Polymer 80 Spectre Glock Compatible Frame

[Battle Cock]

I recently discovered a new "0% Glock" Glock frame that will be hitting the market soon.

It is an "80%" receiver being manufactured by Polymer 80, who has recently announced a partnership with Rainier Arms and the product is currently offered for pre-sale on both sites.
The frame will require milling by the end user to complete and is not considered a "firearm"
It comes with the frame, bits, jig, and locking block. It is compatible with Glock17 Gen3 3-pin parts kit and upper receiver.

MSRP: $179.99
Pre-release price: $135.99

Rainier Apex members will naturally want to purchase through rainier for their discounts.
I dont usually like pre-order deals, but I'm relatively sure I'd be buying this one way or another, so I went ahead and ordered one in advance of the release.
I didn't buy it because it will have no serial number or be "untraceable", I got it because I am passionate about custom polymer pistols and I want to see what I can produce with it.
I like the grip angle and the beavertail features of this frame and I plan to build it as a 9mm.
This isn't the stupid expensive Glock build I mentioned on another thread, but if this project creates a reliable firearm, I will probably turn it into a showpiece/personalized target pistol.

I do plan to post a review of the product and the work required to complete it once I receive it and complete the milling process.

http://www.polymer80.com/80-Pistol-Frame_ep_60.html
https://www.rainierarms.com/polymer80-spectre-80-pistol-frame-pre-order

Photos and press release below:

PRESS RELEASE (http://www.polymer80.com/assets/images/Polymer80%20Images/Spectre/Press-Release.pdf)

https://www.rainierarms.com/media/product/690/polymer80-spectre-80-pistol-frame-pre-order-p80-spectrekit-by-polymer80-1b9.jpg
https://www.rainierarms.com/media/product/6c8/polymer80-spectre-80-pistol-frame-pre-order-p80-spectrekit-by-polymer80-c62.jpg
https://www.rainierarms.com/media/product/d66/polymer80-spectre-80-pistol-frame-pre-order-p80-spectrekit-by-polymer80-ae8.jpg
https://www.rainierarms.com/media/product/16c/polymer80-spectre-80-pistol-frame-pre-order-p80-spectrekit-by-polymer80-f9a.jpg
https://www.rainierarms.com/media/product/9f8/polymer80-spectre-80-pistol-frame-pre-order-p80-spectrekit-by-polymer80-bb0.jpg

[mustangfreek]

I seen these the other day on Facebook or something..interesting looking ....ill be following to see how these are/turn out

[voodoo_man]

Sort of want

[Battle Cock]

I'm a little tempted to turn this into a .357 Sig build. I mean, if I'm going for a fully custom target pistol, I don't see why I shouldn't have fun with it.

[UWone77]

I see some crazy stippling projects for BC on this frame.

[Battle Cock]

I see some crazy stippling projects for BC on this frame.

That's ALL I saw when I found this thing. Nothing says custom like starting from a paperweight and building up from there.

[Battle Cock]

I do plan to finish all the milling, assembly and function testing before modifying the frame.

[Battle Cock]

For anyone interested, the release date has been pushed back. Which is no surprise, as the pre orders are essentially funding development.

396397

[Thompson]

Hmmm. Neat.

... although I still think it's pretty fugly ...

I wonder if 80% receivers/lowers are going to be the new thing. I could definitely see a lot of potential surrounding it.

[Battle Cock]

Hmmm. Neat.

... although I still think it's pretty fugly ...

I wonder if 80% receivers/lowers are going to be the new thing. I could definitely see a lot of potential surrounding it.
The update seems to indicate that the aesthetics will change a little bit before release, but I dont think that will necessarily make it more attractive. But, when i get my hands on it, the aesthetics and ergonomics will get a heck of a lot better.

[Thompson]

But, when i get my hands on it, the aesthetics and ergonomics will get a heck of a lot better.
Now that, I will 100% agree. That might be the only reason (aesthetically) that would make me want to buy one ;)

[Joelski]

Looks kinda neat, but that squarish grip has me thinking it'll be just another blocky feeling Glock wannabe. Please post your learnin's with this project; I too would be interested in a moderately twerked Cock Glock! And I mean that in the most brotherly, hetero way possible! :D

[UWone77]

You know the more I think about this... an 80% frame idea is cool, but then you need a slide. Glock doesn't sell just the slide, and aftermarket slides are expensive. In fact usually as expensive as a whole new complete Glock. Guys that don't qualify for blue label Glocks could go buy an LE trade in for less.

