Glock 9mm Models

Making sense of all the different Glock 9mm handgun models can be a little tricky. In retrospect, it would have been convenient if Glock had just named their handguns after the cartridges they are chambered for: G9 for 9mm, G10 for 10mm, G40 for 40 S&W and so on.

But Glock named their pistols after their patents, not their cartridges. The G17, for example, was Gaston Glock’s 17th patent. Furthermore, Glock offers multiple different pistols chambered for the same cartridge.

It only follows that the Austrian handgun manufacturer should offer a variety of handguns chambered for 9mm ammo, the world’s most popular pistol cartridge for self-defense. Their model numbers don’t tell you anything about what makes these pistols unique. You either have to learn them all through study, or refer to our handy Glock 8mm Models guide when you want to know what makes each model distinct.

	G17	G17L	G19	G19X	G26	G34	G43	G43X	G45	G48
Mag Capacity	17	17	15	17	10	17	6	10	17	10
Barrel Length	4.49 inch	6.02 inch	4.02 inch	4.02 inch	3.43 inch	5.31 inch	3.41 inch	3.41 inch	4.02 inch	4.17 inch
Weight w/o mag	22.05 oz	23.81 oz	21.16 oz	22.05 oz	19.40 oz	23.10 oz	16.23 oz	16.40 oz	21.73 oz	18.48 oz
Weight w/empty mag	24.87 oz	26.63 oz	23.63 oz	24.83 oz	21.52 oz	25.93 oz	17.99 oz	18.70 oz	24.48 oz	20.74 oz
Weight w/loaded mag	32.28 oz	33.86 oz	30.16 oz	31.39 oz	25.75 oz	33.33 oz	20.64 oz	23.07 oz	30.34 oz	25.12 oz
Trigger pull	28 N	24 N	28 N	26 N	28 N	24 N	24 N	24 N	26 N	24 N
Overall length	8.03 inch	9.53 inch	7.36 inch	7.44 inch	6.50 inch	8.82 inch	6.26 inch	6.50 inch	7.44 inch	7.28 inch
Slide length	7.32 inch	8.86 inch	6.85 inch	6.85 inch	6.26 inch	8.15 inch	6.06 inch	6.06 inch	6.85 inch	6.85 inch
Overall width	1.26 inch	1.30 inch	1.26 inch	1.30 inch	1.26 inch	1.30 inch	1.06 inch	1.10 inch	1.34 inch	1.10 inch
Slide width	1.0 inch	1.0 inch	1.0 inch	1.0 inch	1.0 inch	1.0 inch	0.87 inch	0.87 inch	1.0 inch	0.87 inch
Height w/mag	5.47 inch	5.47 inch	5.04 inch	5.47 inch	4.17 inch	5.47 inch	4.25 inch	5.04 inch	5.47 inch	5.04 inch
Trigger distance	2.83 inch	2.83 inch	2.80 inch	2.76 inch	2.83 inch	2.83 inch	2.56 inch	2.64 inch	2.76 inch	2.64 inch

Glock 17


Standard Mag Capacity	17
Barrel Length	4.49 inch
Weight w/o mag	22.05 oz
Weight w/empty mag	24.87 oz
Weight w/loaded mag	32.28 oz
Trigger pull	28 N
Overall length	8.03 inch
Slide length	7.32 inch
Overall width	1.26 inch
Slide width	1.0 inch
Height w/mag	5.47 inch
Trigger distance	2.83 inch

The original Glock handgun, the G17 is utilized by LEOs, military personnel, and anyone else who would entrust their personal safety to a pistol the world over. We’ll spend the most time detailing the G17, as much of what we could say about it also applies to Glock’s other 9mm handguns.

As with all Glock handguns (and virtually all other manufacturers’ 9mm handguns), the G17 is short recoil operated. This means the barrel and the bolt travel backward together for only a short distance. At that point the barrel stops, the bolt continues rearward, and the recoil spring compresses to initiate simultaneous feeding and extraction.

Like other Glock handguns, the G17 features a nylon-based polymer frame. Gaston Glock himself invented this proprietary material, dubbed “Polymer 2.” Lightweight yet extremely resilient, Glock’s polymer frame is usually only looked down on because it’s not as aesthetically pleasing as a metal frame with wood grips. Contrary to popular misconception, Glock’s pistols aren’t “X-ray proof.” 84% of the G17’s weight is comprised of steel, and Polymer 2 itself is detectable via X-ray.

About Glock 9mm Barrels

A Glock handgun’s barrel is remarkable because it lacks traditional rifling. Instead of lands and grooves, its polygonal rifling possesses a hexagonal cross-sectional profile. (Although 45 ACP and 45 GAP models have octagonal profiles.) Because polygonal rifling lacks any sharp angles, it is able to create a superior gas seal which enhances more efficient ignition. It is also somewhat easier to clean.

