As an avid firearm enthusiast and Glock owner, I’m always on the lookout for aftermarket upgrades that can enhance the performance of my trusty pistols. The ZEV Technologies Optimized Threaded Barrel for Gen 1-4 Glock 17 immediately caught my attention, promising improved accuracy, easy suppressor compatibility, and exceptional durability.
Before I dive deep into the barrel’s benefits, let’s address the elephant that is always in the Glock room: their much-maligned “Perfection” slogan. Why would you want or need to upgrade a perfect gun?
Let me start by saying I have not always been a Glock fan, and I still don’t drink the Kool-Aid (okay, maybe a sip now and then, but never a full-on gulp or chugalug). I own exactly two Glocks — a Gen 4 G17, because everyone should own at least one Glock, and a G44, because everyone should own at least one semi-auto .22LR pistol, no matter what the brand.
While I have yet to change the G44 from its original factory condition, I have messed with a few upgrades on the G17, first the trigger and now the barrel. I also own an assortment of guns by a host of other manufacturers that I like just as well, or in some cases more. So I’m not a Glock fanboy, but I do like them.
Are Glocks “perfection” from the factory? That precise word might be a bit of a stretch, but they are super reliable, ridiculously easy to use, and have a world of aftermarket support from a gazillion accessory makers just waiting for you to modify your stock Glock and make it your own. Glock has been described as the Honda Civic of the gun world.
One such provider is ZEV, a well-known manufacturer of excellent match-grade barrels.
In this review, I will delve into the key aspects of the barrel’s design, the threaded barrel feature, its performance with a suppressor, and its ability to withstand a 500-round test without any visible wear or tear.
Design
The ZEV Technologies Optimized Threaded Barrel boasts a sleek and sophisticated design that perfectly complements the Glock 17’s aesthetics. Machined from high-quality 416R stainless steel, it feels robust and reliable in hand. The barrel’s black DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating not only adds a stealthy appearance but also enhances its durability, preventing wear and corrosion even with prolonged use.
One notable aspect of the design is the fluting along the length of the barrel. The strategically placed flutes serve two primary purposes: reducing weight to improve overall balance and aiding in heat dissipation during rapid firing. I found the reduction in weight especially useful during extended shooting sessions, as it reduced fatigue and improved my control over the firearm.
Threaded Barrel
The threaded barrel feature of the ZEV Technologies upgrade sets it apart from the stock Glock barrel. The 1/2×28 threading is compatible with a wide range of suppressors, allowing shooters like me to enjoy the benefits of suppressed shooting without compromising accuracy. The threads are clean-cut and precise, ensuring a seamless attachment of suppressors and muzzle devices.
My only issue with the threads — and I have yet to find any solution to this problem — is that the threat protector begins to back off the threads under repeat firing. I know I’m not the only person who has experienced this, yet I don’t know of any way to prevent it. During my non-suppressor session, I found myself constantly twisting the thread protector back into full tight. Is this a reason not to recommend the ZEV barrel? Absolutely no. This is not peculiar to ZEV, so it’s not a ding against them. I just wish somebody would come up with a solution to this minor annoyance that happens with pretty much every threaded barrel from every manufacturer.
Ease of Use with Suppressor
One of the primary reasons for investing in a threaded barrel is to experience suppressed shooting, which can significantly reduce recoil and muzzle rise while minimizing noise pollution on the range.
Using a suppressor with the ZEV threaded barrel was a breeze. I tested it on a Sig modular suppressor at full length to get an idea of how it did with a complete can.
The suppressor’s installation was straightforward, and I experienced no issues with misalignment or wobbling. The barrel’s tight tolerances and precise threading ensured that the suppressor was securely affixed, eliminating any concerns about potential baffle strikes or reduced accuracy.
The suppressed shooting experience with the ZEV threaded barrel was sublime. The barrel’s improved design, combined with the suppressor, resulted in minimal muzzle flip and a noticeably quieter shooting experience. My shots were more accurate, and the pistol remained incredibly controllable during rapid-fire drills.
Durability Through a 500-Round Test
To put the ZEV Technologies Optimized Threaded Barrel through its paces, I embarked on a rigorous 500-round test. I used various 9mm ammunition, including standard FMJ rounds and premium hollow points. Throughout the test, I kept track of any malfunctions, accuracy deviations, and signs of wear on the barrel.
I am pleased to report that the barrel handled the 500-round test with flying colors. Not a single malfunction occurred during the test, and accuracy remained superb. Even after sustained firing, the barrel’s DLC coating showed no signs of wearing off, and the threading maintained its precision. The fluting also aided in heat dissipation, preventing any heat-related issues during prolonged shooting.
Back at home, I took the gun apart and gave the barrel a quick visual inspection as I wiped off the grime and gunk from the day of shooting. Not only did it still look pristine, all the dirt came off even faster and most smoothly than it does on my standard Glock barrel, which I assume is thanks to the coating.
Conclusion
The ZEV Technologies Optimized Threaded Barrel for Gen 1-4 Glock 17 pistols is a remarkable upgrade that lives up to its promises. Its well-thought-out design, threaded barrel feature, and ease of use with a suppressor make it an excellent choice for those seeking improved accuracy and suppressed shooting capabilities. The 500-round test showcased its exceptional durability, ensuring that it will serve as a reliable companion for years to come.
If you’re looking to enhance your Glock 17’s performance and expand your shooting experience to suppressed shooting, the ZEV Technologies Optimized Threaded Barrel is undoubtedly worth the investment. Its precision engineering and reliability make it a top-tier upgrade for Glock owners and a valuable addition to any firearm enthusiast’s collection.
