  The Gen 4 (Glock 35 Gen 4 bottom, next to Gen 3 Glock 35, above) has added a new twist to the Glock pistol line. Notice the duller look of the newer finish for Glock pistols on the Gen 4 pistol.
 The new grip texture of the Gen 4 (bottom) compared to the Gen 3 (top). You can also see the larger mag release on the Gen 4.
 The Gen 4 grip with the medium back strap attached has the same grip profile as the Gen 3 standard grip.
 Gen 3 Magazine (left) compared to the Gen 4 Mag (right). The Gen 4 magazine has cuts on both sides of the magazine body for the magazine release to be reversed for left handed shooters.
 The recoil assembly of the Gen 4 guns (left) is much larger than the earlier Gen 3 recoil assembly (right). I believe this is the single most significant improvement in the Gen 4 design.
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Glock
https://www.glock.com
The Glock Gen 4…
Is it Really an Improved Version of “Glock Perfection”?
Well, we’ve all seen the commotion about Glock’s new “Gen 4” version of their line of pistols. Some like it, some, well let’s just say aren’t jumping for joy. That shouldn’t be a surprise. Whenever a tried and true model gets an update, everyone wants to know how you improve on something that already works pretty well as is.
If you have an earlier model, we need to ask ourselves, “In today’s economy, is this really worth putting my hard earned money into?”
The Gen 4:
About a year ago, Glock launched what has now been dubbed the “Gen 4” version of their pistols. It started in the full-size 9mm and .40 S&W pistols (Model 17 and 22), and has since progressed into the compact (19 and 23), the subcompact (G26 and 27) and now into the “Practical Tactical” models (35 & 34).
This new version of the Glock line has been both lauded by some, or “poo-poo’ed” by others, based on their viewpoints, and the early performance of the pistols. The new Gen 4 pistols have a plethora of new goodies, such as new grip texturing, multiple back straps to adapt to different hand sizes, a new recoil system, and an enlarged / reversible magazine release for left handed shooters.
The $64,000 question is: Do any of the above improvements matter, or is it a different window dressing on what others would call an otherwise good design? I tried to answer the question by looking at two different Generations of the same pistol. I have a Gen 3 Glock 35 in .40 S&W, and recently purchased a Gen 4 G35 for my duty rig. I’ve also had the pleasure of shooting the Gen 3 Glock 22 (I carried one on duty for over 10 years) and Gen 4 of the same gun.
Did I waste my money on my new G35? Let’s find out…
The Gripping Texture
The newer texture of the Gen 4 is made up of “Polymids” as Glock calls them. They are small 4-sided pyramid-like shapes with a flat top. These do increase how it sticks to your hands, but is not nearly as aggressive as the early RTF-2 frames of a few years back. I have had some of my friends complain about the older RTF-2 texture as it would tear up clothing during concealed carry, and some did not like the aggressive feel.
However, that being said, I never really had a problem with the original Gen 3 design. I did know people who would put skateboard tape on their grips for added traction, but I never saw the need for it. I work in a bay-marine environment, and have spent many nights out in snotty weather; in that time I never lost hold of my Glock…
However, if you want something with a little more “traction”, then the Gen 4 frame is an improvement, no doubt.
Multiple Backstraps
The one incorporation that I thought really indicated Glock was adapting to a changing landscape in the handgun market, was the MBS – Multiple Back Strap system. Manufacturers such as Walther and HK have already used a system that had multiple back straps to adapt a gun to better fit your hand. Then along came the Smith and Wesson M&P with whole grip panels. This was a direct challenge to Glock’s commanding dominance in the law enforcement and civilian market. I was hearing a lot of chatter from agencies looking at guns like the M&P to replace their “one size fits all” Glocks, and civilians who weren’t already locked into the Glock were flocking to look at the M&P.
Sure enough, Glock responded to this with the MBS. Unlike many of the current back strap systems out there, the Glock is a hollow plate that snaps over the rear of the grip. The un-altered grip is a tad slimmer than the original Glock grip, then the “medium” back strap insert is the equivalent of your standard Glock 17/22. The large gives those with bigger mitts a more natural amount to grip, so you don’t feel like you’re holding your kids squirtgun.
The only fault I see with this system is that the back strap inserts seem hollow, and frankly, a little flimsy. That being said, I’ve carried the Gen 4 G35 with the medium MBS in, and it hasn’t failed me yet, so I may very well be wrong.
If the one-size-fits-all Glock grip doesn’t work for you, then the MBS is a vast improvement. If you like the Gen 3 grip size already, then it’s pretty ho-hum.
Recoil System:
OK, if you see anything about this new Generation 4 that is a dramatic change, it’s the new recoil system. In the Gen 1 – Gen 3 models, Glock used the same recoil spring / guide rod for 9mm, .40 S&W, and the .357 Sig guns. While Glock .40’s lasted, far longer than I expected with that system, it made for a very snappy recoil. So much so that even I started feeling it after a full day of shooting. It was also rough on the guns.
There was a related problem with guns with lights mounted. We found we had to re-spring the entire gun and rebuild all the magazines to get the system to work reliably. In addition we were advised by Glock personnel to replace recoil springs at the 1500-2000 round mark.
I personally believe the Gen 4 guns were looked at from the ground up to deal with the higher pressure .40 S&W, the meat and potatoes of the Law Enforcement market. The new recoil system uses a multi-spring assembly similar to what we see used on the mini-Glocks, the G26 and G27. What it looks like, however, is far less important than what it does.
The new system effectively tamed the snappiness of the .40 S&W. It isn’t necessarily less recoil; it just feels different. Instead of the snap up you’re used to, the recoil feels much more like it’s directed straight back with far, far less muzzle rise. This was not as pronounced in the long-slide G35’s, but was very evident in the Glock 22 Gen 4 I tried. I was able to make easy “triple taps” with the Gen 4 G22, whereas this was far from easy to do accurately in my old issue Gen 3.
This translates into much easier follow up shots, and a gun that is much more fun to shoot. It also makes for a gun that isn’t nearly as battered from recoil, and thus should have a longer service life. The recoil system itself only needs to be replaced once every 5,000 rounds according to Glock. That’s less parts you have to buy and keep on hand. Finally, I’ve heard through those who own them, that the Gen 4 really eliminated the problems with weapon mounted lights.
You can argue that some of the earlier changes were purely cosmetic, but the new recoil system is a true game changer in my humble opinion, and represents a true improvement in the design. Unfortunately, this new spring system is big enough that it will not work in the Gen 3 guns because areas on both the frame and the slide needed to be re-designed to allow for the new recoil assembly. Now, if I were an enterprising engineer, I’d come up with a retrofit kit for the Gen 3…
The other down side is that while this system was made for the .40 S&W and .357 Sig guns, the 9mm needed a little tweaking. The 9mm has less momentum in recoil, and the same springs didn’t work for both the hotter calibers and the easier 9mm. Glock has corrected this with springs specific to the 9mm guns.
