Why Do Polymer Guns Suck?

Published on May 23, 2019
Duration: 12:15

This review critically examines the perceived drawbacks of polymer firearms, focusing on wear, frame flex, and material durability. While acknowledging their lighter weight and lower cost, the speaker expresses a preference for metal firearms due to their longevity and potential for heirloom status. Key concerns include the faster wear rate of polymer compared to metal and the potential for damage to serialized polymer frames.

Quick Summary

Polymer firearms face concerns regarding faster wear rates, frame flex during firing, and potential warping from heat. While lighter and cheaper, the interaction between metal and polymer can cause accelerated degradation, and damage to the serialized frame can render the entire gun unusable.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Aesthetics vs. Functionality
  2. 01:26Performance and Accuracy of Polymer Guns
  3. 02:23Wear and Frame Flex Issues
  4. 03:39Durability: Dissimilar Materials & Wear
  5. 07:21Warping and External Damage Risks
  6. 08:54Conclusion: Metal vs. Polymer Preference

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main drawbacks of polymer firearms discussed in the review?

The primary concerns highlighted are faster wear rates compared to metal, potential for frame flex during firing, issues with dissimilar material interaction causing wear, susceptibility to warping from heat, and the risk of permanent damage to the serialized polymer frame.

Does polymer construction affect the accuracy of firearms?

While polymer guns generally perform well, the need for looser tolerances to accommodate frame flex might make them slightly less inherently accurate than all-steel firearms. However, this difference is often negligible for the average shooter.

Why might a firearm manufacturer include replacement clauses for polymer guns in police contracts?

Police contracts often include replacement contingencies for polymer firearms due to the expected wear and tear from heavy use. The interaction between hard metal parts and softer polymer can lead to accelerated degradation over time, necessitating periodic replacements.

What is 'Glock pig nose' and why is it a concern?

'Glock pig nose' refers to the warping of the dust cover on a Glock's polymer frame, typically caused by heat cycles. This warping is a visual indicator of material stress and potential long-term degradation, unlike easily replaceable metal parts.

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