Pistol Thread Pitches
Hey all, we here at True Shot Academy are going to cover pistol thread pitches. The thread pitch of a threaded pistol barrel is an important thing to consider if one wishes to use muzzle devices on their handgun. We are going to delve into what a thread pitch is, why they matter, some common examples, and other important details and considerations. Without further ado, let’s talk about pistol thread pitches.
What is a Thread Pitch?
In practical terms, the term “thread pitch” generally refers to the measured distance between threads on something like a fastener or screw. The term is used for everything from hardware fasteners to firearms related screws and components. Thread pitches are measured by threads per inch, or TPI and feature either metric or imperial units of measure in their designations.
1/2×28
Arguably one of the most common thread pitches on the market, the 1/2×28 thread pitch is utilized on a wide range of handguns and rifles and is supported by many accessories. Many factory threaded barrel offerings and aftermarket barrels utilize this common thread pitch. Manufacturers such as FNH, Beretta, Springfield Armory, Glock, and many more offer factory handguns with 1/2×28 threaded barrels. The thread pitch is most commonly associated with 9mm Luger when it comes to handguns, though other calibers utilize this thread pitch if their barrels have sufficient diameter to support the threading.
M13.5×1 LH
This is one of the most common metric thread pitches on the market as far as handguns go. This thread pitch is currently employed by a number of European countries and is well-supported by a wide range of accessories and firearms. Currently, the M13.5×1 LH thread pitch is utilized by Heckler & Koch and Sig Sauer threaded barrel offerings. Glock has also produced barrels in the thread pitch, though 1/2×28 threaded barrels are more common these days. This thread pitch is commonly utilized by 9mm Luger handguns such as Heckler & Koch’s USP 9 and VP9 and Sig Sauer’s P226.
9/16×24
This thread pitch is most commonly associated with .40 Smith & Wesson or 10mm Auto handguns. While not as supported as the 1/2×28 or .578-28 in terms of firearms and accessories, shooters can still get ahold of handgun components and accessories in this thread pitch. The 9/16×24 thread pitch is most commonly associated with factory threaded handguns offered by Beretta and Glock. In addition to factory offerings, barrels with 9/16×24 thread pitches can also be had as aftermarket solutions from companies like RCM, SilencerCo, and Lone Wolf Arms.
14.5×1 LH
This thread pitch represents another metric pattern which is utilized by European manufacturers such as Heckler & Koch. Though less common and supported than the M13.5×1 LH, the 14.5×1 LH thread pitch is still utilized by European firearm manufacturers. Like the 13.5×1 LH, this thread pitch is supported by Heckler & Koch, the notable German firearms manufacturer. The thread pitch is most commonly associated with pistols chambered in .40 Smith & Wesson, such HK P2000 pistols in the caliber.
.578-28
This thread pitch is one of the most common pistol thread pitches on the market and is most commonly found on .45 ACP handguns. The .578-28 thread pitch is well-supported by a wide range of firearms and accessories. Shooters will be able to find factory threaded offerings in the form of 1911 style handguns, FNH FNX-45 Tactical, and Sig Sauer pistols to name a few. Additionally, many aftermarket barrels sporting this popular thread pitch are available supported by many companies.
M16x1 LH
The M16x1 LH thread pitch is another well-known metric thread pitch. While not as common as the .578-28 thread pitch, many shooters in the United States utilize muzzle devices and firearms with M16x1 LH thread pitches. Like the other two metric thread pitches on this list, the M16x1 LH thread pitch is supported by Heckler & Koch and manufacturers of muzzle devices and accessories. This thread pitch is most commonly associated with .45 ACP chambered firearms. Common firearms featuring this thread pitch include Heckler & Koch USP 45 Tactical models as well as Tactical variants of the HK45 and HK45C.
Why Do Thread Pitches Matter?
In the realm of firearms, thread pitches matter if one intends on attaching a muzzle device to their handgun. Simply put, the thread pitch of the threaded barrel must match up with the thread pitch of one’s desired muzzle device. If these two thread pitches are different, then one will not be able to properly thread a muzzle device onto their handgun. In some cases, with similar sized thread pitches, one may damage muzzle device or barrel threads if they attempt to make non-matching thread pitches work with each other.
Why Are There Different Thread Pitches?
There are multiple factors which can impact the thread pitch found on a handgun barrel. The caliber of the handgun and overall thickness of the barrel is an immediate factor which influences which thread pitch may be used. Some thread pitches are only possible or practical on barrels of certain sizes. For example, if a barrel’s diameter is very thin like that of a Glock 44 or FNH Five-seveN, one cannot utilize 1/2×28 threading as there is not enough material to properly accommodate this thread pitch.
Left Hand vs Right Hand Threads
One should pay attention specifically to the direction of the threading on their muzzle devices and threaded barrels. Some threads have a left hand direction while others are threaded in a right hand pitch. This is typically denoted as either “LH” or “RH” for simplicity’s sake. There are also cases where a thread direction is not specified. Generally speaking, in the United States, a majority of thread pitches will be of the right hand variety. Left hand thread pitches are more common in Europe, but are still widely used among shooters. In short, one should ensure that they are aware of their thread pitch and direction if they intend on using muzzle devices with their threaded barrel.
Conclusion
All in all, it is important for one to know the thread pitch of their pistol if one wishes to utilize muzzle devices. Doing so allows one to properly affix things such as suppressors, flash hiders, and compensators to their favorite handgun. Regardless of the thread pitch one utilizes, they will inevitably need ammunition. We here at True Shot Ammo carry a wide range of ammo for sale. Whether you are looking for individual boxes of ammo or want to buy bulk ammo quantities, we have got you covered. As always, happy shooting.
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