Recently, I decided to add a Glock 48 MOS to my collection, complementing my existing Glock 43X. Given my familiarity with the 43X/48 platform, sticking with what I know made more sense than venturing into less familiar territories like the Glock 19 or CZ P-10C, especially considering the limited interchangeability of parts. My intention is to keep the Glock 48 MOS largely in its factory configuration for now. I’m not planning on swapping out the magazine catch to accommodate S15 magazines. For the time being, I’ll rely on my collection of 4 OEM magazines for the 48 and reserve my 4 S15 magazines for use with the 43X, which is already fitted with a steel magazine catch to handle the S15s with either slide. Even the OEM sights on the 48 MOS are staying put for now, although I do have some hybrid replacements on hand should I decide to make a change later.
Speaking of S15 magazines, my shooting buddy and I recently put our Glock 43X and 48 MOS pistols through their paces at the range. We fired over 400 rounds, exclusively using S15 magazines in both guns. The result? Not a single malfunction during this session, adding to a previous flawless record of perhaps 2000 rounds with these magazines. While I’m confident in the S15’s performance in my 43X, I do plan to thoroughly test the 48 MOS lower with OEM magazines and both slides to ensure similar reliability with the factory setup. This is important as I anticipate situations where carrying the standard 10 rounds might be preferable. New legislation in Illinois regarding gun ownership is creating unnecessary confusion and potentially turning law-abiding citizens into felons overnight. It’s questionable how many gun owners will comply with registering certain firearms under the new demands.
Regulations and rules are becoming increasingly perplexing. Just recently, my friend and I had to make a quick trip to downtown Chicago in the early evening – not the safest part of town. Naturally, we were both carrying. As we approached the entrance of a building, we noticed a “no guns” sign posted on the door. We exchanged a knowing look, chuckled at the absurdity, and proceeded inside without a second thought. Walking unarmed into an unfamiliar building in a potentially dangerous area of the city was simply not an option. It doesn’t take a genius to see that firearm registration often precedes confiscation. Recent actions by the ATF, such as reclassifying pistol braces, further erode trust in government agencies and create uncertainty for gun owners. While most of us remain patient, these actions are concerning and raise questions about future infringements on our rights.
Considering Upgrades: The Tungsten Guide Rod
While I am committed to keeping my Glock 48 MOS mostly stock initially, the topic of performance enhancements is always on the mind of any firearm enthusiast. One upgrade worth considering for Glock pistols, including the 48 MOS, is the tungsten guide rod. Often overlooked, the guide rod plays a crucial role in the recoil management and overall shooting experience of a pistol.
What is a Tungsten Guide Rod?
The guide rod is a component within the recoil spring assembly of a semi-automatic pistol. Its primary function is to guide the recoil spring as the slide cycles during firing. Factory guide rods are often made from polymer or steel. A tungsten guide rod is an aftermarket upgrade crafted from tungsten, a material significantly denser and heavier than steel.
Benefits of a Tungsten Guide Rod
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Reduced Recoil: The added weight of a tungsten guide rod, typically much heavier than the stock polymer or even steel guide rod, helps to dampen recoil. This is due to increased forward weight in the pistol, which counteracts muzzle flip and felt recoil. For shooters, this can translate to faster follow-up shots, improved accuracy, and greater comfort, especially during extended range sessions.
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Enhanced Durability: Tungsten is an exceptionally strong and durable material. A tungsten guide rod is significantly more robust than a polymer guide rod and often more durable than a steel one. This increased durability contributes to the longevity of the firearm and ensures consistent performance over thousands of rounds.
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Smoother Cycling: The added weight and precise machining of a high-quality tungsten guide rod can contribute to smoother cycling of the slide. This can improve the overall feel of the pistol and potentially enhance reliability.
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Reduced Muzzle Flip: By adding weight to the front of the pistol, a tungsten guide rod helps to reduce muzzle flip during firing. This allows for quicker sight recovery and more controlled shooting, particularly in rapid fire scenarios.
Is a Tungsten Guide Rod Right for Your Glock 48 MOS?
For a Glock 48 MOS intended for concealed carry or general range use, a tungsten guide rod can be a worthwhile upgrade. While the Glock 48 MOS is already known for its manageable recoil, a tungsten guide rod can further enhance its shootability, especially for those sensitive to recoil or looking for every possible edge in performance. The increased weight, while beneficial for recoil reduction, is something to consider for concealed carry, although the added weight in the guide rod itself is usually minimal and unlikely to significantly impact carry comfort.
Installation and Considerations
Installing a tungsten guide rod is generally a straightforward process, often requiring no more than swapping out the factory guide rod with the aftermarket tungsten version. However, it’s always recommended to consult the manufacturer’s instructions and, if unsure, seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith. When selecting a tungsten guide rod, ensure it is specifically designed for the Glock 48 MOS to guarantee proper fit and function.
Conclusion
While my Glock 48 MOS remains in its stock configuration for the time being, exploring potential upgrades like a tungsten guide rod is part of the ongoing process of firearm ownership and optimization. For Glock 48 MOS owners seeking to enhance recoil management, improve durability, and potentially achieve smoother cycling, a tungsten guide rod presents a compelling option to consider. As always, any modifications should be carefully considered and implemented responsibly to ensure safe and reliable firearm operation.
