Glock 19
While the G17 was the gun that made Glock famous, a second design would eventually be developed that would solidify Glock’s name in the firearms world. This design was the G19, a compact version of the G17. Today the Glock 19, aka G19, is one of the top recommended handguns on the market, especially if you are looking for a self-defense handgun. But that was not the original intent of this pistol.
The G19 grew out of the success of the G17, particularly the G17’s adoption by the Austrian government after a series of pistol trials in 1982. The larger sibling of the G19 was reliable, affordable, and simple to use. A perfect pistol for widespread adoption with a small learning curve.
The G19 was originally marketed to military and police agencies before it was adopted on the civilian market. This first version of the G19 would feature the new texturing, checkered front, and checkered backstrap of all Gen 2 Glocks. The original G19 would run from 1988 to 1998, when the Gen 3 models would first be released.
In its Gen 3 configuration, the G19 would feature an accessory rail for the first time which allowed for lights and laser to be attached just below the barrel. This increased the versatility of the gun as light technology was becoming more refined. The G19 would also include the finger grooves on the grip that would carry on through the Gen 4 series released in 2010.
The Gen 4 series would be one of the first generations of Glock that would feature multiple upgrades for modularity and comfort for the shooter. This idea was carried even further in the Gen 5 versions of the G19.
But what makes the G19 so desirable to the military, law enforcement, and civilian end users?
The answer to this question is size. The G19 is roughly half an inch shorter in the barrel and grip when compared to a G17. The G17 is a full-sized handgun and comes with the weight and dimensions that go with that designation. The G19 on the other hand offers similar performance and reliability in a shorter, lighter package. Officially considered a compact handgun, the G19 is on the larger end of the spectrum in terms of compact pistols. However it is still smaller than a full-sized pistol.
This is useful because it takes up less space, requires a slightly smaller holster, and is easier to carry around. In terms of concealed-carry, it is also easier to conceal than a full-sized pistol. This means you are more likely to carry a G19 instead of a G17 because it is more comfortable to carry without a significant impact in performance.
Let’s look into some of the features of the G19 in order to see how they impact the end user.
Glock 19 Standard Features
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Like the G17, the G19 is a short recoil, gas-operated pistol derived from the locking system of the Browning Hi-Power. It features the two-stage firing pin design found on most Glock pistols and also has the Safe Action system built into the trigger.
The Safe Action system helps prevent negligent discharges by ensuring the gun only goes off when the trigger is pulled. This trigger/striker combination results in a less-than-crisp trigger pull when compared to other pistol designs.
To aid in manufacturing, the G19 features a polymer frame that also helps reduce the weight of the pistol. The slide is still square for easier machining but also retains the overall mass of the G17 slide.
This means that while the slide is shorter than the G17’s slide, it is just as heavy. This is to ensure the recoil system still works in the smaller gun. While this may seem counter-intuitive, the G19’s goal is a smaller footprint rather than a significantly lighter pistol.
In practice, the G19 only saves a few ounces when compared to the loaded and unloaded weight of the G17. This does mean that the recoil impulse and mitigation will be different between the G19 and the G17.
This is because the G19 has slightly less mass and a shorter grip than the G17. While the slides possess the same mass, that mass is not distributed in the same way. The G19 slide is shorter and more centralized compared to the G17.
The shorter grip can also make the G19 slightly harder to control than the G17. This is from less grip contact being available for the shooter. One variant of the G19, the G19X, even features a G17 grip paired with a G19 slide.
An accessory rail is located on the underside of the barrel. This allows for the placement of lights or lasers, which can provide more control over the gun in addition to their visible light/laser functions. This control is from adding more mass to the front of the gun.
The sighting systems are divided among four different methods. The plastic and steel versions of the Glock sights feature a cup and ball sighting method. The front post dot is placed into a squared-off “U” shape marked on the rear sights. This was done for faster targeting, but how much this benefits the shooter is up for debate.
The third sighting option is the Glock Night Sights or GNS. These feature tritium inserts and are set up for use in low light environments. A standard three-dot system is used for these sights.
The most recent sighting option is the Modular Optic System or MOS. This is Glock’s method of pre-milling an area on the slide to accept a red dot sight on the pistol. This is achieved with mounting plates that correspond to the optic family or brand you want to mount. These include Trijicon RMR 06, Leupold Delta Point 08, and Eotechs. The base pistol comes with a cover plate for the area while the mounting plates are sold separately. Be sure to get the correct plate, otherwise the optic cannot be mounted.