Magazine Release:
One argument I hear from people on the Glock is that it isn’t friendly for lefties. I can argue the slide lock is not really necessary as the proper way to chamber a round is by racking the slide fully to the rear and letting it go forward under the full weight of the spring. I can’t argue that there was nothing to be done with the magazine release as lefties were stuck with using their trigger finger, or some other such adaptation that is less than ideal.
No more. The Gen 4’s magazine release is much larger, and fully reversible to adapt to you lefties out there. The button itself is probably 2-3 times larger in surface area, and pushes in easily. The only hitch is that only newly manufactured magazines with the ambi-cut will work in the new Gen 4’s if the gun has been switched to work for left-handed shooters. So if you’re a left-handed shooter who’s stockpiled a bunch of older magazines, you’re out of luck.
The Final Word.
So is one better than the other? The answer is pretty much: That depends on you. If you never liked the snappy recoil of the .40, needed to adapt the gun to fit your hand because it just wasn’t quite right, or were a lefty who hated using the standard Glock mag release, then this gun can address your concerns solidly. If, however, the Gen 3 always worked for you; then maybe it’s just not a big deal. Personally, I like the feel and function of the Gen 4 just a bit more than the Gen 3 with my Glock 35. I also like the dull finish of the newer Glocks, it just looks more business like.
The good news is that Glock will continue to build the Gen 3 guns for people who live in states like California, where new gun designs are so restricted that only earlier versions will make it to dealer shelves, or who are happy with the Gen 3.
I would also argue that 9mm was the caliber the Glock 17 was made for. The first through 3rd generation have worked very well in 9mm, and lasted close to forever. I would almost prefer the 9mm in that proven platform. That’s just my personal preference, and I may be proven wrong over time as the Gen 4 guns in 9mm gain experience.
Regardless, Glock seems to have answered it’s critics with the Gen 4. It adapts to different shooters, tames the .40 S&W, and is an evolutionary development of the proven Glock platform
Glock
https://www.glock.com
I don’t pretend to be a Glock expert but I bought a new Gen3 M 26 a few years ago and it came with the Gen 4 recoil rod. I suppose that means I can put in a heavier one if I decide to. What’s the most practical spring weight when using over the counter ammo?
Airborne!
Gen 4 not better than Gen 3 would choose Gen 3 over Gen 3 over any day of the week. But again this is a personal preference and there’s no real right or wrong answer.
I picked up a Glock 17, Gen 3 recently via private sale. It had a stainless guide rod with what felt like a heavier spring weight. It began to stove pipe resulting in a double feed. I replaced it with a standard Glock guide rod and spring, got an enlarged slide release and things seem to run fine now (200 trouble free rounds today). Have I solved my problem or should I look deeper?
Thanks in advance,
Old Cop
LEO Ret.)
Steel guide rod helps eliminate limp wristing and reduced muzzle rise and apparently factory one was bad?
Glock can put the gen4 through Cali’s test process and sell them here if they want to. Considering the likely sales volume generated by Cali’s 40 million people, $30,000 is peanuts.
I say let Cali Drop into the sea where they all belong!! starve them out of all guns, including LEO’s. The only way that things will change there.
Hello! I could have sworn I’ve been to this
blog before but after checking through some of the post I realized it’s new
to me. Anyways, I’m definitely happy I found it and
I’ll be book-marking and checking back frequently!
Does the gen3 clock 22 mags fits the gen4 ??
I bought a Glock in 40 S&W years ago. Back when I bought it, knew nothing about Glock. It was the first .40 S&W weapon I ever owned. Took it to the range and thought it was the most uncontrollable weapon I had ever handled. Took it home, cleaned it, put it in an add for $200 and the first guy that came to look at it nearly drooled on the plastic case, we both thought the other was crazy. I had lots of Glock owners tell me what I needed to do with the weapon. My opinion was, rather than spend another $1000 to make it controllable, I just would not buy another. To this day, I have not and that was over 20 years and many, many weapons ago. However, many of the folks I shoot with think that Glock is just the moon and then some. I wonder, if you have small hands, has the gen 4 fixed the problem of the weapon wanting to twist in your hand so badly. I shoot mostly .45 ACP, but also regularly shoot one of my wife’s Sigs in 9mm. I would like a little more oomph than 9mm, and have been considering .40 S&W. Should I go look at Glock again or if I take it to the range will I be looking, on the second round, at the wrong end of the barrel? I am not new to shooting. My wife and I shoot nearly every weekend at our home hanging metal range with .45 or 9mm and target range with .22 (when it is available in bulk supply). We own and shoot a broad range of weapons. I carry either a Baby Desert Eagle (original) in .45 ACP or an SA XDS in .45 ACP, or occasionally a Colt Defender in .45 ACP. These are the “usual” weapons I would compare a Glock with if I bought one.
I just bought my 1st Glock, a Gen 4 .40 model 23. I wasn’t able to handle one until it arrived. One reason I purchased it is it’s more lefty friendly. I immediately had to switch the mag release because I have short thumbs, and the position of the release had me having to cock the gun over a bit. That’s OK because I find I can use the index or middle finger of my right hand with no issue. I’m left handed, but shoot right hand. I do occasionally shoot left handed just in case I have a need if my right arm is incapacitated.
My prior defense gun was a Walther P99. I liked the gun, but for some odd reason, the had a very small trigger guard and my finger JUST fit in it. I liked Walt her’s mag release much, much better than Glock’s. I also liked the de-cocking feature, and I could also tell if I had a round chambered while the gun was in my holster.
I bought my butt ugly Glock because of their history of reliability. After reading some of the comments, you guys have me a little nervous whether I made a good purchase or not. Please tell me I didn’t spend my hard earned money on a Gen 4 that is lesser quality than Glock’s of the past.
I recently purchased the Gen 4 Glock 19. I have always passed on Glock’s in the past because the front sight likes to tip up in the air when I grip the pistol. I have always wanted a Glock but because of the grip angle I never purchased one. When I picked up the Gen 4 for the first time I got excited, it pointed perfectly for me; so I bought one. I have had no issues with the pistol at all, not even with Winchester white box. I love the way it shoots and it is very accurate. I will own this pistol until the day I die, I don’t just love it, I am in love with it.
Get a room hahahahah. i understand they is sweeties.
Great article that answered a lot of my questions in a very timely manner. Will be getting a Glock 35 Gen 4 tomorrow. THX.
I have the Glock 21 the big daddy 45 ACP in the Gen4. Fabulous gun. Light recoil. I got it after Glock worked the bugs out of the spring and it is sensational. Accurate. Ejection was a little problematic at the outset with a few rounds going left but that stopped. It is all business. Dull finish and the 3 mags that came with it were selling points. The safeties do not impress me. Any kid can fire this gun so I keep it out of reach of little hands. I intend to keep this gun for a long time. I have a 9MM Browning Hi Power that kicks more than this gun. I paid almost 600.00 but with the threat of new gun laws coming I was willing to pay for it. Some retailers are swiping a mag out of the box and selling it with only two mags. Not cool. Always check the retailer out for return policies and
length of time in business as well as BBB reputation. Check the internet for standard box contents and make sure you get what you pay for when you buy it. If I had to say there is a negative it is the weight of a box of .45s. These babies are heavy, especially 100 round boxes. BUT, they really tear it up at the range or in the open field.
