If you want to make a Glock from an 80% frame, you need to follow some rules. You can build as many as you like for personal use because federal law doesn’t prohibit it. However, you will not be able to sell them without obtaining a federal manufacturer’s license from ATF and paying excise tax.If you want to build your own off-the-books Glock, 80 percent arms has a Glock 80% kit that’s perfect for your next build. Here is a complete guide to building a Glock from an 80 percent frame kit.
Tools Required:
You can’t make an 80 percent frame Glock without the right equipment. You’ll require:
- Hammer
- Hand Drill
- Bubble Level
- Tabletop Vise
- Rolling Pin Punches
- Files or Sandpaper
- Drill Press or Snips
1. Prepare 80% Frame
Secure the entire setup in your tabletop vise by inserting an 80% frame into the jig. However, it is important not to tighten the wedges too much, as it can crush both the jig and the frame.
Now use a hand drill with a sanding drum to remove excess polymer from the top of the jig at the front of the frame. Finally, you can use a finishing file or sandpaper to avoid any residue with more accuracy.
2. Drill the Holes
When the frame is installed correctly in the jig, it is time to drill the trigger, locking block, and pinholes. Don’t use the drill press for this step, as the jig may bend and deform.
Instead, use the tabletop, but you must level it to ensure an accurate cut. In addition, it is advisable to rotate the frame and jig vertically inside the tabletop. Also, you can avoid warping by having a solid grip on the lower half of the jig.
3. Cutthe Top Rails
After drilling the holes, move on to the top rails. Along with the jig rails, you will see lines showing where to remove the polymer from the frame. To remove any excess, use a drill press, hand file, or snips that aim to keep the frame flat against the top of the jig. After removing all the excess polymer, file residue using sandpaper or a filer until it’s smooth.
4. Cutthe Barrel Block
You will need a drill, hand file, or drill press to eliminate any excess material within the frame for this step. However, pay attention to the slide buffer stop, as removing any polymer here may make your frame useless. It would be best to keep the frame straight and secure inside the vise, using a hand file or a Dremel. Then, start from the top, sand, and file the material until you reach the lips of the slide buffer. At this point, your Glock 80 percent frame is complete. To have a functional firearm, add a slide and an interior afterward.
Building a Glock from an 80 percent frame is easy as long as you follow the above guide precisely and use proper tools and equipment.