[Battle Cock]

I'll certainly be posting updates on the build process and subsequent customization. The last update has shipping dates mid-late this month.
I figure I'll mill it before I try any other frame mods to ensure that the jig fits snugly. Plus, if I eff it up there wouldn't be much point in putting in ~30 hours of customization anyway.

Honestly, I haven't factored any cost into my decision to buy and build this frame. That decision was born out of a desire to build a custom Glock from the ground up. Though I don't expect to dump $3k into another handgun quite yet. [BD]

[Battle Cock]

The frame just landed!
Here's unboxing and first impressions
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160430/0c564baf71c35e8b1dfdcac0f282b869.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160430/60d3872e1b7728c20122a61666c06b81.jpg

A couple things I noticed immediately are that the jig is super snug. You can pop the frame into just one side of the jig and it will stay together.

The frame is also pretty clean. There is minimal mold scarring. And the polymer is a higher composite than Glock, but somewhere lower than Sig.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160430/e3f0225b814f7474f5c9a18bbe91c845.jpghttp://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160430/7f5a4c12e4bc39bf29a3f6fa766701d3.jpg

I've already noticed several changes that I will be making once the frame is completed. As you can see in the above pictures the backstrap and trigger guard are pretty angular and a little sharp. Those will be contoured for sure.

The walls are nice and thick so there is plenty of room for grip mods, and once I remove the backstrap ridges and front grooves it should reduce the profile by almost 1/4". Which will be more to my liking.

Not quite sure how I feel about the magwell. That may or may not get modified, reduced, or removed.
As is, a Magpul GL9 mag sits just a hair longer than flush.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160430/a0bbb9b467a5205aa81940141bd94a95.jpg


I'm not sure when I will have time to get this project done, but I'll post updates as it progresses.

[Dstrbdmedic167]

Ready to see what you can do with it!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Battle Cock]

Ready to see what you can do with it!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

It REALLY needs grip enhancement. I'm not sure (even this early) that I would recommend this kit to someone with no plans to stipple. It's pretty dang slippery and the grip angle exacerbates the issue.

[jbjh]

Any chance of comparison shots with Glock frames?

[Battle Cock]

I don't have a full size Glock model to compare, but here's a G19 next to it.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160502/91ea22f76bb44a81263e505b6246c688.jpg

I noticed what appeared to be a defect on the top of the wall separating the magwell and the trigger housing. It isn't in a place that would cause a malfunction, but it's not pretty so I called polymer80 and Mike said that while they have heard a lot of questions about it, it's just a product of the injection molding process and should have no effect on function. I'll take him at his word.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160502/78041912e996a04e48b22e2a8d0a9a2e.jpg

[SINNER]

While I am a huge fan of 80% receivers and realize this frame can be stippled, that thing is hideous.

[Sak007]

While I am a huge fan of 80% receivers and realize this frame can be stippled, that thing is hideous.
The Glock is ugly, the Lone Wolf uglier, this thing is hideous. If your gonna make a repro at least make it look as good [emoji12]

Sent from my SGP561 using Tapatalk

[Battle Cock]

Yes it is absolutely fuggly. But it won't even look like the same frame when I am done with it.
I will be almost entirely re-profiling it once I mill it and it will either get the fishnet treatment or it will wear a new texture pattern.

[jbjh]

Thanks for the pix. Looking forward to future updates.


I don't have a full size Glock model to compare, but here's a G19 next to it.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160502/91ea22f76bb44a81263e505b6246c688.jpg

I noticed what appeared to be a defect on the top of the wall separating the magwell and the trigger housing. It isn't in a place that would cause a malfunction, but it's not pretty so I called polymer80 and Mike said that while they have heard a lot of questions about it, it's just a product of the injection molding process and should have no effect on function. I'll take him at his word.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160502/78041912e996a04e48b22e2a8d0a9a2e.jpg

[Naytwan]

Hey Battle, did you ever finish this guy?

