3.5# Connectors
I'm a newbie and have decided to install
3.5# connectors in
the two Glocks that I use in IDPA (23, 19). Although I've been shooting
Tupperware since '93, and have been through the L.E. Armorer's class, I've never
used the 3.5# "competition" connectors. I've found several suppliers for both
factory and aftermarket parts, but before I buy, I'd appreciate it if some of
you who have been using these could share your experiences, in regard to the
quality of the various makes of connectors and what the 3.5# connector can do
for me.
I've installed several 3.5's in customers guns and have not been able to tell
any difference from maker to maker. Some may be a little more polishing than
others, Glock would not sell me any of the factory ones. I too am a Glock Armor.
I have a factory 3.5 in my G19 and I really like it. In my new G17 (my
primary defense pistol), I'm using the factory 5.5 that came with it.
Personally, I wouldn't use an aftermarket connector. However, a co‑worker of
mine has one, and he loves it. For such an important component, I'd go with the
factory part, if possible.
All of my Glocks (4) have factory 3.5 connectors. Haven't tried the
aftermarket ones. Naturally, there have been no problems with the factory ones.
Basically, it reduces the amount of pressure needed to trip the striker after
the take-up or first stage. The only way to tell what it will do for you
specifically is to try it. Individual opinions about the 3.5 lb connector vary
greatly some love it, some see no difference, some hate it.
I have it in all my competition model Glocks and frankly can't tell much
difference in the 3.5 lb. and 5.5 lb. connectors. Under extreme stress, I think
the adrenalin dump would completely negate any advantage the 3.5 lb. connector
might give you otherwise. Some like the 3.5 with the NY 1 trigger spring, which
gives about a 5.5 lb. revolver feel with crisp break.
I suggest you take David Armstrong's advice and forget the 3.5 lb. connector
for a carry pistol. David knows his stuff, is an outstanding shooter and is
heavily involved with the LE community.
Using your 3.5 lb. equipped Glock in a defensive shooting opens you up to the
old "this guy wanted to kill someone so badly that he purposefully put a hair
trigger in his pistol" routine. The opposing attorney subpoena a Glock rep to
testify that his company doesn't recommend using the 3.5 lb. connector in
defensive/duty pistols.
True, with the exception that Glock will install 3.5 lb. connectors in frames
that are mated to competition uppers, i.e. models 17L, 24, 24C, 34, and 35
uppers. They don't want to be accused of selling these parts to you so that you
can have a "hair trigger" in your defensive/duty pistol.
Get them here: 3.5# factory
connectors