I searched this page for “safety” and found nothing. A shame. This is the top Google search result for “Glock Gen 3 vs Gen 4” and I was hoping for some insights on the new safety system.
can you add a new gen 4 #23 barrel, slide ,and springs and shoot it safely in a gen 3 model #19?
I have found out you cant. gen 1, 2, and 3 will interchange, but gen 4 is gen 4 only..
I think the g4 is an improvement.When you buy a new gen4 I recommend breaking in with heavy grain ammo, dont limp wrist and definetly clean it and lube it first like you should anyway. I was getting brass in face only on the first range visit. Once the extractor was broken in,perfection.
Two questions from an unsophisticated Glock 1st Gen user (M19):
1. Are the new Gen3 / Gen4 magazines backwards compatible for the old Gen1 M19?
2. I have read that the 5.5 lb. connector on the old Glock 19 is not reliable and should be replaced with an 8 lb unit. True or False?
3. I have considered an SF Glock .45 ACP, because my hands are small. Are the SF magazines compatible with older larger-frame .45’s? (I’m thinking especially of the M22).
Thanks for any knowledgeable input — I am no Glock expert by a long shot, so educated comments would be much appreciated. Many Thanks in Advance! Buffalochip1
Hello Glock Lovers,
I’m glad I came across this forum. It’s a great article, thanks. I must put my review in now because I just picked up a Gen4 Glock 22. I need to say that I am impressed by the new GEN4 upon my first shoot. I can see and feel the difference when compared to my old GEN2.
First, I noticed that the GEN4 had less muzzle rise and kick due to the spring. This was a big deal when placing groups on the target. It appears I’m more accurate with the GEN4 because of it.
Second, this Gen4 now works well for me in a modified weaver stance. I just want to bring the thing up at about 8-12 inches away from my nose to sight the thing in. Has Glock now made this 22 even more tactical now? It seems like it.
Third, I like the new polymid grip. It fits well in my hand. I think the grip is fine as it is stock. No need for modification.
Fourth, I need to state that I was anticipating the shot and even limp-wristing the new 22 and I couldn’t believe what the turn-out was. All my shots went on the paper and I was able to group at will. A few shots went out of the groupings by about two inches and that was about it. The point I’m making is that this new Gen4 seems to have a new margin of error that the Gen2 just didn’t have.
What do you guys think about this?
I have only owned the new 19 gen 4. I can say that all guns fit different in a persons hands. Becoming familiar as to how and where the gun shoots, is critical. Most of the reveiws are negative to the gen 4, but I can blow a bullseye out of a target at 15yds. No malfunctions yet with cheapy plinking rounds. Trial and error, I will only need one shot!
Seems to me, as far as the recoil system goes, or rather the recoil spring, as that’s about all there is to this so-called recoil system, GLOCK could have simply made a different spring or made a dual recoil spring for the Gen. 3’s as they did for the Gen. 4’s. Truth is, and maybe I don’t read enough or never read about it, but up until now, I’ve never heard anyone complain about the recoil of the GLOCK in .40S&lW; From the M35 or any other GLOCK for that matter. Besides, it’s nothing a new steal or titanium guide rod and spring system wouldn’t have resolved nor is it one a slightly heavier spring might not have resolved.
And if you couldn’t or can’t handle the recoil of the .40S&W after a day at the range, I sure hope you then don’t own a 1911. Or anything else chambered in .45acp for that matter. lol
But for me, I think the main reason GLOCK came out with the Gen. 4 and the “changes” or “differences” it has compared to the Gen. 3’s is and was to… 1.) mainly bring something new to the market and 2.) to bring something to market to be more similar to, well, at least certain things to be similar to (like the ability to change out the grip strap and the as you put it, more business look finish in order to help it to compete better with the XD’s and M&P’s from it’s competition who have finally started making a dent or if you prefer, taking a bite out of their profit margin, from the LE market that GLOCK for quite sometime has had a solid grip on (pun intended).
And yes, I’m of the prefer the Gen. 3 if it aint broke don’t fix it group. Why I purchased a Gen. 3 Model 21 and why. But then also, on a side note, I and my Gen. 3 Model 35 always have and always will be able to handle the “snap” from the recoil of the .40S&W. It’s why I came to love the .40S&W to begin with. I mean, if I wanted wimpy recoil I’d of just gotten something in .22. 🙂
And I’m sorry, whenever I shoot bad with a gun I don’t blame it on the so-called “grip angle” of the gun. I admit I had a bad day and shot like crap or that I can’t shoot well with or didn’t, don’t or can’t shoot well with the/a specific rifle or handgun. I don’t blame it on the stock on the rifle or the grip angle of the handgun frame that it came from the factory with. lol
But if there is anything to this “grip angle”, I sure as hell haven’t noticed it. Nor have I heard any of the very many LEO’s that have and use GLOCKS, both on and off duty, complain or have an issue with the so-called “grip angle” . Personally, I think it’s all in one’s head. lol
*steel not steal. Caught it too late. lol
And by steel I meant/mean stainless steel.
I spent several years in the Philippines and purchased a glock 27 to carry as a backup in a SOB holster. It was a gen 3 and marked “Glock USA”. It was my first Glock and after being a glock hater for years I loved it after the first day at the range. I was not able to bring it back to the states with me this spring, so when i came home I ordered a glock 23 gen 4. I figured that an Austria made firearm might be even better than the US made one. After unboxing I can’t say that i am impressed. The trigger feels all wrong, heavy, creepy. I dont know what to do with it. My gen 3 was gtg out of the box and I changed out some parts that i ordered from the states like an ext mag release and takedown lever and slide release but I did not touch the factory trigger. I wonder what Glcok USA sent out in gen 3 glock 27s? Surely not a 3.5lb right? My first “fix” attempt will be to run a thousand or so dry fires with some snap caps, then put in the -.5lb competition spring and see if it helps. If not then should i just take everything out and polish/sand all contacting surfaces within the trigger group and striker? I just wish i had my old gen 3 trigger back. Not to light, not to heavy, just right.
Bought a Glock 17 Gen 3 several months ago. I wasn’t sure about it at first. It was blocky looking, didn’t have the heft and feel of my Baretta M9. I have small hands but the grip and angle were very easy to get used to. Now the Baretta stays at home most of the time and the Glock goes to the range. Probably trade the M9 for another Glock.
my m9 went away.the gen4 without backstraps is a smaller grip than the g3. When you trade in look into a g36 gen3 or a gen 4 -19. I have been when you are I think.