[Battle Cock]

Hey Battle, did you ever finish this guy?

I've finished 95% of the grip work and all of the machining. I had them send me another locking block because the one that came with the kit was improperly drilled.

I've taken pictures at many stages of machining and I plan to sit down and write a post about it when I have some time.

It was incredibly easy to machine though. It can be done cleanly and quickly with only a dremel and a set of hand files.

[Naytwan]

Very nice. Thinking of getting one but that grip looks terrible. Looking forward to seeing the final product you created.

[Battle Cock]

Very nice. Thinking of getting one but that grip looks terrible. Looking forward to seeing the final product you created.

Here's a recent shot of it. I've made a couple changes and I'm still planning on a couple more, but it's a totally different gun at this point.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160725/610835820196eb6b800ab51735053812.jpg

[UWone77]

Here's a recent shot of it. I've made a couple changes and I'm still planning on a couple more, but it's a totally different gun at this point.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160725/610835820196eb6b800ab51735053812.jpg

Well done.

I plan to pick one of those frames up this next week or so.

[Battle Cock]

Well done.

I plan to pick one of those frames up this next week or so.

My frame work doesn't interfere with the jig at all, so if you do want some of my grip work before I get an FFL, that's the way to do it. I'll also write a post soon about the methods I used to complete this frame, and pictures of the process. It is stupid easy. I'm probably going to call P80 and see if I can buy a couple more frames sans the tools and jigs since I can reuse the jig and I don't need more tools. The only tools in the kit I actually used were the drill bits for the pin holes.

[UWone77]

My frame work doesn't interfere with the jig at all, so if you do want some of my grip work before I get an FFL, that's the way to do it. I'll also write a post soon about the methods I used to complete this frame, and pictures of the process. It is stupid easy. I'm probably going to call P80 and see if I can buy a couple more frames sans the tools and jigs since I can reuse the jig and I don't need more tools. The only tools in the kit I actually used were the drill bits for the pin holes.

As long as I can afford you. [:D]

That was the plan, send the frame out before anything gets done. I'm encouraged to see you say that the frame is very easy to finish.

[Naytwan]

As long as I can afford you. [:D]

That was the plan, send the frame out before anything gets done. I'm encouraged to see you say that the frame is very easy to finish.

That's my idea. Have it "fixed" before I mill it. Man that looks good. Guess im buying one for sure.

[Battle Cock]

As long as I can afford you. [:D]

That was the plan, send the frame out before anything gets done. I'm encouraged to see you say that the frame is very easy to finish.

Oh, I'll make sure you can afford me. You've done enough for me and the rest of this community to warrant some discounts.

As for finishing the frame, the only tools I used were a dremel with a small sanding drum, and a 1/4" cutter, a set of needle files from Harbor Freight, and the drill bits that came with the kit.

Actual milling time was maybe 3 hours plus some ongoing fitment. I'm sure it will take me less time to do the next frame.

[SINNER]

They have multiple colors now but damn the lead time is steep. Any idea when Rainier expects these back in stock?

[UWone77]

They have multiple colors now but damn the lead time is steep. Any idea when Rainier expects these back in stock?

LOL... this is what I get for dragging my feet going to Rainier. I didn't think they'd go out of stock anytime soon. I'll have to ask next time I'm there. I'm sure they are already on reorder.

[SINNER]

LOL Even the manufacturer is stating 3 weeks from order date. I don't like to see a fixed lead time like that. It's like they are being produced based on orders.

[Battle Cock]

Polymer80 is a pretty tiny company. I'm not at all surprised that it's taking them a bit to get product to market. They'd do well to find a way to speed up production, but they've been this way for awhile.

I just saw on TFB that they are also working on a G19 frame and the WIP 3D model looks very promising.
http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/07/29/polymer80-spectre-80-frames-in-new-colors/

It looks like the designers actually paid attention to the aftermarket customization and are including features like a mag release bevel and undercuts. The only feature I see that I don't really like is the 45 degree agency style "gas pedal" on the forward index points.

I'd also be happy if they leave it textureless. It would make my job easier.

