When it comes to firearms, versatility is a great thing to have. This is especially true when the fun at the range is a priority.
With a carbine conversion kit, you can have an entirely new experience with your Glock pistol with the added ability to be able to use accessories typically reserved for rifles.
Let’s dive into these kits and learn more about how to pick the best Glock carbine conversion kit for you.
Comparison of the Best Glock Carbine Conversion Kits
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Best Budget Option  |
| View Latest Price → |
What to Watch For When a Carbine Conversion Kit
Good accuracy often comes down to eliminating subtle movements during the shooting process. Adding a shoulder stock, like those found in Glock carbine conversion kits, goes a long way to improving accuracy and shooting comfort. No shooter will turn those things down. Keep reading to learn more about these kits and how to pick a great one for your Glock handgun.
Cheaper Than an AR
One of the alternatives to a carbine conversion kit would be to build an AR-15 chambered in a pistol caliber such as 9mm. That is an excellent option for some people especially those with deep pockets or who put in a lot of range time. However, building such a specialized AR-15 can quickly break budgets and wind up being seldom used.
For those who just want a different experience at the range and don’t want to go through the AR-15 building process, a carbine conversion kit really comes in handy. For around a third of the price of building a pistol caliber AR-15, you can mount your Glock in a carbine conversion kit and feel like you have a brand new gun to take to the range.
Photo credit: mysqltuner.com
Accessories Galore
Pistols tend to be limited in the types of accessories that can be used with them. Aside from a flashlight, laser, extended mag, or aftermarket sights, there just aren’t that many other pistol accessory options. If you are the type of firearm enthusiast who loves trying out new accessories, a carbine conversion kit will give you the freedom to do that with your Glock. Carbine conversion kits typically have plenty of Picatinny rail space so that you can mount accessories to your heart’s content.
Check the Specs
Unlike when buying a firearm from a sporting goods store or gun shop, it is unlikely that you will be able to hold or test a Glock carbine conversion kit before buying it unless you happen to know someone who already owns one. That is why it is important to really dig into the specs of each conversion kit before buying. Keep an eye on the weight, compatible Glock models, and the installation process to make sure the one you choose aligns with your needs.
Review of the Best Glock Carbine Conversion Kits
Use the below reviews of the best Glock carbine conversion kits to find a conversion kit that fulfills your needs, without being too complicated or heavy. Remember that each is unique, and while we will analyze each on technical details and value, your needs matter the most.
Best Overall:
Command Arms Acc - Roni Conversion Stock For Glock® Gen 3 & 4
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The Roni conversion stock is quite rewarding, especially at this price point. The stock is as tactical as a conversion platform can become, and offers exceptional shooting comfort even while moving. The kit is lightweight and compatible with many Glock models, offering good value for money.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The kit has an adjustable telescopic stock and an adjustable cheek rest to offer the best shooting stance. Three Picatinny rails provide ample accessory mounting space. While the detachable folding foregrip and rear magazine holder add to the ease of operation. The kit is quite rugged and will stand the test of time.
Another excellent solution for Glock owners looking to have instant customization ability with minimal effort, the Roni Conversion Stock For Glock Gen 3 & 4 from Command Arms Acc requires no disassembly, just like the last product featured on our list. It is compatible with Glock models 17, 18, 19, 22, 23, 25, 31, and 32.
It offers instant improved grip and stability. You’ll also enjoy three Picatinny rails for whatever accessories you would like to add immediately upon installation.
However, this model sweetens the pot with a slew of great features. First, you get an adjustable shoulder stock. This allows the user to really implement the already great accuracy of your Glock. A five-position collapsible buttstock is button-activated and is complete with a comfortable and adjustable cheek piece. Finally, it also includes a detachable folding forearms grip, a rear magazine holder, and a safety lever for the trigger guard.
These beautiful features are underscored by a solid design made from high-grade aircraft aluminum and polymer, ensuring long life and durability no matter where you take it. Additionally, the economical design adds only 3.1 pounds to your setup (before you add accessories, of course).
Overall, it’s an excellent option for a quick setup that provides features to retain comfort and enhance existing accuracy of the Glock. Our only criticism would be that this would be a perfect model to make ambidextrous, but that won’t impact the vast majority of users significantly. As it is, it only allows for right-handed users.
Who Will Use This Most
The kit is perfect for people looking to have a universal solution for their Glock conversions. The adjustable nature and customizability make the kit suitable for tactical and defense uses. Plus the simple ‘drop-in’ assembly is a great time saver. A good kit for seasoned pros.
Bottom Line
The Roni conversion kit is for serious shooters who want a comprehensive Glock conversion kit. It delivers everything you can ask from a conversion kit while keeping the weight low to an optimal level for suitable performance.
Providing great quality-of-life features and leaning heavily on the Glock’s accuracy, this conversion kit provides great and easy flexibility.