I have 4 Glock Gen4 guns. G19, 22, 34, 35. And I have had absolutely no problems with any of them. I did replace the recoil springs on the G22 and G34 but only because I wanted to be sure that I had a compliant gun. Over the past few months I have shot over 2000+ rounds through these guns with absolutely no problems.
To be fair I have never owned a Gen 3 simply rented a few to use on the range. So comparing the Gen4 and Gen3 is probably not for me.
In any case I love my Glock Gen4’s. They are fun to shoot and works as advertised.
Thanks for the update! I am buying a 26 and was wondering whether to shell out the extra for the G4 or just go with the G3. Very good information and comments. Thanks for taking the time to write up. Love my 17 so looking forward to the 26.
Thanks all for the great information.
I was debating about a used gen 3 or new gen 4 Glock 35 and after reading all the replies here have purchased on the Gen 3!
Thanks!!!!
Well I own several GLOCKs , my latest happens to be the G21 Gen 4 and first off the backstraps, I will not use them due to the size of my hands, the G21 gen 4 feels rather nice in my opinion in my hands anyways..But for those of you with a larger grip swell they may be added comfort.As for quality of the Gen 4’s , a couple of you are saying the quality has fallen..that’s just not true sorry . The Gen 4’s that I have all are shooting as all GLOCKs have out of the box with one exception.Less felt recoil and better target acquisition. Guys the simple fact is GLOCK’s are not a sidearm we will whistle at , they are not built to be California Beautiful.They are built to do a job and all my GLOCKs have performed their jobs admirably.As for the latest finish..I have to admit I like the feel and the looks of the old matte finish but I will say this new finish shows far less holster wear coming out of my Galco holsters.Glock needs to address the issue of their sights..But that’s easy enough as well to take care of aftermarket wise.
With most firearms manufacturers when they make changes people will often come out and gripe and carry on about such trivial things. What matters most to me is I can point and pull that trigger and that bullet ends up where I want it without any jams or issues that cost me range time or that could put my life on the line.No GLOCK has failed me yet.And all 5 of my Gen 4’s have done extremely well.If it’s a GLOCK I am satisfied..As long as it’s NOT and LE trade in that is 😛
Based on what I’ve read, I feel that the Glock 23 Gen 3 is better suited for me. Not sure what the cost difference is. I believe the Gen 4 is better suited for lefties tan right handers. I’ll stick with my reliable 23 Gen 3. After all, the fact of the matter remains is that it’s a Glock, and that’s all that matters…….
Glock recall on recoil springs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=70JJn5fEfcU&feature=related
I forgot to mention the new mag release button, sticks right into your flesh if your right handed, and carry Strong Side 3oclock to 4 oclock. Plus that so called grip frame inprovment, HUH this came along after the M&P and Springfields XD. Glock got scarred, when people started buying the adjustable frame guns for men and women with smaller hands. Hints the SF models Short Frame, or Slim Frame models. Then the 36. The problem with Glocks effort to improve opon Glocks original design , was a after thought at best!! You have to push a role pin out just to change the inserts, thats no changing at range between shooters. And we know how many Law Enforcment Agents and Military Personal that carry role pin punchs in the field.LOL Plus no matter which insert you put in, the frame fills the same. Im pretty sure my Gen 2 G23 in 40S&W without fingergroves has the smallest frame out all the doublestack 40 cal guns!! Just Google Glock GEN 4 Failure videos, lots more every day pop up. Im just giving my Honest Opinion, buts theres alot of people all over the world that are sayin the same things!! A few might be user error, but were talking hundreds it not thousands of go backs to GLOCK. I called Glock just to see if I can get my Gen 2 G23 refinished. They said there so backed up, it could be months to get it back.WOW!! Good thing our Gunsmiths Certified Seracoater (hope i spelt that correctly)Lol. Just go to a store and put the Gen 4 in your hands, eject a mag, work the slide. Then due the same with the Gen 3, at the same time. And remember you may have to deppend on it with your life in ballance!
Ok thankyou for putting up my reply than yanking it down!!!! To answer your question, NO Glock didnt pay for there SO CALLED REVEIW, but lets face it, you guys SELL GUNS, DUHH. If you talk bad about a new pistol line, guess how many you will sell??? 0, thats right, this is like a car dealer doing a Consumors Report. BIASSED AS ALL GET OUT!!!! I said in my previous statement that are local police had well over 500 guns GEN 4 G22 in 40S&W recalled from Glock and replaced them with GEN 3 G21s in 45 ACP!! Does that sound like an PROBLEM is occuring???LOL ofcourse there having all kinds of FTF, FTE promblems! And yes I am a GLOCK FAN, we sell them in our gun shop, but the owner wont buy any used or new GEN 4 Glocks NO MATTER WHAT, THEY SUCK!!! If you want a less snappy firring pistol buy a CROSSMEN BB GUN! Or heres an idea, buy 2000rgs and shoot every week, you will get better. I only have 1 eye and got pretty torn up over in the sandbox. But this old Army Ranger knows quality when he sees it, and these Gen 4s arent even close! Thats what happens when your the most popular pistol in the world, on one way to go, DOWN!! And if you think ammo is the problem, BS!! There FAILING with Law Enforcment, and we all know POLICE DEPTs issue Garrbage ammo for their officers lifes to deppend on!! Comon really?? My Gen2, Gen2.5, and Gen 3 have had 18,000 rounds of anything I could feed them, and they ate it up like they havent eaten in years, even Winchester white box by the thousands, so stop TELLING storries, sounds like this reveiw was typed by Glocks ADD DEPT. They were trying to make it shoot softer???? Really why??? They already shot softer than any aluiminum or steel frammed gun. And yeah the 40s snappy, its a freakin 10mm short!! All you need to master any skill is PRACTICE,PRACTICE, ohhh yeah, MORE PHREAKIN PRACTICE, save your money buy a 3rd gen, and just more bullets!! A REAL REVEIW!! HONESTY ALWAYS THE BEST POLICY!! Lets see if they pull this one down TOO!!
SGT. David Wright US ARMY RANGERS 11th BRAVO
Thank for the honesty SGT. David Wright US ARMY RANGERS 11th BRAVO. Because I like the new gripping on the Gen 4 I called Glock to ask them when they would be offering the Gen 4-20 (10mm) and they said mid 2012 so I thought to wait for it to come out. But after reading your post I am going for Gen 3 Glock 20 sf. Any thoughts on the Glock 20 sf? Thanks again
I think the new recoil assembly is a solution in search of a problem. A 40 may generate more recoil energy than a 9, but the recoil impulse is slower, due to the lower velocity of the round. I have shot a model 17 and 22 side-by-side using standard velocity ammo. The recoil sensations are different, but I can’t say one is really worse than the other. Neither is particularly hard-kicking for a light weight centerfire pistol. Shoot them against a .45 ACP loaded with 230 gr. hardball, preferably a Commander size, which is about the same weight as a Glock. You will see a BIG difference. Or, do this experiment. Take the same 9mm round you shot in the Glock and shoot it out of a revolver like a Ruger Blackhawk with a 9mm cylinder or a Taurus 905. It will make you really appreciate the recoil dampening effect of the Glock design, even in the G3 version. A more complicated recoil spring system goes against the “keep it simple” design philosophy that Glock made famous. No wonder is has led to malfunctions. I’ll stick with the G3.
