If I purchase a 40cal, is it as simple as swapping barrels to end up with a 9mm or 357 sig? Provided of course that I swap magazines...
GLOCK 40SW PISTOL CONVERSION OMNIBUS
Using the G22 as an example, with end notes for the G23 and G27:
A. G22 to 9x19mm
Here are the parts that remain different between a REAL OEM G17 and an OEM G22 converted to 9x19mm using an aftermarket conversion barrel:
1. Slide
2. Barrel
3. Firing Pin
4. Extractor
5. Spring-loaded Bearing
6. Ejector in Trigger Mechanism Housing
7. Recoil Spring Assembly (Gen4 G22 only)
8. Magazine
These important part differences make a 9mm conversion suitable for range toy use where it doesn't matter if something fails to work properly.
B. G22 to 357SIG
Gen2 G22 pistols from serial CNX000US and all Gen3 and Gen4 G22 pistols are Glock-sanctioned for use with an
OEM G31 barrel. Here are the parts that remain different between a REAL pre-Gen4 OEM G31 and a pre-Gen4 OEM G22 using an OEM G31 barrel:
1. Model and caliber markings on left side of slide.
2. Rear Sight elevation (G22=6.5mm, G31=6.9mm).
That's it. Every other part is the same. Even the latest versions of 40SW Magazines (Follower rev. 10) and 357SIG Magazines (Follower rev. 4) are identical except for markings.
The above information also applies to the Gen4 G22, but with one addition. The Gen4 G22 uses Trigger Mechanism Housing 28927 with Ejector 28926, but since 2012 the Gen4 G31 uses Trigger Mechanism Housing 30561 with Ejector 30499. The slope of the Ejector 30499 tip face differs very slightly from that of Ejector 28926. The difference may be ignored if ejection pattern is satisfactory, as it almost universally is. Pre-Gen4 G22 and G31 pistols use the same Ejector 1882.
There are NO parts that differ between a real OEM G31 and an OEM G22 with OEM G31 barrel (except the rear sights, and the ejectors for Gen4 models). The result is satisfactory for all purposes including critical self-defense duty.
Converting a G22 to a G31 creates a pistol rigorously qualified for serious duty. Converting a G22 to a pseudo-G17 stands on less firm ground that is usually satisfactory for range-toy service.
Caliber conversions between 357SIG and 40SW using OEM barrels are the ONLY caliber conversions sanctioned by Glock. Conversions for other models and calibers are aftermarket creations for hobbyist range fun.
NOTE:
-> The above also applies to conversions of the G23 when G22 is replaced by G23, G17 is replaced by G19, G31 is replaced by G32, and CNX000US is replaced by CPU000US in the text.
-> The above also applies to conversions of the G27 when G22 is replaced by G27, G17 is replaced by G26, and G31 is replaced by G33 in the text, PLUS:
a. In Section A, delete "7. Recoil Spring Assembly (Gen4 G22 only)". All Subcompacts use the same RSA.
b. In Section B, delete "2. Rear Sight elevation (G22=6.5mm, G31=6.9mm)". All Subcompacts use the same 6.5mm rear sight elevation.
c. In Section B, delete "Gen2 G22 pistols from serial CNX000US and all Gen3 and Gen4". ALL G27 pistols are Glock-sanctioned for OEM G33 barrels, regardless of generation or serial.