The Glock 34 is a favorite among competitive shooters, and for good reason. This full-size pistol, based on the popular Glock 17 platform, offers a winning combination of accuracy, reliability, and customizability, making it a serious contender in various shooting disciplines. But is the hype justified? Let's delve into the specifics of this competition powerhouse.
Why Choose the Glock 34 for Competition?
The Glock 34's popularity in competitive shooting stems from several key features:
Extended Barrel Length for Increased Accuracy
The longer 5.31-inch barrel compared to the Glock 17 contributes to improved accuracy and reduced recoil. This translates to tighter groups at longer ranges, a crucial advantage in many shooting competitions. The longer sight radius also aids in precise target acquisition.
Enhanced Control and Reduced Recoil
The Glock 34's full-size frame provides a larger grip surface, giving shooters better control and reducing felt recoil. This improved stability is especially beneficial during rapid fire sequences, helping maintain accuracy under pressure.
Ambidextrous Controls
Glock's ambidextrous slide release and magazine release are a significant advantage, especially for left-handed shooters or those who prefer to manipulate controls with either hand. This adaptability enhances shooting speed and efficiency.
Modular Design and Customization Options
The Glock 34's modular design allows for a wide range of aftermarket customizations. Shooters can personalize their pistols with different sights, triggers, barrels, and other accessories to optimize performance for their specific needs and shooting style. This adaptability is a key factor in its widespread appeal.
Glock 34 Gen5 Enhancements: What's New?
The Gen5 Glock 34 builds upon the previous generations with several notable improvements:
- Marksman Barrel: The improved barrel contributes to enhanced accuracy and consistency.
- Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB): This enhanced barrel improves accuracy even further, contributing to tighter shot groups.
- Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever: Facilitates quicker and easier slide manipulation, a critical aspect in competitive shooting.
- No Finger Grooves: The absence of finger grooves provides a more customizable grip, accommodating a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles.
- Improved Surface Finish: The nDLC finish enhances durability and reduces wear and tear.
Glock 34 vs. Other Competition Pistols
While the Glock 34 is a strong competitor, it's essential to consider other popular options in the market. Direct comparisons with pistols like the Staccato P, Shadow Systems MR920, or even the higher-end 1911s depend heavily on individual preferences and shooting styles. Some shooters may prefer the tighter tolerances and customizability of a higher-end 1911, while others find the reliability and affordability of the Glock 34 more appealing.
Conclusion: Is the Glock 34 Right for You?
The Glock 34 is a highly capable competition pistol, offering a compelling blend of accuracy, reliability, and customization options. Its popularity amongst competitive shooters is well-deserved, and its advantages are clear. However, the "best" competition pistol is subjective and depends greatly on the shooter's individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, shooting style, and desired level of customization before making a decision. Thorough research and potentially even renting or borrowing different models for a test drive will significantly aid in this important choice.
