Understanding the Glock 47
The world of firearms is filled with choices, each designed with specific purposes and user needs in mind. One of the most iconic and widely recognized names in this realm is Glock, a brand synonymous with reliability, ease of use, and versatility. For those considering adding a Glock to their collection, or perhaps as their first firearm, the decision of which model to choose can be a significant one. Today, we’re diving deep into a comparison between two popular options: the Glock 47 and the Glock 34. We’ll dissect their features, performance, and suitability for different applications to help you determine which Glock might be the perfect fit for you.
Glock pistols are renowned for their straightforward design and robust construction. These handguns have found their way into the hands of law enforcement agencies, military personnel, and civilian shooters worldwide. Their polymer frames, striker-fired mechanisms, and consistent performance contribute to their widespread appeal. But with a variety of models available, finding the right Glock can be a task. This is where comparing and contrasting specific models becomes crucial.
What is the Glock 47?
The Glock 47, a relatively recent addition to the Glock family, has quickly gained attention. It presents a fresh take on Glock’s established design, offering notable advantages for those seeking a balance of features. The Glock 47 is part of the Gen 5 MOS (Modular Optic System) family, which means it comes ready to accept a wide array of optics, allowing for enhanced precision and target acquisition capabilities. The addition of an MOS greatly enhances its versatility.
The core specifications of the Glock 47 are essential to understanding its strengths. It chambers rounds in the widely-used millimeter caliber and employs a barrel length that provides a solid combination of accuracy and maneuverability. The overall length and weight of the Glock 47 are carefully considered to strike a balance between concealability and handling. The magazine capacity is standard for a full-size Glock, allowing for sufficient rounds on board. The MOS cut is a key feature.
What sets the Glock 47 apart? It has a level of compatibility with other Glock parts, especially the Glock 19, that provides convenience and customization options. This means you have more flexibility in terms of parts interchangeability and upgrades. This is especially attractive to shooters who value customization and enjoy the ability to fine-tune their firearms.
Understanding the Glock 34
What is the Glock 34?
The Glock 34 is a well-established and respected model in the Glock lineup, particularly favored in competitive shooting circuits. Its design prioritizes accuracy and extended sight radius. The Glock 34 is also a Gen 5 MOS model.
Key specifications of the Glock 34 also tell a story. It shares the same millimeter caliber as the Glock 47. The barrel length, however, is notably longer than that of many other Glock models, including the 47. This longer barrel contributes to increased sight radius, a key factor in enhanced accuracy. The overall length and weight reflect this extended barrel, while still maintaining a manageable profile. The magazine capacity aligns with other full-size Glock models. The MOS cut provides an easy mount for optics.
The Glock 34’s design emphasizes accuracy and performance. The extended barrel and longer sight radius provide a clear advantage for target shooting and competition, where precision is paramount. Its balance and ergonomics make it a comfortable platform for extended shooting sessions.
A Direct Comparison: Examining the Differences
To truly understand which Glock is right for you, let’s delve into a direct comparison, exploring the critical areas that influence your decision.
Size and Dimensions
One of the most apparent differences is in the physical dimensions. The Glock 34, with its extended barrel, is longer overall than the Glock 47. This affects both its handling and its suitability for concealed carry. While the Glock 47 offers slightly improved concealability, both are considered full-size pistols, meaning they aren’t ideal for deep concealment but are perfectly suitable for open carry. The Glock 34’s longer barrel may make it slightly more challenging to conceal, especially for those with a smaller frame.
Weight differences are also worth noting, though the variations are generally not substantial. These small weight changes influence the pistol’s overall balance and feel in your hand, which can, in turn, impact handling.
Features
Both pistols share many common features, reflecting Glock’s core design principles. Both models are MOS compatible, allowing for the simple mounting of red dot sights or other optics. This versatility makes them appealing to shooters looking for that advantage.
Ergonomics is an area where both guns excel. Glock’s Gen 5 pistols, including both the 47 and 34, feature improved grip textures and a more comfortable feel. The trigger pull on both models is designed for consistent performance, although personal preferences may lead some shooters to consider aftermarket trigger upgrades.