All modern Glock pistols feature the manufacturer’s Safe Action. This system includes an integrated trigger safety (essentially a trigger that cannot function so long as a finger is not applying pressure to it), a drop safety, and a firing pin safety. Naturally, you must treat every firearm like it is always loaded, but a Glock’s multiple levels of security make it a safe selection for personal protection.

The G17 has a double stack magazine, in which the cartridges are stored in two columns. This gives it greater capacity at the expense of making its grip wider. It is important to note that many Glock 9mm magazines are interchangeable so long as they are (A) long enough and (B) the same style (i.e. single stack or double stack). For example, a Glock 33-round 9mm magazine will work in both the G17 and the G19. However, the G26’s short 10-round mag cannot fit in a G17’s longer grip. (Glock mags are also backward compatible, i.e. a Gen 5 handgun can use a Gen 4 handgun’s mag and vice versa.)

Many shooters dislike Glock’s factory sights and make replacing them their first priority. You may find the G17’s stock plastic sights inadequate for the job, although not all people dislike them. We advise you at least give them the old college try before investing in a new set of sights.

Glock 17L

G17L
Standard Mag Capacity	17
Barrel Length	6.02 inch
Weight w/o mag	23.81 oz
Weight w/empty mag	26.63 oz
Weight w/loaded mag	33.86 oz
Trigger pull	24 N
Overall length	9.53 inch
Slide length	8.86 inch
Overall width	1.30 inch
Slide width	1.0 inch
Height w/mag	5.47 inch
Trigger distance	2.83 inch

The G17L’s long barrel makes it relatively unwieldy, and as such it is generally only favored for recreational and competitive shooting when accuracy is paramount. A longer barrel benefits accuracy by imparting greater rotational stability to the projectile, as well as giving the propellant gasses more time to transfer their energy to the projectile (which conveys a higher muzzle velocity). The G17 additionally offers a lighter trigger pull, which facilitates keeping the handgun steady while the shooter is squeezing the trigger.

Glock 19

G19
Standard Mag Capacity	15
Barrel Length	4.02 inch
Weight w/o mag	21.16 oz
Weight w/empty mag	23.63 oz
Weight w/loaded mag	30.16 oz
Trigger pull	28 N
Overall length	7.36 inch
Slide length	6.85 inch
Overall width	1.26 inch
Slide width	1.0 inch
Height w/mag	5.04 inch
Trigger distance	2.80 inch

Although still a full-size handgun in every sense of the term, the G19’s smaller dimensions can make it a more appealing everyday carry than the G17 for those who wish to haul around less weight or make it less obvious that they are armed.

The G19 has a 4.02” barrel instead of 4.49” and weighs approximately two ounces less when fully loaded. The G19’s overall height is also nearly 0.5” shorter, but it achieves its smaller stature by holding two less rounds in its magazine. As is usually the case with semi-automatic handguns, you benefit from carrying a smaller weapon at the expense of having fewer shots at your immediate disposal.

Glock 19X

G19X
Standard Mag Capacity	17
Barrel Length	4.02 inch
Weight w/o mag	22.05 oz
Weight w/empty mag	24.83 oz
Weight w/loaded mag	31.39 oz
Trigger pull	26 N
Overall length	7.44 inch
Slide length	6.85 inch
Overall width	1.30 inch
Slide width	1.0 inch
Height w/mag	5.47 inch
Trigger distance	2.76 inch

Unlike the G17 and G19, the G19X lacks finger grooves on its grip. (Although some G17 and G19 pistols are available from Glock’s factory without finger grooves as well.) Many shooters dislike grooves because their fingers don’t correctly line up with them, yet grooves can facilitate handling to improve accuracy.

The G19X also features a coyote tan factory colored slide with a corrosion resistant nPVD coating, ambidextrous slide stop levers, and Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) with improved rifling to further enhance accuracy.

Glock 26

G26
Standard Mag Capacity	10
Barrel Length	3.43 inch
Weight w/o mag	19.40 oz
Weight w/empty mag	21.52 oz
Weight w/loaded mag	25.75 oz
Trigger pull	28 N
Overall length	6.50 inch
Slide length	6.26 inch
Overall width	1.26 inch
Slide width	1.0 inch
Height w/mag	4.17 inch
Trigger distance	2.83 inch

The G26 is a true subcompact. It caters to those who would prefer to conceal a very small handgun or wish to carry using an ankle holster. The G26’s short stature means its standard mag holds accordingly fewer cartridges; however, because it utilizes a double stack magazine it is still compatible with longer G17 and G19 mags.

As with any subcompact, the G26’s convenient size comes with drawbacks. Its relatively short barrel gives a bullet less muzzle velocity, and accordingly less energy delivery on impact. It further offers poorer accuracy than a longer barrel. The G26’s lighter weight is less capable of absorbing recoil energy, so anticipate more muzzle flip when you fire this small 9mm handgun.