2. Command Arms Acc - Pistol Modular Grip
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Users found the overall weight and feel of this platform to be easy and comfortable. While the kit feels lightweight, it is also quite rugged to withstand harsh treatment. People also like the ease of using this platform since it is a simple ‘drop-in’ kit.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The major features of this conversion kit are its compact design, simple installation and the acceptance for accessories. The kit does not take up much space and can be operated with a single hand if needed. It is also compatible with a lot of gen 3 and gen 4 models, making it a ‘value for money’ product.
The Command Arms Pistol Modular Grip is an excellent option for Glock owners looking for accommodation along with their carbine conversion kit and who prefer simplicity at the same time. It is available in models compatible with Gen three and four models 17, 18, 22, 25, 31, and 32, providing a wide range of coverage.
A 24cm upper flattop rail provides accommodation for a variety of sights, night vision, or magnifier. Additionally, there are three Picatinny rails for your other accessories, such as a laser. Overall, there is a lot of customization to be had.
The overall design is comfortable and relatively lightweight, as its frame is efficiently designed while still rugged. You will instantly get greater stability and a better grip. Despite its lightweight construction, it’s made from a combination of aluminum and polymer, so it is also quite rugged and should hold up well in any environment.
The real appeal of this setup is the fact that there’s no disassembly required of your existing Glock. Instead, you just drop it right into the shell.
While by itself it won’t necessarily improve performance, and the grip and stability are welcome but not game-changers, the easy and instant flexibility to do so much certainly hold appeal. It’s not so much an instant improvement as it is a route to planned improvement, but it’s definitely a great solution to starting your perfect build.
Who Will Use This Most
This kit is for people who just want to add accessories to their Glock while keeping its size to a minimum. It allows the user to choose the type of stock they would like to use. Thus improving the level of customizability and overall shooting comfort.
Bottom Line
The kit has ample rail space for optics and a very compact design for maneuverability and concealment. It does not require you to disassemble your firearm which makes it even more instant and simple to use. Additionally, the platform is quite rugged and will take a lot of beating before giving up.
Glock owners of a wide variety of models will enjoy the easy and instant flexibility afforded by the simple Pistol Modular Grip design from Command Arms Acc.
3. Command Arms Acc - Roni Civilian Carbine Stock W/16" Barrel For Glock 17
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users seem impressed with the ease of installation, perfect fit, optimal performance and the possibilities of adding accessories. While a few users mentioned that the kit required some fitting - the process was simple and not very technical. The Picatinny rails are perfect for adding accessories and the kit looks pretty cool.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This ACC conversion kit can convert your Glock 17 into a fully functional rifle within a matter of minutes. The stock is overly tactical and has a lot of space for adding extra accessories. The extra barrel included with the stock helps you bring the accuracy of your G17 to the level of a rifle. The rear mag holder, detachable foregrip and safety lever trigger guard are also notable features.
The RONI C-G2 is equipped with a sizeable 16” barrel to fall outside of NFA rules and is perfect for anyone who needs a more aggressive-looking option. Additionally, it improves grip and stability, so you’ll always be ready for any scenario. It also provides some nice amenities, including a detachable folding forearm grip, a rear magazine holder, and a safety-lever for the trigger guard. For your comfort, it provides an adjustable cheek rest.
It’s got the basics covered, too, as the RONI C-G2 supports many accessories. With a 10” upper flattop rail, you’ll be able to combine sights, night vision, and magnifiers. Meanwhile, a 5” Picatinny side rail on each side supports lasers or lights. Complete the setup with a suppressor up to 35.5mm in diameter.
We appreciate that Command Arms has created this carbine conversion kit with an ambidextrous design in mind, which extends to the trigger-guard safety as well as the cocking handle, which is fast and easy. Overall, it is very accommodating for many users and setups. You should be aware, however, that it only fits Glock Gen three through four, including compensated models, 17 and 17C.
How does it operate? You’ll be able to extend the effective range of your Glock an additional 35 to 55 yards at least, although of course, going beyond this is certainly possible with skill and a proper setup. Given how accommodating the RONI C-G2 is, it is certainly possible to equip it for much further use in practice.
Who Will Use This Most
The kit is perfect for people who are more comfortable with using rifles as compared to handguns. Since the kit doesn’t require an NFA, you can use it as a weapon to carry in your car for self-defense. Additionally, the improvement in accuracy in handling the Glock also makes it a good home defense tool.
Bottom Line
The ACC conversion kit has been specially designed for gen 3 and 4 Glock 17’s, including compensated models. The kit has extensive space for accessorization, while the extra barrel improves the accuracy and performance tenfold. A must-have kit for tactical uses and defense.
The RONI C-G2 is a perfect Glock carbine conversion kit for users who require a lot of variety or versatility in their setup, as it supports a wide variety of users and uses.
