Elevate Your Glock 17 Gen3: The Rival Arms Faction Series Slide A1 Build Kit (RA-RA13G105A)

Are you a Glock 17 Gen3 owner looking to significantly upgrade your firearm's performance, aesthetics, and versatility? Do you find yourself asking, "How can I make my Glock more competitive?" or "What's the best way to add an optic to my existing Glock?" If so, the Rival Arms RA-RA13G105A Faction Series Slide A1 Build Kit is precisely the solution you've been searching for. This premium aftermarket slide kit offers a comprehensive pathway to transform your reliable Glock 17 Gen3 into a precision-engineered, optics-ready, and uniquely styled pistol.

For years, Glock pistols have been lauded for their unwavering reliability and straightforward design. However, many enthusiasts, competitive shooters, and even those focused on personal defense recognize the potential for enhancement. A stock Glock slide, while functional, often lacks features like optic cuts for modern red dot sights and the distinctive customization options desired by today's firearm owners. The Rival Arms Faction Series Slide A1 Build Kit directly addresses these needs, providing a robust, high-performance foundation for your next Glock 17 Gen3 project.

Unpacking the Rival Arms Faction Series Slide A1 Build Kit

What exactly makes the Rival Arms RA-RA13G105A Faction Series Slide A1 Build Kit a standout choice for Glock 17 Gen3 upgrades? This kit isn't just a basic replacement; it's a meticulously crafted component designed to optimize your pistol's capabilities. It arrives as a "build kit," meaning it provides the core slide component, ready for you to integrate your existing internal parts or new aftermarket components to complete your custom firearm. This approach offers unparalleled flexibility for the discerning builder.

• Model Identification: Rival Arms RA-RA13G105A Faction Series Slide A1 Build Kit
• Compatibility: Exclusively designed for Glock 17 Gen3 frames.
• Material Excellence: Crafted from durable 17-4 Stainless Steel, ensuring superior strength and corrosion resistance.
• Optics Readiness: Features a precision Docter Cut, providing a secure and low-profile mounting solution for compatible red dot sights.
• Customization Canvas: "Cerakote Ready Red" finish offers a unique, vibrant base that can be used as-is or serves as an ideal primer for further custom coating.
• Enhanced Ergonomics: The Faction Series slide design incorporates aggressive serrations for improved manipulation and press checks, even under challenging conditions.

This kit targets anyone from the weekend hobbyist embarking on their first custom pistol build to the seasoned gunsmith looking for a reliable, high-quality component for a client. It solves the common dilemma of wanting to modernize an older Glock generation without investing in an entirely new firearm.

The Power of 17-4 Stainless Steel: A Foundation of Strength

Why is the choice of 17-4 Stainless Steel so critical for a pistol slide? In the world of firearms components, material science plays a pivotal role in performance and longevity. 17-4 PH (precipitation-hardening) stainless steel is a highly regarded material known for its exceptional properties:

• Superior Strength: It offers high strength and hardness, making it incredibly resilient to wear and tear, even under rapid and sustained firing conditions. This translates to a longer service life for your slide.
• Corrosion Resistance: Unlike some other steels, 17-4 stainless steel provides excellent resistance to corrosion, rust, and environmental damage. This is vital for a component exposed to gunpowder residue, moisture, and varying climates, ensuring your firearm remains reliable in diverse situations.
• Dimensional Stability: Its unique heat-treating properties allow it to maintain precise dimensions, crucial for the consistent cycling and accuracy of your pistol.
• Machinability: While incredibly strong, 17-4 stainless steel can be precisely machined, allowing Rival Arms to achieve the tight tolerances and intricate designs required for optimal function and fit.

For a Glock 17 Gen3 upgrade, selecting a slide made from 17-4 stainless steel is a clear signal of quality and durability. It provides the peace of mind that your upgraded pistol will withstand rigorous use and maintain its integrity over countless rounds.

The Docter Cut: Embracing the Red Dot Revolution

One of the most significant advancements in modern pistol shooting is the widespread adoption of red dot sights. These miniature reflex optics dramatically improve target acquisition speed, accuracy, and overall shooting performance. However, older Glock generations, like the Gen3, were not designed with integrated optic cuts. This is where the Docter Cut on the Rival Arms Faction Series slide becomes a game-changer.

