Understanding the Glock Legacy
The Glock 19. The very name conjures images of reliability, effectiveness, and widespread adoption. It’s a pistol that has become a modern icon, a staple in law enforcement holsters, and a favorite among civilian shooters worldwide. But when deciding on a Glock 19, one of the first crucial choices is which generation to choose. The Glock 19 Gen 5 and the Glock 19 Gen 4, while similar in many ways, have distinct characteristics that can significantly influence your shooting experience and suitability for your specific needs. This detailed comparison will dive deep into the differences, helping you make an informed decision about which Glock 19 is the best fit for you.
Before we dissect the specifics, it’s important to appreciate the foundation upon which the Glock 19 stands. The Austrian company, Glock, revolutionized the firearms industry with its polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols. The design philosophy emphasized simplicity, durability, and ease of use. Glock pistols are renowned for their minimal parts count, contributing to their legendary reliability and straightforward maintenance. Their commitment to these core principles has made Glock one of the most successful handgun manufacturers globally.
The Glock 19, introduced early in Glock’s history, quickly became a flagship model. Chambered in the ubiquitous nine-millimeter Luger cartridge, it offers a balance of manageable size, sufficient capacity, and effective stopping power. Its versatility made it ideal for concealed carry, home defense, and even competition shooting. Over the years, Glock has refined the design with iterative improvements, leading to the various generations we see today. Each generation represents an evolution, incorporating feedback from users and incorporating technological advancements.
The Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5 represent critical points in this evolution. They’re both robust, reliable handguns, but they incorporate design modifications and manufacturing enhancements that make them unique. Understanding these differences is crucial for prospective buyers.
The Grip and Handling Experience
One of the most noticeable differences between the Gen 5 and the Gen 4 lies in the grip. Glock recognized that the original grip design could be improved, and they implemented significant changes in the Gen 5.
The Gen 4 features a rough, textured grip that’s meant to enhance purchase. This aggressive texture is often praised for providing a secure hold, especially in adverse conditions such as wet or sweaty hands. Some shooters find it effective; however, others, particularly those with sensitive skin or who carry concealed frequently, may find this texture abrasive, leading to discomfort during extended handling or carrying. It’s worth noting that, later in the Gen 4 lifecycle, Glock offered different backstraps to further customize the grip, allowing for slight adjustments in size and feel.
In contrast, the Gen 5 eliminates the finger grooves that were a hallmark of the Gen 4. The finger grooves, while intended to provide a more ergonomic grip, didn’t always fit every hand size perfectly, and some shooters found that they limited the adaptability of the grip. Gen 5’s grip, on the other hand, features a much smoother, yet effectively textured surface. This texture, which Glock calls the “enhanced rough texture,” provides exceptional grip in all conditions without the sharp abrasiveness of the Gen 4’s original design. This smoother texture is a significant advantage for those who prioritize comfortable carry and all-day use. This redesign allows the pistol to more readily settle into a wider variety of hands, making it a more versatile design overall.
Beyond the grip texture, the Gen 5 also boasts a slightly different grip angle. This subtle adjustment further enhances the ergonomics, potentially leading to a more natural point of aim for many shooters. The overall feel of the Gen 5 is generally considered more refined, with a more comfortable and adaptable grip.
The Trigger Mechanism: A Closer Look
The trigger is the interface between the shooter and the pistol, and changes here can profoundly impact performance. The trigger mechanisms are improved in the Gen 5.
The Gen 4 trigger, while functional, is often described as having a slightly gritty feel, a longer reset, and a less defined break. This isn’t to say it’s a bad trigger; it’s simply a more basic design that can take some getting used to. While upgrades can be made with aftermarket parts, the factory trigger often requires more effort to master for consistent accuracy.
The Gen 5, however, features a significantly improved trigger design. The most noticeable difference is a smoother trigger pull, a crisper break, and a shorter reset. The trigger pull on the Gen 5 feels more refined and provides better feedback to the shooter. This refined trigger can directly translate to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots. The enhanced trigger design is a valuable upgrade, particularly for those seeking to maximize their shooting performance. The trigger is typically considered a significant upgrade by many shooters.
Barrel Design Evolution: Glock Marksman Barrel
The barrel is a fundamental component in any firearm, and the Glock 19 Gen 5 incorporates a notable barrel design change.
The Gen 4 utilizes a standard Glock barrel. While reliable, this design doesn’t always maximize the potential accuracy of the pistol. The traditional polygonal rifling used in the Gen 4 is effective but offers a different approach to bullet stabilization.