The difference in the two finishes Gen 3 vs Gen 4 is the top coat ! Gen 3 finishes were tennifer with a Black Oxide top coat.
The Gen 4’s are Tennifer with a zinc phosphate top coat. According to Glock, the new finish is slightly harder.
I can attest to this because my Gen 3 Glocks from racking the slide, the black oxide wears off a bit on the chamber end of the barrel where the ejection port is at. On the Gen 4’s, after numerous rackings of the slide there is absoulutely no finish loss at the ejection port end of the barrel ! The new finish does mark up easier from holster wear, but when you wipe it with an oiled rag all marks dissapear and the finish is like new again. Even the nose of the slide & barrel doen’t lose it’s finish.
I don’t think the new finish is as elegant as the Gen 3 finish. Those black, silky, Glocks did look sexy but Glock isn’t known for their looks. Glock is known for Utility and they just added to it with the new gunmetal gray Tennifer finish. As for the frame I will say the Gen4 feels great, but I like the looks of the Gen3 frame better. {No you can’t mix and match!} LOL Most people who arleady own Gen 1, 2, or 3 Glocks will most likely buy a Gen 4. Those who never owned one that finally decide to get one, may be doing so because of the new Gen4 features ? Then again some prefer the smooth grip frame. If you can’t decide, flip a coin it worked for me ! I own both G-17 and G-21 in Gen4 configuration and love them both, especially the G-21 ! My other Glock is a G-26 Gen 3 model and I love that as well. It does however have the new finish on it ? I belive Glock has modified their finish for all new guns produced be they Gen 3 or 4. ne you get, you can’t go wrong they are both good and will serve you for the rest of your life if taken care of properly. Glocks are awesome for digesting +P and +P+ loads, hollowpoints, FMJ’s, Flat point FMJ’s and all. No lead bullets though says glock but I know folks who shot Hard Cast Lead bullets through their models 20 and 21 with no problems. It’s just a bit harder to clean afterwards, DUH ! Hardcast isn’t like the regular, soft lead used in common bullets. It is a refined version almost like diecast metal only harder and denser. Glocks could handle a limited amount of these with a cleaning directly after without trouble or harm to the gun. Buffalo Bore makes a 255 gr 45 acp +P load that im dying to try out, it would make a great hard hitting carry load ! Whichever Glock you pick, enjoy it ! They are great shooting, accurate guns that are built to last !
I will take my 70series GOLD CUP N.M. over ANY Glock Or M&P,or SIG. My Gold Cup will shoot anything from 180 SWC to 230FMJ,and all with great accuracy–thats more than i can say about any pistol talked about in the above feedbackes!
Come on B Hock! This isn’t about your venerable Colt Series 70 Gold Cup (Semi Custom gun)! We’re talking about stock Glocks, stock sights and I guess over the counter ammunition. When did the conversation turn to 1911’s? My Z-28 can out run your Volkswagen Bug too, is there any doubt? When talking custom vs stock guns, keep your sights on the same target. (Wanna sell that Colt?)
just sold my 1911 so I can get a g35.I loved my 1911 but had a couple ftf.
I have a GEN 4 Glock 19 and a GEN 3 Glock 17. I also own a SIG P220, P226 as well as an HK P7M8, CZ 75 Compact and a couple 1911s. Of that group, the P7 is probably the reliability champ. My P226 had problems with hard primers on some ammo, the Glock never did. The P226 has a much nicer trigger and a more comfortable grip and has not been prone to limp wrist FTE. The Glock 17 has a more durable finish and requires less maintenance. Neither SIG nor Glock makes a grip that works as well as the 1911 in my hands. I am aware of the problems Glock has had with the GEN 4…basically took a page out of Apple’s playbook and decided to let the first several thousand users/purchasers beta test their product. I figured most of the issues were worked out and rolled the dice on my 19. It’s the first pistol I’ve ever seen that needed to break in. I was averaging a malfunction around every 300 rounds…it looks like that interval is opening up as the recoil spring softens a bit, but time will tell. Glocks are certainly not my favorite pistols to shoot, but the 19 is my current choice for a CCW because it manages to squeeze its 15 rounds into a space roughly the same size as my P7 for about 500 bucks.
Don’t let the blocky profile fool you: Glock does an excellent job efficiently using space and creating a relatively compact design. The reason the slide on Glock/SIG/HK/S&W/Taurus/whoever is thicker than a 1911, CZ 75, Browning P-35 is entirely to do with how the pistol locks. The 1911, for example, uses locking lugs cut into the barrel hood in multiple locations and a swinging link to control the timing. This allows the barrel to maintain a round and relatively slim profile, and the slide stays nice and thin (if somewhat taller) as a result. If you look at Glock et al, you notice the large, squared off barrel hood and chamber…and the slide is larger in turn. As far as the grip…if you want a thinner grip, that’s easy: less ammunition capacity means a thinner magazine and a thinner grip…or a similar diameter that’s rounded for better ergonomics. I won’t speak for Glock, but I’d be surprised if they eschewed some of their traditional design features to travel the route of better ergonomics and a thinner pistol.
Back to the GEN 3 v. GEN 4: my GEN 3 enjoys an advantage in reliability at present and a nicer trigger pull. Time will tell if the GEN 4 manages to smooth out completely and if its trigger will improve to match the GEN 3 without additional effort. That’s worth considering since my GEN 3 wears the stock connector and the GEN 4 wears a Ghost 4.5 connector…and is still heavier. I had no issue with the sights other than they featured Glock’s completely ridiculous sight picture, so I changed those as well. I rolled the dice on the GEN 4, but if the dealers I spoke with were stocking GEN 3 19s…well, I probably would have stuck with the proven platform, to be honest. The GEN 4 does offer some nice bells and whistles, but it really doesn’t warrant a move from the GEN 3 if that’s already working for you, IMO.
I have the gen 4 and the rtf grip eats my uniform shirts. Other than that it is a great duty weapon.
The RTF problem is solved cheaply andeasily with Talon grips. Changes the nature of the gun.
I own Glocks 22/24/27/35 for carry and competition. My daughter (M&P 40) and I shoot in SCSA and USPSA (Production and Limited) used numerous factory ammo brands, and our own custom reloads (Dillon 650) and have experienced zero issues. Solid 100% of the time. I shoot Glocks because they fit me instead of the M&P which fit my daughter better. Once the trigger job was completed on her M&P, I must say her trigger (@ 2.75# by Tim Ward in Brunswick, Ga) is far superior to mine. But my competition Glocks triggers are going to be worked by S & J Customs (SJC) in Lawrenceville, GA and will then be at the same level. We shoot alot of ammo and with the proper ammo vs. spring combination there are no complaints down here. I am sticking with Gen 3’s.
