I've heard for years that you're not supposed to shoot lead in Glocks, but I know a lot of people do it anyway. Why is it supposed to be a no-no? I can see the reason with a gas-operated gun. Someone told me it was the rifling, but if anything, polygonal rifling should be easier to clean than conventional rifling. Those who DO shoot lead, are there problems, or are good cleaning practices enough? I've never owned a Glock, but a buddy just bought one, and doesn't understand the controversy.

Your thoughts?

Papajohn

I used to shoot cast lead out of a Glock 21 all of the time. The polygonal rifling makes it easier to clean, if you ask me. The way the barrel is ramped, the lead nose doesnt experience any damage, and they shoot just as well as any other FMJ. The only thing is that any gun manufacturer is going to advise against the use of handloads in their firearms. I read the entire manual for the Glock and dont remember anything in it about shooting lead bullets. Only the no reloads because it will void your warranty.

Theres lots of info here if you do a search for Glocks and lead.

I've heard for years that you're not supposed to shoot lead in Glocks, but I know a lot of people do it anyway. Why is it supposed to be a no-no? I can see the reason with a gas-operated gun. Someone told me it was the rifling, but if anything, polygonal rifling should be easier to clean than conventional rifling. Those who DO shoot lead, are there problems, or are good cleaning practices enough? I've never owned a Glock, but a buddy just bought one, and doesn't understand the controversy.

Your thoughts?

Papajohn


The way the reasoning goes, the lead builds up in the "corners" of the polygonal rifling, eventually reducing the diameter of the barrel and raising pressures. I just shoot jacketed in mine as well as my H&K because it's easier to clean. Can't testify as to the veracity of the lead issue, but the owners manual only says not to shoot reloads, as it will void the warranty. Can't find anything in mine about lead. The H&K manual says it voids the warranty if you use reloads as well as non brass cased ammo, i.e. steel or aluminum, but again nothing about lead. I guess it's up to you. Either way, if the gun blows up it's on you because I can't think of much factory ammo that uses lead bullets for semi autos, and reloads void the warranty, and their liability.