Glock 17 Ported Barrel: Its Role, Pros and Cons, and Dimension
The Glock 17 Ported Barrel has been a favorite of almost every tactical operator and competitive shooter, but this model has proven to be the king of handguns due to its simplicity and ease of customization.
One such modification that is on every shooter’s lips is the addition of a ported barrel. This modification aims to minimize the muzzle flip, which makes the shooting more accurate. It provides evident advantages for the target shooters and competitive users of Glocks.
Dimension and Weight
The Glock 17 has a height of 5.43 in, width of 1.26 in, and a barrel length of 4.49 in. The weight is approximately 24.87 ounces, and although the ported barrel will add some weight, its main purpose is to assist in the control and management of recoil as well as aid shooting, without affecting much the overall measurements of the handgun.
The Role of a Ported Barrel in Performance
In a ported barrel, gas ports are strategically arranged to enhance the functioning of the barrel. Such ports are placed on top or at the sides of the barrel. A portion of the gas produced by the burning of the powder is blown back and escapes upwards and outwards as a result of these ports, which influences the recoil mechanism.
It does manage energy so that a Glock 17 upgrades reduction or even fully eliminates the muzzle rise that occurs after each shot. It in turn decreases the time and effort taken for a snapshot to follow a previous shot thus enabling better control for the shooter. More effective bullseyes require such situations because one is shooting competitively.
Pros and Cons
In the Glock 17, a Ported barrel has advantages and disadvantages simultaneously. The following is a rather summary of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Less Muzzle Flip: The gas ports are directed above and that causes the muzzle after firing to rise less. This helps to retain control.
- Better Precision: With such reduced recoil, follow-up shots can be taken more swiftly and precisely.
- Quick Follow-Up Shots: Less muzzle flip means a faster return to the aim enhancing the speed of shooting.
- Enhanced Grip: The overall recoil has been lessened so the Glock 17 is easier to control in particular during quick shots.
- Perfect For Sports: It is possible to use a ported barrel to shoot faster and more accurately than your opponent.
Cons:
Tas More Flash: Gas expelled up can increase the flash produced limiting the ability to shoot in the dark conditions.
Loudness: The opening of the gas ports creates a more deafening shot that can be a nuisance in rather confined spaces.
Gas Blowback: This gas directed upwards can also interfere with your line of sight making it harder to spot your target.
Slightly More Weight: The ported barrel does not add considerable weight but it may change the weight distribution of the Glock 17.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ported barrel version of the Glock 17 improves performance by controlling muzzle rise and increasing precision, making it well suited for sport shooting and practice.
Besides the additional mass and noise it brings with itself, it is a worthy modification for enthusiasts who want to get the most out of themselves and the equipment.
