Glock Full Auto Switch Review: The Ultimate Performance Upgrade?

For Glock enthusiasts and professional users, the quest for enhanced performance and control is never-ending. Enter the Glock Full Auto Glock Switch, a component that promises to transform your standard semi-automatic pistol into something far more dynamic. But is it a practical upgrade, a niche tool, or a controversial gadget? In this comprehensive review, we dive deep into the specs, the real-world application, and the critical considerations you must know before even thinking about purchasing one. This isn’t just about firepower; it’s about understanding a tool engineered for specific, professional applications.

See it discussed in the context of its creation and impact in this video:

Key Features and Specifications

Before we discuss performance, let’s break down what the Glock Full Auto Switch actually is. Marketed as a high-quality component for discerning users, it’s designed to modify the firing mechanism of compatible Glock pistols.

Build and Design

The switch is engineered with a focus on reliability and seamless integration. It’s typically a small, aftermarket selector switch that replaces or modifies the backplate of your Glock’s slide. Precision machining is key here, as poor tolerances can lead to catastrophic failures. The product description emphasizes “exceptional quality” and “proven performance,” suggesting the use of durable materials like hardened steel or aerospace-grade aluminum to withstand the intense stresses of full-auto fire.

Compatibility

It’s crucial to verify compatibility with your specific Glock model. While often associated with models like the Glock 17, 18, or 19, not every generation or variant will accept the switch without additional modification. Always consult with the manufacturer or a qualified gunsmith.

Price and Availability

Priced at $160 from F1 Firearms AR-15, this switch sits in a mid-range bracket for such components. The cost reflects its positioning as a quality-focused product rather than a budget novelty.

Pros and Cons of the Glock Full Auto Switch

Let’s weigh the potential benefits against the significant drawbacks and considerations.

Pros

• Enhanced Capability: The primary, obvious advantage is the conversion from semi-automatic to selective or full-auto fire, significantly increasing the rate of fire for controlled bursts.
• Professional Application: For authorized professional users (e.g., certain military or law enforcement roles), it provides a compact, familiar platform with increased suppressive or engagement potential.
• Quality Construction: As advertised, a well-made switch from a reputable source like F1 Firearms should offer reliability and durability, reducing the risk of jams or breakages during use.
• Training Utility: In highly controlled, legal environments (e.g., certified training facilities), it can be used for advanced weapon handling and trigger control drills.

Cons and Critical Considerations

• Severe Legal Restrictions: This is the most critical point. In the United States, the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934 strictly regulates machine guns. Installing a full-auto switch on a pistol not registered as a machine gun with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is a federal felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and massive fines. This product is ONLY legal for individuals who possess the appropriate Federal Firearms License (FFL) with a Special Occupational Tax (SOT) status, or for those who own a pre-1986 registered transferable machine gun.
• Reduced Control and Accuracy: Full-auto fire from a handgun is extremely difficult to control. Muzzle climb is dramatic, and ammunition depletes in seconds, making accurate shot placement nearly impossible beyond point-blank range.
• Increased Wear and Tear: The accelerated cycling rate puts tremendous stress on the slide, barrel, recoil spring, and other internal components, leading to much faster degradation and potential for parts failure.
• Ammunition Cost: Firing in full-auto mode consumes ammunition at an astonishing rate, making practice and training prohibitively expensive for most.
• Safety Concerns: The inherent difficulty in controlling a full-auto pistol raises significant safety issues, increasing the risk of negligent discharges and collateral damage.

Who Is the Glock Full Auto Switch Best For?

Given the stringent legal and practical hurdles, the target audience for this product is exceptionally narrow.

• Licensed Class 2 or Class 3 SOTs: Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) with a Special Occupational Taxpayer status who manufacture, deal, or demonstrate National Firearms Act (NFA) items for government agencies.
• Owners of Registered Transferable Machine Guns: The tiny fraction of civilians who legally own a pre-1986 registered Glock 18 or other transferable machine gun frame may use this as a replacement or upgrade part.
• Government/Military Contractors: Entities operating under specific government contracts that authorize the use of such modified firearms.

It is categorically NOT for the average gun owner, recreational shooter, or home defender. Purchasing or installing this without the explicit, verified legal authority is a serious crime.

Value for Money Assessment

At $160, the Glock Full Auto Glock Switch is priced as a premium, niche component. For its intended, legal user—the professional or licensed entity—the value proposition hinges entirely on build quality and reliability. In a high-stakes professional context, a $160 part that functions flawlessly is a worthwhile investment compared to a cheaper alternative that could fail. The “value” is in its engineered performance for a specific, legally-authorized task.

For anyone outside that narrow legal window, the product has negative value, as its possession or use carries extreme legal risk and severe personal consequences that far outweigh any perceived benefit.

Final Verdict and Call to Action

The Glock Full Auto Switch is a serious piece of engineering for a serious, and severely restricted, application. It delivers on a promise of transforming a platform, but that transformation comes with a heavy burden of responsibility, legality, and cost beyond the initial purchase price.

If you are a qualified professional or licensee for whom this product is legally permissible, and you require this specific capability, then sourcing a high-quality component from a reputable dealer like F1 Firearms is a logical step. You can review the product details and specifications on the official product page.

If you do not fall into the above category, this product is not for you. We strongly encourage all firearms enthusiasts to focus on legal, safe, and responsible training and upgrades that enhance skill and safety within the bounds of the law.

View the Glock Full Auto Glock Switch at F1 Firearms AR-15 (For Qualified Purchasers Only)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Glock Full Auto Switch legal to buy?

It is legal to manufacture and sell to qualified entities (e.g., SOTs, government agencies). For an individual to purchase and possess one, they must have the appropriate NFA registration for the firearm it will be installed on, or be a licensed SOT. For the vast majority of civilians, purchasing or possessing one is a federal felony.

What Glock models does this switch work with?

Compatibility varies. It is typically designed for full-sized 9mm models like the Glock 17, and specifically for the Glock 18 (the factory full-auto variant). It may not fit compact or subcompact models or different calibers without modification. Always confirm fit with the seller or a qualified armorer.

How difficult is it to install?

Installation involves disassembling the slide and replacing the rear plate/sear assembly. It requires technical knowledge of Glock internals and proper tools. For legal owners, installation should be performed by or under the supervision of a qualified gunsmith to ensure safety and function.

Will this switch make my Glock fully automatic?

Yes, that is its intended function. It modifies the firearm’s trigger mechanism to allow for continuous fire with a single pull of the trigger, converting a semi-automatic pistol into a machine gun as defined by federal law.

Can I use this at my local shooting range?

Most public shooting ranges strictly prohibit the use of full-auto firearms. Even if you are a legal owner, you would need to use a private range that explicitly allows machine gun fire. Always check range rules and local ordinances beforehand.