Best Glocks: Rated and Ranked for 2023

Below are my selections of the best Glocks for a variety of roles & use cases. I list the best Glock pistols in terms of value, fit, design, and cost.

Click on the name to head to the product page, read reviews and check prices or skip ahead to the list of Glocks.

1. Best Overall: Glock 17

Specifications:

• Weight: 22.05oz
• Length: 8.03”
• Barrel Length: 4.49”

• Capacity: 17
• Height: 5.47”
• Caliber: 9mm
• Action: Striker-fired

Pros

• The Orginal Glock
• Best developed in terms of reliability and updates
• These fit well in most people’s hands
• Shoot accurately for most people

Cons

• Same iffy Glock factory trigger
• The all-black standard sights are not the best for fast shooting.

Beyond being “The Original” Glock, which won the company favor with the Austrians then the world, the Glock G17 is arguably the most popular Glock pistol model on the planet.

There are tons of features that make it worth your consideration, starting with its trademark durability and flexibility. It features a modular backstrap that will let you customize the grip for your unique hand size. The entire surface is also textured for easier handling, making it difficult to lose your hold on the weapon, even in a confrontation.

If you want more on the G17 check out our hands-on review.

It features a dual recoil spring assembly to make it even more durable and an enlarged magazine catch, which can accommodate either left or right-handed shooters, that makes changing the magazine easy and fast. A Glock accessory rail is available for any attachments you might want to include.

2. Best .40 S&W: Glock 22

Specifications:

• Weight: 22.1oz
• Length: 7.95”
• Barrel Length: 4.49”

• Capacity: 15
• Height: 5.47”
• Caliber: .40 S&W
• Action: Striker-fired

Pros

• Most controllable .40SW Glock
• Same size and controls as the G19

Cons

• .40 SW is fading in popularity
• Non-replaceable sights

Glock’s first entry into the .40 S&W game is arguably their best; with the G22 they just got a lot right.

Beyond the fabled reliability, the .40 SW packs a punch, and the full-sized G22 helps tame the recoil impulse better than its smaller .40 S&W brethren —  the compact G23 and subcompact Glock G27.

You’re giving up concealability with the G22, but for most shooters it’s a significantly easier pistol to control than its .40 SW siblings.

While it doesn’t feature the modular backstrap, the textured grip is sufficient, plus you get the captive recoil spring, steel guide rod, and ambi mag release found on other Glocks, and a rail for all your home defense needs.

It’s also the same size as the G19, so accessories should work between the two of you want to add a .40S&W Glock to your roster.

We went deep on the G22 in our hands-on review if you want more detail.

3. Best For Target Shooting: Glock 34

Specifications:

• Weight: 23.1oz
• Length: 8.82”
• Barrel Length: 5.31”

• Capacity: 17
• Height: 5.47”
• Caliber: 9mm
• Action: Striker-fired

Pros

• More accurate than other Glocks.
• Heavier frame aids in felt recoil reduction

Cons

• Long slide could use more serrations
• Proprietary rail system

This fifth-generation G34 pistol is another fantastic choice, featuring an extended 5.3” barrel for enhanced accuracy and larger slide dimensions. As a result, it’s a particularly good target shooting pistol, especially since it features a special marksman barrel that includes enhanced polygon rifling and an improved barrel crown.

The gun is somewhat unique in that the grip doesn’t feature any grooves, though it does include ambidextrous slide stop levers for added versatility and even more control. A non-corrosive finish increases the pistol’s durability even further, and you get a 10-round magazine with your purchase.

4. Most Versatile: Glock 19

Specifications:

• Weight: 21.16oz
• Length: 7.36”
• Barrel Length: 4.02”

• Capacity: 15
• Height: 5.04”
• Caliber: 9mm
• Action: Striker-fired

Pros

• More concealable than the Glock 17 but with similar ergonomics
• Come standard with improved white sights

Cons

• Loses two rounds of capacity to the G17
• Large despite shorter barrel length

The Gen 5 G19 Glock pistol is incredibly popular, in fact, it’s so popular it’s become a bit of a default go-to pistol for those in the market for a defensive pistol. It comes with night sights built into its frame, making this a great duty carry pistol or home defense option.