All of this is a bit funny to me. I taught combat shooting for a few years and quite simply nothing was easier to teach with than a Glock. Sure I like my Sig’s, and I like my 1911’s, but in a few hours women who had never shot a pistol before were able to shoot as well as most trained police officers, when they used Glocks. Of course many will say, “Well how much training do you think the average police officer gets?” And they unfortunately are correct, but that is beside the point.
During that time I probably went through close to 500,000 rounds from glocks. On two occassions I fired a Glock (Gen1 and Gen2) over 10,000 rounds without cleaning it. Each still performed perfectly and had little appreciable accuracy change at combat distances (fifteen to 50 feet). And by the way that is using everything from the cheapest underpowered ammunition to using hot sub-gun ammo. They simply worked perfect. Failures seemed to be more because of “pilot error” than any fault with the gun.
I have small to average hand size for a man, but never experianced any problems with grip. Whether firing a 17, 19, 22, 23, or my larger models 20 and 21 they worked perfectly and though the big ones felt different they worked perfectly when running rapid fire timed drills. It just did not seemed to matter which one was being used other than slightly slower times with the larger ones because of a little more recoil.
Here is my thought about the new model Glocks what ever the number. Buy what ever one is cheaper, they will ALL work fine. This means that if you can pick up a used cop gun do it whether it is Gen 2 or Gen 3, it simply does not matter. If it is one of the older slick griped ones put a Glock sock on it if you want finger groves, but it does NOT matter for combat purposes. As for condition of the gun forget it the chance of you getting a used cop glock that is more than barely broke in is very remote. I have found two in ordering fifty of them. (Some lady cop from Springfield MO had the most worn glock I ever saw, I swear she must have fired that thing two or three hundred thousand rounds).
So if you want to waste money, and have to have the “new” thing, go for it. But if you really want some advice, use the extra money to buy ammunition. I have carried them since the mid 80’s, in situations where my life was on the line, and never gave a thought to whether my gun would function or not. If I carried a Glock I NEW it would work everytime. I have never had the same confidence in any other type of semi automatic.
Agree with you… my personal Glock 22 has over 75K through it and I’ve had only one item break, ever! The original trigger bar. The gun would still fire but that is another story. I own several and have no issues with any ammo, with accuracy all the way out to 100 yards (yeah, that is right, 60% hits at 100 yards with a shoulder against a support), with rapid fire, and so forth. I personally don’t care for the Gen 4 slide action or the recoil spring setup. And after markets that tried the same ‘type’ of recoil for the earlier gens have come up short. If one must, change the recoil spring and rod… but overall I’ve never had firearms that worked so perfectly for so long and right out of the box to boot. I started shooting in ’60 and bought my first Glock at the end of ’80… I sold most of my other pistols shortly thereafter and haven’t looked back. Simple, reliable, accurate, easy to work maintain and very nicely priced in comparison to the ‘real steel’ stuff. I am sorry to hear that Gen 4 is giving folks problems. Would like to see Glock do what is right, they have by me however for as long as I owned their products.
Listen to this ^^^^^^^^man all of you weekend macho know it alls…
I don’t know if anyone has addressed this question, but here goes. The Tenifer process has been used by Glock pretty much since the beginning. Glock says it is almost as hard as diamonds, and that it actually bonds with the steel. The process cannot be used in the U.S. because of EPA regulations, so it is done in Austria and the parts are shipped into the country already treated.
Why doesn’t anyone ever talk about the fact that Glocks have the wrong grip angle (unlike Sigs and 1911’s which give you instant sight aquisition when drawn from a holster)? When your wrist is straight, front and rear sights don’t match up. Wrist must be bent to accomplish this. Maybe this causes “limp wrist” problems.
If Glock had a 1911 grip angle, I would get it! I liked my G17L but Hated Glock’s grip angle.
I wonder if Glock can make their guns slimmer? The 1911 is .45 yet it is slimmer than a Glock in 9mm. I am sure Glock designer can make their firearm slimmer than the 1911. What you think?
Its not about making a gun slimmer. The .45acp uses a single stack mag. Meaning rounds are stacked on top of one another. Therefore a slim grip. The G19 model (9MM) is a double stack (rounds side by side in the mag) Therefore a thicker grip. If thin is what you are looking for in a 9mm from Glock…Try the 17L. Single stack 9mm, and very accurate.
There is no single-stack Glock 9mm. (although I wish there was) The 17L is a long-slide version of the full-size 17.
Yes there is. Google Glock Slimline.
That is correct. I recently bought a 17l and have had many problems with it feeding. Very frustrating. I’ve tried several brands of ammo none of which were personal defence ammo and I still have not found the ammo that it likes. My next range trip I’ll try some PD ammo and see if the hotter loads make a difference. If that does not help. I’m packing it up and sending to Glock and hopefully they can work it out. BTW I ain’t Limp wristing it either. I was hoping to enjoy the Glock as much as my Kimber 1911. I do like a weapon that you do not have to worry about scratching the fininsh on,
It is not only due to having a “double stack Mag”. It also has to do with exacting tolerances to deal with “Pressure”. In the early 90’s when the Polymer Framed Glocks took off, I attended a Simunition Instructors Course (with my issued Sig P226 and also a M9). Both of them functioned flawlessly with the Simunition Conversion Barrel. The Glock’s required a “Permanemt” Conversion inorder to cycle in semi-auto.
The difference had to due with “Pressure” tolerances and requirements given the polymer frames sightly expand or buldge out when fired. Fast Forward to today, The 20 and 21s are very Large Firearms! (Somehow Springfield got there 45 ACP down to about the same size as there 9 and 40s? >>> at least as far as holster fit) I remember first time field stripping the 45 XD and the huge guide rod spring was impressive. Don’t mean to ramble but both of these points bring us to the GEN 4. (yet 20 and 21 Frames and Slided are still larger > than 9/40 and Glock still has to make a dedicated Simunition Model?) It’s all about balance and pressure tolerance. I have owned and fired them all. For the $$ it is a excellent firearm! You have to remember that the average Police Officer comes to the profession with little if any handgun experience. The Glock fits LE’s requirements for more reasons than reliability!!! As Sweeny likes to say….”Simple is Good”! (Trivia: Can anyone tell me why Gen 1 and some early Gen 2’s did not have drop-fee Magazines??) If you know the answer you probably realize that except for maybe Competition Shooting, the drop frees were still Glock’s greatest comprimise/change to date for the American Market.
good coments
I purchased a Glock 17 in 1989. Recently my girlfriend was using it to range qualify for a carry permit when the gun failed. After about sixty rounds the trigger was locked back and the gun could not be field stripped. Total round count was probably less than 1000 rounds. Packed it up and sent it to Glock, (UPS charged me $40 dollars – FL to Georgia). Got it back one month later. Trigger action is not at all like it was originally. They resprung everything including my magazines. They even replaced the sights. No further problems. No body believes me when I say my Glock broke but I have the paperwork.
shit happens
I have a Glock Compact .45 for carry use and had to send it to Robbie Barkman to get a grip reduction an it’s still somewhat uncomfortable. Granted I’ve got small hands and short fingers but working with our local Sheriff’s office wh carry GlocksI’ve heard a multitude of complaints about grip size. My Wilson Pro handles just fine and I can’t understand for the likes of me why Glock doesen’t get the clear message that if they made the grip size the same as a 1911 they’d sell lots more pistols. I guess they’re like Walmart and to hell with the customer, we’ll sell what we want because we’re sucessful the way we are. Oh well, if Glock ever see the light I’ll buy a couple more Glocks, other wise I’m happy with my 1911s.
