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Starting with a design for polymer-framed pistol nearly 40 years ago, GLOCK has grown to be a worldwide powerhouse in firearms manufacturing. Supplying pistols to millions of soldiers, law enforcement officers and civilian shooters around the world, the Austrian manufacturer started building a single model, the GLOCK G17. Today, GLOCK produces nearly 60 models of pistols in seven different calibers, a host of different accessories and a Professionals training program for armed individuals. Over 65% of federal, state and local agencies in the United States are issued GLOCK pistols.
GLOCK – Table of Contents:
- Introduction/Overview
- Products/Models
- History
- Locations/Facilities
- Competition/Training
- TFB News
- TFB Reviews
- Common GLOCK Questions
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How Many GLOCKS Are There?
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What Are The Different Models OF GLOCKS?
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What Is The Best GLOCK?
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What GLOCK Is Best For Competition?
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Should I Buy The G17 Or G19?
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Is GLOCK The Most Reliable Handgun?
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- Where To Buy
1. GLOCK – Introduction/Overview
In terms of firearms, GLOCK is unique in that it only produces polymer-framed handguns. Topping the list of characteristics that are distinctive to the GLOCK pistol lineup are a steep grip angle, the lack of a manual safety, a serialized polymer frame and a patented Safe Action trigger.
GLOCK pistols are currently manufactured in one of two factories: Deutsch-Wagram, Austria and Smyrna, Georgia, USA. The pistols are chambered in one of seven cartridges/calibers: 9mm, .40 S&W, .357 Sig, 10mm, .45 ACP and .380 Auto. Currently, GLOCK pistols are available in the following frame sizes: standard, compact, subcompact, competition, and long slide.
2. GLOCK – Products/Models
While the latest production model is the Fifth Generation (Gen 5) GLOCK, the Gen 3 (standard) and Gen 4 line of pistols are still being manufactured. The company is known for its deliberate and incremental product changes, only varying small features within each cycle. The polymer frame and the Safe Action Trigger are two constants across all GLOCK models.
GLOCK Safe Action System:
SAFE ACTION® TRIGGER SYSTEM: GLOCK’s revolutionary Safe Action® trigger system provides a consistent trigger pull from the first to the last round. The three automatic independently operating mechanical safeties are built into the fire control system of the pistol. All three safeties disengage sequentially as the trigger is pulled and automatically reengage when the trigger is released. This safe, simple and fast system allows the user to concentrate fully on tactical tasks, particularly while under stress. It is safe if dropped and functional at temperatures from -40° to 122° Fahrenheit / -40° to 50° Celsius.
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- Trigger Safety: The trigger safety is a lever incorporated into the trigger (26). When the trigger safety is in the forward position it blocks the trigger from moving rearward. The trigger safety and the trigger must be fully depressed at the same time to fire the pistol. If the trigger safety is not depressed, the trigger will not move rearward and allow the pistol to fire. The trigger safety is designed to protect against firing if the pistol is dropped or the trigger is subjected to lateral pressure.
- Firing Pin Safety: The firing pin safety (8) mechanically blocks the firing pin (4) from moving forward in the ready-to-fire condition. As the trigger is pulled rearward the trigger bar pushes the firing pin safety up and frees the firing pin channel. If the user decides not to fire and releases the trigger, the firing pin safety automatically reengages.
- Drop-Safety: The trigger bar rests on the safety ramp within the trigger mechanism housing. The trigger bar engages the rear portion of the firing pin (4) and prevents the firing pin from moving forward. As the trigger (26) is pulled rearward the trigger bar lowers down the safety ramp and allows the release of the firing pin. After firing, the trigger bar moves upward and reengages the firing pin.
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GLOCK Pistol Nomenclature
GLOCK – Generation 1 (Gen 1)
The original GLOCK is considered a Gen 1 that features a straight grip, single trigger pin, and a Tennifer treated/finished slide. The Gen 1 GLOCK debuted in 1982.