It also comes with the same adjustable grip back strap as the Glock 17 making it easy to customize the grip to your hand shape.

Finger grooves can also be removed for added versatility and customization, helping to increase hand feel and control. It comes with an enhanced trigger spring assembly design, so each trigger pull is smooth and snappy.

Other additional benefits like an enhanced magazine floorplate and the 15+1 capacity give it the most capacity of any Glock handgun.

All these features, combined with the non-corrosive finish, make it suitable for a variety of uses, though it might be too large for pocket carry.

If you’re on the fence we have a hands-on Glock 19 review and compared the G19 and G17 to help you make sense of the two.

Like the G17’s full-size grip but want the G19’s shorter, more concealable slide? The G19X gives you the best of both worlds (with a few compromises.)

5. Mix & Match Pick: Glock 47

Specifications:

• Caliber: 9mm
• Barrel Length: 4.49 inches
• Overall Length: 7.95 inches
• Weight: 25.93 ounces, unloaded
• Magazine Capacity: 17 rounds standard. 19, 24, 31, and 33 optional

Pros

• The G47 can be looked at as the best version of the Glock 17 ever made
• By far is the most adaptable 9mm in the company’s catalog

Cons

• One common critique of the G47 is that it’s not universally appreciated, though its popularity speaks for itself. No amount of head-scratching will prevent Glock from selling millions of these guns in the next couple of years.

Basically a Glock 17 with extra steps, the new (to the market) G47 has a trick or two up its sleeve.

Originally unobtanium as it was introduced in 2019 for a federal law enforcement contract, Glock made all the fans happy in early 2022 when they released it to the commercial market.

This gun is a Gen 5 Glock, which means it has possibly the best factory trigger installed by the company along with tweaks developed after 35 years of lessons learned from millions of “plastic fantastics” sold and used around the world.

The big deal is that the Glock 47 is a G17-sized pistol that uses an abbreviated G19 recoil assembly in a shortened dust cover which allows the top half to be swapped between the G17 Gen5, G19 Gen5 MOS, G45, and G19X and vice versa.

While not a universal appeal to everyone, if you already have one or more of the compatible models, the G47 is attractive and enables people to make the fabled Glock 19L by transplanting the G47’s top half to the frame of a G19.

Plus, and this is the big deal, the G17 Gen 5 MOS is being discontinued, so that makes the G47 its easy and more modular replacement.

Like the rest of the Gen 5 Glocks, the G47 is kind of ambidextrous, with a slide catch lever on both sides of the frame and a magazine button that can be swapped left to right.

The mag drops free when the button is pressed but the slide catch is small and can be awkward to manipulate.

Glock dropped the finger grooves that were common on the Gen 3/4 models when going to the Gen 5– exemplified by the G47– and, coupled with the polymid RTF style texturing, this pistol feels good in the hand.

I fired 500 rounds through the G47 right out of the box with no lubrication added and went 500:500 with no problem. When it comes to reliability, Glock really does tend to live up to the “Perfection” in the brand’s motto.

The fixed plastic sights that the G47 ships with are notoriously adequate, if somewhat boring. The G47 is a MOS (Modular Optics System) model, which means it has a milled slide top ready to accept most micro red/green dots so long as the user has the compatible plate.

The Gen 5 Glock trigger is better than that seen in previous generations. I found it to have less creep and a better wall than earlier trigger packs, breaking at about 5.25 pounds.

Using the new Glock Marksman Barrel with more aggressive polygonal rifling than used in the past, a target-style crown, and tighter chamber specs, the G47 is set up to deliver, especially when you add the long sight radius to the mix.

The clunky front and rear iron sights still held it back a bit, but I had no problem punching out the hole of every target we put the G47 in front of stretching back to 25 yards.

With their 5th Generation guns, Glock has somewhat painted themselves into a corner. The over 20 design modifications from their Gen 4 predecessors have ended many backward compatibilities.

However, there is no shortage of aftermarket parts including triggers, sights, and mags for the G47 and its Gen 5 brethren.