“if they made the grip size the same as a 1911 they’d sell lots more pistols”
Really? There are more Glocks sold every year than 1911s by a wide margin. The 1911 is the king in some very specific and small demographics, but when is the last time you saw a 1911 on a LEO’s hip? SOCOM barely even uses them anymore. The 1911’s a fine pistol, but why mess with Perfection?
Nice article,I am a new glock owner for about six months now.My choice was the gen.3,model 23.The firearm was highly recomended by a friend,and so far no regrets.I can understand how some might have problems with limp wrist/failure to feed problems.I have not,because I handle it like I am mad at it:) not really,but my grip is frim.And this is no dish on the glock,but my next purchase will be the springfield XDM.
Glock is ALL about sales! My original 17 w/ well over 15,000rnds has NEVER failed me, even with lazy (on purpose) cleaning practices. All other Glock models & generations I have had (past tense) were problematic indeed in sooo many ways. G17 (original) is a GREAT gun, the other Glocks are AVERAGE at most. Stop drinking the Glock KOOLAID!!
Another rocket scientist here…name one gun company that isn’t about sales dude? Do you honestly think anyone would go in to business NOT to make money?
What koolaid do you drink? Whatever it is, I am sure I can find fault with their guns too! People need to deflate their egos, and drain some testosterone. Shoot what you like. There are flaws with everything. That’s why
i hate reading these sometimes. It is mostly arrogant, I am better than you, I have the best, I have been shootin’ longer than you, egomaniacs that really have no knowledge about anything, except for what they read on the internet, that some self-proclaimed expert did some testing on.
Ya the egomaniacs are out there. Then there are the pussys like you who always have an opinion about peoples opinions…Get off everybody’s nutsacks BRO.
Thanks all for the numerous and well thought out replies. Yes the Gen4 had some growing pains, all of which were made right from what people said. This isn’t too surprising, as most new models always seem to need tweaks. (Ruger’s last few, as well as the 1911 come to mind. The 1911A1 was an improved version of the original if I recall.)
As for widespread issues, I’m not aware of any. And no, while I am not paid by Glock, I am a fan of their guns. They’ve kept me safe for almost 20 years.
it seems to me that anyone that has a prob.with a gen.3 glock or gen.4 and can’t hit what they are shooting at needs to get some pro help asap! my gen.3 has over 10,000 rounds thru it with with NO PROB at all so i’ll stick with it for now.
I love Glocks. I purchased the RTF2 G22 works and fells great. Then Glock updated the RTF2 to RTF3. Not as sharp. I do like the new GEN 4 recoil system. As for the different grip size i feel Glock failed there. They need to follow what the other gun manufacters are doing. Just make three different size grips. As for the tac light issue i haven’t seen any problems yet. Glock has a real competitor S&W M&P. Smith and Wesson heard the complaints about the glock and it issues. Then address them and came up with the M&P line.
Great guns for girls and piano players but not for men with XL or XXL hands. The back strap options do nothing about the ridges of the finger detents digging into the middle of the ring finger. I’d love to get a Glock, but they just don’t fit.
agreed, the ridges in the grip are too small for me and do not fit my hand, mine also seems to shoot left and with practice ammo it is not consistent shoots much better with duty ammo. I have carried a original glock 22 for 20 years on duty with no issues ever, I have a 17 and a 19 I bought around 92 love them , was just issued a gen 4 model 22 last week , the trigger is not as good and feels gritty, I hate it , it really sucks, rather carry my old model 22,
Ok, John, you must have a small penis. Yep, you are bigger and badder than everyone else because you have big hands?
Did Glock pay you to write this article? You have completely ignored the plethora of problems the Gen 4 pistols are experiencing! Some shoot left, some have extraction problems they are just plain unreliable. Multiple agencies have already dumped Gen 4 Glocks due to problems. Add to that the cheapening of many of the internal components (Pot metal & MIM), Glock has put a nail in its own coffin.
No, but we wish they did! Brian is a Glock armorer and if there were other issues that apply to the line he would have included them. It could be that the models you mention are ammo optimized and somewhat dependent, which some pistols are these days. I’ve been at the range with people who are having problems with an ammo dependent gun shooting white box Olin and I give them a handful of Hornady Critical Defense (because I get it free not because I’m nice) and all of a sudden the gun works fine.
Sorry but you are off base. I am speaking from a professional trainer’s perspective. Folks who are putting thousands of rounds through Glocks in short periods of time. Not the typical gun owner who shoots a box here and there and declares his gun reliable.
FYI, in Europe Glock is getting hammered. Initially Glock Austria was blaming the problems on weak American ammo (SAAMI Spec.) stuff like Whinchester White Box. Well the chickens have come home to roost. At the recent IWA (European Shot Show) Glock was relentlessly HAMMERED by European municipalities, agencies and militarys experiencing loads of problems with their Gen 4 Glocks using the hotter NATO spec ammo.
We have already seen the need to retrofit the 9mm Glocks with a different (weaker) recoil assembly. Numerous of folks have discovered that 2000 rounds is a benchmark. Problems heretofore undiscovered are turning up right after the 2K mark. And yes there are Gen 4 Glocks out there with zero problems. It is the consistency across the product line that is the problem.
Glock has managed to produce a real LEMON and will not admit it!
From my limited experience with my buddy’s G-19 G4 the thing shoots left and FTF’s an awful lot. My Gen3’s have zero issues. I think the 9mm G4 may be a bit of a problem child.
thats what they said about the g42,i haven’t had any problems at all,shoots very accurate,no problems,i love it
I have carried an original Glock19 and Glock21 for 20+ years on duty and off, neither has ever failed me. Gen3 & Gen4 are an effort to make money since the originals work so well they made so-called improvements for the “gotta-have” newest thing. I’ll stick by my tried & true “Old Friends”.
Thanks for the good article. still not sure about the G4, needs to be on market longer as it does seem to have issues. I have had a 2nd gen G23 for 21 years. The only thing I have done is replace the springs and went with a 20lb Wolff recoil spring and steel guidrod, which has seemed to tame the snappy recoil a bit. Too bad the girlfriend cant rack the slide without gritting her teeth! she enjoys her 9mm, so no worries there. I must say my glock has never let me down. Glock makes a simple, user friendly handgun that runs forever. no frills just reliable. I also replaced the stock sights with the XS big dot as my eyes are not as good as they used to be!