• Seamless Integration: The Docter Cut is a pre-machined recess on the top of the slide, specifically designed to accept red dot sights that utilize the Docter/Noblex footprint. This includes popular optics from manufacturers like Docter, Noblex, Burris FastFire, Vortex Venom/Viper, and Sightmark Mini Shot.
• Lower Co-Witness: An integrated optic cut allows the red dot sight to sit lower on the slide compared to adapter plates, often enabling a "lower 1/3 co-witness" or even "absolute co-witness" with standard height iron sights (depending on optic and sight height). This means your iron sights can still be used through the optic window as a backup in case of battery failure or optic malfunction.
• Enhanced Target Acquisition: With a red dot sight, shooters can focus solely on the target and the dot, rather than aligning front and rear sights. This simplified aiming process leads to significantly faster target acquisition, particularly beneficial in competitive shooting, self-defense scenarios, or low-light conditions.
• Improved Accuracy: The single focal plane of a red dot reduces parallax errors, making it easier for shooters of all skill levels to achieve greater precision, especially at longer ranges.
• Future-Proofing Your Glock: Investing in an optic-ready slide ensures your Glock 17 Gen3 remains relevant and capable in an evolving landscape of firearm technology.

For anyone asking, "How do I put a red dot on my Glock 17 Gen3 without complex modifications?", the Rival Arms Faction Series slide provides an elegant and effective answer.

Cerakote Ready Red: Your Canvas for Customization

The "Cerakote Ready Red" finish is more than just a color; it's an invitation to personalize your firearm. While the vibrant red itself offers a distinctive and aggressive aesthetic that stands out on the range, its true value lies in its readiness for further customization.

• Pre-Finished Aesthetic: For those who appreciate bold styling, the pre-applied red finish offers an immediate and striking appearance. It eliminates the need for immediate post-purchase finishing if you're happy with the vibrant look.
• Optimal Substrate for Custom Cerakote: Cerakote is a durable, thin-film ceramic coating widely popular in the firearms industry for its excellent corrosion resistance, abrasion resistance, and endless color options. The "Cerakote Ready Red" implies the slide has undergone the necessary pre-treatment (such as blasting) and possibly a base coat, making it an ideal surface for professional applicators to lay down your desired custom Cerakote design. This can save you time and money if you plan a multi-color or intricate custom finish.
• Personal Expression: Your firearm is an extension of your personality. Whether you want to match it to other accessories, represent a specific team, or simply create a truly unique piece, a "Cerakote Ready" component gives you the freedom to achieve your vision. This is particularly appealing for those who embark on a "build your own Glock" project.
• Enhanced Durability: Even if left as is, the initial finish provides a protective layer against environmental elements and daily handling wear.

The Rival Arms RA-RA13G105A slide understands that modern firearm ownership is not just about function, but also about personalization. This feature empowers you to create a pistol that truly reflects your style.

Why Upgrade Your Glock 17 Gen3 Slide? Beyond Aesthetics

Beyond the immediate visual appeal and optic readiness, upgrading your Glock 17 Gen3 slide with the Rival Arms Faction Series offers a multitude of functional benefits that directly impact shooting performance and overall user experience.

• Improved Recoil Management: The enhanced design and potentially different weight distribution of an aftermarket slide can subtly alter the pistol's recoil impulse, leading to a flatter shooting experience and faster follow-up shots.
• Enhanced Ergonomics and Manipulation: Features like aggressive forward and rear serrations, often found on aftermarket slides, provide a much surer grip for press checks, clearing malfunctions, and general slide manipulation, especially when hands are wet or gloved. This significantly improves handling under stress.
• Reduced Weight (Potential): Depending on the exact design and milling, an aftermarket slide can sometimes be lighter than the factory slide, reducing overall pistol weight and making it more comfortable for extended carry or competition.
• Increased Durability and Longevity: While Glock factory slides are robust, a precision-machined 17-4 stainless steel aftermarket slide from a reputable brand like Rival Arms can offer superior material properties and tighter tolerances, leading to enhanced durability over the long term. This is particularly valuable for high-round count shooters.
• Customization and Personalization: As discussed, the "Cerakote Ready" aspect allows for unparalleled personalization, making your Glock truly unique. This isn't just about looks; it's about owning a firearm that feels like yours.
• Competitive Edge: For competitive shooters, every fraction of a second and every point matters. Faster target acquisition from an optic-ready slide, improved recoil control, and reliable manipulation contribute directly to better stage times and higher scores.
• Enhanced Resale Value: A thoughtfully upgraded Glock, especially with premium components like a Rival Arms slide, can often command a higher resale value compared to a completely stock firearm, appealing to buyers looking for a "ready-to-go" customized pistol.

