Glock 17 vs. 19: the semi-automatic pistols Glock 19 and 17 are similar in looks and features. The biggest difference between Glock 17 and 19 can be observed in their sizes. Glock 19 has a shorter pistol grip and barrel than Glock 17. It is also lighter than Glock 17 when weighed, loaded, or empty.
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Looking at Glock 17 vs. Glock 19 definitions for deeper understanding
What is Glock 19?
Glock 19 is a mid-sized semi-automatic pistol with reduced dimensions and a versatile role. It offers excellent firepower equipping you to shoot accurately.
What is Glock 17?
Glock 17 is a full-sized semi-automatic pistol with a ‘Safe Action’ trigger system for safe, quick, and accurate shooting.
Listing Glock 17 vs. 19 similarities for further clarity
- Both these pistols feature a 9x19mm cartridge.
- Glock 17 gen 3 and Glock 19 gen 3 both cost $499.
- Both these pistols have the same trigger pull of 5.5lbs.
- Glock 17 and 19 both feature a barrel height of 32 mm.
- They feature trigger travel of 12.5 mm.
- Both Glock 17 gen 4 vs. Glock 19 gen 4 cost $547.
Considering the pros and cons of Glock 19 and Glock 17 for better differentiation
Pros of Glock 19
- Because of its smaller size, it is best for concealed carry.
- It is lighter in weight making it easier to handle.
Cons of Glock 19
- It has a smaller standard magazine capacity of 15.
- It might not be suitable for people with large hands because of its compact size.
Pros of Glock 17
- It has a larger standard magazine capacity of 17.
- It is a full-sized handgun suitable for all hand sizes giving you a perfect grip.
Cons of Glock 17
- Since it is larger, it cannot be used for concealed carrying.
- It is a little heavier in weight both when empty and loaded.
Do police use Glock 19 or 17?
Law enforcement officers across the globe have been noted to use Glock 17 more than Glock 19 or for that matter, any other gun. This is because the longer barrel of the gun offers a longer sight radius that helps in a perfect aim. That said, the cops in civil uniforms or undercover often use Glock 19 as it serves the purpose of a concealed carry for its smaller size.
Are Glock 17 and 19 parts interchangeable?
Generally, all parts of Glock 17 and 19 are interchangeable except the following:
- Barrels;
- Slide;
- Locking block;
- Frame;
- Guide rod;
- Slide lock spring; and
- Recoil springs.
This is because of the varying lengths of the barrel and slides. Where Glock 17 has a barrel length of 4.49 inches, it is 4.02 inches for Glock 19. Similarly, the slide length of 7.32 inches of Glock 17 is slightly more than 19’s 6.85-inch measurement. Hence, the other parts connecting them have little size differences.
Which Glock 17 is the best?
Glock 17 Gen 4 has proven itself to be the best of all the models owing to its popularity among law enforcement officers. The following of its features have been voted to have an edge over other models:
- Better grip structure;
- Dual recoil lends more accuracy; and
- Adjustable backstraps.
Why is the Glock 19 so popular?
Glock 19 owes its popularity to its ability for being an EDC, i.e. Everyday Concealed Carry. The reduced height and length and even the little lesser weight make a huge difference by not letting its presence obvious and hanging all day on the hips without uneasiness. And all that privacy, without compromising the performance and functionality.
Do cops carry Glock 19?
Yes, cops across the world carry Glock 19 not only for its lightweight and ease-of-use but for its accuracy too.
How accurate is the Glock 17?
Glock 17 is capable of 2” or smaller groups when shooting from 25 yards. With minimal muzzle rise and full-sized grip, the pistol performs accurately even during rapid-fire. Furthermore, there is not much difference when Glock 17 vs. 19 accuracies are compared.
Can you use a Glock 17 barrel in a Glock 19?
No, a Glock 17 barrel cannot be used in Glock 19. Even if you try to fit it, you won’t be able to shoot straight with a Glock 17 barrel in Glock 19.
Which is the best pistol for concealed carry?
A smaller pistol is easier to conceal than a bigger one. Considering Glock 17 vs. 19 vs. 26 sizes, Glock 26 is the smallest of all and is, therefore, the best for concealed carry.
Tabulating the difference between Glock 19 and 17 in an easy to understand format
| Basis | Glock 17 | Glock 19 |
|---|---|---|
| Release year | It was released in 1982. | It was released in 1988. |
| Length | It is 186 mm long. | It is 174 mm long. |
| Height | It is 127 mm high. | It is 138 mm high. |
| Barrel length | It features a 114 mm long barrel. | It features a 102 mm long barrel. |
| Line of sight | It offers a 165 mm line of sight. | It offers a 153 mm line of sight. |
| Pistol style | It is a full-length handgun for better handling. | It is a compact handgun for concealed carry. |
| Weight when empty | It weighs 625 gms when empty. | It weighs 595 gms when empty. |
| Weight when loaded | It weighs 905 gms when loaded. | It weighs 850 gms when loaded. |
| Sight radius | It features a sight radius of 6.49”. | It features a sight radius of 6.02”. |
| Magazine capacity | It has a standard magazine capacity of 17. | It has a standard magazine capacity of 15. |
Comparison Chart
Comparison Video
Conclusion: Which is better between Glock 17 and Glock 19?
Whether you should choose Glock 17 or 19, you can be sure of a quick and accurate shot. Both pistols are great for self-defense. If, however, you want to conceal carry a handgun, go for Glock 19. On the other hand, Glock 17 would make a better option for casual, target, and competition shooting.