Glock 34

G34
Standard Mag Capacity	17
Barrel Length	5.31 inch
Weight w/o mag	23.10 oz
Weight w/empty mag	25.93 oz
Weight w/loaded mag	33.33 oz
Trigger pull	24 N
Overall length	8.82 inch
Slide length	8.15 inch
Overall width	1.30 inch
Slide width	1.0 inch
Height w/mag	5.47 inch
Trigger distance	2.83 inch

Like the G17L, the G34’s main place is at the target range. The G34’s long barrel enhances accuracy. Plus, its long slide at once reduces muzzle flip and lengthens the handgun’s line of sight. The G34 also features a long-lasting dual recoil spring assembly, though its integral rail also suits it tactical situations. SWAT teams, which are completely unconcerned about concealing the weaponry they are covered in, often take advantage of the G34’s excellent accuracy as well.

Glock 43

G43
Standard Mag Capacity	6
Barrel Length	3.41 inch
Weight w/o mag	16.23 oz
Weight w/empty mag	17.99 oz
Weight w/loaded mag	20.64 oz
Trigger pull	24 N
Overall length	6.26 inch
Slide length	6.06 inch
Overall width	1.06 inch
Slide width	0.87 inch
Height w/mag	4.25 inch
Trigger distance	2.56 inch

The smallest of the small when it comes to Glock 9mm handguns, the G43 is exceptionally lightweight at 1.3 lbs when it is fully loaded. Its overall length is only 78% that of the G17. Its short height and small width both make the G43 even more convenient to conceal and carry.

Like the G26, the G43’s small grip can make wielding the pistol significantly more difficult. It’s especially to those of us who have large hands. The G43 also achieves its tiny grip thanks to its single stack magazine (although the rounds are kept in a slightly zigzagged formation). This gives the G43 a very small six-round capacity, as well as the inability to accept larger pistols’ double stack mags.

Glock 43X

The subcompact G43X features Glock’s Slimline frame. It gives it a shortened grip length and diameter for more convenient concealed carry. The G43X’s smaller frame does reduce its magazine capacity. It also requires a single stack mag which is incompatible with several of Glock’s other 9mm firearms. The G43X’s match grade GMB promotes enhanced accuracy, and its forward slide serrations give the shooter an additional option as to how they can charge their pistol. (Note that many experts dislike forward slide serrations. They believe no one should put their fingers so close to the muzzle of a loaded handgun.)

G43X
Standard Mag Capacity	10
Barrel Length	3.41 inch
Weight w/o mag	16.40 oz
Weight w/empty mag	18.70 oz
Weight w/loaded mag	23.07 oz
Trigger pull	24 N
Overall length	6.50 inch
Slide length	6.06 inch
Overall width	1.10 inch
Slide width	0.87 inch
Height w/mag	5.04 inch
Trigger distance	2.64 inch

Glock 45

G45
Standard Mag Capacity	17
Barrel Length	4.02 inch
Weight w/o mag	21.73 oz
Weight w/empty mag	24.48 oz
Weight w/loaded mag	30.34 oz
Trigger pull	26 N
Overall length	7.44 inch
Slide length	6.85 inch
Overall width	1.34 inch
Slide width	1.0 inch
Height w/mag	5.47 inch
Trigger distance	2.76 inch

The G45 combines the G19X design with a true Gen 5 frame and forward slide serrations. The G45 additionally includes the G19X’s nPVD finish and GMB, making it a highly practical yet compact solution for personal protection and law enforcement applications alike.

Glock 48

G48
Standard Mag Capacity	10
Barrel Length	4.17 inch
Weight w/o mag	18.48 oz
Weight w/empty mag	20.74 oz
Weight w/loaded mag	25.12 oz
Trigger pull	24 N
Overall length	7.28 inch
Slide length	6.85 inch
Overall width	1.10 inch
Slide width	0.87 inch
Height w/mag	5.04 inch
Trigger distance	2.64 inch

Like the G43X, the G48 features Glock’s Slimline frame with forward slide serrations. The G48’s shot barrel length naturally impacts its accuracy, but the GMB does much to compensate for this shortcoming.

What Are the Glock Generations?

Whenever Glock upgrades their overall handgun design, they introduce that host of improvements as their newest generation. Glock typically introduces multiple new handgun models whenever they release a new generation, such as the G19X with Gen 4. There have been five generations to date.

Gen 1 (1984): Glock’s original, bare bones G17. A Gen 1 handgun has a polymer grip, left-hand controls, and very little else.
Gen 2 (1988): Glock added a steel plate with a serial number for compliance with ATF regulations. There’s also an integrated two-piece spring and guide rod, and checkering to the rear and front of the grip housing.
Gen 3 (1998): Glock added the Universal Glock Rail for mounting lights and other accessories. You’ll find thumb rests above the grip, finger grooves, a cross pin above the trigger pin. You can also get different color options.
Gen 4 (2010): Glock added the Glock Modular Backstrap and a smaller base grip. There’s also a dual magazine spring for greater longevity and reduced felt recoil.
Gen 5 (2017): Glock added the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB), flared magazine well, ambidextrous slide controls and mag caches, and semi-crystalline carbon finish. They additionally revised their baseplate design and removed the cross pin above the trigger guard.