Agency Arms Glock 19 Stripped Slide Review

Agency Arms Glock 19 Stripped Slide Review

What I Found Using the Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide

The Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide is not just another aftermarket slide; it’s a statement. It’s Agency Arms’ take on a utilitarian, high-performance upgrade for arguably the most popular pistol platform in the world. This slide promises enhanced features, improved aesthetics, and, most importantly, a reliable platform for mounting optics, appealing to both tactical users and discerning firearm enthusiasts alike.

I was initially driven to this slide because I was looking to upgrade my Gen 3 Glock 19 with a dedicated optic mounting solution without sending it off to a gunsmith. I wanted something that looked aggressive, offered better grip, and provided a secure and repeatable mounting platform for my red dot. The Agency Arms reputation for quality and performance, coupled with the Field Battle’s aggressive aesthetics, ultimately made it my top choice.

Upon unboxing, the slide felt substantial and well-made. The Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating gave it a smooth, almost silky feel, while the enhanced serrations promised a secure grip even with wet or gloved hands. The pre-installed channel liner and ISMI Recoil Spring Assembly were a welcome bonus, simplifying the build process.

Compared to a factory Glock slide, the Agency Arms slide boasts significantly improved serrations and a more aggressive profile. Other options I considered were slides from ZEV Technologies and Brownells. I ultimately chose the Agency Arms because I was drawn to their specific AOS (Agency Optic System) cut, and the Field Battle aesthetic felt more robust than competing designs.

My initial impression was one of excitement. This wasn’t just a cosmetic upgrade; it felt like a serious piece of kit that could genuinely improve the performance and usability of my Glock 19.






Real-World Testing: Putting Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range trip with the Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide was at my local outdoor range. I specifically wanted to evaluate its performance under variable conditions, so I went on a day that promised both sunshine and potential rain. The Agency Arms slide was paired with a Trijicon RMR optic, a combination I wanted to thoroughly test.

The slide performed flawlessly, even when subjected to light rain. The aggressive front and rear serrations provided a secure grip when racking the slide, even with wet hands. I didn’t need any adjustment period. The slide functioned as intended from the very first shot.

The only initial surprise was how much smoother the slide felt compared to the factory Glock slide. This improvement was directly attributable to the tighter tolerances and the DLC coating of the Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and a local IDPA match, the Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scratches on the DLC coating. The finish has held up remarkably well.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session keeps the slide in excellent condition. The DLC coating resists carbon buildup, making cleaning much easier compared to a standard nitride finish. It has significantly outperformed my expectations based on previous experiences with other aftermarket Glock parts.

Breaking Down the Features of Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide

Specifications

The Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide is machined from 17-4 Stainless Steel, ensuring exceptional strength and corrosion resistance. The slide is then coated in a durable Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) finish for enhanced wear resistance and lubricity. It’s specifically designed for Glock 19 Gen 3 frames (Gen 4 compatible models include an adapter).

The slide is precut with the Agency Optic System (AOS), offering compatibility with a wide range of popular red dot sights. This includes the Leupold DeltaPoint, Docter/Noblex, Vortex Viper, Vortex Venom, Burris Fastfire, and Trijicon RMR. The additional features include enhanced front and rear serrations for improved grip and manipulation.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the slide’s durability, reliability, and overall performance. The 17-4 Stainless Steel ensures the slide can withstand the rigors of frequent use and adverse conditions. The DLC coating reduces friction, resulting in smoother cycling and improved reliability.

Performance & Functionality

The Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide excels in its primary function: providing a reliable and accurate platform for mounting optics. Accuracy is noticeably improved compared to a factory Glock slide due to the tighter tolerances and more consistent lockup. Reliability has been flawless, with no malfunctions attributed to the slide itself.

The enhanced serrations are a standout feature, providing an excellent grip for racking the slide under any condition. The AOS cut is precise and allows for a secure and repeatable optic mounting, maintaining zero even after extended use. The only area for potential improvement could be the inclusion of different AOS plates for a wider range of optic footprints as standard.

The slide far exceeds my expectations in terms of both performance and aesthetics. It’s a significant upgrade over a factory Glock slide, offering tangible improvements in accuracy, reliability, and usability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide features an aggressive, yet functional design. The slide is constructed from high-quality materials and feels exceptionally solid. The weight is comparable to a factory Glock slide, ensuring it doesn’t negatively impact the balance of the pistol.

The enhanced serrations are strategically placed and provide excellent grip without being overly aggressive. There is a slight learning curve associated with transitioning to an optic-equipped pistol, but the slide itself is very user-friendly. The AOS cut simplifies the mounting process and ensures a secure fit.

Durability & Maintenance

The Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide is built to last. The combination of 17-4 Stainless Steel and DLC coating provides exceptional resistance to wear, corrosion, and abrasion. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s required to maintain the slide in excellent condition.

The DLC coating is remarkably durable and resistant to scratches. I anticipate the slide will provide years of reliable service with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide includes a slide case for protection during storage and transport. The pre-installed channel liner and ISMI Recoil Spring Assembly are also included, simplifying the build process. The AOS cut is the primary customization option, allowing users to select from a wide range of compatible red dot sights.

The slide is compatible with all standard Glock 19 internal components, offering a wide range of customization options. This includes aftermarket barrels, triggers, and recoil springs.

Pros and Cons of Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide

Pros

  • Enhanced grip: The aggressive front and rear serrations provide a secure grip in any condition.
  • Reliable optic mounting: The AOS cut ensures a secure and repeatable mounting platform for a variety of red dot sights.
  • Improved accuracy: Tighter tolerances and more consistent lockup result in improved accuracy compared to a factory Glock slide.
  • Exceptional durability: The combination of 17-4 Stainless Steel and DLC coating provides excellent resistance to wear and corrosion.
  • Aggressive Aesthetics: The Field Battle design provides a unique and visually appealing upgrade to a standard Glock pistol.

Cons

  • The slide is expensive compared to other aftermarket Glock slides.
  • AOS plates for other optic footprints are sold separately, increasing overall cost.


Agency Arms Glock 19 Stripped Slide Review


Who Should Buy Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide?

The Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide is perfect for shooters who demand the highest levels of performance, reliability, and aesthetics. This slide is ideal for tactical users, competitive shooters, and firearm enthusiasts who want to upgrade their Glock 19 with a dedicated optic mounting solution and enhanced features. It’s a great upgrade for those building out a duty-ready pistol, or simply want the highest possible level of performance.

This product may not be ideal for budget-conscious shooters or those who are content with a stock Glock slide. Those who are new to firearms and prefer a simpler, less aggressive aesthetic may also want to consider other options.

A must-have accessory is a compatible red dot sight. The choice of optic will depend on individual preferences and intended use. A quality aftermarket barrel can further enhance accuracy and performance.

Conclusion on Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide

The Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide is a premium upgrade that delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and aesthetics. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but the quality, features, and attention to detail justify the price for those who demand the best. The Agency Arms AOS System makes a huge difference, providing multiple options for mounting your preferred optic.

The value proposition is strong for shooters who prioritize performance and are willing to invest in a high-quality upgrade. I would personally recommend the Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide to anyone looking to enhance their Glock 19 with a reliable and accurate optic mounting solution and improved ergonomics.

If you’re serious about upgrading your Glock 19, don’t hesitate – invest in the Agency Arms Field Battle Stripped Precut Glock 19 Pistol Slide and experience the difference for yourself.

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