Glock 45 Review: Find out whether the Glock 45 can replace popular models such as the Glock 17 and Glock 19 with this concise Glock G45 review.
The Glock G45 is a crossover model. Glock developed the G45 to combine the best features from the 17 and 19 models. It features the full-size frame found on the G17 and the compact slide found on the G19.
I found the Glock G45 to be one of the most comfortable Glocks to hold and shoot.
The grip and frame are the perfect sizes for maintaining a secure hold on the pistol. Acquiring a target is also a little easier thanks to the compact slide.
Although the Glock 45 offers several benefits, it is not the only handgun available. This review examines the G45’s best features and potential drawbacks.
Keep reading to discover the advantages and disadvantages of the Glock G45.
Glock G45 Overview
The Glock 45 was released in 2018. Glock based the design of the G45 on two of its most popular models – the Glock 17 and the Glock 19.
The Glock 45 is a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol. It uses the “Safe Action” striker-fired firing system found in other Glocks.
The barrel length is 4.02 inches while the overall length is 7.44 inches. For comparison, the Glock 17 has a barrel length of 4.49 inches and a length of 8.03 inches. The barrel length is the same as the Glock 19, as the G45 features the same slide.
The gun has a standard magazine capacity of 15 rounds. However, you can extend the capacity to 33 rounds with Glock’s “Big Stick” magazine.
Specifications
- Caliber: 9×19 mm
- Firing System: Safe Action (Striker-Fired)
- Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
- Weight Without Magazine: 21.73 ounces
- Weight with Loaded Magazine: 30.34 ounces
- Magazine Capacity: 17 rounds
Glock G45 Pros and Cons
Pros
- The full-size frame offers a more secure grip
- The trigger pull is smooth and solid instead of spongy
- The removable backstraps ensure a perfect fit
Cons
- The full-size frame makes the G45 less concealable compared to subcompact pistols
Glock G45 Features
The Glock G45 uses a compact slide with a full-size frame. It is a crossover model, which means that Glock combined features from earlier models to create this pistol. Some of the main features are discussed below.
Full-Size Frame
The stainless-steel frame of the G45 is based on the frame found on the Glock 17. The larger frame allows you to get a better grip on the pistol.
The trigger distance is 2.76 inches when using the standard backstrap. However, you can also add a thinner or thicker backstrap to increase or decrease the trigger distance for a custom fit.
The height of the gun is 5.47 inches, which is almost half an inch taller than the Glock 19. Whether you have small or large hands, you should have no problem maintaining a firm grip on your G45.
Compact Slide
The G45 includes the shorter slide found on the Glock 19. The shorter slide and shorter barrel length make the G45 do not decrease the accuracy of the pistol. The shorter profile allows you to easily look down the sights of the gun to line up your shot quickly.
The compact slide helps make the G45 more concealable compared to other 9 mm pistols with a full-size grip.
Large Magazine Capacity
As with other Glocks, the G45 has a large magazine capacity. The standard magazine holds 17 rounds. You can also add magazines with 19, 24, 31, or 33 9mm rounds.
Alternatives
The Glock 45 is a high-quality pistol from a trusted manufacturer but there are still a couple of alternatives worth comparing:
- Glock 19 9 mm Pistol
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Semi-Auto Pistol
Glock 19 9 mm Pistol
The Glock 45 includes the same barrel and slide found on the Glock 19. The G19 pistol is a good alternative for those that find the G45 too cumbersome. The full-size grip may be too big for those with smaller hands. With the G19, you get a reliable pistol that is easy to conceal.
Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Semi-Auto Pistol
The Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 is a close competitor to the G45. The barrel length of 4.25 inches is comparable to the G45. It also fires 9 mm using a striker-fired system, uses a polymer platform, and features a stainless-steel chassis. However, it is a little more compact compared to the G45 and produces slightly less recoil.
Conclusion
The Glock 45 was a hit when it was released in 2018 and remains one of the best-selling Glocks several years later. Glock owners praise the pistol’s balance between a compact design and accurate shooting.
The barrel is a little shorter compared to a full-size 9 mm pistol. However, the grip and frame are still full-sized. You get a comfortable grip with removable backstraps for increased customization.
People have also commented on the quality of the trigger compared to earlier Glock models. It feels a little sturdier.
If you want a subcompact 9 mm pistol with a larger grip, order the Glock 45.
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.