However, I don't expect them to get a mold built and the G19 frame finished and to market before the end of the first quarter in 2017.

[Mecha_Arms]

BC, what additional changes did you have in mind from what you've already done?

I just picked up one of these today, and it definitely needs the Battle Cock treatment.

[Battle Cock]

BC, what additional changes did you have in mind from what you've already done?

I just picked up one of these today, and it definitely needs the Battle Cock treatment.

I'll give you a rundown of all the features I've got on this frame, and some other feature ideas.
keep in mind, all these shots are of a mostly complete frame, I still have some finish work to do on it.
There are a couple mods I see as essentials on the PF940 so I'll start with them.

Glove Bevel With Interior Trigger Guard Polish:
https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8665/28574909991_6366d97e79_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Kx4TcV)P80 PF940 (https://flic.kr/p/Kx4TcV) by Battle Cock (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139563678@N06/), on Flickr

The stock frame has a very sharp edge along the top of the trigger guard that is uncomfortable and hinders smooth trigger control. The glove bevel solves both those issues.
Also pictured above is the Mag Release Bevel. I like mag release bevels because you get all the benefits of an extended mag release with none of the added snag risk.

Beavertail Contour:

https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8131/28621121816_f0342acfc3_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KB9Jnw)P80 PF940 (https://flic.kr/p/KB9Jnw) by Battle Cock (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139563678@N06/), on Flickr

The original beavertail is nothing short of obnoxious and uncomfortable. This one is going to get a little more refinement, but as is, this mod alone completely transforms the overall feel and comfort level of the frame.

https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7687/28653545195_8894aa9ccc_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KE1UHi)P80 PF940 (https://flic.kr/p/KE1UHi) by Battle Cock (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139563678@N06/), on Flickr

As you can see, this frame is relatively squared. I personally prefer the squared backstrap for increased recoil control, but the sidewalls in the upper portion of the backstrap are almost 1/4" thick, so if thats an area of discomfort, there is certainly room to work.

Aside from a texture package, the last thing i see as a real essential is a Magwell Reduction.

https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8475/28574911681_c825f34e38_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Kx4TH4)P80 PF940 (https://flic.kr/p/Kx4TH4) by Battle Cock (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139563678@N06/), on Flickr

The magwell might be fine for competition use, but its too oversized for much else. The magwell side cuts are a preference thing, but the back and bottom need some weight loss and contouring to reduce bulk and printing if carried. The interior of the magwell requires contouring after removal of the material.

Other features shown in the pictures include:
Complete texture removal prior to stippling. - This reduces the grip to a much more comfortable size.
HK Style Trigger Guard Contour: This involves removal of the sharp edge on the sides of the trigger guard, resulting in a wider surface at the rear portion above the middle finger.
Secondary Trigger Guard Undercut: Can be textured or polished.
Recessed Forward Index points: (Unfinished in the pictures)
Squared Edge Removal on the front portion of the accessory rail: Removing material from the front of the rail to convert the corners from a 90 degree angle to a 45 degree angle. (note: this is on the rail itself. The more noticeable angle on the sides of the frame comes standard.)
https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8651/28621124216_e84fb32005_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KB9K5U)P80 PF940 (https://flic.kr/p/KB9K5U) by Battle Cock (https://www.flickr.com/photos/139563678@N06/), on Flickr

A primary trigger undercut really isn't necessary, as this is a full size frame with no finger grooves. Unless you've got the hands of a football player you wont need more space on the grip.

I am particularly interested to try rounding off the upper portion of the backstrap below the beavertail as I mentioned above, and I'm also looking to find a way to incorporate finger grooves into the design for the people who are into that.
I may also contour future beavertails higher and sharper to allow for a higher grip to simulate lower bore axis. but that will probably have to be combined with a primary trigger guard undercut and maybe finger grooves.

[Battle Cock]

Additionally, I intend to pick up another Surefire X300u and contour the front of the trigger guard to allow the light to mount further back on the rail and integrate more fully into the overall package. That'll wait until last though, I think.

[Mecha_Arms]

The frame is definitely not light friendly. The X300u and TLR-2 both fit pretty poorly. Contouring the front of the trigger guard to move them back a bit would a great mod.

I'll shoot you an email.