As you can see in the image, Glock's finger grooves have been a popular feature throughout the years, but they were ultimately eliminated on the Gen 5 models, most likely forever. We call that a clue. Aesthetics. Sight: Front sights: Blade, Rear sights- fixed, Finger Grooves: Yes, at the front of the grip, Sight: Polymer "U" dot configuration, rear adjustable (standard), Sight: Polymer "U" dot configuration and rear adjustable. An additional cross pin was added to the locking block for additional rigidity, and the design of the extractor was changed to serve as a loaded chamber indicator. Want to change your optic? For two, that can also make getting holsters a bit of a pain depending on the model you get and whom youre buying the holster from. And stay in touch with newsletters of our best articles on techniques, guns, & gear. Although not completely ambidextrous, like the Gen 5, the fourth generation is more left-handed friendly than the Gen 3. I just never liked them. Everyone knows the legend of Gaston Glock by now. I like the Gen4 better from several standpoints. (Photo: Jacki Billings/Guns.com). So, if youre wondering what the differences are between, say, a Gen 3 vs Gen 5 Glock, were going to explain the difference. The Slimline Glocks exist in their own category, and as such bear separate mention. Taurus has been diversifying its line of affordable and rugged 9mm G3 series pistols for the past few years and the new G3 Tactical comes across its name honestly. Designed with concealed carry in mind, the Slimline Glocks are not technically Gen. 4 or Gen. 5. The password should contain at least 8 characters with at least one number or special character. It's a much darker color than the Gen 4. Glock Generations Chart. Generation 2 magazines Thicc n slippery down low. Click below for a FREE LESSON! Tiffany Blue, FDE and olive drab were offered on select models as additional colors. Remember Nokia? The Glock-style sights also stand out in this gun model. Are there any other substantial internal improvements or differences besides the cosmetic and sometimes functional. Furthermore, the G3 incorporates a thumb rest on each side of the handgun, enabling you to comfortably rest your hand around the weapon, even for lengthy periods. What Is The Difference Between The Glock Generations? The Slimline models have features of multiple Glock generations. While on a hunting trip to Kansas, I did just that. The Gen 5 finished its design off with a flared magwell, aiding shooters with tactical reloads and the like. In a lot of respects, its not; it doesnt make for fun trivia and remembering where you put your car keys is much more important. It remains ahead of its time in ingenuity and design. The Gen 4, by comparison, provides a smoother experience with minimal recoil on the 9mm. Check out our detailed review of Glock 19 Gen 5. I purchased an original and rare Marlin Model 39. A compensated version the 18C was also devised. Vicb. A semi-automatic firearm fires every time a trigger is pulled, while an automatic gun fires continuously until the trigger is released. When the Gen 2 Glock 19 was released, it quickly became a favorite among investigators and undercover officers. Generation 4 pistols have few changes from the Generation 3 model guns, but have the addition of the Glock Modular Backstrap system. Gen 5 models are not being offered in all calibers. So far, they are restricted to 9mm and .40 S&W. The reintroduced GLOCK P80 is the same as a GLOCK model 17 Gen 1 pistol except for the rollmark indicating "P80" on the left side of the slide and internal upgrades. The number in circulation are dwindling, so they have become something of a collectors item. The 43X slide and barrel are the same as the 43, just on a longer frame. Which Glock generation is best is subjective, although there are a few features and design details that do make some better than others. I then added Taren tactical spring kits. The fifth Glock generation also saw the introduction of the Glock 45, which is essentially a 19X just with all Gen 5 features. The Glock 19X has Gen 5 features with a Gen 3 slide and frame. That said, they do features some notable differences. Glock Gen. 3, Gen. 4, Gen. 5what's the difference? The gun is the most popular pistol you will see around means that it will not be a hassle getting the right accessories to improve the gun and enjoy using it. In true Glock fashion, they marketed it as new and innovative. The Glock Modular Backstrap system has been added to the Generation 4 handguns. Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. These specs are mostly identical to the Gen 4 model except for the overall width. This Glock gen 3 boasts a specific grip region with finger grooves that make it simpler to hold the weapon, even if your hands sweat a lot. Furthermore, the handgun may be readily disguised in an open carry holster combined with a well-fitting Glock 19 holster. The Gen 5s flat grip is a blessing for those of us not partial to the grooves, elevating ergonomics. The biggest differences are the slide and barrel. The fact that the gun held 17+1 rounds of 9mm is mere happenstance. This is due to the shorter barrel length and reduced magazine/grip size of the G19. The Gen 4 is slightly slimmer at 1.26 inches overall width. Is Glock 19 Compatible with a Threaded Barrel? Type your email address and well send If you're looking for a new clock, then be sure to grab the Gen 5 because it is now the standard Glock. The gun has an ambidextrous design that makes it easy for a beginner to choose their shooting hand. One of the last Gen 2 models to be released was the Glock 17C, which had barrel and slide porting. The plastic sights are susceptible to wear and tear. Nowadays, a lot of people are leaning towards steel sights. Its also the case that some guns such as the Glock 40 in 10mm or Glock 41 in .45 ACP are only optic-ready in Gen 4 trim. For instance, the Ford Mustang is broadly the same size today as it was in 1963 and its still a front-engine/rear-wheel-drive carbut todays Mustang is a lot different! But lever actions? View Deal . As for the 34 vs 17. It made a small thud sound and shoved the case halfway down the barrelnot fun. Required fields are marked. While I prefer the mechanics and looks of the Glock Gen 5 series, you cant go wrong with any generation. Learn the 3 most popular shooting stances & more. The MOS models on the non-Slimline models are only for use with adapter plates; the slide is milled for MOS plates rather than a particular optic footprint. If you live in California, the Gen 3 is probably the best Glock for you. Glocks third generation also saw the introduction of the single-stack Glock 36 in .45 ACP, though the 10mm compact/subcompact model lineup did not get a single-stack option. 3. The first generation to see a designation, the Gen 3 elevated Gastons features in the hopes of providing a more ergonomic feel. He resides in the great Inland Northwest, with his wife and child. Glock Gen 3 pistols are at the time of this writing still in production and serve as the base models of all Glock guns regardless of caliber or frame size. How Many Generations of Glock 19 are There? Generation 2 (Gen 2): 1988-1997. However, there are some practical purposes for knowing what generation your Glock is. The first significant update was the Glock Marksman Barrel. Every decade or so, a new version of whatever car it is gets released on a new chassis design with other improvements. Glock updated their design again in 1998 and 3rd Generation (Gen 3) pistols have an accessory rail along with finger grooves and a thumb rest on the grip (bottom left). Look like squirt guns. In all cases, the design stemmed from a government contract or gun made in a bid for one that either did or didnt result in release on the civilian market. While the car is the same in many respects, a lot changes. The Glock is still a gun you either love to the exclusion of many, or you hate it. The 17M has Gen 5 features with a Gen 4 slide, frame and internals, including the omitted finger grooves, a flared magwell and the Glock Marksman Barrel. Harder to use, unlike the newer generations. The gun includes the Glock Marksman Barrel and omits finger grooves (Gen 5 features) but otherwise has a Gen 3 slide, frame and small parts, and is wrapped up with an FDE finish. Glock rolled out the Gen 3 in 1998, an upgrade to its second generation of pistols. The barrels are better on the Gen 5 guns, the trigger is better, you can get a MOS model, swappable backstraps are cool, and some people find the finger grooves annoying. Glocks havent really been a mainstay for champion NRA Bullseye shooters. We call that a clue. The Glock 19 Gen3 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol features a similar double-action trigger as the standard Glock pistol. If youre particular about the way your guns look, youll spend quite a bit of time wiping down that Gen 5 slide to get it looking just right. Granted, then Gen 5 guns are only offered (for now) in 9mm and .40 S&W. Some OEM and aftermarket parts fit all Glock generations, others do not. What can be said that has not already been said about the legendary Glock? The Gen 5, though, does come with a new DLC coating that looks nice but accumulates finger prints. The only difference between the . Just doesnt fit hand very well, but my wife loves it. Towards the end of the Gen 2 product cycle, the Glock 26 and Glock 27 pistols were released as backup guns for law enforcement and/or concealed carry pistols. They looked at what works and built a Glock that is up to date and good to go straight out of the box. I am one of those die-hard Glock lovers almost from the beginning. For one, you have parts compatibility. The big-bore Glocks are Gen 3 or Gen 4. However, the 17M and 19M were never (and arent going to be) offered for civilian sale. For multiple reasons, it is vital to have a threaded barrel fitted on your gun. Perfect for that gun owner who has to have the latest and greatest, the Gen 5 saw the return of a straight grip, no finger grooves, in addition to kicking up some internal features that