Glock

All generations of GLOCK Pistols
All generations of GLOCK Pistols

Glock stands as a titan in the firearms industry as one of the most popular manufacturers reliable, straightforward firearms. Known for simplicity and dependability, Glock pistols have become a staple for law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters worldwide. This page serves as your central hub for all things related to Glock—their product lineup, history, and essential information every gun enthusiast or beginner should know.

Gaston Glock inventor and founder of Glock Ges.m.b.H.

The Origins of Glock

Founded in 1963 by Gaston Glock in Austria, the company didn’t start in the firearms industry. Initially, Glock specialized in advanced synthetic polymers, producing items like curtain rods and knife handles. It wasn’t until the early 1980s that Glock ventured into firearm manufacturing.

The Birth of the Glock 17

In 1980, the Austrian military sought a new service pistol, prompting Glock to design the Glock 17. Combining a lightweight polymer frame with a high-capacity magazine and a simple, reliable firing mechanism, the Glock 17 outperformed its competitors. By 1982, it was adopted by the Austrian military, marking the beginning of Glock’s rise in the firearms world.

Why Do Glock Models Start at 17?

The numbering of Glock pistols begins with the number 17 because the Glock 17 handgun was Gaston Glock’s 17th patent, which happened to be the company’s first handgun design. It was Patent Number 4,539,889.

Gaston Glock’s Early Patents

What were Glock’s patents before the Glock 17? What products were covered in patents 1-16 that led him to invent one of the most popular guns of all time? Well there isn’t a clear answer on the exact list and order of products that were invented, but here’s what we could find:

Figure drawing from Glock Gaston's US patent 4,539,889
YearMilestoneDescription
1953First PatentSafety valve for pressure cookers
1963Company FoundedGaston Glock established Glock Ges.m.b.H. in Austria, initially focusing on manufacturing products from advanced synthetic polymers and metals.
1963-1969Invented Polymer Household ItemsProduction of items such as curtain rods, door handles, and fittings, utilizing Glock’s expertise in polymer technology and manufacturing.
Early 1970sMilitary Contract ManufacturingBegan supplying the Austrian military with polymer-based components, marking Glock’s initial involvement in defense contracts.
~1976Machine Gun Belt LinksProduced polymer belt links for the Austrian MG 74 machine gun, demonstrating innovations in durable, lightweight military components.
~1977Grenade CasingsManufactured polymer grenade casings and components, reducing weight and cost for the Austrian military’s ordnance.
1978Glock Feldmesser FM 78 KnifeIntroduced the FM 78 field knife, featuring a polymer handle and sheath; designed for Austrian military use and known for its durability.
1981Glock Feldmesser FM 81 KnifeLaunched the FM 81 survival knife, an updated version of the FM 78 with a sawback blade for added utility in survival situations.

Glock Lays the Foundation for Firearms Innovation

After going through the list of everything created before the Glock 17, it’s easy to see how Glock Gaston and his team gained the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary to build a great product. They spent 30 years, from the 1950s to the 1980s, mastering their craft. Once they entered firearms manufacturing, it changed the world.

Gaston Glock and his first prototype (1988)
Gaston Glock and his first prototype

The Glock Product Line

Now Glock makes a wide range of pistols for lots of different target customers and use cases. Let’s take a look at their entire product line.

Most Popular Glock Models

Glock 17 ad, July 1986
Glock 17 ad, July 1986
  • Glock 17: The original 9mm model that started it all; favored by law enforcement and military units.
  • Glock 19: A compact version of the Glock 17, ideal for concealed carry without sacrificing capacity.
  • Glock 26: Subcompact 9mm, known as the “Baby Glock,” perfect for deep concealment.
  • Glock 43: Single-stack 9mm designed for concealed carry with a slim profile.
  • Glock 21: Full-size .45 ACP model offering substantial stopping power.
  • Glock 34: Extended barrel 9mm designed for competitive shooting.
  • Glock 44: Chambered in .22 LR, excellent for training and target practice.