6. Best Glock for Concealed Carry: Glock 43

Specifications:

• Weight: 16.4oz
• Length: 6.5”
• Barrel Length: 3.41”
• Capacity: 10
• Height: 5.04”
• Caliber: 9mm
• Action: Striker-fired

Pros

• The most concealable Glock carry gun
• It feels larger in hand
• Easy to shoot

Cons

• Only 10 round capacity
• Short sight radius
• Challenging for new shooters

This last Glock pistol is a Glock 43x model with fixed sites and chambered for 9mm Luger rounds. One of the best concealed carry pistols on the market today — especially if you’re in the market for a single-stack 9mm semi-auto.

It’s a great handgun that’s about as close to a pocket pistol as any Glock model gets, so if you want the best carry gun from the Austrian maker will need to look no further.

When you’re dealing with such a small gun you’ll have relatively limited capacity, be it 6+1 or 10+1, but the 3.4” barrel paired with the 1” width and weight of just over 1 pound makes it the best concealed carry gun in Glock’s line-up.

It’s a very small gun that makes an excellent self defense or concealed carry pistol. Plus, the 5” height gives you enough grip to maintain control in any situation.

Overall the 43X is an extremely sleek and slim firearm, with a silver finished slide specially coated for added durability.

It ships with two 10-round magazines and comes with Glock sights from the factory – but you can easily switch these out for your own irons or night sights if you like.

We dove deep into the G43 in our review if you want more details.

The Glock Legacy: A Journey from Austria to Global Domination

At the heart of modern handgun innovation lies the Glock, a name that has become synonymous with reliability, durability, and cutting-edge design. But what exactly is a Glock?

Delving into its origins, the Glock is a series of polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols that were birthed in the picturesque landscapes of Austria. The genius behind this revolutionary design was Gaston Glock, an engineer with no prior experience in firearms. In the early 1980s, he took on the challenge to create a new sidearm for the Austrian military. By 1986, his creation had not only been adopted by the Austrian forces but had also made its way to the U.S., marking the beginning of a new era in the world of handguns.

What set the Glock apart was its pioneering use of an injection-molded polymer frame. This was a groundbreaking move, as the traditional world of handguns had always been dominated by metal frames. The Glock’s innovative design not only made it lighter but also resistant to corrosion and wear. This shift was so profound that it can be likened to the transition from the horse-drawn carriage to the automobile in the transportation industry, opening the door to ever smaller, lighter, more capable pistols.

While to the untrained eye, all Glock pistols might appear as if they’ve been crafted from the same mold, a deeper inspection reveals a rich tapestry of variations, both subtle and pronounced. Each model tells a story, reflecting the evolution of design, functionality, and user needs.

A Word on Glock Model Numbers

At first, Glock’s model numbering system might seem like it’s designed to confuse, but it’s actually refreshingly straightforward. The numbering is sequential, representing the order in which each model was introduced to the market, be it for commercial use or for military and law enforcement agencies.

For instance, the G19 isn’t named for its magazine capacity, cartridge size, or any other technical specifications. It simply denotes that it’s the 19th unique model introduced by Glock. This system, in its simplicity, is a nod to Glock’s commitment to functionality and efficiency.

A historical tidbit worth noting: When Glock first introduced its pistols, many pistol traditionalists were skeptical. The idea of a “plastic gun” seemed destined to fail. However, during a trade show in the late 1980s, a Glock representative famously dropped the pistol on the ground multiple times to demonstrate its durability, forever silencing the critics.

Today, the Glock stands as a testament to innovation, proving that with vision and determination, one can change the course of history.

There are plenty of things that distinguish each model from its cousins – be it full size or compact –  so keep these aspects in mind as you buy to ensure you get a Glock that’s perfect for your unique needs.

Caliber

The Glock’s versatility is not just limited to its design and functionality; it extends to the wide array of ammunition and calibers they can accommodate. Over the years, Glock has built pistols that cater to a broad spectrum of cartridges, ensuring that whether you’re a casual shooter, Law Enforcement Professional, or home marksman, there’s a Glock tailored to your needs.