This brings us to the Generation specific features.
Price: $499-$699
Glock 19 Gen4 Features
The fourth generation of Glocks feature four specific modifications across all models. These were intended to add comfort and versatility to the pistol.
The primary modification is the addition of the modular backstrap system. This allowed the end user to swap out the pistol’s backstrap in order to get a better fit in the hand. This would continue on in spirit on the Gen 5 versions.
The next addition was the standardization of dual recoil springs. While some earlier models would feature dual recoil springs, this feature was made standard on all Glock Gen 4 pistols. This required a wider frame to account for the extra bulk of the spring assembly.
The magazine catch was also modified on the Gen 4. The catch was enlarged and could be reversed in order to accommodate left-handed shooters while making it easier to activate the catch.
The final modification was the frame’s texture. There was a more aggressive texturing for the grip to provide better traction when holding the gun. This was included in the backstrap system.
Gen 4 pistols also feature the finger grooves left over from the Gen 3 Glocks. While this was not an upgrade, it is worth mentioning that they are featured. A common frame modification would be the removal of these finger grooves. This was because they did not allow for different hand sizes with their placement.
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Glock 19 Gen5 Features
The Gen 5 Glocks marked a significant series of upgrades on the pistol. Many aftermarket modifications were standardized into the Gen 5 to allow for a better out-of-the-box experience.
The Gen 5 G19 features the new nDLC finish for better abrasion resistance. This allows the gun to resist normal wear and tear while performing well under adverse conditions or when it is degreased.
The barrel is now standardized to Glock’s improved Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) for better accuracy. This saves on the end user since the base barrel does not need to be replaced with a more accurate barrel unless you have specific accuracy concerns.
The magazine well is now flared for faster, more reliable loading and the slide stop lever is ambidextrous.
The firing pin safety and trigger springs have been enhanced for better durability and safety. This results in a smoother trigger pull. This results in a trigger pull in the mid-5lb range rather than the 6lb range of Gen 4 Glocks.
The magazine floor plates have been enlarged for better extraction of the magazine and the frames now feature beavertail extensions. There are two swappable back straps that include the extension to help prevent slide bite with a high grip on the gun.
The largest departure from previous generations is the removal of the finger grooves on the grip. While it is technically a return to the earliest frame style of the Glock series of pistols, the finger grooves were considered a staple of Glock designs.
Additionally an undercut of the trigger guard is now featured as standard as well. This undercut helps prevent “Glock Knuckle” when using the gun, resulting in a more comfortable experience.
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Glock 19 Model Variations
The Glock 19 comes several popular variaions. Variations of the original Glock 19 include:
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G19 Gen 4
The Gen 4 G19 is a workhorse of a pistol for both civilian and law enforcement use. The smaller size of the pistol combined with its relative modularity made it a common choice for both private and duty use.
Due to the large aftermarket available to most Glock pistols, the G19 Gen 4 was heavily modified to suit the needs of the end user. This ranged from grip reductions to compensators to specialty milling for red dot sights.
While many of these modifications grew out of the competition sphere, the merits of faster aiming and better control of an already controllable pistol were not lost on serious self-defense advocates and law enforcement.
These modifications set the stage for future developments in the G19 design, but also raised doubts about the design’s ability.
The G19 Gen 4 is the gold standard when it comes to self-defense pistols. It is highly recommended and almost every other self-defense pistol is compared to it. The heavy modifications it can receive has made many question this gold standard status.
This does not change that the baseline G19 is a reliable semi automatic, chambered in 9 mm with a wide variety of magazine capacities. Paired with a good handheld flashlight at a minimum and you get a pistol that will perform under most self-defense scenarios.
The almost boring consistency of the G19 makes it a great option for self-defense. The Gen 4 variant is still widely available today despite the Gen 5 version slowly displacing it.
On Glock’s Website, direct purchase marks the Gen 4 G19 as Law Enforcement Only, which means that in the future the Gen 5 version might be the only direct purchase option.
