Glock 19 Slides | Definitive Guide To The Faxon Patriot G19 Slide

The Glock 19 has been the world’s most popular striker-fired pistol since its creation in 1998.

We’re up to Gen 5 right now, but there are millions of gun owners across the globe that carry a Gen 3 Glock pistol. Eventually, even the best guns are going to need an upgraded barrel, slide, trigger components, and recoil spring assembly.

There are many companies that sell Glock parts and accessories, but we’re looking for companies that take pride in craftsmanship and attention to detail. 

Faxon Firearms is one of those companies that produce beautiful-looking guns and gun parts, but their products are also durable, reliable, and practical. Today is all about upgrading the Gen 3 Glock 19 slide with the Faxon Patriot Slide.

The Faxon Patriot slide offers an extended shelf-life and optic-ready posts, specifically for the Trijicon RMR, RMR Type 2, and the Holosun 507C RDS. Find out everything you’ll need to know about the Faxon Patriot Glock 19 RMR-cut slide to make the most responsible decision possible. good luck!

GLOCK Gen 3 Pistols

In 1998 Glock released the Gen 3 Glock with one of its revolutionary designs, known as the “Universal Glock rail". I know some of us take the Glock rail for granted because every Glock we see today is Gen 4 or Gen 5. However, the innovation of Glock in 1998 only added fuel to the fire that started in 1986, when the first Glock 17’s were shipped to America. 

The Universal Glock rail changed the game for U.S. law enforcement, starting with the federal agents of the F.B.I. and filtering the local (Sheriff’s), and state LEOs, as well. The capability to add a light, laser, or combo of the two gives our LEOs an advantage over their assailants. 

Gen 3 also includes the ever-controversial Glock finger grooves to improve the grip of the original Glock design in 1980. The finger grips are controversial and led to their removal in the Gen 5 pistols. Gen 3 started it all and since Glock always tries to become better, they listen to their customers and improve their design with each generation of the pistol. 

GLOCK Gen 4 Pistols

11 years after they released the Gen 3 in 1998, Glock released the Gen 4 pistols to improve upon the grip of the polymer, sizing variation for small-handed shooters, a more practical magazine catch, overall accuracy, recoil-control, and longevity. 

• Modular Back Strap System

Small Backstrap– Included on the pistol

Medium Backstrap– Adds 8/100" to the back of the grip to the trigger

Large Backstrap– Adds 16/100" to the back of the grip to the trigger

• Enlarged Reversible magazine Catch

The magazine catch (release button is reversible to accommodate both right and left-handed shooters. Glock also enlarged the mag release to make it easier and faster to conduct mag changes for a tactical reload. 

• Dual Recoil Spring Assembly

The dual recoil spring is much stronger and more durable than the original Gen 3 spring. One complaint that many customers (like myself) have with the Gen 3 is the recoil is noticeably heavier than the Gen 4 with the dual recoil spring. This addition also increases the lifespan of the Glock because the spring doesn’t lose tension and its structural integrity as fast. My Gen 4 Glock 19 has been going strong for 8 years now, with no sign of losing accuracy or safety features. 

• Rough Textured Frame

I love the Rough Textured Frame (RTF) of the Gen 4 Glock 19 because the aggressive grip helps me establish a tighter grip without forcing it.  Some shooters think the grip is too aggressive, but I find it much less than a Taurus G3C or S&W M&P Shield. 

Glock 19 Gen 3 

Since Faxon and every other after-market slide manufacturer only produces slides compatible with the Gen 3 models, I don’t see a lot of point in discussing Gen 5 G19. However, if you’re interested in learning more about Gen 5 Glocks, take a look at our Glock 19 Guide. 

Gen 3 G19s are more common than you’d think. My brother, brother-in-law, and RE Factor’s blogging manager, Scot, all carry a Gen 3 G19 as their primary CCW. Most people I know carry the G19 Gen 4 with the lighter trigger pull and more aggressive grip. The Gen 3 Glock 19 has the same slide length and width as both the Gen 4 and Gen 5 models. From an outsider’s perspective, I think that would lend well to the manufacturers to know slide measurements are all the same (I’ll reach out and when I update this blog, I’ll post the response from Faxon). 

