Glock 17 vs Glock 19: Comparing Two Iconic Glocks

In the world of handguns, there is no name bigger than Gaston Glock. His first pistol, the Glock 17, changed how we look at handguns with its simplicity and reliability. Then came the Glock 19, a smaller version with the same tough reputation.

These guns didn’t just set new standards. They redefined how handguns were made. They were the first to use plastic frames and had a trigger that didn’t need an external safety. Other manufacturers soon followed suit and released big and small versions of their pistols.

Though they are siblings, G17 and G19 have some differences, making up a separate fanbase for each. They are loved for different reasons. Looking closely at what sets them apart shows why both are so popular with gun owners everywhere.

The Origin Story

Let’s walk you through Glock’s history quickly. Initially inexperienced firearm designers, Gaston Glock succeeded in handgun technology thanks to the Glock 17. The Glock pistols, manufactured from only 34 components, had a polymer frame, a striker-fired action, and a double-stack magazine, and it became the new standard for simplicity, reliability, and capacity in handguns.

After the Glock 17 was released, Glock rolled out the Glock 19 model. This compact iteration retains the original’s cutting-edge features and improves its portability and flexibility with added options. The two designs played a significant role in developing contemporary handgun design, being the first models to push the manufacturers toward using polymer frames, striker firing systems, and ergonomic design.

At this moment, the Glock 17 and Glock 19 still occupy the same place in the minds of firearms enthusiasts and pros alike and have become symbolic of the perfect fusion of Gaston Glock’s ideas of effective, reliable, and versatile guns.

Specifications of Glock 17 vs. Glock 19

Glock 17 Gen 5 vs. Glock 19 Gen 5: Non-Feature Differences

Glock 17 & Glock 19 are different models of the same design concept. Their operation and parts interchangeability are similar, which speaks about their common roots. The Glock 19 was first introduced in 1988 as a compact version of the Glock 17. It quickly became popular among military personnel and police forces due to its small size and reliability.

The Glock 19 has a barrel and grip that are slightly shorter. Hence, it can hold a maximum of 15 rounds instead of the Glock 17’s 17 rounds, but baseplates accommodate larger hands. The baseplates are also used to expand magazine compatibility; thus, while the Glock 19 cannot accept shorter truncations of the Glock 17, the opposite is true.

Though compact, the Glock 19 still has the same reliability and toughness as the bigger models, so it is popular for concealed carry and tactical roles. Its multifunctional nature has made it popular among the U.S. Special Operations Forces, who appreciate its flexibility and have given it advanced versions, such as the Glock 19 Gen4 MOS, for specialized operations.

When the U.S. military looked for a replacement for the Beretta M9 through the XM17 Modular Handgun System competition in 2015, Glock introduced a unique contender: the Glock 19X. This model combined the compact slide and barrel of the Glock 19 with the larger frame of the Glock 17—a modification that many Glock fans often make. The 19X had a unique color tan finish.

Though Glock had the most innovative design, the M17 pistol upshot selected the SIG Sauer P320 and took the military contract. Nevertheless, Glock scaled the Glock 19X to commercial sale without the manual safety that the military required. This model gave rise to a series of handguns, including the Glock 43X and Glock 45, called “crossover” models with more extended grips and shorter slides that meet different shooting preferences and needs in the civilian market.

Glock 17 vs. Glock 19: Features

Here’s a detailed comparison of the Glock 17 vs Glock 19 in terms of protective coatings, striker action, polymer frame, build material, motion action, and safety features:

Protective Coatings

The Glock 17 usually comes with a Glock’s patented slide and barrel coating to propel its top-notch durability. Glock’s Tenifer is a type of chemical treatment that increases the surface hardness of the steel so that it remains corrosion-resistant and durable even under heavy use. Likewise, the Glock 19 also has the same Tenifer finish, which makes it future-proof from environmental elements, ensuring the reliability and long life of the pistol.

Striker Action

Both Glock 9mm pistols are fitted with Glock’s striker-fired action. This system does not require an external hammer and uses a striker’s pre-set mechanism to ensure a uniform trigger pull for every shot. The striker-fired action is a significant factor in pistols’ reliability, ease of use, and short trigger reset, which allows shooting quickly.

Polymer Frame

The polymer frame is the main reason for Glock’s success in the handgun field. The models are made of a light yet tough polymer housing that is safe from chemical, physical, and environmental effects. High-impact strength of materials is required for some applications. This is a highly efficient way to build lightweight pistols for long-term use. They can withstand loads without being affected by external forces or wear and tear (when it comes to mechanical systems).

Build Material

Glock pistols are constructed by combining polymer frames with a hardened steel slide and barrel. A flexible polymer frame dissipates energy while ensuring the steel elements maintain a firearm’s structural integrity and reliability. The pistols are made from improved materials that increase durability and emphasize the weapon’s agility and endurance.

Motion Action

Both pistols have a smooth and steady slide action. This configuration allows you to shoot on target without problems and ensures the gun functions appropriately without glitches. The slide’s movement is designed to reduce friction and resistance, contributing to the pistols’ ease of maintenance and reliability.

Safety

Glock pistols are characterized by their highly comprehensive internal safety features. They have no manual thumb safety lever. Instead, they require several passive safety mechanisms to function. Among them are the trigger safety, activated only when the trigger is pressed intentionally, a firing pin safety to block the firing pin from moving forward unintentionally, and a drop safety that prevents the pistol from discharging if it is dropped. These features not only promote safe handling but also avoid any unintended shooting during both carrying and use

Which One is Better?

The choice between the Glock 17 and the Glock 19 is a matter of people’s personal preferences, considering the purpose and specialty of the weapon. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Glock G17

Advantages:

• Larger size provides better grip for those with larger hands.
• Longer barrel contributes to higher accuracy at longer distances.
• Higher magazine capacity (typically 17 rounds) is advantageous in duty or competitive shooting scenarios.
• Generally preferred by law enforcement and military due to its full-size frame and higher capacity.

Considerations:

• Larger sizes may be less comfortable for concealed carry.
• Heavier weight may be less desirable for those who prioritize lightweight firearms.
• Longer barrel and grip may hinder concealability and maneuverability in certain situations.

Glock 19

Advantages:

• Compact size makes it easier to conceal carry.
• Shorter barrel and grip enhance maneuverability and comfort for daily carry.
• Adequate magazine capacity (typically 15 rounds) balances between concealability and firepower.
• Versatile for both self-defense and everyday use.

Considerations:

• Smaller grip may be less comfortable for shooters with larger hands.
• Shorter sight radius might slightly reduce accuracy at longer distances compared to the Glock 17.
• Limited to slightly fewer rounds in the magazine compared to the Glock 17.

When making a better decision, consider your particular needs. If you value capacity, accuracy at longer ranges, or duty use, the Glock 17 could be a better pick. However, for those who are into concealability, comfort during carry, or versatility for both defensive and everyday scenarios, the Glock 19 should be their preferred option. Both types have Glock’s authority in sturdiness, durability, and ease of use. Thus, a buyer is guaranteed a reliable gun that can handle various situations no matter what is picked.

FAQs

Q. How much is a Glock 19?

Depending on the region and specific model, a new Glock 19 typically costs between $500 and $600.

Q. Where are Glocks made?

Glocks are manufactured in Austria by Glock GmbH, and some models are also produced in the United States at the Glock, Inc. facility in Georgia.

Q. How did Lock, Shock, and Barrel die?

Lock, Shock, and Barrel, characters from “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” do not die in the traditional sense. They are trick-or-treaters who serve Oogie Boogie and have misadventures throughout the film, but their fate isn’t death but fleeing after Oogie’s demise.