smooth out the overall operation. Granted, then Gen 5 guns are only offered (for now) in 9mm and .40 S&W. If the gun wasnt grandfathered in before the roster, it has to abide by certain rules. Best Guide, Best Chest Rig to Ensure Safety in Survival Situations. Many Glock 19 holsters, for instance, will fit all generations; some will only fit up to Gen 3. I really wish you guys would rethink all that unnecessary fluff. With no rail and no finger grooves, it was no-frills by today's standard. Gen 3 for life! More longslide Glocks emerged as part of the Gen 3 models, including the Glock 34 and 17L in 9mm, as well as corresponding models in .40 S&W and other calibers. The frame has a lanyard loop, exactly like the original, and the markings are identical to the original. However, if your needs or wants in a handgun are very basic ie you just want a workhorse pistol and dont care about the niceties the Gen 3 Glocks are hardly going to let you down in any way and are a bit cheaper. Due to its low profile, the Glock 19 Gen 2 is perfect for concealed carry holsters. This means you can get some reps in with .22LR when 9mm or .45 ACP is too expensive without compromising ergonomics and controls. Originally, the Gen. 5 came with a half-moon cut in the grip and no front serrations. Both of these updates allow for a more accurate barrel, according to Glock. Ultimately, the Gen 5 represents Glocks pursuit of perfection over the pursuit of novelty. There are two different Gen. 5 iterations out there: the original and the Front Serrations (FS). You can find all of our Glock holsters here. Gen 3s have finger grooves and are generally known for being work horses although some of the current production Gen 3s have had some of their internal parts replaced with some of the same parts that have caused some Gen 4 owners erratic ejection/extraction issues. With five total iterations to its name, Gaston Glocks creations each come with their own quirks and attributes making them unique in their own right. I had one of the first Glocks in the US. There are a few Glocks that seem to exist outside of the realm of generations. Gen 4 guns use a "dot" connector instead of the Gen 3 unmarked connector. It is 5.04 inches high. Regardless of generation, each Glock is a solid build delivering accuracy and reliability. We'll only use the information provided according to our privacy policy. It comes with a protective case, as do all Glock models, which all gun fans enjoy. Shooting smoothly and with little recoil, again thanks for that double recoil spring design, the Gen 5 can plink all day at that range. Some argue they are the best guns the company has made to date. The Gen 2 guns also added the large frame models in .45 ACP and 10mm, as well as the Glock 22 and Glock 23 in .40 S&W. Its been so reliable. Just use a different plate! This means that the Glock 19 Gen 3 is a snappier model than its later versions. An evolutionary reminder of Glocks past, the Gen 3 is perfect for collectors or those that wish to cling to the past. The texture and depth of the Glock 19 4th Generation pistol are enhanced. There is only one pin above the trigger and the frame lacks an accessory rail. Glock 26 Vs. Glock 43: Which is Better for Self-Defense? Side-by-side the differences are much more apparent. Repeater firing mode for accuracy of shots, Easily available than the previous two Glock generations, Better recoil control with dual recoil springs. I was just not wowed by it. The GMB is button rifled like most barrels are and as a result, the Gen 5 guns have been noted to be far more accurate at longer distances. To make the gun more compliant with ATF regulations, a steel insert was added to the frame bearing the serial number. Curious, however, it is; the 46 has a rotating barrel (a la the Beretta Cougar/PX4) and a manual safety as part of the requirements. To make the gun more compliant with ATF regulations, a steel insert was added to the frame bearing the serial number. All Glock 19 generations are the best option for anyone starting because you can learn without the fear of spending a lot of money on magazines or accessories. All Glock 19 Generations Reviewed: Differences, Similarities, and Comparisons, What are the Different Calibers of Bullets? The half-moon was meant to help when/if magazines got stuck during a reload. To remove the Glock automobile sear, you require to get rid of the slide lock. Get Our Top Shooting Drills and Zeroing Targets ($47 value - but FREE for a limited time). Stacking the two guns side-by-side, the Glock 19, in general, is 0.67 inches less in overall length than the Glock 17, generation over generation, while standing 0.43 inches shorter. Glocks magazine design a polymer housing with a steel sleeve insert makes these guns compact single-stacks, as the cartridges have to be stacked vertically rather than staggered. There are a few transitional models that combine features from Gen 3, Gen 4 and Gen 5 pistols. gear. 1. The Glock 43X and Glock 48 pistols use essentially the same frame as a Glock 43, albeit with a longer grip