As it stands with the stock Gen 3 and Gen 5 Glock 19, there is nothing better about Gen 3 than Gen 5 Glock 19, including the finish on the slides. With an after-market slide like the Faxon Patriot or Hellfire, you can flip the table on the Gen 5 and upgrade your pistol for a more durable, lighter, and smoother slide. I’d recommend using the dual spring and replacing the barrel, but just a slide upgrade will do a lot for you. 

Pros

• Great magazine capacity
• Lightweight trigger pull
• perfect line-of-sight length for up to 50-yard shots
• Perfect as a CCW 
• The most dependable pistol since 1998
• Affordable
• Lightweight

Cons

• It’s not optic-ready
• The grip is smooth and difficult to grasp compared to the RTF grip of the Gen 5
• It doesn’t have the GMB of the Gen 5 (I think it makes a difference in my accuracy)

Why Would I Want an After-Market Slide?

There are typically 3 reasons anyone would want an after-market slide;

1. To improve the aesthetics of a standard Glock 19

One of the main reasons Glock is on top of the pistol world is because of the amount of support they get from companies like Faxon Firearms, Agency Arms, Bastion, and Lone Wolf Distributors. These companies create unique Glock parts and accessories to match the specs of the Glock 19 and other Glocks, such as the G17, G43X, and the Glock 21 (.45 ACP). 

Each company has its own distinct style, and materials used to separate itself from each other. You’ll see slide cuts to reduce the weight and plenty of color and finishing options. I can’t think of another gun that gets the third-party support that Glock gets, but I also know it’s because Glock is untouchable for the price and performance. Either way, the number of aesthetic options for a Glock 19 is endless.

 2. Reduce the weight of a stock slide for improved ergonomics and comfort

Most aftermarket Glock slides include some sort of Glock slide weight reduction with cutouts on the side and top of the slide. A lighter slide makes for a lighter gun and nobody ever wants an unnecessarily heavy pistol as their CCW.

 3. To install a Red Dot Sight (RDS)

An RDS has become almost a standard attachment for pistols, especially the Glock 19 and Glock 17. One thing to remember with Glocks is if it’s not a MOS model, it’s not drilled and tapped and won’t accept an RDS. You can take your pistol to a gunsmith and have them drill and tap or slide, or you can look for an aftermarket slide that’s meant for the RDS you carry. 

What is an RMR Cut Slide?

One of the most popular optics on the planet next to the Leupold Delta Point is the Trijicon RMR and Trijicon RMR Type 2. An RMR cut slide is an after-market slide that is specifically cut to fit the dimensions of the Trijicon RMR. 

Most RMR cut slides can also fit the ever-popular Holosun 570C RDS and many other platforms that have similar measurements, like a Crimson Trace RAD Pro. The importance of the slide fitting your optic is vital to your performance and safety. One of many reasons a lot of after-market slides are so expensive is they have to be cut to precise measurements in order to fit the Glock 19 barrel. It takes incredible skill and ungodly expensive machinery to cut a barrel within 0.0002" of its projected specs, and have it fit perfectly into a slide. 

How Are Faxon Slides/Barrels Treated?

Glock has been treating its Gen 5 barrels and slides with nDLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) finish to prevent corrosion, wear & tear, and increase the lifespan of the pistol. The nDLC improves the rigidity, durability, and performance in rain, extreme cold, and heat. 

I find the nDLC coating to be good enough, but you’ll notice it doesn’t prevent your gun from being scratched superficially. Before I lose my train of thought and rant, I think it’s important to understand that guns, just like any tool, are put through stress.

Every gun will have superficial scratches on them after a range day or hike through the dense forests we have throughout our magnificent country. Although the nDLC coat isn’t as good as a QPQ Salt Nitride bath finish, it will last you many years with proper maintenance. 

