Glock handguns are famous for being reliable, durable, and versatile. This makes them a top choice for law enforcement, military, and civilians worldwide. When choosing a Glock, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each model and consider how size impacts performance and usability.
Glock Sizes Chart
| Model | Caliber | Barrel Length (inches) | Overall Length (inches) | Height (inches) | Width (inches) | Weight (unloaded, oz) | Magazine Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glock 17 | 9mm | 4.49 | 7.95 | 5.47 | 1.26 | 25.06 | 17 |
| Glock 19 | 9mm | 4.02 | 7.36 | 5.04 | 1.26 | 23.63 | 15 |
| Glock 19X | 9mm | 4.02 | 7.44 | 5.47 | 1.30 | 24.83 | 17 |
| Glock 20 | 10mm Auto | 4.61 | 8.07 | 5.51 | 1.34 | 27.51 | 15 |
| Glock 21 | .45 Auto | 4.61 | 8.07 | 5.47 | 1.34 | 26.28 | 13 |
| Glock 22 | .40 S&W | 4.49 | 7.95 | 5.47 | 1.26 | 25.59 | 15 |
| Glock 23 | .40 S&W | 4.02 | 7.36 | 5.04 | 1.26 | 23.65 | 13 |
| Glock 26 | 9mm | 3.43 | 6.42 | 4.17 | 1.26 | 21.69 | 10 |
| Glock 27 | .40 S&W | 3.43 | 6.42 | 4.17 | 1.26 | 21.89 | 9 |
| Glock 30 | .45 Auto | 3.78 | 6.97 | 4.80 | 1.38 | 26.28 | 10 |
| Glock 31 | .357 SIG | 4.49 | 7.95 | 5.47 | 1.26 | 23.81 | 15 |
| Glock 32 | .357 SIG | 4.02 | 7.36 | 5.04 | 1.26 | 23.28 | 13 |
| Glock 33 | .357 SIG | 3.43 | 6.42 | 4.17 | 1.26 | 19.75 | 9 |
| Glock 34 | 9mm | 5.31 | 8.74 | 5.47 | 1.26 | 25.93 | 17 |
| Glock 35 | .40 S&W | 5.31 | 8.74 | 5.47 | 1.26 | 27.51 | 15 |
| Glock 36 | .45 Auto | 3.78 | 6.97 | 4.76 | 1.10 | 22.40 | 6 |
| Glock 42 | .380 Auto | 3.25 | 5.94 | 4.13 | 0.98 | 13.76 | 6 |
| Glock 43 | 9mm | 3.41 | 6.26 | 4.25 | 1.06 | 17.99 | 6 |
| Glock 45 | 9mm | 4.02 | 7.44 | 5.47 | 1.30 | 24.52 | 17 |
| Glock 48 | 9mm | 4.17 | 7.28 | 5.04 | 1.10 | 20.74 | 10 |
Full-Size Glock Models
Full-size Glock models are perfect for duty use and home defense. They offer a balance between accuracy, magazine capacity, and recoil control. The Glock 17 is the original and most widely recognized full-size model, famous for its 17-round magazine capacity. However, the Glock 22, while similar in size to the Glock 17, is chambered in .40 S&W, providing more stopping power.
Choosing between these models involves tradeoffs between ammunition capacity and power. When deciding on a full-size Glock, it’s crucial to consider how these factors impact performance and your specific needs.
Compact Glock Models
Compact Glock models are perfect for concealed carry and personal defense. They offer a smaller footprint while maintaining a good balance of firepower and control. The Glock 19 is the most popular compact model, known for its versatility and 15-round magazine capacity. On the other hand, the Glock 23, while similar in size to the Glock 19, is chambered in .40 S&W, offering a more powerful option for concealed carry.
Deciding between these models involves weighing the tradeoffs between magazine capacity and stopping power. It’s important to consider how these factors affect your specific needs and preferences when choosing a compact Glock.
Subcompact Glock Models
Subcompact Glock models are the smallest in the lineup, perfect for deep concealment and backup roles. The Glock 26, also known as the ‘Baby Glock,’ offers a 10-round magazine capacity in a highly concealable package. Similarly, the Glock 27 shares similar dimensions with the Glock 26 but is chambered in .40 S&W, providing more stopping power in a subcompact size.
Choosing between these models involves considering tradeoffs such as magazine capacity versus caliber potency. When selecting a subcompact Glock, it’s crucial to evaluate how these factors impact usability and suitability for intended roles.
Competition and Long Slide Glock Models
For those interested in competitive shooting or seeking enhanced accuracy, Glock offers long slide models with extended barrels and slides. The Glock 34 is specifically designed for competition shooting, featuring a longer barrel and slide to enhance accuracy. Similarly, the Glock 35, chambered in .40 S&W, is tailored for competitive use, offering similar features to the Glock 34.
Choosing between these models involves balancing factors like maneuverability versus enhanced accuracy on the range. When selecting a competition Glock, it’s essential to consider how these factors influence performance and align with your shooting goals.
Specialized Glock Models
Glock also offers specialized models to meet unique needs, including the Modular Optic System (MOS) and Glock Slimline series. The Glock 43, part of the Slimline series, features a single-stack 9mm design for enhanced concealment. In contrast, the Glock 48 MOS combines the Slimline’s slim profile with a Modular Optic System for red dot compatibility.
Choosing between these models involves weighing factors such as concealability versus customization options. It’s essential to consider how these features align with your specific requirements when selecting a specialized Glock model.
Comparison Chart of Glock Sizes
To aid in selecting the ideal Glock model for your needs, here is a comprehensive size chart comparing various Glock models. This table includes columns for Model, Caliber, Overall Length, Barrel Length, Height, Width, and Magazine Capacity. When deciding on a Glock, it’s crucial to balance factors like size, caliber, and capacity to ensure it meets your specific requirements.
Understanding these dimensions and their implications helps in making an informed decision about which Glock model best suits your intended use.
Conclusion
Understanding the different sizes and features of Glock handguns facilitates making an informed decision when selecting the best model for your needs. By weighing factors like size, caliber, and intended use, you can ensure your Glock meets your requirements effectively.
FAQs
What is the best Glock model for concealed carry?
The best Glock model for concealed carry depends on personal preferences and needs. Generally, compact and subcompact models like the Glock 19 or Glock 26 are popular choices due to their smaller size and adequate firepower.
How does the Glock 17 compare to the Glock 19 in terms of size and usability?
The Glock 17 is larger and offers a higher magazine capacity (17 rounds) compared to the Glock 19 (15 rounds). It’s ideal for duty use and home defense, whereas the Glock 19 balances size and capacity well for both concealed carry and general use.
Which Glock model is suitable for competitive shooting?
Glock models like the Glock 34 and Glock 35 are specifically designed for competitive shooting. These models feature longer barrels and slides for enhanced accuracy, making them well-suited for range and competition use.
What are the advantages of the Glock Slimline series?
The Glock Slimline series, including models like the Glock 43 and Glock 48 MOS, offer a slimmer profile for enhanced concealability. They are designed for comfortable carry while still providing sufficient firepower for personal defense.
How do I choose between a Glock with MOS and one without for optic compatibility?
Choosing between a Glock with MOS (Modular Optic System) and one without depends on whether you plan to use a red dot sight or other optic accessories. The MOS models provide flexibility for customization but may have slightly different dimensions due to the mounting system.