P80s
When it comes to building custom pistols (80% or otherwise), there are some key differences between Glocks and P80s that are worth noting.
| Polymer 80 Model Compatibility | Glock Model Compatibility | Caliber Compatibility | Generation Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polymer 80 Compact (PF940C) | G19/G23/G43 | 9mm/.40cal/.357 | 3 / 4 w/ adapter |
| Polymer 80 Sub Compact (PF940SC) | G26/G27 | 9mm/.40cal | 3 / 4 w/ adapter |
| Polymer 80 Full Size (PF940v2) | G17/G34/G17L | 9mm/.40cal | 3 / 4 w/ adapter (G17 only) |
| Polymer 80 Large (PF45) | G20SF/G21SF | 10mm/.45cal | 3 |
| Polymer 80 Single Stack ( | G43 | 9mm | 3 |
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Legal Status: While Glocks are fully manufactured firearms, P80s are considered 80% lower receivers, which require some additional assembly work. This also means that Polymer 80’s do not require paperwork or background checks while OEM Glocks will.
Compatibility: Glocks and P80s are similar in many ways, and for the most part totally compatible. The P80 is after all a close “clone” of the Glock platform. This is due to the large amount of aftermarket Glock parts available making building or customization simple.
Customization: One of the biggest advantages of building a P80 is the ability to customize it to your exact specifications. Polymer 80’s are what you can think of as a blank slate Glock. You are free to choose all of the individual components from the slide to the parts and even a wide variety of accessories and optics.
Aesthetics: While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, it’s worth noting that P80s have a more distinct look than Glocks. P80 frames, for example, often have more aggressive texturing and unique design elements, such as a more pronounced beavertail or a flared magwell. The finger grooves found on OEM Glocks are also not present on the P80 frame, which was a big complaint from Glock owners.
Overall, both Glocks and P80s have their pros and cons, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs, hatred of paperwork, and preferences.
Glock Gen. 2, 3, 4, 5 and Polymer 80 Compatibility
Polymer 80s are compatible with a variety of parts, including Glock Gen. 3 parts, slides, barrels, and magazines. However, it is important to note that not all parts may be compatible with every Polymer 80 model.
You will need to match your Polymer 80 model to various models of Glock pistols relating to size, caliber and barrel length.
Lower Parts Compatibility
When it comes to lower parts compatibility, Glock Gen. 2, 3, 4, and 5 are all compatible with Polymer 80 frames.
However, it is important to note that Gen. 4 and Gen. 5 Glocks have different recoil spring assemblies, so they require specific recoil spring assemblies for Polymer 80 frames.
Slide Kit Compatibility
Slide kit compatibility is another important factor to consider when building a DIY gun.
Glock Gen. 3 are fully compatible with Polymer 80 frames, but Gen. 4 slides require a specific adapter to fit properly.
It is also important to note that some aftermarket slides may not fit properly with Polymer 80 frames. There are always some slight tolerance issues.
While OEM Glock slides and parts are more expensive they are often worth the increase in reliability.
Accessories Compatibility
When it comes to accessories compatibility, Glock and Polymer 80 frames are both compatible with a wide range of accessories. However, it is important to ensure that any accessories purchased are compatible with the specific Glock model and caliber being used.
Whether building a P80 PF940C, FP940v2, or a P80 PF940SC, reliability and quality should always be top priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Glock parts with my Polymer80 build?
Yes, Glock parts are generally compatible with Polymer80 builds. However, it is important to note that not all Glock parts will fit perfectly with Polymer 80 frames. Go with OEM parts if possible.
Are all Glock parts compatible with Polymer80 frames?
No, not all Glock parts are compatible with Polymer80 frames. Some Gen and newer Glock parts may not be compatible with 80% frames.
It is important to check the compatibility of the parts before making a purchase or to be on the safe side stick with Gen. 3 components.
What parts do I need to complete a Polymer80 Glock build?
To complete a Polymer80 Glock build, you will need a Polymer80 frame kit, a Glock Gen. 3 lower parts kit, a Glock slide (19, 17, 26, 43, etc.), a barrel, and sights. You may also choose to add other aftermarket parts to customize your build.
Will Glock 43 parts fit on a Polymer80 PF9SS?
Yes, the P80 Single Stack was designed to be compatible with all G43 and G47 parts.
Can I use Lone Wolf parts with my Polymer80 build?
Yes, Lone Wolf parts are generally compatible with Polymer80 builds. However, it is important to check the compatibility of the parts before making a purchase.
We suggest reading up on some of the best lower parts kits for P80 builds.
Can I use a Glock Gen 4 or 5 slide kit with my Polymer 80?
Yes, Glock Gen 4 and 5 slide kits are generally compatible with Polymer80 frames.
The guide rod assembly is a different size in the 4th and 5th generation Glocks. To make this work with the Polymer 80, Geisler Defence, or GST-9 you will need to order a Gen. 4/5 to Gen. 3 guide rod assembly conversion kit.
These are super easy to install and only require adding the adapter plate to the guide rod spring end.
Wrap Up
Well, there you have it, folks! A comprehensive guide to Glock and Polymer 80 parts compatibility. With the right knowledge and tools, anyone can build their own custom handgun at home.
Be sure to do some Googling to ensure parts compatibility between generations of Glock and you should be good to go.
Just remember, safety first! Always handle firearms with care and respect unless of course you are doing your annual desk pop!
