Choosing between the Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5 can be tricky, even for experienced Glock enthusiasts. Both are excellent handguns, but subtle yet significant differences exist that cater to various preferences and shooting styles. This in-depth comparison will highlight the key distinctions, helping you decide which generation best suits your needs.
Key Differences Between Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5
The Glock 19 Gen 5 represents an evolution of the already popular Gen 4, incorporating several refinements based on user feedback and technological advancements. Here's a breakdown of the core differences:
1. Trigger:
- Gen 4: Features the now-familiar "rough" textured trigger. This was a design choice intended to provide improved grip and tactile feedback.
- Gen 5: Boasts a smoother, less textured trigger, resulting in a crisper trigger pull for many shooters. The reduced texture aims to enhance trigger control and reduce friction. This change is often cited as a significant improvement.
2. Slide:**
- Gen 4: Includes the controversial (though popular among some) dual recoil spring system.
- Gen 5: Employs a single, slightly heavier recoil spring, simplifying maintenance and potentially reducing felt recoil for some users. The removal of the dual recoil spring system contributes to the improved perceived smoothness of the action.
3. Slide Serrations:**
- Gen 4: Features front and rear serrations, providing multiple gripping points for manipulating the slide.
- Gen 5: Offers extended, aggressive front and rear serrations. This enhancement gives the shooter more control and improved purchase, especially when racking the slide under stress.
4. Frame:**
- Gen 4: Includes interchangeable backstraps, allowing users to customize the grip size and feel to better fit their hand.
- Gen 5: Eliminates the interchangeable backstraps. While some shooters might find this a drawback, Glock opted for a slightly modified frame design, aiming for improved ergonomics and a more secure grip without the need for backstraps.
5. Magazine Release:**
- Gen 4: Retains the standard reversible magazine release.
- Gen 5: Features a redesigned, ambidextrous magazine release, offering enhanced accessibility for left-handed shooters. This is a welcome addition for many and represents a considerable usability improvement.
6. Barrel:**
- Gen 4: Uses a traditional barrel design.
- Gen 5: Incorporates a Marksman barrel, featuring a slightly improved design resulting in potentially increased accuracy for some shooters. Though the difference might be subtle in practical applications, the Marksman barrel is a noteworthy improvement.
Which Glock 19 Should You Choose?
The "better" Glock depends entirely on your individual needs and preferences.
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Choose the Glock 19 Gen 4 if: You prefer the textured trigger, like the interchangeable backstraps for a custom fit, and don't mind the dual recoil spring system. The Gen 4 also frequently carries a lower price point on the used market.
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Choose the Glock 19 Gen 5 if: You appreciate a smoother trigger, prefer a single recoil spring for simpler maintenance, want more aggressive slide serrations, and value the ambidextrous magazine release. The refined features represent a noticeable improvement for many shooters.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to handle both models if possible. Spend some time with each pistol, cycle the action, and assess the trigger pull. The subtle yet important differences may profoundly affect your shooting comfort and accuracy. Consider renting both models at your local range if purchasing is in your future, so you can experience them firsthand. This hands-on approach will guide you to the perfect Glock 19 for your specific needs.