Performance
Accuracy is often the deciding factor for experienced shooters. The longer barrel and sight radius of the Glock 34 give it a slight edge in this area. The increased distance between the front and rear sights allows for a more precise sight picture, which can translate to tighter groupings on the target. However, both pistols are inherently accurate, and the difference may be negligible for most shooters, particularly at shorter distances.
Recoil management is another critical aspect of performance. The weight distribution of the Glock 34, with its longer slide, can help absorb recoil, making it slightly more manageable, especially for rapid follow-up shots. The Glock 47, being slightly lighter, may feel a touch more snappy, but this can be mitigated with proper grip technique.
Handling characteristics are a matter of personal preference. Some shooters may find the Glock 34’s longer slide provides a more balanced feel, while others may prefer the Glock 47’s slightly more compact profile. Both are relatively easy to manipulate, but the Glock 34 has a certain heft that can make it more stable during firing.
Intended Use
The ideal application of each pistol depends heavily on the user’s needs.
For self-defense, both are viable choices. However, the Glock 47’s balance of size and concealability might make it a slightly better option for those who plan to carry their firearm regularly. Its compatibility with Glock 19 parts is also an added benefit in this regard.
In the world of competition shooting, the Glock 34 truly shines. Its longer barrel and sight radius offer a competitive edge, giving shooters an advantage in accuracy and target acquisition. The Glock 34 is a popular choice in USPSA and IDPA competitions, where every fraction of a second and millimeter of accuracy count.
For law enforcement or duty use, the Glock 34 is a great choice due to the extended barrel. If you are in law enforcement, the choice comes down to preference.
For general target practice, both are excellent choices. The choice often comes down to individual preferences regarding size, feel, and desired performance characteristics.
Aftermarket Options
Both the Glock 47 and Glock 34 benefit from a vast aftermarket support system. Shooters can customize their pistols with a wide range of accessories to suit their needs and preferences. You can find aftermarket triggers, sights, barrels, and other components to enhance accuracy, ergonomics, or overall appearance. This customization potential is one of the key reasons behind the popularity of Glock pistols.
Pros and Cons
Summarizing the strengths and weaknesses of each model can help clarify your decision.
Glock 47:
- Excellent balance of size and concealability.
- MOS compatible.
- Part compatibility with Glock 19.
- Reliable and accurate.
Cons:
- Slightly less accuracy compared to the Glock 34 (due to shorter barrel).
- Not specifically optimized for competition.
Glock 34:
- Outstanding accuracy due to the longer barrel.
- MOS compatible.
- Enhanced sight radius.
- Ideal for competition shooting.
Cons:
- Less suitable for concealed carry due to the longer slide.
Making the Right Choice
So, which Glock is right for you? The answer depends on your specific needs and priorities.
If you’re prioritizing concealed carry, the Glock 47’s slightly more compact profile makes it the better option. The compatibility with Glock 19 parts is an additional advantage in terms of customization.
If you are a competitive shooter, then the Glock 34 is the clear winner. Its extended barrel and sight radius offer a significant advantage in terms of accuracy.
If you seek a versatile gun for multiple purposes, consider the Glock 47. It provides a good balance of features, making it well-suited for self-defense, range shooting, and potential duty use.
The best way to decide is to handle and, if possible, shoot both models. This allows you to feel the ergonomics, experience the recoil, and assess how the pistols fit your shooting style.
Conclusion
In the realm of Glock pistols, the Glock 47 and Glock 34 both have their own strengths and intended purposes. The Glock 47 offers a versatile balance of size, features, and part interchangeability. The Glock 34 prioritizes accuracy and is optimized for competition shooting. Understanding their differences and considering your individual needs is paramount. With careful consideration, you can choose the Glock that aligns best with your shooting goals and ensures you have the right tool for the job.
Ultimately, the “right” choice comes down to your own requirements. Whichever model you choose, you’ll be investing in a reliable and versatile firearm that has earned its place in the world of handguns.
Now, if you’re still unsure, visit a local gun range and see if you can rent and test fire both the Glock 47 and the Glock 34. This real-world experience can make the decision crystal clear.
