Introduction
The world of firearms is vast, a universe of innovation, heritage, and unwavering performance. In this sprawling landscape, few names resonate with the same level of recognition and, arguably, ubiquity as Glock. These polymer-framed pistols have become synonymous with reliability, simplicity, and enduring practicality. They’ve not only revolutionized the handgun market but have also entrenched themselves within law enforcement, military units, and the collections of civilian shooters worldwide.
This review will dive deep into the heart of this iconic legacy, exploring the advancements and refinements embodied by the Glock 5th Generation. The question is: does the 5th Gen represent the pinnacle of Glock’s evolution?
We’ll examine its features, assess its performance under rigorous testing, and offer a comprehensive perspective for anyone considering adding this firearm to their arsenal.
For this review, we’ll focus primarily on the Glock 17 and Glock 19 Gen 5 models. These are the most commonly utilized and representative of the Gen 5 platform, providing an excellent basis for comparison and evaluation.
Upgrading the Glock Experience: Key Features and Improvements of the 5th Generation
The 5th Generation is not a complete overhaul; it’s a meticulous refinement of what made Glock successful in the first place. Glock has listened to user feedback and integrated changes to enhance the shooting experience, making them better. These changes aren’t just cosmetic; they represent a serious effort to elevate the overall design.
Marksman Barrel
One of the most significant enhancements is the inclusion of the Marksman Barrel. This isn’t simply a new barrel; it’s a redesign focused on optimizing accuracy. The marksman barrel features improved rifling that contributes to tighter groupings on target. This enhancement is noticeable when testing the Glock 5th Gen. The marksman barrel represents a tangible improvement over previous generations and translates to greater precision, particularly at extended ranges.
Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever
The Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever is another welcome addition, providing greater flexibility for shooters of all preferences. The slide stop is now accessible from either side, making it ideal for both right- and left-handed shooters. This ambidextrous design removes a previous ergonomic hurdle, making the pistol more user-friendly for everyone. The ease of use, especially during reloads and malfunction drills, is a clear advantage.
Front Slide Serrations
Another noteworthy upgrade is the addition of Front Slide Serrations. These serrations are placed near the front of the slide. They offer an alternative gripping point for racking the slide. This is an advantage in several situations. The extra serrations help make it easier to manipulate the slide, especially when wearing gloves or when the shooter’s hands are wet.
No Finger Grooves
The removal of Finger Grooves is a point of contention for some, but it’s an important element of the Gen 5 design. While these grooves were present on previous generations, Glock removed them, which is meant to allow the pistol to better fit a broader range of hand sizes and grip styles. The absence of the grooves allows for a more natural grip and less pressure against the fingers, which can improve comfort and control during extended firing sessions.
Improved Trigger
The Trigger has also received a noticeable upgrade. It maintains the classic Glock trigger pull, which many people adore, but it’s been refined. The trigger on the 5th Gen provides a smoother and more consistent pull. This contributes to more consistent shot placement, and the improvement is easily felt. The reduced pre-travel and reset make for a more controlled shooting experience.
DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) Coating
The Gen 5 pistols also have a new DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) Coating on both the slide and the barrel. DLC is known for its excellent durability and resistance to wear, abrasion, and corrosion. This tough coating not only enhances the Glock’s aesthetic appeal with a sleek, dark finish but also contributes to its longevity, ensuring that the pistol can withstand rigorous use and harsh environmental conditions.
Magazine Well Flare
The Magazine Well Flare is a more subtle but crucial addition. It slightly widens the magazine well, making it easier and faster to insert magazines. The flared magazine well subtly but significantly increases the speed and efficiency of reloads.
Magazine Improvements
Lastly, improvements were made to the Magazines themselves. The redesigned magazines incorporate a new orange follower, which provides increased reliability. The redesigned magazines have shown an increase in performance.
Performance and Handling: Putting the Glock 5th Gen to the Test
The features are promising on paper, but the real test lies in how they translate into performance on the range. We put the Glock 5th Gen through its paces, evaluating its ergonomics, accuracy, reliability, trigger performance, and recoil management.
Ergonomics and Feel
Starting with Ergonomics, the Glock 5th Gen felt immediately familiar. The grip without finger grooves is a big upgrade. The absence of finger grooves lets the shooter find a more natural grip, which is better for a wider range of hand sizes. The slightly textured grip surface provides good traction without being overly aggressive.