GLOCK- Generation 2 (Gen 2)
Credit: Wikicommons
GLOCK – Generation 3 “Standard” (Gen3) – IN PRODUCTION
GLOCK G17 – Gen3 Standard
Designed for professionals, the GLOCK 17 is trusted by law enforcement officers and military personnel around the globe because of its unsurpassed reliability, optimal magazine capacity of 17 rounds in the standard magazine and its low weight. With the signature “Safe Action” trigger system, the GLOCK 17 9 mm Luger pistol is safe, easy, and quick – precisely what you need in critical situations.
GLOCK G19 – Gen3 Standard
The GLOCK 19 in 9 mm Luger is ideal for a versatile role thanks to its reduced dimensions when compared to the standard sized option. In addition to its use as a conventional service pistol, it is ideal for use as a backup weapon or for concealed carry purpose.
GLOCK G26 Gen3 Standard
Similar in size and weight to the small-frame snub-nose revolvers it has replaced, the GLOCK 26 fires the popular 9 mm Luger cartridge with minimum recoil and more on-target accuracy at a fast rate of fire. It’s an ideal backup for those who use the GLOCK 17 or GLOCK 19 for open carry, even more so since the larger 9mm magazines fit the G26 as well.
GLOCK G34 Gen3 Standard
Obtaining the greatest accuracy for target engagement was the decisive reason for the development of the GLOCK 34 with its extended barrel, longer slide dimensions and an elongated distance between sights. This highly accurate pistol has found widespread use as a competitive pistol for IPSC and other shooting sports, but is also a mainstay in many SWAT teams.
GLOCK – Generation 4 (Gen4) – IN PRODUCTION
GLOCK G17 Gen4
The Modular Back Strap design of the GLOCK 17 Gen4 allows one to easily customize its grip to add comfort, regardless of the shooter’s hand size. The surface of the frame features the new Gen4 rough textured profile. Internally, the new GLOCK dual recoil spring assembly substantially reduces the wear and tear on the system. A reversible enlarged magazine catch, changeable at user level accommodates left and right-handed operators.
GLOCK G19 Gen4
The GLOCK 19 Gen4 pistol in 9 mm Luger offers great firepower while allowing to shoot quickly and accurately. It is ideal for a more versatile role due to its reduced dimensions, without sacrificing all-important magazine capacity. The modular back strap system makes it possible to instantly customize its grip to accommodate any hand size. The reversible magazine catch makes it ideal for left and right-handed shooters.
GLOCK G26 Gen4
Similar in size and weight to the small-frame snub-nose revolvers it has replaced, the GLOCK 26 fires the popular 9 mm Luger cartridge with minimum recoil and more on-target accuracy at a fast rate of fire. It’s an ideal backup for those who use the GLOCK 17 or GLOCK 19 for open carry, even more so since the larger 9mm magazines fit the G26 as well.
GLOCK G34 Gen4
GLOCK – Generation 5 (Gen5) – IN PRODUCTION
GLOCK G17 Gen 5
The new frame design of the GLOCK 17 Gen5 removed the finger grooves for more versatility but still allows to easily customize its grip by using the different back straps. A flared mag-well and a cutout at the front of the frame give the user more speed during reloading when fractions of a second matter. A reversible enlarged magazine catch, changeable at the user level as well as the ambidextrous slide stop lever accommodate left and right-handed operators. The rifling and the crown of the barrel were slightly modified for increased precision.
GLOCK G19 Gen 5
The GLOCK 19 Gen5 pistol in 9 mm Luger is ideal for a more versatile role due to its reduced dimensions. The new frame design without finger grooves still allows to instantly customize its grip to accommodate any hand size by mounting the different back straps. The reversible magazine catch and ambidextrous slide stop lever make it ideal for left and right-handed shooters. The rifling and the crown of the barrel were slightly modified for increased precision.
GLOCK G26 Gen 5
The GLOCK 26 is now available in GLOCK’s latest generation of perfection. A popular option for concealed carry, the GLOCK 26 now features the GLOCK Marksman Barrel (GMB), delivering increased accuracy with polygonal rifling and an improved barrel crown. Other features include removal of the finger grooves, an ambidextrous slide and nDLC finish.