The Gen 5 introduces the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB). This barrel utilizes traditional lands-and-grooves rifling. This change represents a move towards improved accuracy. The GMB design, combined with a tighter manufacturing process, can lead to tighter groupings and greater consistency in shot placement. This increased accuracy can be particularly beneficial for competition shooters and anyone seeking to maximize their performance.
Magazine Release Refinement: Ambidextrous and Enlarged
Glock recognized the importance of adaptability, particularly for shooters who may be left-handed or want to use the pistol quickly. The Gen 5 features a key upgrade in this area.
The Gen 4’s magazine release is a standard design, located on the left side of the frame. This requires a right-handed shooter to maintain their grip or shift the gun to depress the release.
The Gen 5 addresses this by introducing an ambidextrous magazine release. This is larger and can be easily accessed by both right-handed and left-handed shooters, eliminating the need for a grip shift. This design enhances the pistol’s adaptability and ease of use for a broader range of users. It’s a valuable feature for tactical applications, as it minimizes wasted time during magazine changes.
Slide and Finish: Enhancing Durability
The slide finish is another area where the Gen 5 surpasses the Gen 4.
The Gen 4 typically uses a Melonite finish, which offers a good level of corrosion resistance and durability.
The Gen 5, however, often incorporates a more advanced finish, such as Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating. DLC is a hard, wear-resistant coating that enhances the slide’s durability and protects against scratches and corrosion. This can extend the lifespan of the slide and maintain a sleek appearance even after extensive use. This is a small but important upgrade for anyone looking for a rugged and durable handgun.
Performance Considerations
While the differences discussed above are important, the key factor is the real-world performance. The refinements in the Gen 5 translate to advantages.
Accuracy testing generally reveals improvements in shot groupings and consistency with the GMB. The crisper trigger also contributes to more accurate shooting. The improved grip and overall ergonomics aid in faster follow-up shots.
Recoil management, while primarily dependent on the shooter’s technique and the cartridge, is influenced by the grip design. The Gen 5’s enhanced grip promotes better control during rapid firing.
The reliability of Glock pistols is legendary, and both the Gen 4 and Gen 5 models share this reputation. Both are engineered to function consistently in various conditions, and the inherent simplicity of the design contributes to their durability.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Before making a decision, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each generation is important.
Glock 19 Gen 5
Advantages:
Improved trigger pull and break for better accuracy.
Enhanced grip texture and ergonomics for increased comfort and control.
Glock Marksman Barrel for potentially improved accuracy.
Ambidextrous magazine release for enhanced usability.
More durable slide finish.
Disadvantages:
Can be pricier than the Gen 4.
May not fit some older holsters.
Glock 19 Gen 4
Advantages:
Typically more affordable.
Wide availability of accessories and aftermarket parts.
Familiar design.
Disadvantages:
Less refined trigger.
Grip texture may be less comfortable for some shooters.
Standard barrel may offer slightly less accuracy than the GMB.
Cost and Availability
The price point is usually a factor. The Gen 4 is often available at a lower price point than the Gen 5. Used Glock 19 Gen 4 pistols can also be found at significantly reduced prices. The Gen 5, being the newer model, typically commands a premium, which reflects the upgrades and enhancements. Both models are commonly available for sale, ensuring that you’re sure to be able to find one.
Choosing the Right Pistol: Making the Decision
The choice between the Glock 19 Gen 5 and Gen 4 ultimately depends on your individual priorities and shooting needs.
Consider the type of shooting you’ll be doing. For concealed carry, the Gen 5’s improved grip and smoother texture are a notable advantage for all-day comfort. If you’re seeking the highest level of accuracy and the fastest trigger pull, the Gen 5 is likely the better choice. Competition shooters will definitely benefit from the improved trigger, GMB, and ambidextrous magazine release.
On the other hand, if budget is a primary concern, the Gen 4 offers a reliable and capable pistol at a more accessible price. If you’re already heavily invested in accessories and holsters designed for the Gen 4, this may be a factor in your decision.
Ultimately, it’s ideal to handle both pistols if possible. This will allow you to experience the grip, trigger, and ergonomics firsthand and determine which feels more natural in your hand.
Concluding Thoughts
The Glock 19 Gen 5 and Gen 4 are both excellent handguns, embodying the Glock legacy of reliability and functionality. The Gen 5 represents a significant evolution, incorporating improvements to the trigger, grip, and barrel design. The Gen 4 remains a worthy option, offering a proven platform at a potentially lower price point. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can confidently select the Glock 19 that’s perfectly suited for your needs. Choosing a Glock 19 ensures access to a firearm that is known and trusted.
Additional Resources:
Glock Official Website (for specifications and details)
GunBroker.com (to search and browse various models)
YouTube (for video reviews and comparisons)
Shooting Range nearby (to find a range for test firing)
