Choosing between the Glock 34 and the Glock 47 requires careful consideration of your specific needs and shooting style. Both are excellent pistols, but they cater to different preferences and applications. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which Glock reigns supreme for you.
Caliber and Capacity: A Fundamental Difference
The most striking difference lies in caliber: the Glock 34 is a 9mm, while the Glock 47 is chambered in .45 ACP. This immediately impacts felt recoil, accuracy potential, and ammunition availability.
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9mm (Glock 34): Offers lower recoil, higher capacity magazines (typically 17 rounds), and greater ammunition availability and affordability. It's known for its accuracy and suitability for various applications, from target shooting to self-defense. The lower recoil also makes it more manageable for novice shooters.
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.45 ACP (Glock 47): Delivers significantly more stopping power due to the larger caliber round. While magazine capacity is typically lower (10 rounds), the .45 ACP's larger bullet diameter and higher mass result in a greater impact on target. The increased recoil necessitates more practice and a firmer grip for consistent accuracy.
Size and Weight: Ergonomics and Concealability
Both pistols share a similar overall length, but the Glock 47 is noticeably wider and heavier due to the larger caliber. This difference impacts carry and handling.
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Glock 34: Its longer slide and barrel contribute to enhanced accuracy, but the slimmer profile makes it easier to conceal, although still unsuitable for deep concealment. Its lighter weight contributes to easier handling during extended shooting sessions.
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Glock 47: The wider grip and added weight of the .45 ACP make it less ideal for concealed carry, particularly for individuals with smaller hands. The increased weight, however, can help manage the stronger recoil of the .45 ACP round.
Intended Use: Competition vs. Self-Defense
While both are versatile handguns, their designs subtly lean towards specific applications.
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Glock 34: Its longer sight radius and lower recoil make it a popular choice for competitive shooting, particularly in USPSA and IPSC. However, its reliability and accuracy also make it a solid self-defense option.
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Glock 47: The increased stopping power of the .45 ACP makes the Glock 47 a strong contender for self-defense. However, the greater recoil and larger size may make it less suitable for competitive shooting, where speed and accuracy are paramount.
Features and Accessories: Shared Strengths and Unique Traits
Both pistols benefit from Glock's renowned reliability, durable construction, and simple operation. Both models also accept a range of aftermarket accessories like sights, triggers, and holsters, enhancing customization options.
However, due to the difference in caliber, certain accessories will be specific to each model. For example, you cannot simply swap magazines between the two handguns.
Conclusion: The Right Choice Depends on Your Priorities
The ideal choice between the Glock 34 and 47 depends on your individual needs and shooting priorities. The Glock 34 shines with its accuracy, lower recoil, higher capacity, and suitability for competition, making it a versatile option for various users. The Glock 47, on the other hand, prioritizes stopping power and offers a powerful option for self-defense, although with a trade-off in recoil and capacity.
Careful consideration of caliber, size, weight, and intended use is crucial before making a purchase decision. Consider renting both models at a shooting range to experience their distinct characteristics firsthand. This hands-on experience will significantly aid in determining which Glock best suits your needs.