G19 Gen 4 specs:
| Attribute | Spec |
|---|---|
| Action : | Semi automatic |
| Caliber: | 9x19 mm/9mm Luger |
| Capacity: | 15, 17, 19, 24, 31, 33 |
| Barrel length: | 4.02 inches |
| Weight loaded: | 30.16 ounces |
| Overall length: | 7.28 inches |
| Overall width: | 1.26 inches |
| Slide length: | 6.85 inches |
| Sights: | Polymer, Steel, and GNS |
Popular variations:
- Glock 19 G4 9mm Luger 4.02in Black Pistol - 15+1 Rounds
- Glock 19 G4 9mm Luger 4.02in Black Pistol - 15+1 Rounds
- Glock 19 G4 9mm Luger 4.02in Gray/Black Pistol - 10+1 Rounds
Browse: Glock 19 Gen4 pistols
G19 Gen 4 MOS
The G19 Gen 4 has one major variation, the Gen 4 MOS. There are two major differences between the standard Gen 4 G19 and the MOS version. The mechanical difference is that the Gen 4 MOS uses Glock’s Modular Optics System. This system allows you to mount your preferred red dot with OEM compatible parts that do not require any specialty milling.
The four standard base plates correspond to the common types of red dots that are mounted on pistols. Match the correct plate to the sight and installation can be done with some basic tools. This makes it easier to mount sights without the need to send the pistol to a specialty service which in turn makes it easier to run a modern optic on your pistol.
The second major difference is who adopted the Gen 4 MOS. United States Special Operations Forces have officially adopted the Gen 4 MOS as one of their sidearms and is referred to as the MK27 MOD 2. This is helpful information for those who are in the “cloning” hobby. If you want to set up a pistol as close as possible to one that Special Forces have used, the Gen 4 MOS allows you to get as close as possible to the real thing.
G19 Gen 4 MOS specs:
| Attribute | Spec |
|---|---|
| Action: | Semi automatic |
| Caliber: | 9x19 mm/9mm Luger |
| Capacity: | 15, 17, 19, 24, 31, 33 |
| Barrel length: | 4.02 inches |
| Weight loaded: | 30.16 ounces |
| Overall length: | 7.28 inches |
| Overall width: | 1.26 inches |
| Slide length: | 6.85 |
| Sights: | Polymer, Steel, and GNS |
Popular variations:
- Glock 19 G4 MOS 9mm Luger 4.02in Black Nitride Pistol - 10+1 Rounds
- Glock 19 G4 MOS 9mm Luger 4.02in Black Nitride Pistol - 15+1 Rounds
Browse: Glock 19 Gen4 MOS pistols
G19 Gen 5
The G19 Gen 5 features improved ergonomics and is more universal than previous generations. This is achieved by the addition of ambidextrous controls, the removal of the finger grooves of the Gen 4 models, and the addition of slide serrations near the front of the gun.
An improved barrel and improved internals make this G19 better out of the box than previous generations. Less improvements are necessary to bring the G19 into top form. This makes it a great option for someone who wants to purchase a handgun but doesn’t want to invest in aftermarket modifications or services.
The newer trigger assembly provides a slightly better trigger pull than previous generations making it easier to shoot.
The accessory rail and sighting options allow for performance in multiple lighting conditions especially with a mounted light and Glock Night Sights. If you’re looking for the most cost effective option but don’t want to expand into the use of red dots on pistols, this gun is a great option.
If you ever change your mind, the slide can be swapped out for a Gen 5 MOS version and other accessories can be found on the aftermarket.
Due to the improved internals and overall strengthening of the gun, the Gen 5 is slightly wider than its Gen 4 counterpart.
G19 Gen 5 specs:
| Attribute | Spec |
|---|---|
| Action : | Semi automatic |
| Caliber: | 9x19 mm/9mm Luger |
| Capacity: | 15, 17, 19, 24, 31, 33 |
| Barrel length: | 4.02 inches |
| Weight loaded: | 30.16 ounces |
| Overall length: | 7.28 inches |
| Overall width: | 1.34 inches |
| Slide length: | Single bead |
| Sights: | Polymer, Steel, and GNS |
Popular variations:
- Glock 19 G5 Front Serrations 9mm Luger 4in Black nDLC Pistol - 15+1 Rounds
- Glock 19 Gen5 9mm Luger 4.02in Black Pistol – 15+1
- Glock 19 G5 Rail 9mm Luger 4in Gray Pistol - 10+1 Rounds
Browse: Glock 19 Gen5
G19 Gen 5 MOS
The MOS version of the Gen 5 provides the same benefits but with the additional ability to mount a red dot on the pistol right out of the box.