There are other coating methods that have been shown to protect the metal of the gun more than DLC coating. For example, Faxon Firearms uses a unique method called Quench-Polish-Quench (QPQ) which reinforces the steel slide after the standard liquid nitriding that everyone else does.  In short, Faxon Firearms takes an extra step in protecting their slides and barrels to ensure you get your money’s worth. 

What is The Quench-Polish-Quench (QPQ) Process?

I think the QPQ salt nitride bath is important enough to discuss because there are very few companies willing to spend as much time, effort, and money on protecting their tools as I’ve seen with Faxon Firearms. There are 3 steps to the QPQ process, but I’m going to keep it short and sweet because I’m not a chemical engineer. 

1. Oxidation– Faxon drops their slides into a salt bath that is between 750°F -800°F to transform 2-3 microns of the surface layer into iron oxide. If the boiling temp is 212°F, you can guess how hot that salt bath must be to change the properties of the metal. 
2. Polishing– Remove the debris and impurities from the metal after the salt bath. This step will remove some of the iron oxides from the slide, so it’s important to reinforce the oxidation.
3. Re-oxidation– Faxon Firearms drops the slides into another salt bath at 750°F -800°F to form another layer of iron oxide to protect the barrel from corrosion and abrasions. After the slide is re-oxidized, it’s left in its heated state until the iron sets on the steel to add multiple layers of protection against the elements, scratches, marring, or normal wear and tear from the slide operation.

Why Should I Choose a QPQ Salt Bath?

Simply put, the standard DLC finishing and blueing process has gotten us this far, but as technology improves, there are new processes that are better. Even Joel Kendrick (two-time IBS 600-yard Bench rest Shooter of the Year) has experienced the benefits of a QPQ finish over chrome or nickel-plated finish. He suggests a QPQ finish extends his slides and barrels by more than double the lifespan of the traditional finishing methods. 

How Do I Break in Faxon Slides and Barrels?

Breaking in any new slide has its challenges and downfalls, but if you break in your pistol the right way, you should be able to avoid most issues. QPQ nitride-treated slides like the Faxon Patriot slide are harder and more durable than chrome or nickel, but they’re really stiff and difficult to break in if you just attach the slide and start shooting.

I had trouble releasing the slide to send it forward with my thumb once I had the Faxon Patriot installed on my Glock. Fortunately, I followed the manual and used the quick and easy-to-break-in method that Faxon suggests for their barrels and slides. I noticed my slide loosened up in the middle of step 3 in the break-in process. 

Step 1: Shoot once, clear your pistol, clean the copper residue out, and repeat step 1.

Step 2: Shoot 5 rounds, clear your pistol and clean out the copper and carbon residue.

Step 3: Shoot 10 rounds, clear your pistol and clean out the copper and carbon residue.

Tolerances

The tolerances on both the Patriot and Hellfire G19 slides are incredibly tight but cut perfectly for a Glock Gen 3 frame. One of the added benefits of using the QPQ finish on Faxon slides is the break-in period is much shorter. The QPQ finish provides a smoother surface because Faxon applies a DLC coating after the salt nitride bath. The added QPQ finish with the DLC coating loosens up the slide after about 15-25 rounds instead of the normal 50 for new pistols without a QPQ finish. 

Patriot Slide Fit On Glock 19 Gen 5

The Patriot Slide from Faxon Firearms is RMR-cut for compatibility with the Trijicon RMR & Holosun 507C Red Dots.  Faxon uses 416–R Stainless Match-grade Steel and went the extra mile to mill posts into the RMR-cuts for increased stability. These posts are helpful because they help guide your Patriot slide onto your pistol frame without fumbling around trying to find the exact angle. 

One of my initial concerns was the compatibility with iron sights because, as we all know, at some point technology is going to fail you. I’ve learned this lesson multiple times in my short (felt long) 4 years in the military. I wouldn’t ever install an aftermarket slide on any of my pistols if it wasn’t compatible with iron sights and optics. 

Why Choose The Faxon Patriot Slide?

If you have a Gen 3 G19 and want to lighten up your pistol by a few ounces, install an RDS, or have a slide that shows some personality, The Faxon Patriot slide is silky smooth to the touch and your eyes. 