Why not making available the new and better spring(s) of the generation 4 pistol to be installed on the gen 3? I guess there is not much money to be made…
I have 2 gen-4 Glocks, a g-22 and g-23. I already had the 23 in a gen-3 and am unable to discern any obvious difference when shooting the gen-3 and gen-4 when it relates to recoil and shot placement. My hand seems to fit the gen-3 or have I become accustomed to its feel? I find the gen-4 not as cozy Probably in my head.
Great article – very informative!
I have a Gen 4 G22, which I puchased shortly after they were introduced to the market. I love the gun now, but… after purchasing it I brought it home to breakdown/clean before taking to the range – I pulled out the recoil spring/guide rod assembly and barrel, reached to grab some supplies and “TING!”, the captured recoil spring assembly shot across my room in pieces. Glock promptly sent me another (informing my FFL that this issue was not common). Just a few weeks ago, my FFL called me and told me that he had been hearing of some other issues similiar to what I first experienced. Apparently, it was a bad batch that went out in several guns. Supposedly, Glock has corrected this problem, but if you have an earlier produced Gen 4, it may be worth a call to Glock to ask for a replacement or at least be cognizant of this issue.
Mike Hargreaves: you nailed the issue regarding conversion of recoil spring/guide rod of a Gen 4 to Gen 3 – Lone Wolf and some other companies also sell a similiar product for around $10 to allow you to use Gen 3 springs/guide rods (if so inclined).
Good article. My son has a Gen 4 G35 and I’ve shoot it quite a bit. I purchased
a M&P .40 and prefer it to the Glock. Both are excellent designs.
No mention of the two spring recoil system leading the shooter to be more prone with limp wristing? I can shoot Gen 3 and Gen 4 Glocks just fine, but many who are prone to limp wristing have the issue highly exaggerated when shooting a Gen 4 double recoil spring.
The good news is that Glock offers a free single spring conversion kit if you call and ask.
It’s not a bug, it’s a feature!!! 🙂
Rob,
Your post was not up when I created mine, so I just noticed it. I wasn’t aware of the glock offering the free conversion – that’s great information!
Thanks!
Just wondering if I got this right, Glock now has a reciol spring assembly for the Gen 3 23 that helps tame the opop up recoil, or am I just wishful thinking?
I had my Model 23 – Compact Generation 3 Glock (40 caliber) stolen awhile back and need to replace with something of the same model and caliber. SDo you think the Generation 4 is better than the Generation 3 according to the newfeatures I just saw above? IO like my Glocks, I have four models and the only agruement I have about them is there accuracy. The Model 23 I had a target barrel installed and finally got it to group well, the others shoot just so-so. Does Glock have a factory outlet that sells used Glock Models?
Thank you,
Ronnie McKinney
I deal with the one of the bigest p olice distributers in tennessee.I get feal good deals on 22,s especially.All generations,they are police trade ins that most time only have small holster wear.Give me a call,scott-865/748/4601
Glock in Smyrna GA, now make whole pistols, for export only. The Tennifer finish as used in Austria, can not be imported into the US, this is to do with the chemicals. But the finish now used, no name! Is aparently S&W like, is just as good.
The Gen4 Glock 19 is, for me perfect, except for the recoil spring assembly! First one stamped 03, great for duty ammo, jam o matic for lighter recoiling rounds, new issue, 04! Works better, but still a problem with white box WW.
Glock, as usual, blamed the ammunition, the shooter, limp wristing/the hat you wore!! Whatever, but not their gun!
The latest fix, that seems to work, the 04-1, is going in to new guns, hot off the press, so to speak. But you have no way to get one for the one you have bought already. I bought one, won one.
Glock Werks(sp) make a wee grommet, that allowes the use of the Gen3 spring, cured! Glock Perfection!
Every Glock made has Tennifer baked into the steel of the slide. Tennifer is NOT a finish.
You can sharpen a knife on the top of a Glock slide. The Tennifer will NEVER come off because its in the steel.
Excellent article. Personnally, I liked the RTF 2 finish. In any case, all of my Glocks wear the Hogue Handall grip sleeve. It just feels good to me – going back to the Gen I. I have experienced problems with my tac lights as well both laser and rail attached in the 40 S&W. Tryed a couple of different tac lights and found one that works well. The internal lasers are still
a problem and are unreliable in my Gen 3 Glock 23. Recoil is the problem in both cases. Same systems tryed in the G 31
in 357 Sig with no problems. I have not been a fan of backstraps. To me it is just another moving part that can “shift”,
which is why I have not purchased a G4 to date. Based on your assessment of the reduced recoil – in particular – blast back instead of up, I am going to purchase one and leave off the backstrap if that is possible. If not I will use the medium. I like
the compromise with the new texure of the grip, as opposed to the RTF 2 ( I have a G22). The new coating that one reader commented on is also of interest to me. The only concern I have on any of the design changes is the magazine release size. Any Glock owner knows that the standard release can be replaced by an extended one. That release in my opinion should absolutely not be used for carry. It snags and can actually release the magazine. Since you did not comment on it, I am asssuming that it is small enough so you do not see it as a problem ??? I do have the extended mags on some of my Glocks – I have a Glock 24 that I hunt with and a Glock 23 that is under my bed that will never be carried – so I do like them just not on a carry weapon. Thanks again you have answered some of my questions and I will be purchasing a G4 G22 as a result.
Did you have both eyes closed while you were pointing?
LOL
Great article. However you omitted one major improvement the new look is a new hard coating on the metal that is impregnated into the molecules of the steel.I believe Glock calls it Tennifer. this hard coat also has Teflon . It will greatly reduce friction on moving parts and will increase the durability and protect the surface finish.Add this to your article and it will have every improvement of the Gen 4. I just purchased aGlock 19 like the grips added the med back strap very good.negative comments: I don’t like the rear sight. I decided to fire it as a point and shoot weapon for defense shot 45rounds at target the results were awful.I only got 5 shots in kill zone.Shot 40 rounds with a new Taurus PT 99 using sights and got 13 rds in kill zone and all 40rds hit the man target. What a difference.
Glock has always used the Tennifer process in every model. It is not new with the Gen4.
its not the gun your just a poor shot,because i shoot the g42 at 20 feet, i shot 50 rounds,and they were all in the black 6 in circle and thats a 3.25 in barrel,it the shooter not the gun
Do they make that G42 is Gen3 and4?
Glock considers the 42 to be a Gen 3…. For some reason. However, the recoil spring assembly is a double spring system like the Gen 4 guns. But all of the sub compacts have always had these. And the mag release and the texturing is just like the Gen 4 guns. But it only comes with 2 magazines. All the Gen 4 guns come with 3.