An expert takes us through the pros and cons of the G34. If accuracy is your main concern when shopping for a new pistol, take a moment to read this Glock 34 review.
Glock 34: Explained
The Glock 34 is partially based on the Glock 17L, which was designed for competition shooting. It included a longer barrel and slide, but the slide extended far beyond the frame. The G34 solves this issue, resulting in a better-balanced pistol.
Overall, I found that the Glock 34 is a joy to shoot on the range. The differences between the Glock 34 and other Glocks help deliver increased accuracy and faster target acquisition.
Yet, the Glock 34 also has a few limitations. Before buying, check out the rest of the Glock G34 review to explore its pros and cons.
Keep reading to find out if the Glock 34 is right for you.
Glock G34 Overview
The Glock 34 was first released in 1998. It was made as a competition-ready pistol. Glock added a longer barrel and slide. The trigger pull distance was also shortened for more comfortable repeat firing.
Glock is now on its fifth generation of G34. The newer version includes greater customization. As with other current Gen5 Glocks, the G34 is available with removable backstraps for achieving the perfect grip.
Specifications
- Caliber: 9×19 mm
- Firing System: Safe Action (Striker-Fired)
- Barrel Length: 5.31 inches
- Weight Without Magazine: 23.10 ounces
- Weight with Loaded Magazine: 33.33 ounces
- Magazine Capacity: 17 rounds
Glock G34 Pros and Cons
Pros
- The extended length offers increased accuracy
- Features reliable construction and durable parts
- Easy to maintain and clean
Cons
- Too long to make it practical as a carry weapon
Glock G34 Features
The first thing that stands out on the G34 is the slide. It measures 8.15 inches long, which is significantly longer compared to other popular Glocks. Here is what you should know about some of the main features of the Glock G34.
Extended Barrel and Slide
The overall length of the G34 is 8.82 inches. The barrel measures 5.47 inches long. The length of the pistol limits its use as a carry weapon. However, it was designed specifically for competition shooting.
The longer barrel increases the accuracy of the pistol. The longer slide allows the front and rear sights to sit further apart, which adds to your accuracy when staring down the sights.
Striker-Fired Firing System
As with other Glocks, the G34 uses the company’s striker-fired system “Safe Action.” It has a shorter trigger distance of just 2.83 inches but also features a heavier trigger pull.
The pull weight is 6.29 pounds, which is heavier compared to the 5.4 pull weight found on other models. However, as Glocks often have a spongy trigger, the heavier trigger is a welcome change.
Alternatives
The following alternatives are recommended if the Glock 34 does not quite match what you need in a pistol:
- Glock 17 9 mm Pistol
- Sig Sauer P210 Target Pistol
Glock 17 9 mm Pistol
The Glock 17 is not a competition pistol, but it includes many of the same design features found on the G34. As with the G34, the G17 model has removable backstraps and reliable construction. If you prefer a pistol that you can holster, the G17 may fit your needs a little better compared to the G34.
Glock 34 with a GTL 22 attachment.
Sig Sauer P210 Target Pistol
If you want one of the absolute top-of-the-line competition pistols, the Sig Sauer P210 comes highly recommended. It has a five-inch barrel and fires 9 mm rounds. Although the G34 trigger is an improvement over the standard, spongy Glock trigger, the Sig Sauer P210 has a solid trigger that is hard to beat. The only drawback is the price, as you could get at least two G34 pistols for the same cost.
Conclusion
The Glock G34 is well-suited for competition shooting and other shooting sports, along with home defense and law enforcement applications. Compared to other Glocks, the G34 delivers superior accuracy thanks to its extended barrel and the extra distance between the sights.
As with Glocks, the G34 is a dependable weapon. It is easy to service and should last a lifetime with proper care. It has a solid feel and produces less recoil compared to some of the more compact Glock models.
Image: Creative Commons.
The length of the G34 makes it cumbersome to carry. It is also one of the heavier Glocks. However, if you want a Glock for target practice and competition sports, the G34 is a top recommendation.
Consider getting a Glock G34 to start working on your shooting accuracy.
Brady Kirkpatrick is the Editor of Gun Made. Brady is a passionate firearm owner from Omaha, Nebraska. Gun Made has been featured in various publications such as Forbes, Officer.com, American Police Beat, and countless others.