Full List of Glock Models by Caliber

9x19mm Glock Models

ModelGenerationSizeTypeFeatures / Notes
G17Gen3, Gen4, Gen5StandardFull-SizeThe original Glock model. A full-size service pistol with Law Enforcement Only versions available.
G17 MOSGen4, Gen5StandardFull-SizeMOS (Modular Optic System)
G17LGen3, Gen5Long SlideCompetitionLong Slide, Gen5 MOS (New Release)
G18
Gen3
StandardSelect-FireCapable of semi-automatic and full-automatic fire; restricted to military and law enforcement use
G19Gen3, Gen4, Gen5CompactCompactCompact version suitable for concealed carry. Law Enforcement Only (some versions)
G19 MOSGen4, Gen5CompactCompactMOS
G19XGen5CompactCrossoverCombines G17 frame with G19 slide
G26Gen3, Gen4, Gen5SubcompactSubcompactSubcompact “Baby Glock” ideal for deep concealment. Law Enforcement Only (some versions)
G26 MOSGen5SubcompactSubcompactMOS
G34Gen3, Gen4, Gen5CompetitionCompetitionCompetition-oriented model with extended barrel and slide. MOS (Gen4 and Gen5)
G43Gen4SubcompactSlimlineSingle-stack subcompact designed for concealed carry. Ultra-concealable
G43XGen5SubcompactSlimlineCombines a compact slide with a slimline frame and increased capacity. Black version, MOS available
G45Gen5CompactCrossoverCombines features of Gen5 and G19X
G45 MOSGen5CompactCrossoverMOS
G47 MOSGen5StandardFull-SizeFull-size slide compatible with Glock 19 frames; initially developed for law enforcement. MOS, developed for law enforcement
G48Gen5CompactSlimlineBlack version, MOS available

.40 S&W Glock Models

ModelGenerationSizeTypeFeatures
G22Gen3, Gen4, Gen5StandardFull-SizeFull-size model widely used by law enforcement. Some versions are only for Law Enforcement.
G22 MOSGen5StandardFull-SizeMOS
G23Gen3, Gen4, Gen5CompactCompactCompact version suitable for concealed carry. Law Enforcement Only (some versions)
G23 MOSGen5CompactCompactMOS
G24Gen3Long SlideCompetitionExtended barrel and slide for increased accuracy; designed for competition shooting; limited availability
G27Gen3, Gen4, Gen5SubcompactSubcompactSubcompact model ideal for concealed carry. Law Enforcement Only (some versions)
G35Gen3, Gen4CompetitionCompetitionCompetition model with extended barrel and slide. MOS (Gen4 MOS)

.45 ACP Glock Models

ModelGenerationSizeTypeFeatures
G21Gen3, Gen4, Gen5StandardFull-SizeFull-size model offering high capacity. SF (Short Frame), Gen5 MOS (New Release)
G30Gen3, Gen4, Gen5SubcompactSubcompactSubcompact model suitable for concealed carry. SF, Gen5 (New Release)
G30SGen3SubcompactSubcompactSlim slide, standard frame
G36Gen3SubcompactSlimlineSlimline subcompact with a single-stack magazine. a
G41Gen4CompetitionCompetitionLong-slide model designed for competition and tactical use. MOS (Gen4 MOS)

10mm Auto Glock Models

ModelGenerationSizeTypeFeatures
G20Gen3, Gen4, Gen5StandardFull-SizeFull-size model known for its power and capacity. SF, Gen5 MOS (New Release)
G29Gen3, Gen4, Gen5SubcompactSubcompactSubcompact version offering 10mm power in a smaller package. SF, Gen5 (New Release)
G40Gen4Long SlideCompetitionLong-slide model with MOS (Modular Optic System) for optics mounting.

.380 ACP Glock Models

ModelGenerationSizeTypeFeatures
G42Gen4SubcompactSlimlineSingle-stack, ultra-concealable
G25Gen3CompactCompactChambered in .380 ACP; designed for markets with caliber restrictions; uses blowback action; not available in the U.S.
G28Gen3SubcompactSubcompactChambered in .380 ACP; subcompact version of G25; uses blowback action; not available in the U.S.

.357 SIG Models

ModelGenerationSizeTypeFeatures
G31Gen3, Gen4StandardFull-SizeHigh velocity, 15-round mag, full-size grip
G32Gen3, Gen4CompactCompact13-round mag, balanced for concealed carry
G33Gen3, Gen4SubcompactSubcompact9-round mag, ideal for deep concealment

.45 G.A.P. Glock Models

ModelGenerationSizeTypeFeatures
G37Gen3StandardFull-Size10-round mag, full-size grip
G38Gen3CompactCompact8-round mag, balanced size
G39Gen3SubcompactSubcompactSubcompact model for deep concealment. 6-round mag, ultra-concealable

.22 LR Glock Models

ModelGenerationSizeTypeFeatures
G44Gen5CompactTrainingIdeal for training and practice

Glock Training Models (Law Enforcement Only)

ModelGenerationSizeTypeFeatures
G17T FX/FOFGen4, Gen5StandardTrainingUses FX/FOF training ammunition
G17T MOS UTMGen5StandardTrainingUses UTM training ammunition, MOS
G19T FX/FOFGen4, Gen5CompactTrainingUses FX/FOF training ammunition
G19T MOS UTMGen5CompactTrainingUses UTM training ammunition, MOS
G45T MOS FX/FOFGen5CompactTrainingCrossover model, uses FX/FOF ammo, MOS

More details about each of Glock models categorized by caliber and size.

