The polymer frame makes the gun lighter than traditional steel or aluminum-framed handguns. This is an attractive feature for law enforcement and civilians who carry a handgun for extended periods of time. The ban on large-capacity magazines that Glock helped push through Congress was initially viewed as a blow to the company, but Barrett says it was actually a boon. That’s because it made police departments trade in their old equipment for new Glocks.
Features
Glock pistols are extremely simple, which is one of the reasons they’re so reliable. The only external controls are a trigger, magazine release and slide lock. There are no manual safeties, which is an important feature for law enforcement officers and people who may have to operate their handguns under stress.
The Glock 19L and G40 use the same magazines, but the G40 has a shorter slide and barrel. It’s also compatible with the Trijicon RMR optic, making it a popular choice for SOCOM-style operations.
Many people criticize Glock for “not innovating,” but they’ve stuck with a proven design and kept improving it over time. Their popularity has created a cottage industry that offers all sorts of upgrades, including holsters, sights and mag capacities. The 3rd Generation Glock models got an accessory rail, called the Universal Glock Rail, for mounting lasers and tactical lights. Thumb rests and finger grooves have been added, which improve gripping comfort.
Design
Glock pistols have minimal parts, allowing them to function more reliably and require less maintenance. Their simplicity also helps to keep the cost and weight down. Mr. Glock built his pistol with the needs of Austrian military and law enforcement in mind, and his design passed a series of rigorous tests.
The popularity of Glocks has led to a cottage industry of products for them, including holsters, magazines, lights and sights. These upgrades can be useful for high-adrenaline situations, low-light shooting and improving accuracy.
Glocks are available in five form factors: standard full-sized duty firearms, compacts that feature reduced magazine capacity and lighter weight, subcompact models that can be carried with two fingers on the grip below the trigger guard, and a hybrid model featuring a compact slide mated to a full frame. Various features have made each generation distinct, although specific details are often referred to by post production vernacular not originating from the manufacturer.
Durability
Glocks are incredibly durable and long-lasting pistols. They have a polymer frame that shrugs off impacts that would crack or dent aluminum or steel frames of other pistols. This design allows them to be used in ways that are impractical for other types of handguns without requiring a hefty investment of time and money to repair or replace damaged components.
The durability features of the gun are further enhanced by the fact that parts and upgrades can be interchanged between different generations of the same model. This makes it easy for gun owners to learn the functions and operations of multiple guns. For example, a jazzed-up barrel may not make much sense on a stock gun, but with the addition of a custom slide upgrade it becomes a practical and attractive option.
Glocks are also popular for their affordability. When compared to other semiautomatic pistols, they cost significantly less. This is especially true when the cost of training and ammunition is factored in.
Customer Satisfaction
Glock pistols function reliably even in high-adrenaline situations or slippery conditions, and they’re extremely easy to maintain. Their popularity has resulted in a massive aftermarket that offers upgrades for appearance, performance and capability.
Some upgrades are just cosmetic, but others can significantly improve how a gun feels and shoots. For example, adding a better trigger can make it easier to fire the pistol in stressful scenarios or during competitions.
Wrapping It Up
Unlike some other handgun manufacturers that constantly try to reinvent their designs, Glock keeps improving the model while remaining true to its original design. For example, the latest generation of Glocks has a modified trigger and frame without finger grooves and an ambidextrous slide release button. It also uses a different type of grip insert and a smaller magazine well, and it has improved sights. The company also lowered the weight of the gun. This reduced the overall package size while increasing reliability and durability. It also allows the company to offer a compact version for law enforcement backup use.