PF940C vs. OEM Glock frame

Handguns constructed on frames manufactured by Polymer80 have acquired popularity among gun owners in the general public. These firearms and frameworks are customizable and feature GLOCK components. However, P80-based pistols differ from the Gen 5 GLOCK pistols of the present day because they utilize "Gen 3" GLOCK components.

Consequently, what distinguishes factory GLOCK (Gen 5) frame parts from Polymer80 (Gen 3) frame parts? Which is superior to the other? After taking a look, we will proceed to address some inquiries. The "Gen 5" magazine button on the factory GLOCK frame (illustrated on the right) is considerably smaller than the "Gen 3" button on the P80. The Polymer80 frame offers enhanced traction compared to the manufacturer GLOCK frame due to its random-patterned stippling. Additionally, it has a reduced bow near the palm and a diminished flourish at the magazine well.

Additionally, the trigger guard of the P80 frame is larger and features finger channels. The GLOCK's factory trigger guard is more compact and straightforward.

In conclusion, the trigger mechanism housing pin opening on the factory GLOCK is recessed and flush with the Polymer80 frame's backstrap. 

Significantly, however, the trigger mechanism pegs of both frames have an identical diameter. 

A detailed inspection of the trigger mechanism housings of both frames reveals that the trigger springs interlock differently with each unit. The channel through which the anchor of the three-piece trigger spring slides into position is visible on the housing of the GLOCK. There is a simple hole in the housing of the Polymer80 through which one of the barbs of the trigger spring becomes entangled. Significantly, the spring anchor of the GLOCK is situated beneath the ejector in the front of the mechanism container. The trigger spring is compressed when the trigger is drawn due to this revised design; therefore, a guide rod is required.  The spring anchor of the P80 is situated in the posterior portion of its housing. The trigger spring decompresses and stretches with every trigger draw due to its design, which obviates the necessity for a spring guide rod.

The trigger pads of the factory GLOCK and P80 are virtually identical. In general, both trigger bars have the same length. However, the similarities cease there. Trigger spring of the P80: A straightforward coil with two barbs at each end. A "Gen 5" trigger spring for the GLOCK is comprised of a three-part assembly that is more complex: a metal hook and a spring secured by a small polymer guide rod. The trigger mechanism housings of both pistols are also dissimilar in size and shape: The housing of the factory GLOCK is longer, and the leads that terminate beneath the mounting pin openings are thinner. The shorter housing of the P80 is complemented by wider, flatter leads that terminate beneath the mounting pin openings.

An additional distinction can be observed in the ejector designs located at the upper right corner of each housing: the ejector of the P80 is elongated and terminates at a triangular point, whereas the ejector of the more recent Gen 5 GLOCK has a marginally shorter and flattened tip. The diagonal metal tabs that run parallel to both housings comprise their connectors. These tabs are identical. The trigger mechanisms of both frames exhibit an identical appearance upon assembly. However, because of the aforementioned subtle distinctions, they cannot be used interchangeably across frames. According to some users, the trigger shoe and Gen 5 trigger housing can fit within the Polymer80 frame. 

A possible magnum opus of the Gen 5 GLOCK is the incorporation of an ambidextrous slide catch and release mechanism. Thumb-operated mechanisms are installed on both sides of the factory GLOCK frame with this revised design. This provides left-handed snipers with a distinct advantage.

The Polymer80 slide catch, depicted on the right, is a solitary mechanism exclusively located on the left side of the frame. Its designated function is to accommodate right-handed shooters. In contrast to the factory GLOCK's slide capture, which employs a conventionally wound spring, the P80 slide catch constructs the lever spring from a single piece of thick, curved steel wire. Finally, the upgraded lever of the GLOCK obviates the necessity for an additional pin opening; instead, it is fastened using the locking block pin. In contrast, a distinct, smaller pin is utilized to secure the P80 lever.

In appearance, construction, and operation, the Gen 5 GLOCK and Gen 3 Polymer80 slide locks are indistinguishable. The sole distinction between the two units pertains to the springs. Lastly, the most significant functional distinctions between the Polymer80 frame and the Gen 5 GLOCK frame are the locking block rail systems and rear rail modules, which serve as mounting and pinhole locations for the trigger assemblies and slides, among other components of both pistols. However, the locking block rail systems and rear rail module of the Polymer80 pistol are wholly separate components from the frame. This indicates that both modules are removable, upgradeable, and replaceable. 

Some shooters who own both pistols claim that the Polymer80 frame offers superior control, stippling, and form. Others argue that the trigger guard on the P80 frame has finger channels and, arguably, superior ergonomics. Some also prefer P80 triggers over GLOCK triggers. While the most recent GLOCK features an ambidextrous slide lever, the trigger of the Polymer80 is said to be "snappier" and break more cleanly, according to some. GLOCK frames only need two pins. P80 frames use four pins. Due to its updated slide catch lever and incorporated locking block, the Gen 5 GLOCK secures the internals of its frame with only two pins. Four connections are necessary to secure all internal components of the Polymer80.

The Polymer80 might still be more reliable.

Replacement is possible for two critical wear components on the Polymer80 frame: the rear rail module and the securing block. The frame cannot be repaired if the securing block and rear rail module tabs on the factory GLOCK are damaged or worn. Due to the fact that both components are non-detachable. Both pistols' slides are nearly identical. Lastly, while not explicitly mentioned here, the slides and barrels of both pistols are remarkably similar. Both serve an identical purpose. The sole significant distinction between the GLOCK slide and the Polymer80 slide pertains to the operational rod and recoil spring. It is said that the Gen 5 GLOCK's two-recoil spring rod provides marginally improved recoil control.