The Glock 19 has long been a favorite among law enforcement, competitive shooters, and concealed carriers alike. Its compact size, reliable performance, and ease of use have cemented its place as a modern classic. But with the introduction of the Gen 5, Glock took an already excellent pistol and made it even better. This in-depth review will explore the key improvements and features of the Gen 5 Glock 19, helping you decide if it's the right pistol for you.
What's New in Gen 5? Significant Upgrades Over Previous Generations
The Gen 5 Glock 19 boasts several key improvements over its predecessors, focusing on enhanced ergonomics, reliability, and performance. These changes aren't just incremental tweaks; they represent a significant leap forward in Glock's design philosophy.
Enhanced Ergonomics: A More Comfortable and Controllable Grip
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Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever: One of the most welcome additions is the ambidextrous slide stop lever. This allows for easier manipulation for both right- and left-handed shooters, a feature previously absent in earlier generations.
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Improved Texturing: The Gen 5 features an aggressive, improved texturing on the grip, providing a more secure and confident hold, even in wet or sweaty conditions. This enhanced grip significantly reduces slippage, enhancing control and accuracy.
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No Finger Grooves: Glock eliminated the finger grooves from the Gen 5 grip. This design choice allows for a more customizable and comfortable grip for a wider range of hand sizes. Many shooters appreciate the absence of grooves, finding it provides a more natural and secure hold.
Enhanced Reliability: Improved Performance Under Stress
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Marksman Barrel: The Gen 5 Glock 19 incorporates a Marksman barrel, designed for improved accuracy and consistency. This barrel features a longer forcing cone, which helps to reduce recoil and improve overall accuracy.
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Glock's Unwavering Reliability: Glocks are known for their legendary reliability, and the Gen 5 continues this tradition. The enhanced design features further improve its ability to function flawlessly under various conditions.
Other Notable Improvements: Small Changes, Big Impact
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Improved Trigger: While maintaining the characteristic Glock trigger feel, the Gen 5 trigger is refined for a slightly smoother and more consistent pull. This minor change contributes to a more predictable shot.
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Updated Recoil Spring Assembly: The updated recoil spring assembly contributes to smoother cycling and enhanced reliability.
Gen 5 Glock 19: Performance on the Range
The improvements in ergonomics and reliability translate directly to enhanced performance on the range. The improved grip provides better control, leading to tighter groups and increased accuracy. The smoother trigger contributes to more consistent shot placement. The overall shooting experience is markedly improved compared to previous generations.
Is the Gen 5 Glock 19 Right for You?
The Gen 5 Glock 19 is a significant upgrade over previous generations. The improvements in ergonomics, reliability, and performance make it a strong contender for anyone looking for a reliable, accurate, and easy-to-carry pistol. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a first-time gun owner, the Gen 5 Glock 19 is definitely worth considering. However, individual preferences vary, and it is advisable to handle the firearm before purchase. Consider your hand size and shooting style when making your decision.
Conclusion: A Refined Classic
The Glock 19 Gen 5 successfully takes a proven design and refines it with thoughtful improvements. The result is a pistol that is both more comfortable and more capable than its predecessors. Its combination of reliability, accuracy, and concealability continues to make it a top choice for a wide range of users. The Gen 5 enhances these qualities, making it a worthwhile upgrade for Glock 19 enthusiasts and a compelling option for those new to the platform.
