Glock pistols are the most popular pistols in the world. They are the “people’s pistols,” as my rusty Spanish attempted to say above. Or is it, “pistolas del pueblo?” Anyway, you get the idea.
If you are in the market for your first Glock, don’t ask a dedicated Glock owner what model you should buy. Because the answer will most likely be “All of them.” Glocks inspire that kind of loyalty for a good reason. They are reliable, they shoot well, Glocks are durable, and they are versatile.
5 Best Glock Guns Right Now
These specialized striker-fired polymer pistols have seen widespread adoption across various government agencies, from law enforcement (local, state, and federal) to the Armed Forces, where Glocks have become quite popular with the Special Operators out of SOCOM.
Glock 17 Gen 5:
The G17—the one that started it all in 1982—is one of the most popular and user-friendly weapons on the market today. With the Gen 5, Glock has improved the ergonomics and shored up its internals, making a near-perfect handgun even more desirable.
The first of its kind, the Glock 17 (G17) was superbly engineered with its lightweight, durable polymer frame. Designed in 1982 for use in the Austrian military, the handgun’s “17” nomenclature denotes its 17+1 magazine size.
A full-size, 9mm model, the G17 is an iconic combat pistol for a reason.
Glock 17. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
Glock 19 Gen 5:
The Glock 19 is a popular choice for self-defense for any person, regardless of age or experience. Due to its reliability, ease of use, and manageable recoil, it is a compact and lightweight handgun, making it easy to handle and carry.
There’s almost nothing that the Glock 19 can’t do. Simple, effective, and easy to use, the rugged G19 has been a favorite of gun owners for years. With more than five generations of the Glock 19 released, you can find the version that fits you best. Most users will recommend either the Gen 4 or Gen 5.
With a magazine capacity of 15 +1 and a massive aftermarket of parts and accessories, the Glock 19 is an excellent weapon.
The Glock 19 is a longtime favorite of US Special Operations Forces (SOF) operators who know their handguns. The G19 Gen4 MOS (modular optic system) was designated by SOF as the Mk27 MOD 2 pistol.
Glock 19 Gen 5 with some modifications. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
G43X MOS:
I love reading articles by the guys at PewPew Tactical. They really know their stuff, so when anything new comes along, they are one of my first go-to sites. Needless to say, I always respect their opinions.
The Glock 43X MOS is a subcompact 9 mm pistol, so it only sports a 10+1 magazine. If you are looking for a slightly smaller concealed-carry pistol, the 43X is another great option with red-dot-ready optics.
The Glock 43X MOS sports the Marksmen Barrel, which is found on Gen. 5 Glocks and is said to improve accuracy. The Glock 43 was already accurate, so this is a bonus to buying one.
Image: Creative Commons.
Glock 45:
The nomenclature used for models can be confusing at times. While the Glock 17 refers to the magazine capacity, the 45 is chambered in 9mm Parabellum Luger, not .45 ACP. This confused me at first. However, the Glock 21 is chambered in .45 ACP for those keeping score at home.
The Glock 45 is a compact pistol. Its slide is 7.44″, just one-tenth of an inch longer than that of a Glock 19, and its overall height is 5.47,” the same as that of a Glock 17. The G45 blends a compact slide with a full-size frame to create a compact crossover pistol that can hold 17 rounds of 9mm Parabellum ammunition.
The weapon is equipped with a flared magazine well and front cocking serrations for easier reloads and better manipulation. The Compact Crossover in Black is another outstanding pistol.
Glock 45. Image Credit: Creative Commons/Glock Handout.
G21 Gen 5 MOS:
As mentioned above, the G21 is chambered in .45 ACP. The magazine holds 13+1 rounds, and as Glock says, it is well-known for its accuracy and light recoil. The Glock 21 Gen5 MOS delivers the power of the 45 Auto round with high magazine capacity.
The Gen5 model has the finger grooves removed from the frame, front serrations, and the MOS system for easy installation of a pistol red dot. The pistol’s ergonomics have definitely improved, and it feels much better in your hand.
This pistol shoots well, is highly accurate, and the recoil is very manageable for a .45 ACP.
.45 ACP Glock 21. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
About the Author: Steve Balestrieri
Steve Balestrieri is a 19FortyFive National Security Columnist. He served as a US Army Special Forces NCO and Warrant Officer. In addition to writing for 19FortyFive, he covers the NFL for PatsFans.com and is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA). His work was regularly featured in many military publications