Accuracy Testing
The Accuracy Testing was conducted at different distances, using various ammunition brands and bullet weights to give an all-encompassing view of the Glock’s performance. Testing was carried out from a variety of distances. The results consistently showed excellent groupings, demonstrating the effectiveness of the Marksman Barrel. The Glock 5th Gen proved capable of achieving tight, accurate shots.
Reliability and Functioning
Reliability and Functioning are paramount. Several hundred rounds of various ammunition were fired through each of the test pistols, encompassing a range of bullet weights and brands. During this testing, the guns performed flawlessly. There were no malfunctions, such as failures to feed, failures to eject, or stovepipes. The consistency of the function speaks to the reliability Glock is known for.
Trigger Performance
The Trigger Performance was carefully evaluated. The trigger pull was measured, and the reset was assessed. The trigger’s consistent smoothness and crispness contribute significantly to accurate shot placement. The trigger pull weight was within the expected range.
Recoil and Muzzle Flip
The Recoil and Muzzle Flip were also noted during testing. The Glock 5th Gen still has the characteristic Glock recoil, but its improved design does provide shooters with better control. The recoil feels manageable. The gun returned to the target quickly, which is essential for fast follow-up shots.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
No firearm is perfect, and the Glock 5th Gen, despite its many improvements, isn’t without its drawbacks.
Advantages
The Advantages of the Glock 5th Gen are considerable. The enhanced accuracy, courtesy of the Marksman Barrel, is a key selling point. The ambidextrous slide stop is a welcome feature for all shooters. The ergonomic improvements, including the grip without finger grooves, make the Glock 5th Gen more comfortable and accessible to a wider range of users. The enhanced trigger provides a smoother pull and aids in shot placement. The DLC coating increases durability, and the redesigned magazine well enhances reliability.
Disadvantages
The Disadvantages are few but important. The lack of finger grooves will not appeal to all shooters. The price of the 5th Gen is also something to consider. The Glock 5th Gen is at the higher end of the Glock price range.
Comparison with Competitors: Is Glock Still at the Top?
The market for handguns is competitive, with a wide array of options. Comparing the Glock 5th Gen to its competitors offers important context.
The Sig Sauer P320 has gained immense popularity for its modularity and user-friendly design. The P320 also features a striker-fired mechanism. However, Glock’s simplicity and renowned reliability are a clear advantage. The Glock’s simplicity translates to ease of maintenance and troubleshooting.
Smith & Wesson’s M&P series is another strong contender. The M&P line often comes with excellent ergonomics and a comfortable grip. The Glock 5th Gen holds its own. The Glock’s streamlined design, rugged build quality, and proven track record make it a top choice.
The Glock 5th Gen differentiates itself through its unique combination of core strengths: legendary reliability, user-friendly design, and continued refinements that enhance the shooting experience.
Accessories and Customization: Tailoring Your Glock
The Glock platform is renowned for its extensive aftermarket support. Everything from enhanced sights, trigger upgrades, and grip modifications to cosmetic changes are readily available, allowing users to tailor their pistols to their specific needs and preferences.
Customization options are nearly limitless, ranging from simple upgrades like enhanced sights for improved target acquisition to more complex modifications, such as trigger upgrades or stippling for improved grip.
Is the Glock 5th Gen Right for You?
The answer depends on the intended use and priorities of the user.
The Glock 5th Gen is an excellent choice for a range of people:
- Law enforcement agencies looking for a reliable service pistol.
- Military personnel seeking a proven sidearm.
- Concealed carry permit holders needing a concealable and dependable firearm.
- Competition shooters who value accuracy and reliability.
- Those who want a reliable option for home defense.
Final Thoughts
The Glock 5th Gen represents a thoughtful evolution of a classic firearm. It improves upon the already successful formula that has made Glock a global icon. The Marksman Barrel, the ambidextrous controls, the ergonomic adjustments, and the overall refinements combine to create a pistol that is more accurate, more user-friendly, and more durable than its predecessors.
While it may not be a revolutionary departure, the Glock 5th Gen is an improvement that elevates the Glock experience to a higher level.
This is not a definitive statement; it is an assessment based on the data collected in this review. The Glock 5th Gen is a worthy contender.
Would you like to add the Glock 5th Gen to your collection?
