Pistol Builds Ep.2 | How Did We Build/Customize Our Pistols?

Holsters, Lights, and Shadow Systems XR920 Overview

The episode opens with the hosts laying out their pistols and holsters, immediately highlighting different carry philosophies. One setup uses an RNR Holsters rig paired with a Streamlight TLR-1 HL, while another runs a Safariland-style Floodlight holster configured for a SureFire X300. A Secret Squirrel Kydex holster appears as well, sparking jokes about right-handed versus left-handed configurations and a mistaken holster purchase that becomes an early Christmas present. The hosts reintroduce their pistol build series and explain that this time only one of them is actually building a pistol from parts. Shadow Systems sponsors the series and provides an XR920 for a giveaway. The XR920 is described as a Glock 19X-style hybrid with a shorter slide, longer grip, 17-round capacity, threaded barrel, X300 light, and Trijicon RMR. They argue Shadow Systems delivered in one product line what took Glock multiple generations, and one host notes that all the trigger, slide, barrel, and internal upgrades done to a personal Glock could have been avoided by buying the Shadow Systems pistol, saving roughly $1,000.

Glock 19X Gen 5 Setup and Buyer Types

Attention shifts to a Glock 19X Gen 5, nicknamed the “Austrian Oak” and framed as the proven, mainstream choice. The pistol features factory night sights, an elongated grip, and a shorter slide and barrel combination that balances capacity and handling. It is equipped with a TRL-1 HL high-lumen weapon light and carried in an RNR Kydex holster, reinforcing the theme of practical, duty-ready setups. The hosts discuss how most handgun buyers simply want an out-of-the-box reliable pistol, and Glock fills that role. In contrast, Polymer 80 owners are portrayed as tinkerers who want to understand every part of their firearm, while Shadow Systems buyers lean toward Gucci-style, feature-rich pistols. A brief debate touches on U.S. military handgun adoption, referencing a Government Accountability Office report comparing SIG and Glock. They note SIG’s contract win was heavily influenced by price, while the U.S. Coast Guard, under the Department of Homeland Security rather than the Department of Defense, continues to run Glocks, underscoring Glock’s reputation for reliability in service environments.

Polymer 80 Glock 17 Build and Budget Accessories

The conversation moves to a Polymer 80 Glock 17-style build, representing the DIY, budget-conscious end of the table. This pistol uses a complete serialized P80 frame that already has the internal parts installed, simplifying the build process compared to traditional 80% frames. It is carried in a custom Secret Squirrel concealment holster that includes an extra magazine carrier, emphasizing concealed carry practicality. To round out the package, the hosts pair it with a Browning hat and a compact CAT flashlight designed to clip onto the hat brim for hands-free illumination. This combination underscores how a lower-cost pistol build can still be paired with thoughtful accessories. The P80 build is contrasted with the more expensive Shadow Systems and Glock options, setting up a later discussion about total cost, perceived reliability, and what different shooters prioritize—whether that is brand pedigree, modular customization, or simply getting into a functional handgun setup for as little money as possible.

Trigger Tuning, Holster Options, and Cost Breakdown

One builder dives into the details of a customized pistol, highlighting features that differentiate it from a stock Glock. The frame has aggressive texturing and a high undercut to improve grip and control, along with a true Picatinny rail for broader accessory compatibility. The slide sports forward serrations, and the barrel is ported to help manage recoil. A fiber optic front sight aids quick target acquisition, and the pistol feeds from a 17-round AC Unity magazine. An optics-ready slide with a removable plate allows future red-dot installation. The trigger comes from a TacFire frame completion kit; initial complaints about a heavy pull are addressed by applying dry lubricant and cycling the trigger repeatedly to smooth it out. Holster choices include a flashy left-handed pink Kydex option and a more subdued right-handed carbon-fiber-look Kydex holster. The package even includes a Browning hat with a cap-mounted flashlight. The hosts emphasize that the entire setup costs about $450, compared to a rival build exceeding $2,000, and debate how its reliability might stack up against Glock and Shadow Systems pistols, noting that range testing will ultimately reveal performance.

Pistol Comparisons, Viewer Voting, and Holster Mishaps

With all pistols on the table, the hosts invite viewers to vote in the comments on several categories: who delivered the best sales pitch, who has the best overall build, and which pistol viewers would actually spend their own money on. They compare approximate price points, noting one setup around $2,038, another near $900, and the budget build at roughly $450. This frames a broader discussion about value, brand loyalty, and whether to choose a Glock-style build or a factory Shadow Systems pistol. Holsters and belt setups come back into focus, including the earlier mix-up where a right-handed holster was mistakenly purchased for a left-handed shooter. A brightly colored custom holster from Secret Squirrel Concealment, described as looking like a trout or salmon, becomes a running joke while still showcasing custom Kydex possibilities. The hosts also mention upcoming drills or competitions where these pistols and holsters will be tested, reinforcing that the builds are not just for show but will be run on the range to see how they perform under pressure.

Daniel Defense Mk12 DMR Giveaway and Code Word

Toward the end, the focus shifts from pistols to a high-end rifle giveaway. The hosts present a Daniel Defense Mk12-style DMR, describing it as one of their favorite rifle configurations. It is outfitted with premium accessories, including a Trijicon optic setup often referred to as an AccuPoint or ACOG-style scope paired with a Trijicon RMR for close-range engagements. An American Defense Manufacturing mount secures the glass, while a Harris bipod supports precision shooting. A T-Rex Arms 45-degree offset mount and a SureFire dual-chamber muzzle brake, which is compatible with suppressor use, round out the package. The hosts announce a collaboration with Alex Zedra for this giveaway and direct viewers to her video for additional details. They reveal the giveaway code word “sausage,” explaining that the joke and its origin come from Alex Zedra’s content. The episode closes with appreciation for viewers, a brief blessing, and an invitation to visit their website, cllefarms.com, for more information and future content.