My favorite feature of the Patriot slide is the capability to install Tridium night sights and a Trijicon RMR or RMR Type 2 with better precision and fit than any other pistol I’ve seen. Faxon slides are also compatible with the Polymer 80 PFC9 Serialized Compact Frame for both the G19 and G23. For me, this is where buying an aftermarket slide makes the most sense. 

How Would I Build My Own Glock 19?

By using the Polymer 80 PFC9 frame with the Faxon Patriot Slide, you could have 1/2 of a Glock 19 build for $529.00. That’s a great price considering you’re transforming a Glock Gen 3 pistol into basically a Gen 5 G19 MOS with the flared mag well, extended beavertail (prevents slide bite), and undercut trigger for easy installation of your after-market trigger. Polymer 80 includes 80% Glock features in their products to allow for easy integration with multiple products from dozens of manufacturers. 

Cross Industries Glock 19 (P80) Complete Lower Kit is perfect for your Polymer 80 build because it’s compatible with both the Faxon Patriot slide and the P80 frame. The best part is it will save you money versus the more expensive CMC Glock 19 Trigger Kit. For $609.00, you could have 3/4 of a custom-built Glock 19 with Gen 5 features and all you need is a barrel. 

Why Would You Want a Threaded Barrel on a Glock?

If I was going to build my Glock 19 from scratch, there’s no way I wouldn’t have a threaded barrel for a compensator or silencer. Personally, I don’t carry more than a light and an RDS at one time. If I add a silencer, it becomes too much for the way I shoot and I lose focus with too many weapon attachments. However, attaching a silencer and an RDS and hitting the range to test the noise reduction added stability is a special moment for first-time silencer shooters. My favorite reason to have a silencer is to protect my hearing without wearing a heavy-duty hearing pro. 

I know most owners like the aesthetics and noise-reduction efforts of the silencer, but I’d use a compensator over a silencer 10 times out of 10. I’m no longer in the military and I’m no longer in law enforcement, so I’m more concerned about stability and accuracy than stealth.

If I ever have to shoot my gun in public, I’m not worried about who heard the shots. Attaching the EXOS Faxon compensator to a Faxon Flame fluted, threaded, Chameleon PVD barrel is easy and meant to be together like Johnny and June. It’s also stunning to see a chameleon flame fluted barrel in contrast to the Black DLC coating of the Patriot slide. The colors reflect differently in the light and pop out from the black slide likes it’s a fashion display where elegance meets performance and practicality. 

Which Glock Models Does Faxon Slides Support?

Faxon and every other company I’ve researched is only compatible with Gen 3 models at the moment because they start with the most like guns needing an upgrade. Regardless of what anyone has heard, a Glock 19 Gen 5 MOS doesn’t need to be upgraded with anything. However, a Gen 3 Glock has a lot to improve, such as rifling in barrels, more aggressive grips, and more options for attachments. 

Is Faxon Patriot Slide Worth It?

Faxon and Polymer 80 can help you build your own custom Glock 19 with features from Gen 4 and Gen 5, such as the RTF and the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB). Right now, Guns.com has the G19 Gen 5 MOS on sale at $676.99 for the matte black frame with DLC coated steel. 

I will never argue that $676.99 for a brand new Glock 19 Gen 5 MOS isn’t a phenomenal deal. For only $820.00, you could build the perfect pistol for your personality and performance expectations. The Faxon Patriot Slide has more aggressive and pronounced front and rear serrations for an easy press check with one hand or manipulation from a door frame, car hood, bar table, etc. The slide features lightening cuts that reduce the weight of the slide and comes with an enlarged mag release lever. It’s compatible with all Gen 3 Glock 19 parts and features a higher level of protection and durability with the QPQ salt nitride bath finish. 

Faxon is also an American-made and operated company out of Cincinnati, OH. As a small business, there is nothing we like more than to see our fellow Americans creating products from American sourced materials and feeding the American economy. Faxon also offers a sweet discount to all LEOs and military & veterans that you don’t want to miss out on.