When considering "how to improve my Glock 17 Gen3's performance," a slide upgrade is often the most impactful single component change you can make.

Who is This Product For? A Look at the Ideal User

The Rival Arms RA-RA13G105A Faction Series Slide A1 Build Kit caters to a diverse range of firearm enthusiasts and professionals:

• The Competitive Shooter: Whether in USPSA, IDPA, or 3-Gun, speed and accuracy are paramount. The Docter Cut allows for an optic that drastically reduces split times and improves long-range precision. The aggressive slide serrations ensure quick and reliable manipulation during reloads and malfunction drills.
• The Everyday Carry (EDC) Enthusiast: For those who carry a Glock 17 Gen3 for personal defense, the ability to mount a red dot sight enhances situational awareness and improves accuracy under stress. The rugged 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures reliability when it matters most.
• The DIY Firearm Customizer: If you enjoy building and modifying your own firearms, this "build kit" provides an excellent foundation. You have the freedom to select your preferred internal components, barrels, and sights to create a truly bespoke Glock. This is perfect for answering the question, "Can I build my own Glock?"
• The Professional Gunsmith or Armorer: For those building custom firearms for clients or performing upgrades, the Rival Arms slide offers a high-quality, pre-machined component that simplifies the assembly process while ensuring a premium end result.
• The Glock 17 Gen3 Owner Seeking Modernization: Many owners of older Glock models love their firearms but wish for modern features. This slide offers a cost-effective way to bring a Gen3 Glock into the red dot era without purchasing a new pistol.

This product is specifically engineered for individuals who understand the value of precision engineering and seek to extract maximum performance from their Glock 17 Gen3 platform.

Real-World Applications and Scenarios

Imagine these scenarios where the Rival Arms Faction Series Slide A1 Build Kit shines:

• Scenario 1: The Competition Ready Glock
  A competitive shooter wants to transition their beloved Glock 17 Gen3 into a dedicated competition pistol. By installing the Rival Arms slide with its Docter Cut, they can mount a high-performance red dot sight. The improved sight picture and faster target acquisition allow them to shave seconds off their stage times, making them more competitive. The enhanced slide serrations assist with rapid reloads and clears, crucial in the heat of competition.
• Scenario 2: The Modernized EDC
  An individual who relies on their Glock 17 Gen3 for everyday carry decides they want the proven benefits of a red dot sight for self-defense. Instead of buying a new Glock MOS, they opt for the Rival Arms kit. They can now carry their familiar pistol with the added advantage of an optic, significantly improving their ability to acquire threats and place accurate shots under duress. The 17-4 stainless steel provides peace of mind regarding durability and reliability.
• Scenario 3: The Ultimate Custom Build
  A passionate firearm enthusiast embarks on a "dream build" project. They start with a polymer 80 frame and seek premium components. The Rival Arms Cerakote Ready Red slide is the perfect starting point. They send it off for a multi-cam Cerakote pattern, install a match-grade barrel, a high-performance trigger, and a specific red dot optic, resulting in a truly unique, high-performance, and personalized Glock 17 Gen3 that stands out from the crowd.
• Scenario 4: The Range Warrior's Upgrade
  Someone who frequently visits the shooting range wants to make their shooting sessions more enjoyable and productive. They find their current Glock 17 Gen3's iron sights challenging at longer distances. By upgrading to the Rival Arms slide and adding a red dot, they discover a newfound ease in hitting targets at varying ranges, improving their skills and confidence. The robust material ensures it can handle thousands of rounds without issue.