This model is slightly lighter than the non MOS version. This might be a result of the removed material in the slide for the MOS mounting area.
A protective plate is included with the pistol to keep the screws and milling undamaged before the proper mounting plate is applied.
The MOS system allows you to use the proper OEM parts to easily mount and swap the red dot of your choice on your pistol.
This pistol is a great option for getting into red dots, especially if you want a longer term solution without having to get custom, aftermarket work done.
G19 Gen 5 MOS specs:
| Attribute | Spec |
|---|---|
| Action : | Semi automatic |
| Caliber: | 9x19 mm/9mm Luger |
| Capacity: | 15, 17, 19, 24, 31, 33 |
| Barrel length: | 4.02 inches |
| Weight loaded: | 29.98 ounces |
| Overall length: | 7.28 inches |
| Overall width: | 1.34 inches |
| Slide length: | 6.85 inches |
| Sights: | Polymer, Steel, GNS and MOS |
Popular variations:
- Glock 19 G5 MOS 9mm Luger 4.02in Gray Pistol - 15+1 Rounds
- Glock 19 G5 MOS 9mm Luger 4.02in FDE Pistol - 15+1 Rounds
- Glock 19 G5 MOS 9mm Luger 4in Black nDLC Pistol - 10+1 Rounds
Browse: Glock 19 Gen5 MOS pistols
G19X
The G19X is one of the most interesting variations of the G19. Designated as a “Crossover pistol”, this design takes features of both the G19 and the G17 in order to get “the best of the both worlds.”
The G19X was Glock’s submission to the XM17 Modular Handgun System competition. This competition or trial was an attempt to replace the US military’s current issue handgun, the M9. While the 19X did not win the competition it found great success on the civilian market. With its dimension placing it somewhere between a G19 and a G17, the 19X has become one of Glock’s best selling pistols.
More than 100,000 19X’s were sold in the first 6 months of its release. This is because it provides a similar slide footprint to the G19 with a G17 style frame.
Overall there are more differences that put the G19X in its own category. The pistol is offered in coyote tan right out of the factory. While different colored frames are nothing new to Glock, the inclusion of the slide in this color is a first.
The finish is not the standard nDLC of the Gen 5 guns but a nPVD coating for additional corrosion resistance. A front lip and lanyard ring are included near the magazine well. This makes standard Gen 5 magazines incompatible unless they have a Gen 4 floor plate installed. This can be annoying if you expected the Gen 5 magazines to work. The factory +2 extensions also will alleviate this problem.
The 19X features a G17 length grip which makes it taller than your standard G19. The G19 is roughly 5.04 inches tall with a magazine while the 19X is 5.47 inches. This provides more grip for the shooter to use to control the pistol.
The grip is also similar to the Gen 5 grips since it does not feature any finger grooves but does include a beavertail for slide bite protection.
The pistol comes with Glock Night Sights as the standard sight option but steel sights are available. Currently MOS and polymer sights are not options with the 19X.
In practice, the 19X is a slightly bigger G19 Gen 5 with the grip benefits of a G17 grip. This makes it an interesting middle point for those who want a G17 sized grip but do not want the additional G17 length.
It lacks the full versatility of an MOS compatible G19 but it still includes an accessory rail to mount lights to. This is a good piece to have if you are interested in the XM17 trials aspect, but it will still be a very capable pistol for self-defense.
G19x specs:
| Attribute | Spec |
|---|---|
| Action : | Semi automatic |
| Caliber: | 9x19 mm/9mm Luger |
| Capacity: | 15, 17, 19, 24, 31, 33 |
| Barrel length: | 4.02 inches |
| Weight loaded: | 31.19 ounces |
| Overall length: | 7.44 inches |
| Overall width: | 1.30 inches |
| Slide length: | 6.85 inches |
| Sights: | Steel and GNS |
Popular variations:
- Glock 19X G5 9mm Luger 4.02in Coyote nPVD Pistol - 17+1 Rounds
- Glock 19X G5 Night Sights 9mm Luger 4in Coyote nPVD Pistol - 10+1 Rounds
- Glock 19X Crossover 9mm Luger 4.02in Coyote nPVD Pistol - 10+1 Rounds
Browse: Glock 19x pistols