Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide Review

First Impressions of Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide

The Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide promises an affordable upgrade to your Glock 17 or compatible platform. Patmos Arms aims to deliver a drop-in fit, enhanced aesthetics, and improved functionality without breaking the bank. The slide is machined from 416 heat-treated stainless steel, boasting front and rear serrations and a nitride coating. This combination immediately piqued my interest, offering a potential blend of durability and affordability, something I’m always on the lookout for in the tactical gear world.

My need for a new slide stemmed from a recent Polymer80 build. I wanted a reliable yet budget-conscious option for the upper assembly. After countless hours scouring online forums and manufacturer websites, the Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide kept surfacing in discussions about value-oriented Glock upgrades.

Upon unboxing, the slide had a decent weight to it. The nitride finish appeared even and well-applied. The serrations looked aggressive enough to provide a solid grip, even with wet or gloved hands. The machine work appeared clean, free of any glaring imperfections.

Compared to slides from Brownells or ZEV Technologies, the Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide undeniably lacks the refined machining and intricate designs. However, considering the significantly lower price point, a direct comparison felt unfair. It seemed to offer a practical, no-frills alternative to these higher-end options. I ultimately chose it over a cheaper, no-name slide due to Patmos Arms’s established presence, however minimal, in the industry and the promise of drop-in compatibility.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. It didn’t scream premium, but it didn’t feel like a complete gamble, either. I hoped that its performance would outweigh any minor cosmetic shortcomings.

Real-World Testing: Putting Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide to the Test

First Use Experience

The initial test took place at my local outdoor range. The temperature hovered around 60 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight drizzle. I paired the Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide with a Glock 17 Gen 3 lower, a Patmos Arms internal parts kit (since the initial description mentioned it was complete when it wasn’t), and a Faxon Firearms barrel. The first few magazines were a mix of 115-grain and 124-grain FMJ rounds.

The slide cycled smoothly. There were no immediate issues with feeding, extraction, or ejection. The serrations proved effective when racking the slide with wet hands. Aftermarket Glock parts are widely available, but I am glad that I had no issues on this build.

I did notice that the slide finish seemed to attract dirt and grime more readily than some of my other slides with different coatings. It required more frequent wiping to maintain a clean surface.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and approximately 500 rounds, the Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide has held up reasonably well. There are some minor signs of wear on the finish, particularly around the ejection port and high-friction areas. The slide functions well.

Maintenance is straightforward. Standard cleaning and lubrication practices are sufficient to keep it running smoothly. The nitride coating, despite attracting dirt, has prevented any corrosion.

Compared to my experience with a factory Glock slide, the Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide doesn’t offer the same level of refinement or perceived longevity. However, considering the price difference, it’s a reasonable trade-off for a budget-conscious build. I had a similar build using a Rock Island slide and the Patmos slide outperformed it for sure.

Breaking Down the Features of Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Patmos Arms.
• Gun Make: Glock.
• Gun Model: Glock 17.
• Caliber: 9mm Luger.
• Gun Frame Size: Full Size.
• Color: Black.
• Condition: New.
• Compatible Frames: G17 Gen 1-3, PF940V2 Full Size.
• Material: 416 Heat-Treated Stainless Steel.
• Coating: Nitride.
• Serrations: Front and Rear.

These specifications outline a slide designed as a cost-effective replacement or upgrade for Glock 17 platforms. The 416 stainless steel construction and nitride coating aim to provide adequate corrosion resistance and durability. Front and rear serrations enhance grip during slide manipulation.

Performance & Functionality

The Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide performs adequately for its intended purpose. It cycles reliably with various 9mm ammunition types. The slide’s accuracy depends more on the quality of the barrel and sights used than on the slide itself.

Its strengths lie in its affordability and compatibility. The nitride finish needs a lot more attention. Its weaknesses include a slightly less refined finish compared to higher-end slides.

The slide meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly Glock slide replacement. It does not exceed them in any significant way.

Design & Ergonomics

The Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide design is functional, if not particularly stylish. The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The slide’s weight is comparable to a factory Glock slide, offering a balanced feel on the pistol.

The slide is user-friendly. The serrations provide a positive grip, and the drop-in fit simplifies installation. There is minimal learning curve for anyone familiar with Glock platforms.

Durability & Maintenance

The Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide seems likely to last for several thousand rounds with proper maintenance. The nitride coating, while not as durable as some premium finishes, offers sufficient corrosion resistance for most environments. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain optimal performance and longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide accepts standard Glock 17 Gen 1-3 internal components. This makes it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket triggers, firing pins, extractors, and guide rods. It is also compatible with various aftermarket sights designed for Glock pistols.

It does not come with any accessories other than the slide itself. Customization is limited to internal parts and sights. You can install any barrel.

Pros and Cons of Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide

Who Should Buy Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide?

The Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide is perfect for budget-conscious builders. It’s also great for individuals seeking an affordable replacement for a damaged or worn Glock 17 slide, or those looking to experiment with customizing a Polymer80 build without investing heavily in premium components.

This product should be skipped by those who prioritize aesthetics and premium fit and finish above all else. It’s also not ideal for individuals who demand extreme durability and longevity from their components.

A must-have modification would be high visibility sights. I would recommend an upgraded barrel for improved accuracy.

Conclusion on Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide

The Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide offers a compelling value proposition. It provides a functional and compatible Glock 17 slide at a fraction of the cost of higher-end alternatives. The price is definitely justified.

I would personally recommend it to individuals on a tight budget or those looking for a no-frills slide for a project build. It’s not perfect, but it gets the job done. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable Glock 17 slide, the Patmos Arms Judah F2 Full Size Slide is worth considering.