Hey everyone, let's dive into a classic debate: Glock 19 Gen 5 vs. Gen 4! If you're a gun enthusiast, a concealed carry permit holder, or just someone curious about firearms, you've likely heard these names tossed around. The Glock 19 is a legendary handgun, and both the Gen 4 and Gen 5 iterations have their loyal fans. But which one comes out on top? Which Glock 19 is the best for you? We'll break down the key differences, the pros and cons of each, and help you decide which Glock 19 is the right fit for your needs. Buckle up, because we're about to get into some serious detail about the Glock 19 Gen 5 vs. Gen 4.

Glock 19 Gen 4: The Reliable Veteran

Let's start by taking a look at the Glock 19 Gen 4. This generation of the Glock 19 made its debut in 2010 and quickly became a favorite for its dependability and user-friendly features. The Gen 4 brought some significant upgrades compared to its predecessors, making it a popular choice for both law enforcement and civilian shooters. The Gen 4 has a textured frame for a more secure grip, which is a big deal when you're handling a firearm. One of the most talked-about features of the Gen 4 is its modular backstrap system. This allows shooters to customize the grip size to better fit their hands. This feature is particularly useful if you have smaller or larger hands. The Gen 4 also features a dual recoil spring assembly, which helps to reduce felt recoil and improve the overall reliability of the pistol, especially when using different types of ammunition. Now, let's get into a bit more detail.

Firstly, we have the grip. The Gen 4 has a more aggressive texture on the grip compared to previous generations, which helps with grip and control, even in wet conditions. The modular backstrap system also plays a crucial role here, as you can change the size of the grip to fit your hand perfectly, which makes shooting even more comfortable.

Then, we have the recoil spring assembly. The dual recoil spring assembly in the Gen 4 isn't just a gimmick; it seriously helps to tame the recoil, which makes rapid firing a lot easier. This is also super helpful for follow-up shots because it gets you back on target faster. Reliability is a major selling point for the Gen 4. Glocks are known for their reliability, and the Gen 4 is no exception. Its simple design and rugged construction mean it can handle a lot of wear and tear, and it is known for working in less-than-ideal conditions. If you're looking for a pistol that you can count on, the Gen 4 is a solid contender. The Gen 4 is a great choice if you're looking for a reliable, customizable, and user-friendly handgun. However, it's not perfect, and there are some things to consider when comparing it to the Gen 5. While the Gen 4 is a workhorse, it might not have all the latest bells and whistles of the Gen 5. But for many, the proven track record and customizable features make it an excellent choice. The Gen 4 is a fantastic option if you prioritize reliability, customization, and ease of use in your firearm.

Glock 19 Gen 5: The Evolution of Excellence

Now, let's turn our attention to the Glock 19 Gen 5, which was released in 2017. The Gen 5 represents the latest evolution of the Glock 19, incorporating a range of improvements based on feedback from shooters and law enforcement agencies. The Gen 5 aims to build upon the strengths of its predecessors while addressing some of their weaknesses. One of the most obvious changes is the removal of the finger grooves on the grip, which some shooters found uncomfortable. Instead, the Gen 5 features a more streamlined grip with a more aggressive texture, similar to the Gen 4 but without the finger grooves. This change allows for a more natural and comfortable grip for a wider range of hand sizes. The Gen 5 also introduced the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB), which features enhanced rifling for improved accuracy. The GMB is a significant upgrade over previous Glock barrels and can contribute to tighter groupings and better overall performance. Let’s not forget the ambidextrous slide release. This is a game-changer for left-handed shooters, as it allows them to operate the slide release without having to adjust their grip. Another notable improvement is the flared magazine well, which makes it easier and faster to reload the pistol. This is a subtle but important feature that can make a big difference in a high-stress situation. Now, let's dig a little deeper into the Gen 5 and see what it's all about.

Let’s start with the grip. The Gen 5 ditched the finger grooves from previous models and features a more aggressive texture. This is a pretty big deal. Many shooters found the finger grooves on previous models didn't fit their hands, which made it harder to get a good grip. The Gen 5 solves this problem by going groove-less and adding a more aggressive texture. This design gives you a much better grip and more control, regardless of your hand size. The Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) is another key improvement. Glock barrels have always been good, but the GMB takes accuracy to the next level. The enhanced rifling in the GMB helps stabilize the bullet, leading to tighter groupings. The ambidextrous slide release is also a significant upgrade, especially for left-handed shooters. This is a very welcome feature. The flared magazine well is another improvement that makes it easier and faster to reload. In high-stress situations, every second counts. The Gen 5 is a step forward in Glock's evolution. It's built on the solid foundation of its predecessors but incorporates improvements that make it more user-friendly, accurate, and reliable. However, the Gen 5 also has some drawbacks. Some shooters might miss the modular backstraps of the Gen 4, and the Gen 5 might be a bit more expensive. But overall, the Gen 5 is a top-tier choice for anyone looking for a modern, high-performance handgun.

