Choosing the right concealed carry pistol is a deeply personal decision, hinging on factors like hand size, shooting style, and intended use. Two popular contenders often found at the top of many concealed carry enthusiasts' lists are the Glock 47 and the Glock 48. Both are slim, single-stack 9mm pistols designed for comfortable everyday carry, but they possess subtle yet significant differences. This in-depth comparison will help you determine which pistol best suits your needs.
Size and Weight: A Key Differentiator
The most immediately noticeable difference lies in the size and weight. The Glock 48 boasts a slightly shorter overall length and barrel length compared to the Glock 47. This translates to a more compact profile, ideal for deep concealment. However, the Glock 47 offers a slightly longer grip, providing a more substantial feel in the hand for shooters with larger hands.
- Glock 48: More compact, easier to conceal. Might feel slightly small for those with larger hands.
- Glock 47: Slightly larger grip, better suited for larger hands. Slightly less concealable than the 48.
Capacity: Rounds in the Magazine
Both pistols utilize single-stack magazines, prioritizing slimness over higher capacity. However, there's a slight difference in magazine capacity. The Glock 48 typically comes with a 10-round magazine, while the Glock 47 offers an 11-round magazine. While only one round more, the extra round can be a significant factor for some users. Extended magazines are available for both models to increase capacity.
- Glock 48: 10-round standard magazine capacity.
- Glock 47: 11-round standard magazine capacity.
Ergonomics and Handling: Feel in the Hand
The ergonomics of both pistols are generally considered excellent for their size and intended use. However, personal preference plays a significant role here. The Glock 47's extended grip will likely be preferred by those with larger hands, providing a more comfortable and secure grip. The Glock 48's smaller grip is better for those with smaller hands or who prioritize a truly compact carry pistol.
- Glock 48: Suitable for smaller hands, prioritizing compactness.
- Glock 47: Better suited for larger hands, providing a more substantial grip.
Shootability: Accuracy and Recoil Management
Both the Glock 47 and 48 are known for their reliability and relatively manageable recoil. The slightly longer barrel of the Glock 47 might offer a slight advantage in terms of accuracy and muzzle velocity, but the difference is likely marginal for most shooters. Ultimately, individual skill and practice are more impactful on accuracy than the minor differences between these two pistols.
- Glock 47: Potentially slight advantage in accuracy due to longer barrel.
- Glock 48: Similar accuracy to the 47, prioritizing compactness.
Conclusion: Which Glock is Right for You?
The choice between the Glock 47 and Glock 48 depends on your individual needs and preferences. The Glock 48 is the better choice if you prioritize extreme concealability and have smaller hands. The Glock 47 is preferable if you value a more substantial grip, slightly increased capacity, and a slightly longer barrel for potentially improved accuracy. It's highly recommended to visit a gun range and handle both pistols to determine which feels better in your hand and meets your personal carry needs. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and follow all local and state firearm regulations.
