So, you’re in the market for a Glock 19, but which generation suits you best? This article will discuss the critical factors between the Gen 3 vs Gen 4 vs Gen 5 Glock 19 pistols. Let’s discuss.
Choosing Your Glock 19: Gen 3 vs Gen 4 vs Gen 5
1. Sights: Practicality vs. Customization
- Gen 4 and 5: Both come with stock plastic sights, often humorously called “field goals.” They get the job done, but some prefer alternatives.
- Gen 3: If you opt for night sights, they offer improved visibility in low-light conditions. While stock sights serve their purpose, the aftermarket provides diverse options.
2. Finishes: Matte vs. Shiny
- Gen 3 and 4: Feature a matte finish, providing a subdued look.
- Gen 5: Boasts a shiny, black finish, catching the eye.
- Durability: Gen 5’s finish withstands scratches better, making it a solid choice for those concerned about wear and tear.
3. Grip Design: Grooves or No Grooves?
- Gen 3 and 4: Come with finger grooves, potentially enhancing grip.
- Gen 5: Ditches the grooves for a flat front, offering a different feel.
- Compatibility: All three generations share similar dimensions and are compatible with various back straps for different hand sizes.
4. Finger Grooves vs. Flat Front: Aesthetic or Practical?
- Gen 3 and 4: Maintain finger grooves for a contoured grip.
- Gen 5: Opts for a flat front, providing a sleeker design.
5. Back Straps: Tailored Fit
- Gen 4 and 5: Feature interchangeable back straps in small, medium, and large sizes. The medium and large include a beavertail, catering to different hand shapes.
- Gen 5: Back straps and beavertails are interchangeable with Gen 4, offering customization options.
6. Optics: Mos or No Mos
- Gen 3 and Gen 4: Lack of a slide cutout for optics, limiting choices for red dot enthusiasts.
- Gen 5 (MOS Version): Specifically designed for optics, featuring a slide cutout for easy mounting.
Here you can find a glock19 holster – compatible with glock 19/19x (gen 3-5) glock 44/45 glock 23/32 (gen 3-4).
Tips for Making Your Decision:
- Consider Your Preferences: Gen 3 might be for you if you prioritize customization. If durability is vital, lean towards Gen 5.
- Optics Enthusiasts: If you love red dot sights, the Gen 5 MOS version is your go-to.
- Hand Size Matters: Explore different back straps to find the ideal fit for your hand size.
- Appearance vs. Practicality: Balance your aesthetic preference with each generation’s practical features.
- Budget Considerations: If cost is a factor, remember that aftermarket sights and modifications can be added to any generation.
Now you know the differences between Glock 19 Gen 3 vs Gen 4 vs Gen 5. You can read our comprehensive buyer’s guide on glock laser light.
End thought:
Each Glock 19 generation(Gen 3 vs Gen 4 vs Gen 5) has its strengths and quirks. Your ideal pick depends on your shooting style, preferences, and how you plan to use your firearm. With this information, you can choose the Glock 19 that suits you best.
FAQs:
Are the back straps on the Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5 interchangeable?
Gen 4 and Gen 5 Glock 19s feature interchangeable back straps. This allows users to tailor the grip size to their hands, providing a comfortable and personalized shooting experience. The medium and large back straps in Gen 4 include a beavertail for added support.
Can I add optics to my Glock 19 Gen 3 or Gen 4?
Unfortunately, the Gen 3 and Gen 4 Glock 19 models lack a slide cutout for optics. However, if you’re keen on red dot sights, the Gen 5 MOS (Modular Optic System) version is specifically designed to mount optics, offering a solution for optics enthusiasts quickly.
How does the finish of Glock 19 Gen 5 compare to Gen 3 and Gen 4?
The Gen 5 Glock 19 boasts a shiny, more black finish than the matte finish on Gen 3 and Gen 4. Notably, the Gen 5’s finish is more durable, resisting scratches better than its predecessors. However, it may show fingerprints more prominently.
Are Night Sights worth the upgrade on Glock 19 Gen 3?
While the stock Glock sights on Gen 3 serve their purpose, upgrading to night sights offers enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. The True Glows Tritium Pros, mentioned in the transcript, is cost-effective at $72, providing a practical upgrade for night-time shooting.
What are the critical differences in grip design between Glock 19 Gen 3, Gen 4, and Gen 5?
Gen 3 and Gen 4 Glock 19s have finger grooves for a contoured grip. In contrast, Gen 5 eliminates the finger grooves, offering a flat front grip. All three generations share similar dimensions, ensuring compatibility with interchangeable back straps and catering to various hand sizes and preferences.