From .22LR to 10mm, Glock’s range spans the gamut of popular pistol cartridges. Notably, they offer models in .22LR, .380ACP, 9mm, .357Sig, 10mm, .45 GAP (Glock Auto Pistol), .45 ACP, and even the somewhat old hat .40 S&W. The 9mm, given its global popularity and balance between power and recoil, naturally has the most diverse range of Glock models. However, the brand’s commitment to catering to varied shooter preferences means there’s no shortage of options in other calibers.

Historically, Glock’s plunge into diverse calibers has been driven by both market demand and strategic innovation. For instance, the introduction of the .45 GAP was Glock’s answer to the law enforcement community’s need for a more compact .45 caliber pistol without compromising on power.

This cartridge, specifically designed for Glock, showcased the company’s dedication to pushing boundaries and addressing niche requirements.

For those of us who occupy a more mainstream need, Glock offers models tailored for specialized purposes. Consider the Glock 44 chambered in .22LR. It’s an ideal training pistol, mirroring the feel and fit of the more powerful G19 but allowing for more cost-effective practice sessions. This model is a nod to Glock’s understanding of the practical needs of its user base, offering a solution that’s both economical and efficient.

Moreover, for enthusiasts who have other handguns or a stockpile of a particular ammunition type, Glock’s diverse chambering options mean you can integrate a new Glock into your collection without the need to invest in yet another ammunition cache.

In the annals of firearm history, there’s an interesting anecdote about Glock’s commitment to ammunition versatility. In the early 2000s, when the .40 S&W faced criticism for its snappy recoil and was being overshadowed by the resurgence of the 9mm, Glock continued to produce and refine its .40 S&W models. This decision was rooted in Glock’s belief in offering choices to its users and not swaying with fleeting market trends.

Glock’s ammunition versatility is a testament to its user-centric approach, historical adaptability, and unwavering commitment to innovation.

On Frame Sizes

One of the most distinguishing features of Glock pistols is their varied frame sizes, each designed for a specific purpose and performance. Let’s embark on a journey to understand the nuances of these frame sizes, enriched with historical anecdotes and expert insights.

STANDARD: The foundation of Glock’s lineup, the Standard frame models, are quintessential full-sized handguns. Historically, these were the go-to choice for law enforcement and military personnel, designed for open carry with a barrel length of 4.5 inches. Their robust design is a nod to Glock’s history of durability and reliability.

COMPACT: As concealed carry gained popularity in the late 20th century, Glock responded with their Compact models. These pistols, with a 4.0-inch barrel, are all about balancing size and functionality. While not pocket-sized, they’re ideal for concealed carry, be it inside or outside the waistband.

SUBCOMPACT: The evolution of concealed carry needs and ever smaller carry pistols led to the birth of the Subcompact models, or “Baby Glocks”. With a barrel length ranging from 3.4 inches (and 3.25 inches for the unique G42 in .380 Auto), these pistols are more compact in both slide and grip length. Interestingly, Glock’s foray into single-stack models in this category showcases their adaptability to market trends and user preferences.

COMPETITION: If you want an edge in competitive shooting, Glock has what they call Competition models. These pistols use a 5.3-inch barrel combined with the standard frame’s comfort. That extended sight radius gives you serious accuracy.

LONG SLIDE: A bit of a spectacle, the Long Slide models are impossible to overlook. Their 6-inch barrels draw inspiration for extended designs like the legendary “buntline” revolvers of the Old West. Today, these Glocks serve as premier target and hunting handguns, especially potent in powerful calibers like the 10mm Auto.

X MODELS: Navigating the Glock lineup, you might encounter the “X” models. The X products blend a compact or subcompact slide with a larger frame. Historically, the introduction of the “X” models was Glock’s answer to users who desired the compactness of a shorter slide but didn’t want to compromise on grip comfort. It’s a testament to Glock’s dedication to user-centric innovation.

Glock’s frame sizes are not just mere variations in design; they represent the brand’s historical evolution, adaptability, and serious commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its global user base.

Capacity

The magazine capacity of any pistol also matters, as it dictates how many shots you can fire before you need to reload — and impacts things like weight & grip length — so capacity indirectly impacts control and hand feel.

Glock pistols come in a variety of capacities, from compact models holding 6 rounds to standard models with 17 or more, either in the magazine alone or including a chambered cartridge.