Can Any Glock Be Used in a Conversion Kit?
No. You must check the compatibility of your conversion kit to know which Glock models are accepted by it. Since different Glock models differ in their size, caliber, and other dimensions, every conversion kit doesn’t accept every model. You should always check with the seller/manufacturer to get the list of Glock models compatible with the kit.
While there are conversion kits on the market which are compatible with Gen 3, Gen 4 and Gen 5 Glocks. When you dig deeper, you’ll find they support only certain specific models.
Aspects to Consider When Buying a Glock Carbine Conversion Kit
Choosing a carbine conversion kit can be complicated, with many aspects on a buyer’s radar. You’ll want to consider:
Dimensions (Size and Weight)
A carbine conversion kit can drastically change the appearance, size, and weight of your gun, so you will absolutely want to be sure you know what you’re getting into. It goes without saying that you’ll need to consider where you want to store your weapon, how you’ll be using it, what you’re comfortable holding, and so on.
Build Quality
There are so many kits out there, quality is a huge spectrum. In particular, you want to pay attention to the quality of the parts used and be sure that the manufacturer performs rigorous testing on their components.
Command Arms Acc - Roni Civilian Carbine Stock W/16" Barrel For Glock™ 17
Accuracy
There’s little point reaping the benefits of a conversion if your accuracy suffers too much. While for short-range shooting this might be of a lesser concern, it should be paramount for anyone hunting or sport shooting.
Ease of Installation and Methods
A conversion isn’t among the simplest of modifications one can do. That’s not to say it’s extremely difficult, but it will be as difficult as the manufacturer makes it. A really great kit will have clear instructions and utilize design options that make the task as simple as possible.
Are Pistol Carbine Conversion Kits Legal?
Before you go about implementing one of the conversion kits in our guide, it’s critical to be aware of applicable laws. As these vary from state to state, it’s easy to end up on the wrong side of the law if not well-versed in your local laws.
Let’s start with some background. Your average handgun and rifle aren’t regulated by the NFA whereas short-barreled rifles are. You must complete registration through the ATF and pay taxes. So, how are a handgun, a rifle, or short-barreled rifle defined?
The answer is in Federal Law 27 CFR 478.11. Handguns have a short stock and can be held and fired with a single hand. A rifle is a weapon intended for firing from your shoulder. Short-barreled rifles have barrels under 16 inches long or have a total length of under 26 inches. This includes collapsible stocks when fully extended unless the stock can be detached.
Let’s put it all together: moving from a handgun to a rifle requires no special NFA compliance.
However, be aware that if your handgun winds up firing from the shoulder and doesn’t conform to the 16-inch barrel-length requirement or 26-inch overall-length requirement, you’ve illegally created a short-barreled rifle. As such, it would need to be registered to the ATF and taxed first.
Now, if you add a vertical foregrip, it gets into murky territory. It’s neither designed to be fired from the shoulder nor with one hand. The short answer is, it falls into the category of “Other” and has to be registered.
Photo credit: caagearup.com
You should also be aware of state laws, as this is the Federal Law we’ve dissected. You’re probably aware that states can and will at times pass laws to outlaw various accessories, and whether or not such laws are determined to be Constitutional may not matter in the short term if you’re found in violation.
If you find yourself in a situation you don’t understand or it appears to be a “gray area”, err on the side of caution, as at a federal level, the violation carries severe penalties, including up to ten years of incarceration and simply isn’t worth it.
Types of Glock Carbine Conversion Kits
There are a variety of carbine kits available, each turning your Glock into something unique. Some basic transformations include:
Shoulder Stock
This may be done a variety of ways, often by implementing a holster that can be used as a shoulder stock, fastened to the pistol’s grip.
Front-Sliding
With this feature, the front of the kit can slide forward allowing mounting of various accessories.
Command Arms Acc - Roni Conversion Stock For Glock® Gen 3 & 4
Foldable Stock
With some kits, it’s possible to have a foldable stock, often detachable.
Increased Barrel Length
Often combined with a shoulder stock, and also often optional in carbine kits, an increased barrel length can be added for additional accuracy.
As you can see, conversion kits are not a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather are designed to find a custom solution to a common problem: the limitations of the Glock. While the Glock is an excellent handgun, conversion kits allow it to easily function more like a rifle. This can quickly bring up legal ramifications, however, which we’ll discuss at the end of our guide.
Conclusion
Finding the right carbine conversion kit for your Glock can be tricky business, but there’s nothing tricky about how great they can be for vastly enhancing the function of a Glock. Use our guide to determine the best conversion kit for you, but be sure to follow all applicable laws. In particular, pay close attention to our careful dissection of how various firearms are defined so that you don’t wind up afoul and pay a hefty price. With our guide, you can navigate the laws and market to enjoy a perfectly legal and hefty upgrade to your Glock’s capabilities.
