Choosing between the Glock 19 Gen4 and Gen5 can feel like splitting hairs, especially for experienced Glock enthusiasts. Both are incredibly popular, reliable handguns, favored by law enforcement, competitive shooters, and everyday carry enthusiasts. However, subtle yet significant differences exist that could sway your decision. This in-depth comparison will highlight the key distinctions to help you determine which generation best suits your needs and shooting style.
Key Differences: Gen4 vs. Gen5
The Glock 19 Gen5 builds upon the Gen4's success, incorporating several refinements based on user feedback and technological advancements. Let's break down the most crucial differences:
1. Trigger:
- Gen4: Features the standard Glock trigger with a slightly rougher surface, offering a more pronounced trigger pull. The trigger's texture aids in grip, especially in wet or sweaty conditions.
- Gen5: Employs a redesigned, smoother trigger with an improved, cleaner break. Many shooters find the Gen5 trigger to be more refined and predictable, leading to improved accuracy. The lack of the rough texture might be a slight drawback for some in extreme conditions.
2. Slide:**
- Gen4: Includes front and rear serrations for improved slide manipulation.
- Gen5: Features ambidextrous slide serrations, providing a more comfortable and versatile racking experience for both right- and left-handed shooters. The addition of this feature eliminates the need for aftermarket modifications.
3. Magazine Release:**
- Gen4: Offers a reversible magazine release, accommodating both right- and left-handed users. However, the swap requires a tool and minor disassembly.
- Gen5: Includes a reversible magazine release that's easily swapped without tools, enhancing convenience and adaptability.
4. Frame:**
- Gen4: Provides interchangeable backstraps for customized grip size and feel. This allows users to adjust the handgun's ergonomics to fit their hand perfectly.
- Gen5: Features a slimmer, more refined frame without interchangeable backstraps. While this loses the customization of the Gen4, it results in a more streamlined, comfortable feel for many users. The removal of the backstraps contributes to a slightly lighter overall weight.
5. Recoil Spring Assembly (RSA):
- Gen4: Uses a dual recoil spring assembly.
- Gen5: Employs a single, redesigned recoil spring assembly. This simplification potentially leads to less maintenance, improved reliability, and potentially smoother recoil management, although this is a hotly debated topic among Glock enthusiasts.
Which Generation is Right for You?
The "better" generation depends entirely on individual preferences and priorities.
Choose the Glock 19 Gen4 if:
- You prefer a textured trigger for enhanced grip in various conditions.
- You highly value the customizable backstraps for a perfect fit.
- You're comfortable with a slightly more involved process for changing the magazine release.
Choose the Glock 19 Gen5 if:
- You prefer a smoother, more refined trigger pull for enhanced accuracy.
- You need ambidextrous slide serrations for easier operation.
- You want a tool-less reversible magazine release for increased convenience.
- You prioritize a slimmer, lighter frame design.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to handle both models if possible. The subtle differences in feel and functionality are best experienced firsthand. Consider what features are most important to you based on your intended use (self-defense, competition, etc.) and personal shooting style. Both the Glock 19 Gen4 and Gen5 are excellent handguns; the choice comes down to individual needs and preferences.