Extended double-stack magazines for Glocks can hold up to 33 rounds, while the single-stack Glock 43 typically holds six rounds, though extensions are available.

Keep in mind that higher capacities will mean more weight – which prevents magazines with 33-round capacities from being a top choice for concealed carry handguns (along with, you know, the size of the things.)

Double stacks can’t be used with single stack pistols (and vice versa), so if you’re rocking a G17 don’t expect those 17 rounders to work with your new G43X.

Barrel Length

The barrel length of a Glock can also impact whether it’s better suited for self-defense, as a concealed carry weapon, or both.

Glocks with shorter barrels are easier to use with small concealed carry holsters and are generally better for close-quarters self-defense, but tend to produce more recoil without the weight out front to keep the muzzle down.

With longer barrels, you get a longer sight radius — the distance between the front and rear sights — which can aid in more precise aiming.

Often longer barreled Glocks will also have longer/thicker grips, which means higher capacity and a better grip as well.

The MOS System

Optics integration has been a game-changer for pistols, enhancing accuracy and user experience. To meet this growing need, Glock introduced the MOS – Modular Optics System.

Understanding the MOS

At its core, the MOS is a system designed to seamlessly integrate micro red dot sights onto Glock pistols. But what sets the MOS apart is its modular nature. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, Glock’s MOS models come equipped with a series of plates, each tailored to accommodate specific optics.

These plates serve as adapters, allowing users to mount a diverse range of popular micro red dot sights, from the Trijicon RMR to the Leupold Delta Point and various offerings from Holosun.

In essence, the MOS plates can be likened to specialized scope mounts, each crafted for the industry’s most popular optics.

Over the years, Glock has introduced various generations of pistols, each new iteration offering advancements in technology and integrating user feedback.

The Legacy of Gen 3 and Gen 4: Both the Gen 3 and Gen 4 Glocks hold a special place in the annals of firearm history. While they might seem similar at first glance, subtle refinements differentiate the two. These generations laid the foundation for what was to come, with Glock’s commitment to continuous improvement evident in every design choice.

The Dawn of Gen 5: The transition from Gen 4 to Gen 5 marked a significant leap in Glock’s design philosophy. The Gen 5 pistols, while retaining the core essence of the Glock brand, introduced a plethora of enhancements:

• Glock Marksman Barrels: One of the best improvements Glock has ever made, these barrels offer improved rifling and tighter tolerances.
• No Finger Grooves: In response to user feedback, the finger grooves were eliminated on Gen 5 models, offering a more universal grip.
• New Trigger Module Design: This redesign offers a crisper and more consistent trigger pull, enhancing the shooting experience.
• Ambi-Slide Stop Lever: Catering to both right and left-handed shooters, this feature underscores Glock’s commitment to inclusivity.
• Reversible Magazine Catch: A nod to adaptability, allowing users to customize their pistol to their preference.
• New Ejector Design: Ensuring more reliable cartridge ejection, reducing the chances of malfunctions.
• Captured Recoil Spring: Enhancing the pistol’s durability and ensuring smoother operation.

What’s Old Is New Again

The journey of Glock’s evolution is reminiscent of the broader trajectory of firearm design. In the early days of handguns, design changes were often reactive, addressing specific issues or malfunctions.

However, as technology and manufacturing techniques advanced, brands like Glock began to proactively innovate, anticipating user needs and preferences.

The removal of finger grooves in Gen 5, for instance, can be traced back to historical handguns, where smooth grips were the norm. Glock’s decision to revisit this design choice reflects their ability to find a balance between historical wisdom and modern requirements.

While the Gen 3 and Gen 4 Glocks remain iconic in their own right, the Gen 5 products stand head and shoulder above previous models. Unless one has a specific affinity for the finger grooves, the Gen 5, with its myriad of enhancements, is my recommended starting point for anyone interested in a Glock.

Overall, the best Glock handgun for most people is the Glock 17, which features full-sized control, a versatile, durable design, and plenty of customizability.

You’ll be able to tailor the grip according to your needs, making it suitable for either self-defense or target shooting. Consider each option above, though, and choose the one that works best for your needs. Good hunting!