Glocks are renowned for their reliability, simplicity, and versatility. Originating from Austria and designed by engineer Gaston Glock in the early 1980s, these pistols have become a staple for military, law enforcement, and civilian gun enthusiasts alike. Whether you are interested in self-defense, competitive shooting, or just recreational use, there’s a Glock model tailored to meet those needs. The following list breaks down the top 10 Glock models, focusing on their unique features and the applications they’re best suited for. Starting from number ten, we explore which Glocks have made the biggest impact in their category.
#10: Glock 26 – The Subcompact Solution
Known fondly as the “Baby Glock,” the Glock 26 is a subcompact pistol that was initially designed for concealed carry. Since its debut, it has become a favorite among those looking for an easily concealable pistol without sacrificing firepower. The Glock 26 typically chambers the 9mm cartridge and boasts a standard magazine capacity of 10 rounds, although it is also compatible with larger Glock magazines. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for a backup weapon for police officers or for anyone needing a compact firearm.
#9: Glock 34 – The Competition Master
Precision and accuracy are the hallmarks of the Glock 34. Tailored for competitive shooting, this long-slide 9mm pistol offers increased sight radius, which often means improved accuracy for shooters. Its extended barrel and slide also reduce recoil and allow for faster follow-up shots, making it a favorite on the competition circuit. The Glock 34 also features an adjustable rear sight and an extended magazine release, enhancements that further its status as a top-tier competitor.
#8: Glock 20 – The 10mm Powerhouse
The Glock 20 is touted for its considerable stopping power, chambered in the formidable 10mm Auto cartridge. It’s a choice sidearm for outdoorsmen and women who might find themselves in bear country or in need of a handgun with significant ballistic performance. While the recoil of the 10mm round can be stout, the Glock 20’s design helps manage it effectively. It is also used by some law enforcement agencies that require a more powerful round than the standard 9mm or .40 S&W.
#7: Glock 19X – The Crossover Pistol
As the first “crossover” pistol from Glock, the Glock 19X combines the full-size frame of the Glock 17 with the compact slide of the Glock 19. This blend allows for a more comfortable grip and increased magazine capacity, while still being somewhat easier to carry and manipulate than the full-size variant. Finished with an nPVD slide coating, the pistol is designed to withstand harsh conditions making it suitable for both service use and personal defense.
#6: Glock 42 – The .380 ACP Companion
Glock’s smallest pistol, the Glock 42, is chambered in .380 ACP and is specifically designed for those who need a super lightweight and compact pistol for concealed carry. Its slim profile and light recoil make it an ideal choice for shooters with smaller hands or those who are sensitive to larger calibers. Importantly, despite its small size, the Glock 42 maintains the reliability and ease of use that have become synonymous with the brand.
#5: Glock 22 – The .40 S&W Workhorse
Introduced in response to law enforcement demand, the Glock 22 brought the then-new .40 S&W cartridge into the Glock lineup. This model became a standard for many police agencies, providing a middle ground between the 9mm and the heavier .45 ACP. Its stopping power made it a popular self-defense weapon while still offering a manageable recoil. Even as some law enforcement agencies have transitioned back to 9mm, the Glock 22 remains a solid choice for both duty and civilian defense.
#4: Glock 43 – The Single-Stack 9mm
The Glock 43 represents the company’s first venture into the single-stack 9mm category, which places an emphasis on slim design for concealed carry. The slim frame makes it particularly concealable, fitting comfortably into an inside-the-waistband holster or even a pocket holster. Despite its smaller size, the Glock 43 operates with the same reliability as its larger counterparts, making it an excellent choice for a personal defense firearm.
#3: Glock 21 – The .45 ACP Standard
If a shooter is looking for classic American firepower, the Glock 21 chambered in .45 ACP provides it in a high-capacity, modern design. Known for its stopping power, the .45 ACP cartridge pairs well with the rugged and reliable platform of the Glock 21, which can carry up to 13 rounds in a standard magazine. This pistol is valued by both law enforcement and civilian shooters who prefer the larger and heavier round for its terminal ballistics.
#2: Glock 17 – The Original
The pistol that started it all, the Glock 17, is a full-sized 9mm that has stood the test of time. Initially designed for the Austrian military, it quickly gained a worldwide reputation for its reliability, ease of use, and durability. Often used by military and police, the Glock 17 is also a staple in the civilian market for its versatility. It can function as a home defense weapon, a competition pistol, or as a reliable range shooter. With a standard magazine capacity of 17 rounds, it packs ample firepower for any situation.
#1: Glock 19 – The Compact Crown Jewel
Taking the number one spot is the Glock 19. This compact 9mm pistol marries the best aspects of size, capacity, and handling. It’s small enough for concealed carry while maintaining a comfortable grip and a magazine capacity of 15 rounds. It has found favor with law enforcement agencies, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. Its reputation for reliability, coupled with its versatility, has made the Glock 19 the most popular Glock model and the standard by which other compact handguns are judged.
In summary, Glock offers a diverse range of pistols that cater to various preferences and needs. Whether it’s for concealed carry, duty use, home defense, or competitive shooting, there is a Glock model engineered for the task. When considering a Glock, factor in your intended use, caliber preference, desired size, and ergonomic fit. Each model listed here earns its place for different reasons, but they all share the common threads of Glock’s legendary dependability and performance.