GLOCK G43
The already legendary G43 is a GLOCK Single stack, 9 mm Luger caliber pistol. It is ultra-concealable, accurate and a fantastic tool for all shooters regardless of one’s hand size. The grip has a built-in beavertail design which allows the shooter to acquire a high and tight grip. The aggressive texture of the grip surface allows for comfortable and reliable operation of the pistol. The large magazine catch makes quick work of removing the six round magazine. Engineered based on the same superlative standards that GLOCK is famous for, the tiny G43 tolerates the same torture tests all its bigger brothers in the GLOCK pistol family withstand.
GLOCK Silver Slide Slimline:
GLOCK G43X
The silver finished slide of the G43X combines its short and slim dimensions to the extended slim frame size of the G48. A perfectly balanced slim fit for nearly all hand sizes with a satisfying magazine capacity and high concealability. The magazine capacity of the slim 01 magazine of the G43X is 10 rounds.
- Length (Overall)**165 mm | 6.50 inch
- Slide Length154 mm | 6.06 inch
- Width (Overall)28 mm | 1.10 inch
- Slide Width22 mm | 0.87 inch
- Height incl.Mag.128 mm | 5.04 inch
- Line of Sight (Polymer)133 mm | 5.24 inch
- Line of Sight (Steel)132 mm | 5.20 inch
- Line of Sight (GNS)131 mm | 5.16 inch
- Trigger Distance**67 mm | 2.64 inch
GLOCK G48
The G48 in caliber 9mm Luger is of similar length and height as the G19 but the width of the pistol is reduced for increased concealability and high carrying comfort. The magazine capacity of the slim 01 magazine of the G48 is 10 rounds. It comes with a silver-colored nPVD coated slide with front serrations.
- Length (Overall)**185 mm | 7.28 inch
- Slide Length174 mm | 6.85 inch
- Width (Overall)28 mm | 1.10 inch
- Slide Width22 mm | 0.87 inch
- Height incl.Mag.128 mm | 5.04 inch
- Line of Sight (Polymer)152 mm | 5.04 inchLine of Sight (Steel)151 mm | 5.94 inchLine of
- Sight (GNS)150 mm | 5.91 inch
- Trigger Distance**67 mm | 2.64 inch
GLOCK Crossover
GLOCK G19X
GLOCK’s first ever “Crossover” pistol, the GLOCK 19X, combines the best features of two of its most popular and most trusted field-tested platforms. The full-size GLOCK 17 frame and the compact GLOCK 19 slide have joined forces to produce the ideal pistol for all conditions and all situations. The 19X comes in the coyote color with the first-ever factory colored slide, finished with an improved nPVD slide coating to prevent corrosion. Additional features include the GLOCK Marksman Barrel (GMB), no finger grooves, ambidextrous slide stop levers and lanyard loop. Included with the pistol is a standard 17-round magazine, two 17+2-round magazines and coyote-colored pistol case.
GLOCK G45
The compact crossover pistol G45 in 9x19mm combines a compact slide with a full size frame and has all the benefits of a Gen5 model. Utilizing the design and engineering GLOCK developed for its military pistol (G19X), combined with Operator and worldwide Law Enforcement specifications.
GLOCK Owners Manual (Covers all Generations as of 3/2019)
3. GLOCK – History
Gaston Glock, an Austrian engineer, successful businessman, and manufacturer of injection molding parts and components, founded GLOCK Ges.m.b.H in 1963. In the 1970s, development and production start-up of the first military products began to take place with the development of a line of knives, grenade casings and machine gun belt links. In the early 1980s, the semi-automatic GLOCK service pistol was born in response to meet the needs of the Austrian military. It’s polymer frame and the developed SAFE ACTION® System revolutionized the pistol market. – GLOCK history
4. GLOCK – Locations/Facilities
Austria:
GLOCK Ges.m.b.H.
Gaston Glock-Platz 1
A-2232 Deutsch-Wagram AUSTRIA
Tel: +43 (0) 2247 – 90300-0
Fax: +43 (0) 2247 – 90300-312
United States:
In November 1986, the company opened its U.S. headquarters, GLOCK, Inc., in Smyrna, Georgia.
U.S. Headquarters
GLOCK, Inc.