housing for the Slimline magazine. But how did Glock become legendary for its ability to endure hard use and abuse? The 43X and 48 MOS models both have a railed frame for mounting a microlight, and are milled for the Shield micro footprint. The barrel will almost immediately fill up with water, and that is where the trouble begins. That said, if you're going to 'take a hit' on the value of the gen 2 (perceived, sentimental, or otherwise), the 'upgrade' may not be worth it. The P80 is the model name given to the GLOCK 17 by the Austrian Military. Love all my Glocks, but my fave is the 43X. The recoil is not too much, and your hands will not be hurt when practicing your shots. A pair of Glock 19s, in Gen3 (top) and Gen4 (bottom). Though the Gen 5 ditches the grip grooves, the Gen 5 adds a little more width to its overall size. The Glock generations are the ongoing changes made to the design of the Glock pistol. Both versions use nDLC coating, fully ambidextrous controls, improved triggers, flared magwells, and a barrel that Glock calls a Glock Marksman Barrel.. Off-roster handgun purchases are only permitted for LEO/government officials who meet certain requirements. Although they werent the first company to develop a polymer handgun that accolade belongs to the HK VP/70 Glock did make a model that proved successful in the market. What is the current generation of Glock 19? The grips of the Glock 19 Generation 3 were a major cause of controversy among shooters since they were excessively big for tiny hands. The Gen 5 has a semi-gloss deep black color thanks to the nDLC treatment. GLOCK 43 The G43 is the trimmer, slimmer, single-stack subcompact option in 919. The original Glock 17 was a ruthlessly simple gun, with a pebbled finish on the frame, a smooth dust cover (nothing was getting railed at the time) and the standard Glock features like the trigger system, Glock sights, and polygonal rifling. Having fired a Glock gen 1 years ago. Glock also sells adapter plates for different optic footprints as well. Ive just built 2 poly80s, one as a g19, the other a g23. Glock experts will correct me if I am wrong. There are some generational differences with GLOCK magazines. The external differences and internal differences will help you make a good choice.. The 19X was Glocks failed bid for the US militarys XM17 handgun trials, but was put on sale with some success. 551.99 . His varied interests and hobbies include camping, fishing, hunting, and spending time at the gun range as often as possible. Tiffany Blue, FDE and olive drab were offered on select models as additional colors. The fifth Glock generation also saw the introduction of the Glock 45, which is essentially a 19X just with all Gen 5 features. The frame texturing is revised, and the Gen 5 guns also come with swappable backstraps and a slightly flared magwell. Have a another coming soon as a g17. Wow, what a difference. The Annie Oakley rifle! Brought more ambidextrous parts always nice for those weirdo lefties. Best Plate Carrier Get Perfect Body Armor Today! The Glock 19X has Gen 5 features with a Gen 3 slide and frame. After all, we have all heard of (and probably seen) Gucci Glocks that *cough* people never shoot *cough*. Gaston Glock designed this first handgun for the Austrian military. Offering a more stippled approach, Glock looked to help shooters maintain a more solid grasp on the gun while shooting. Marlin 39 Review: 90 Years Old and Still Functioning Flawlessly. Glock created a working prototype of the Glock 17 that would eventually win the Austrian military contract. The best part? After that, Gastons namesake exploded with popularity. The polymer frame might be one of the features that surprised many, and the gun has done incredibly well through the years to become the most popular choice among buyers. Need Help?service@guns.comCall (866)582-4867, PO Box 1131 13800 Nicollet Blvd Burnsville, MN 55337 2022Guns.com. Food for thought: Not every manufacturer that makes Gen 3 Glock parts makes Gen 5 parts, but most Gen 5 parts manufacturers make Gen 3 parts. In addition, guns are perfect for self-defense or duty because of their convenient concealability. Instead of sending your slide out to get milled and waiting 6 to 12 weeks, you can now just slap a plate on it, and its ready to mount. Read on. Does the barrel improve performance? If you havent, its because it doesnt exist. The Glock 19 is the true manifestation of everything good about the pistol. Glock also sells adapter plates for different optic footprints as well. We already have an account registered for email address In the broad strokes, the Gen 5 guns are going to be better in many regards if you were weighing a Glock Gen 3 vs Gen 5 pistol. What is the difference between Glock 19 and Glock 17? Founded in 1963, Glock did not start out as a firearms company. So ultimately its whether the features of each generation are worth it to you, and thats something only you can answer. It features a set of interchangeable backstrap panels that may be used to tailor the pistol's fit to the shooter.