Understanding the Backstrap Design
What are Backstraps?
The Glock 17, a name synonymous with reliability and enduring popularity in the world of firearms. For law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike, the Glock 17 holds a revered position, celebrated for its dependability, straightforward design, and ease of use. This versatile handgun continues to be a go-to choice for personal protection and competitive shooting. But what often sets the Glock 17 apart is its ability to be tailored to fit the individual shooter’s hand, and a key element in this customization is the backstrap. This is where the Glock 17 Gen 5 backstraps come into play, offering shooters the chance to fine-tune their grip and optimize their experience with this iconic pistol.
The Glock 17 Gen 5 takes customization to the next level. While previous generations were known for their simple, rugged designs, the Gen 5 models introduced the innovative interchangeable backstrap system. This design change allows shooters to select from a range of backstrap sizes, directly impacting how the pistol feels in their hand.
At its core, the backstrap is the portion of the grip that sits against the palm of the hand. The Gen 5 comes standard with three backstrap options, each altering the distance from the trigger to the back of the grip: one without a backstrap installed (often referred to as a flat configuration), a small backstrap, and a large backstrap. The backstraps attach easily to the frame, locking securely into place to create a solid and reliable grip surface. This flexibility ensures that a wider variety of hand sizes and grip preferences can be accommodated, offering a truly personalized shooting experience.
The Gen 5 backstraps are crafted from a durable polymer material, often similar to the polymer used for the frame of the Glock itself. This choice of material ensures longevity and resistance to wear and tear, so you can expect your chosen backstrap to hold up through countless range sessions and years of use. The backstraps themselves are also designed with a beavertail, providing an added layer of safety and comfort by preventing the shooter’s hand from riding too high on the grip and potentially being exposed to slide bite.
The Advantageous Aspects of Backstraps
Using backstraps on your Glock 17 Gen 5 offers a multitude of advantages, leading to improved performance and overall satisfaction. The most notable is the improvement in grip and ergonomics. Every shooter’s hand is different, and the ability to tailor the grip to your specific hand size can make a world of difference.
A well-fitting grip is more comfortable, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. A better grip enhances your connection with the pistol, allowing for a more natural and intuitive shooting experience. It prevents the grip from moving around in your hand, which improves overall handling and control.
Enhanced Control and Accuracy
Another significant benefit is enhanced control and accuracy. When your hand fits the grip properly, you’ll be able to manage recoil more effectively. This will result in quicker follow-up shots and tighter groupings on target. Recoil, the backward movement of the gun after firing, can disrupt your aim. Backstraps give you a more secure and consistent grip, reducing muzzle rise and allowing for faster target reacquisition. This translates directly into better shot placement and overall accuracy.
Ultimately, backstraps contribute to better shooting performance in both practical and competitive scenarios.
Customization and Personalization
Customization and personalization is another key element. The Glock 17 is known for its simplicity, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be personalized to fit your needs and wants. The backstrap is one of the easiest ways to make your Glock 17 Gen 5 feel like it was made just for you. The ability to tailor your pistol to your specific hand size, grip style, and preference is essential. This customization isn’t just about comfort. It can also build confidence in your shooting abilities, which directly affects your performance.
Choosing the Right Backstrap for You
Finding the perfect backstrap can be a game-changer for your shooting experience. Understanding how to determine the best backstrap size for your hand is crucial. This process starts with understanding your hand size. You can measure your hand to get a general idea, but the best approach is to test different sizes.
The key to finding the right backstrap is to determine which one provides the most comfortable and secure grip. Hold the Glock 17 Gen 5 in your shooting grip with no backstrap installed. If you feel a gap between the back of the grip and the palm of your hand, you might benefit from adding a backstrap.
Try the small and large backstraps, paying close attention to how they feel in your hand. Does the grip feel too loose or too tight? Are you able to reach the trigger comfortably, without overextending your finger? This will lead you to the right choice.
The goal is to get a firm grip without straining. If you find that the trigger feels too far away with the large backstrap, try the small one. If your hand feels cramped with the small backstrap, the large one might be a better option.
Ideally, you will have a chance to test different backstraps before committing to one. Ideally, try each backstrap size at the range. This will give you the best sense of how each backstrap feels during live fire.
The Installation Process
Installing and removing backstraps on the Glock 17 Gen 5 is a simple process. The key is to proceed with caution, and always ensure the firearm is unloaded before working on it. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Begin by making absolutely certain that your Glock 17 Gen 5 is unloaded. Remove the magazine and visually inspect the chamber to confirm that there’s no round present. Once you’re sure the pistol is safe, you can begin the process of swapping backstraps.
If your Glock is currently fitted with a backstrap, you may need to use a provided pin punch tool to remove it. You will see a small pin inside the frame, that you will push out. The backstrap will then be disengaged.
To install a new backstrap, align it with the frame and push it into place. Ensure it clicks securely into position, then reinsert the pin to hold it in place.
If you are using the flat configuration, you can simply use your hands to remove the existing backstrap. It just pops out. Then, you will repeat the same action when adding your chosen backstrap.
As a safety precaution, double-check that the backstrap is properly seated and securely locked into place before firing.
Aftermarket Options to Consider
Beyond the factory-provided backstraps, there are also aftermarket choices to consider. These options may include additional backstrap sizes or backstraps with different textures or grip patterns. While the factory-provided backstraps cover the majority of hand sizes, these additional offerings can enhance the fit or feel. The goal should be to enhance the shooting experience and to achieve this, different textures and profiles might provide the perfect feel for some shooters.
It’s important to note that you might have to consider any additional compatibility issues. As with any accessory, it’s important to consider how it will affect the pistol. If you use a holster, make sure that the backstrap you choose doesn’t interfere with its function.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once you have your chosen backstrap installed, proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity and performance. The backstrap itself doesn’t require much special attention. The same cleaning routine that you apply to your Glock 17 can also be applied to the backstraps. This will include wiping down the grip with a clean cloth and, if necessary, using a mild cleaning solution to remove any dirt or debris.
It is also advisable to regularly inspect the backstrap for wear and tear. This is especially important if the pistol is used extensively. Any cracks or damage to the backstrap will impact its ability to provide a secure grip and may affect its effectiveness. Should any wear be observed, you should consider replacing the backstrap.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Glock 17 Gen 5 backstraps offer a simple yet effective method for customizing the fit and feel of your pistol, leading to better grip, comfort, and ultimately, improved shooting performance. This small change can have a significant impact on your experience with the Glock 17 Gen 5. The interchangeable backstrap system is a testament to the Glock’s adaptability and user-friendliness. By understanding how these backstraps work and selecting the right one for your hand, you can unlock the full potential of your Glock 17 Gen 5. Take some time to experiment with the backstraps and find the perfect fit.
The path to accuracy is not always about the perfect piece of equipment, but also about the correct fit.
So, try out the different backstraps at your local gun store or range. The more comfortable your grip, the better you’ll shoot. The Glock 17 Gen 5 backstraps are an essential tool for optimizing your shooting experience. Find the right backstrap for you, and you will see a marked improvement in your ability to handle and shoot your Glock 17 Gen 5.
Your journey to better shooting starts with the right fit.