Key Differences: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Alright, let's break down the key differences between the Glock 19 Gen 4 and the Gen 5 in a handy comparison. This is where we really get into the nitty-gritty and see what sets these two handguns apart. We'll look at the features and then tell you what they mean. Here’s a quick overview:

• Grip: Gen 4 has finger grooves and a modular backstrap system; Gen 5 has no finger grooves and a more aggressive grip texture.
• Barrel: Gen 4 has a standard Glock barrel; Gen 5 has the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) for improved accuracy.
• Slide Release: Gen 4 has a standard slide release; Gen 5 has an ambidextrous slide release.
• Magazine Well: Gen 4 has a standard magazine well; Gen 5 has a flared magazine well for faster reloads.

Let’s expand on this a little bit. The grip is the first thing you'll notice. The Gen 4 has finger grooves and a modular backstrap system. The finger grooves are what the Gen 5 removed. These finger grooves were designed to help with the grip, but they didn’t always work for everyone. The Gen 5 uses a more aggressive texture on the grip. This makes a more universal fit. The Gen 5's grip is generally more comfortable for a wider range of shooters. The barrel is a big deal in terms of accuracy. The Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) is a big deal. The GMB has enhanced rifling, which helps stabilize the bullet in flight. This usually leads to tighter groupings and improved accuracy. The ambidextrous slide release is another major upgrade for the Gen 5. This feature is especially great if you are left-handed. The flared magazine well is something that you might not notice as much, but it really helps when you are reloading. This feature makes it faster and easier to insert a magazine, which can be a real advantage in a high-stress situation. Each of these improvements makes a difference in the overall performance and usability of the Glock 19. If you are trying to make a choice between the two, this information can really help you decide.

Performance: Accuracy, Handling, and Reliability

When we talk about handguns, the performance is super important. We are going to look at accuracy, handling, and reliability. This section will compare the Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5 based on these key factors. Let's see how these two stack up! The Gen 5 usually comes out on top in terms of accuracy. The Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) gives it an edge, which results in tighter groupings. However, the Gen 4 is still very accurate. The accuracy difference might not be noticeable for everyone, but it can make a difference if you are shooting at longer ranges or in competitions. In terms of handling, the Gen 5 has a slight advantage due to its grip design and ambidextrous slide release. The Gen 5's grip is easier to hold, especially for shooters with different hand sizes. The ambidextrous slide release is also a significant benefit for left-handed shooters, allowing them to operate the gun more naturally. Reliability is a strong suit for both generations. Glocks are known for their dependability, and the Gen 4 and Gen 5 are no exceptions. The Gen 4 has a proven track record. The Gen 5 has also demonstrated excellent reliability. Both are reliable and will work in various conditions, but if you prioritize the absolute best accuracy and handling, the Gen 5 might be a better choice. The Gen 4 holds up well, and will continue to be a good choice. Both generations are excellent choices. But if you value top-tier accuracy and handling, the Gen 5 takes a slight lead.

Customization and Accessories

Customization is a major part of owning a handgun. When we talk about the Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5, there are some key things you should consider. One of the best things about Glocks is the sheer number of aftermarket parts and accessories available. Let's see how these two compare. The Gen 4 has a wide range of accessories and parts available. Many companies have been making parts for the Gen 4 for years. You can find everything. This includes triggers, sights, slides, and magazine extensions. The Gen 5 also has a growing list of aftermarket parts. The Gen 5 is newer, but there are still tons of options. It might not have as many options as the Gen 4, but that gap is closing quickly. The key difference here is the modular backstrap system of the Gen 4. If you like to change the grip size, you might prefer the Gen 4. However, the Gen 5 has a more streamlined grip design, which may suit more people. In terms of aftermarket support, both generations are well-supported. You will find plenty of parts, accessories, and customization options for either one. The Gen 4 has a slight lead in terms of the sheer volume of available parts. But the Gen 5 is catching up quickly. The choice comes down to personal preference. Consider the grip and the features that matter most to you.

Which Glock 19 Should You Choose? The Verdict!

So, which Glock 19 is right for you, the Glock 19 Gen 5 or Gen 4? That really depends on your needs and priorities. Let's recap some key points:

• Choose the Gen 4 if: You value customization options, the modular backstrap system, and a proven track record.
• Choose the Gen 5 if: You want improved accuracy, an ambidextrous slide release, and a more streamlined grip.

The Gen 4 is an excellent choice if you like to customize your handgun. The modular backstrap system is a big plus. Its track record is also very solid, proving its reliability and durability. If you prioritize accuracy and handling, the Gen 5 might be your best bet. The Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) gives it an edge. The ambidextrous slide release is great if you are left-handed. The Gen 5 also has a more streamlined grip. Consider your priorities. If you are looking for the latest features and improved accuracy, the Gen 5 is the winner. The Gen 4 is still an amazing pistol. You really can’t go wrong with either one. The choice comes down to personal preference. Consider what features are most important to you. Think about what you will use the handgun for. Both are great options, and each one has its strengths. If you can, it’s always a good idea to try both at the range. This will help you make a final decision.

Ultimately, both the Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5 are fantastic handguns. The best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. I hope this comparison has helped you! Happy shooting, guys!