.380 ACP

  • Glock 25:
  • Glock 28: Subcompact version (limited availability in the U.S.).
  • Glock 42: Slimline subcompact designed for concealed carry.

.357 SIG

  • Glock 31: Full-size model offering high velocity and flat trajectory.
  • Glock 32: Compact version suitable for concealed carry.
  • Glock 33: Subcompact model ideal for deep concealment.

.45 GAP (Glock Auto Pistol)

  • Glock 37: Full-size model chambered in .45 GAP.
  • Glock 38: Compact version suitable for concealed carry.
  • Glock 39:

.22 LR

  • Glock 44: Compact model chambered in .22 LR for training and target practice.

9×19mm Parabellum (Competition and Tactical)

  • Glock 17L: Long-slide version of the Glock 17 for competition shooting.

9×19mm Parabellum (MOS Models)

  • Glock 17 Gen5 MOS
  • Glock 19 Gen5 MOS
  • Glock 34 Gen5 MOS
  • Glock 45 MOS
  • Glock 47 MOS

Slimline Series

Designed for concealed carry with a slim profile.

  • Glock 43: Single-stack subcompact 9mm.
  • Glock 43X: Enhanced capacity over the Glock 43.
  • Glock 48: Compact slimline with a longer slide and barrel than the Glock 43X.

Crossover Models

Combining features from different models.

  • Glock 19X: Merges the Glock 17 frame with the Glock 19 slide.
  • Glock 45: Similar to the 19X but with Gen5 features and in black.

MOS (Modular Optic System) Models

Designed to easily mount reflex sights.

  • Available in various models across calibers, including Glock 17, 19, 34, 35, 40, 41, 45, and 47.

Generational Variations

Glock pistols have evolved through various generations, each introducing enhancements:

  • Gen 1: The original design with a smooth grip texture.
  • Gen 2: Added checkering and serrations for better grip.
  • Gen 3: Introduced accessory rails and finger grooves.
  • Gen 4: Featured interchangeable backstraps and improved recoil spring assemblies.
  • Gen 5: Ambidextrous slide stop levers, flared mag-wells, the removal of finger grooves, and nDLC finish.

Note: Availability of certain models may vary by country due to local laws and regulations. Some models, like the Glock 18 and models chambered in .380 ACP (G25 and G28), are restricted in the United States.

Glock in Law Enforcement and Military

Glock’s reputation for reliability has made it a preferred choice for law enforcement agencies and military units globally.

  • U.S. Law Enforcement: Widely adopted by police departments across the country due to its durability and ease of use.
  • International Use: Standard issue in numerous countries, reflecting its global acceptance and trust.

Glock for Civilian Use

Glock pistols are popular among civilian shooters for various applications:

  • Concealed Carry: Models like the Glock 19 and Glock 43 offer a balance of size and capacity.
  • Home Defense: Reliability and ease of use make Glock a solid choice for protecting your home.
  • Competitive Shooting: Models like the Glock 34 and Glock 17L are designed with competition in mind.
  • Recreational Shooting: The Glock 44 in .22 LR provides an affordable option for practice and training.

Accessories and Customization

One of the advantages of owning a Glock is the vast array of aftermarket parts and accessories available:

  • Sights: Upgrade to night sights or fiber-optic sights for improved target acquisition.
  • Triggers: Customize trigger pull weight and reset to suit your preferences.
  • Barrels: Options for threaded barrels to accommodate suppressors or compensators.
  • Grips: Add grip extensions or stippling for enhanced control.
  • Magazines: High-capacity magazines and extensions are available for most models.

Training and Resources

Proper training is essential for safe and effective firearm use.

  • Glock Training Courses: Glock offers operator and armorers courses to educate users on maintenance and handling.
  • Shooting Ranges: Many ranges provide rental Glock pistols, allowing you to try different models.
  • Community Forums: Engage with other Glock owners to share experiences and advice.

Glock’s impact on the firearms industry is undeniable. Their pistols embody a philosophy of simplicity and reliability, making them suitable for both seasoned shooters and newcomers alike. Whether you’re considering your first firearm or adding to a collection, Glock offers options that cater to a wide range of needs.

Explore our additional pages for in-depth information on specific Glock models, accessories, and training resources. Stay informed and make the most of what Glock has to offer.

Check out our Gun Stores page where you can find several companies that sell Glocks online.

References / Sources

Written & Edited by Paris Vega