Trusting Rival Arms: A Mark of Quality

Rival Arms has established itself as a reputable manufacturer of high-quality firearm components. Their commitment to precision manufacturing and the use of premium materials like 17-4 stainless steel ensures that products like the Faction Series Slide A1 Build Kit meet the demanding standards of shooters. When you choose Rival Arms, you're investing in:

• Precision Engineering: Components are machined to tight tolerances for optimal fit and function.
• Quality Materials: Reliance on superior alloys for enhanced durability and longevity.
• Innovative Design: Focus on incorporating features that improve shooter performance and firearm versatility, such as dedicated optic cuts and enhanced serrations.
• Reliability: Products are designed to function flawlessly, providing consistent performance shot after shot.

For those wondering, "Is Rival Arms a good brand for Glock parts?", the answer is unequivocally yes, particularly for those seeking performance enhancements and customization options.

Where to Purchase: Your Trusted Source – DEGuns

When you're ready to take your Glock 17 Gen3 to the next level with the Rival Arms RA-RA13G105A Faction Series Slide A1 Build Kit, choosing the right retailer is crucial. We highly recommend DEGuns.com. As a leading online retailer in the firearms industry, DEGuns provides:

• Extensive Inventory: A wide selection of firearms, parts, and accessories, including specialized components like this Rival Arms slide.
• Competitive Pricing: Ensuring you get excellent value for your investment.
• Reliable Shipping: Prompt and secure delivery of your firearm components.
• Knowledgeable Support: Access to a team that understands firearm needs.
• Secure Shopping Experience: A safe and straightforward online purchasing process.

By purchasing from DEGuns, you're not just getting a premium product; you're also benefiting from a trusted vendor dedicated to customer satisfaction and the firearms community. For the best experience and to ensure authenticity, always choose DEGuns or deguns.com for your firearm component needs.

Conclusion: A Transformative Upgrade for Your Glock 17 Gen3

The Rival Arms RA-RA13G105A Faction Series Slide A1 Build Kit with Docter Cut and Cerakote Ready Red finish is more than just an aftermarket part; it's a complete solution for anyone seeking to revitalize and optimize their Glock 17 Gen3. It empowers you to:

• Embrace the Future of Shooting: Easily integrate modern red dot optics for faster, more accurate shooting.
• Unleash Your Creativity: Customize your firearm's appearance to reflect your unique style.
• Enhance Performance: Benefit from superior materials and ergonomic design for improved handling and durability.
• Build Your Dream Pistol: Take control of your firearm's configuration, choosing the components that best suit your needs.

If you're asking "What's the best way to upgrade my Glock 17 Gen3?" or "How can I get an optic on my older Glock?", the answer lies within this comprehensive and high-quality build kit. Transform your reliable Glock into a high-performance, personalized masterpiece, readily available at DEGuns.com.

---

Product Specifications & Compatibility

Feature	Description
Model	Rival Arms Faction Series Slide A1 Build Kit
Part Number	RA-RA13G105A
UPC	810057088194
Compatibility	Glock 17 Gen3 frames (requires Glock 17 Gen3 internal slide parts, barrel, and recoil assembly)
Material	17-4 Stainless Steel
Optic Cut	Docter Cut (compatible with Docter/Noblex, Burris FastFire, Vortex Venom/Viper, Sightmark Mini Shot footprint red dot sights)
Finish	Cerakote Ready Red (ideal for immediate use or as a base for custom Cerakote application)
Manufacturer	Rival Arms
Primary Benefit	Enables red dot sight integration, enhances customization, improves durability and slide manipulation for Glock 17 Gen3 owners seeking an upgrade.
Availability	Exclusively available through authorized dealers, including DEGuns.com

---

Why Choose 17-4 Stainless Steel?

Property	Benefit for Firearms
High Strength	Withstands extreme forces, ensuring long-term reliability and component integrity.
Corrosion Resist.	Protects against rust and environmental damage from moisture, sweat, and gunpowder.
Dimensional Stab.	Maintains precise fit and function even under varying temperatures and stresses.

---

Optics Compatibility (Docter Cut)

Optic Brand	Specific Models Compatible (Examples)
Docter	All Docter/Noblex Sights
Burris	FastFire 2, FastFire 3
Vortex	Venom, Viper
Sightmark	Mini Shot M-Spec, Mini Shot Pro Spec