They are exactly the same EXCEPT the locking block. . The other differences are the ejector and trigger bar.
Here are the differences:
- The G44 locking block does not use the forward arms so the frame is not cutout for them
- The ejector is different.
- The shark fin on trigger bar is different.
The G44 ejector is shaped the same as the old Gen 3 9mm 336 ejectors, it is just a little thinner from top to bottom. This clearance is needed for the magazines to fit and lock in properly. Yes a 336 ejector can be used in a pinch.
The G44 has its own trigger bar and the shark fin is longer. But you can use a standard Gen 5 trigger bar in the G44 and it works fine. The G44 trigger bar may or may not cause issues with center fire slides due to the longer shark fin. I am actually running a Gen 5 Hyve Tech. Monarch trigger in my G44.
While the trigger housing are listed with different part numbers, they are they same (except ejector) between the G44 and Gen 5 G19.
Since the G44 locking block does not have the arms, you can not put a G19 clocking block into a G44 frame. The G44 locking block works fine in a G19 frame. All that needs swapped out on the G19 frame to use a G44 slide is the locking block and ejector. You must use the G44 locking block with the G44 slide. The cross bar is lower and a different shape that the G19 locking block.
Now for frame parts that are the same:
- Slide stop lever
- Magazine release and spring
- Slide lock spring
- Connector
- Trigger housing - make sure to use the correct ejector for the slide/caliber you are shooting.
Plenty of people have swapped their G44 locking block and ejectors into Gen 5 G19 and run the G44 slide just fine. While the slide lock is listed as different part numbers, the Gen 5 G19 locking block does work with the G44 slide.
I'm actually working on a project to use a G44 slide on a Strike 80 80% frame. The only hold up right now is the front locking block rail that are used in the 80% frames. You can easily modify the Strike 80 frame to use Gen 5 slide (with Gen 3 recoil spring assembly). And before you ask why bother with this type of mod. I like the grip on the Strike 80 plus if Nelson Precision gets the bugs worked out of their G44 RMR cut slides, we will have other options.