6000 Highlands Parkway SE
Smyrna, GA 30082
USA
Phone: 770-432-1202
FAX: 770-433-8719
5. GLOCK – Competition/Training
Glock Shooting Sports Foundation
https://us.glock.com/en/connect/glock-sport-shooting-foundation
GSSF was founded to enhance and improve the image of competitive Stock Gun sport shooting among firearms owners and the general public. To this end, the GSSF has outlined the following objectives:
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- Promote safe, active participation in the shooting sports among new, intermediate, and experienced competitors by hosting special civilian and law enforcement GSSF Stock Glock Pistol Shooting Matches throughout the country.
- Promote Stock Pistol competitive shooting as a legitimate, challenging sport to encourage more mainstream participation.
- Promote firearms safety and safety awareness by instructing firearms owners in safety and handling techniques.
- Promote the positive aspects of firearms ownership and sport shooting.
- Encourage participation in competitive sport shooting.
- Inform and educate firearms owners and the general public about issues that might affect the rights of individuals to own firearms.
Started in 1991, GSSF has grown to include over 22,000 active members and now organizes over 50 outdoor and over 60 indoor shooting matches series each year—an unprecedented number. Almost anyone can join GSSF, but if you want to participate in a sanctioned sport shooting match, the only requirements are that you must be a member and compete with a GLOCK pistol. The only other requirement is that all of our competitors have fun! We make that more of a sure thing by rewarding cash prizes and GLOCK pistols in multiple categories.
Glock Professionals
https://us.glock.com/en/professionals
GLOCK Professional Inc. provides professional training to law enforcement, military, licensed security and other personnel who desire to utilize the GLOCK SAFE ACTION® system to its maximum potential. Armorer, Advanced Armorer, Instructor Workshop and G18 Select-Fire classes are available to provide information and recommendations for the safe, responsible and effective use of GLOCK handguns and other products.
Team GLOCK
https://us.glock.com/en/connect/team-glock
Our elite team of shooting professionals competes against the-best-of-the-best in the U.S. and around the world. Our team includes SHANE COLEY, Ashley Rheuark & MICHELLE VISCUSI. We are extremely proud to have these highly skilled ambassadors representing GLOCK. Firearms industry icon R. LEE “THE GUNNY” ERMEY served as a GLOCK ambassador for 14 years before his passing in April 2018.
SMYRNA, GA—April 8, 2019—GLOCK, Inc., a leading innovator and global manufacturer of firearms, today announced its new spokesperson—legendary world champion martial artist, actor, producer, philanthropist and entrepreneur Chuck Norris.
6. GLOCK – TFB News
7. GLOCK – TFB Reviews
8. Common Glock Questions
- How Many GLOCKS Are There?
There are more than 50 GLOCK pistols currently in production. Over almost four decades, approximately 100 model and caliber combinations have been produced and sold worldwide.
- What Are The Different Models OF GLOCKS?
See our above listing of the different generations of GLOCK pistols being produced. More information can be found on GLOCK’s website here.
- What Is The Best GLOCK?
The best GLOCK pistol is the one that fits your requirements, is compatible with your “mission” and fits your style of shooting. Customers looking for the smallest pistol may choose the G43, while hunters may opt for a 10mm model and competition shooters may prefer a long slide G17L or G34.
- What GLOCK Is Best For Competition?
Competition shooters may want a longer slide for a more precise sight radius. Certain classes of competitions may allow for the use of optics allowing for the use of GLOCK’s M.O.S. pistols.
- Should I Buy The G17 Or G19?
The G17 sports a slightly larger frame and longer slide in comparison to the G19 compact pistol. Shooters interested in concealed carry may opt for the G19, whereas the G17 may be considered more of a law enforcement “duty” weapon to be worn in a holster outside the waistband.
- Is GLOCK The Most Reliable Handgun?
The term “most reliable” is a very subjective statement, especially when referring to handguns. There are many variables that will determine a weapons reliability including environmental factors, shooting style, maintenance schedules, ammunition makes and types and various aftermarket modifications.
That being said, there are millions of GLOCK pistols deployed in the hands of military, law enforcement and civilian shooters around the world, many of whom choose their GLOCK pistols specifically for their reliable track record over decades of service.
9. GLOCK – Where To Buy
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