When firearm accessories alter performance, understanding the mechanics becomes crucial. This article delves into the complexities of the Lasermax guide rod, specifically addressing malfunctions and identifying potential solutions.
After encountering a series of malfunctions with a Glock 17 immediately after installing a used Lasermax guide rod laser, a shooter shares their experience in troubleshooting the issue. The original setup, known for its reliability across various ammunition types, suddenly experienced stovepipes, failures to eject, and failures to feed. This occurred when using standard 115g target rounds. The only alteration made to the pistol was the installation of the Lasermax guide rod laser, which also included a replacement recoil spring.
Initial troubleshooting steps involved replacing the recoil spring. Given that the laser was acquired used, the condition of the spring was uncertain. However, replacing the spring did not resolve the issue. The malfunctions persisted, limiting the shooter to only a few consecutive rounds before a failure occurred.
Further investigation involved reverting the Glock 17 to its original configuration by reinstalling the stock guide rod and recoil spring. This immediately resolved the problems, and the pistol cycled flawlessly with the same 115g target rounds that previously caused malfunctions. This pointed towards the Lasermax guide rod as the source of the issues.
Seeking guidance, the shooter contacted Lasermax directly. The company suggested using heavier rounds. Acting on this advice, the shooter tested the Glock 17 with 150+ rounds of 147g HP self-defense ammunition. Remarkably, this completely eliminated the malfunctions.
This experience highlights a potential issue with older Lasermax guide rod designs:
- Ammunition Sensitivity: The Lasermax guide rod, particularly older designs, can be sensitive to ammunition weight. Lighter target rounds may not generate sufficient recoil energy to cycle the action reliably.
- Spring Installation: The recoil spring in older Lasermax designs can be challenging to install correctly. Proper seating and compression are essential for reliable operation.
- Design Evolution: Newer Lasermax designs often mimic the OEM design more closely, featuring non-removable retainers/washers that hold the spring compressed. This simplifies installation and potentially improves reliability.
The key takeaway is that while the Lasermax guide rod can be a valuable accessory, it’s crucial to understand its potential impact on firearm performance. Experimenting with different ammunition types, particularly heavier loads, may be necessary to ensure reliable operation. If malfunctions persist, consulting with Lasermax directly or a qualified gunsmith is recommended. Ultimately, understanding how does lasermax guide rod work in conjunction with your specific firearm and ammunition is the key to optimizing performance and avoiding frustrating malfunctions.
