Glock G26 Review – The G26 may not be as widely recognized as other Glock pistols, leading me to compile this Glock G26 review.
The Glock G26 is comparable in size to a snub-nose revolver, but with a semi-automatic 9 mm pistol design. It offers a larger magazine capacity in a compact frame, making it a top recommendation for self-defense or a backup piece for law enforcement or the military.
I found the Glock G26 to exceed expectations, as it features minimal recoil and excellent accuracy for a pistol of its size. It is small enough to fit in an ankle holster but still feels heavy and balanced when firing.
The following review covers the main details to consider when comparing the Glock G26. Learn more about its advantages and disadvantages to determine if it meets your needs.
Keep reading to explore the pros and cons of the Glock G26.
Glock G26 Overview
The Glock 26 was first released in 1994. It was made to suit a variety of situations, including home defense and law enforcement. Due to its compact size, it is also a common choice for a concealed-carry pistol.
The G26 model was developed after the release of the compact G19. The G26 version is even smaller than the Glock 19. Yet, it has the same width as the G17 and G19, allowing Glock owners to easily add the G26 to their arsenal.
Specifications
- Caliber: 9×19 mm
- Firing System: Safe Action (Striker-Fired)
- Barrel Length: 3.43 inches
- Weight Without Magazine: 19.40 ounces
- Weight with Loaded Magazine: 25.75 ounces
- Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
Glock G26 Pros and Cons
Pros
- The compact size is easy to conceal (fits in an ankle holster)
- Offers excellent accuracy for a subcompact pistol
- Suitable for left-handed or right-handed individuals
- Creates minimal recoil when firing multiple rounds
Cons
- The grip may be a little small for larger hands
- The trigger pull weight may feel a little heavy
Glock G26 Features
The Glock 26 has a smaller magazine capacity compared to other Glocks but can support larger magazines. The company chose to focus on making the G26 as small as possible, which required less capacity with a standard double-stacked magazine. Here is a closer look at the main features of the G26.
Glock G26: Compact Design with a Shorter Barrel
In 2018, Glock introduced the Gen5 Glock 26, which had the most compact design compared to previous versions of the G26. The latest version is 6.5 inches long and 4.17 inches high with the magazine and iron sights.
The G26 has a barrel length of 3.43 inches, which is over an inch shorter compared to the Glock 17. Despite the shorter barrel length, the G26 still offers reliable accuracy.
Due to its size, the G26 is also one of the lightest Glocks. It weighs just under 20 ounces without a magazine and just over 25 ounces fully loaded.
Compatible with Larger Magazines
The standard magazine for the Glock G26 holds 10 rounds. However, the G26 also supports larger aftermarket magazines, including double-stacked magazines that hold up to 33 rounds.
The double-stacked 33-round magazines will stick out the bottom of the pistol significantly. Yet, you have the option to hold between 10 and 33 rounds. Few other pistols of this size offer the same versatility.
Even the 10-round capacity is larger compared to most alternatives. For example, the Beretta Nano holds just eight 9 mm rounds.
Glock G26Alternatives
The Glock G26 is a popular pistol, but you still have a few other options when searching for a subcompact handgun:
- Beretta Nano 9 mm Pistol
- Glock 43 9 mm Pistol
Beretta Nano 9 mm Pistol
The Beretta Nano is more compact compared to the G26. The barrel length is about three inches, which is a bit shorter than the Glock 26. It is easier to conceal yet maintains a solid, heavy feel. You are also likely to get it at a lower price compared to the G26.
Glock 43 9 mm Pistol
The Glock 43 uses a single-stack magazine instead of a double-stack, giving the gun a smaller magazine capacity compared to the Glock 26. It holds six 9 mm rounds instead of 10 and does not support larger magazines. However, it is a little smaller and lighter compared to the G26. If the size is your main concern, you may prefer the more compact design of the G43.
Conclusion
The Glock 26 is a reliable choice for those that want a subcompact handgun. As with most other Glocks, it fires 9mm rounds with dependable accuracy. It stands out compared to other options due to its size.
The grip may be a little small for individuals with large hands. The trigger pull weight is also a little heavy. However, these issues may not be a big deal for everyone.
The G26 is smaller than the G19, which is also often used as a backup pistol. It also offers surprisingly minimal recoil for a subcompact pistol, allowing you to fire multiple rounds with greater ease.
If you are looking for a new concealed-carry pistol or backup pistol, consider ordering the Glock G26 today.
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.
