A Refined Grip: How it Feels in Hand
One of the most immediate and noticeable differences between the Glock Gen 4 and Gen 5 lies in the grip. The Gen 4, a significant evolution in its time, introduced a textured grip, aiming to enhance control and handling. It also featured interchangeable backstraps, allowing shooters to slightly modify the grip’s circumference to better fit their hand size. This customization was a welcome addition, allowing for a more tailored feel.
The Gen 5 takes the grip a step further. The most significant departure is the removal of the finger grooves, a feature that was divisive among Glock users. While some found the grooves ergonomic and beneficial, others found that they didn’t align with their finger placement. The Gen 5, by removing these grooves, allows for a more universal and adaptable grip. The grip texture, known as the “Gen 5 RTF (Rough Textured Finish),” is more aggressive than the Gen 4, providing a more secure and positive grip in various conditions. The texture feels slightly more tactile and offers excellent purchase, even with wet hands. The elimination of the finger grooves, coupled with the more aggressive texture, often translates to more comfortable and controlled shooting, especially over extended range sessions. This grip improvement is a key differentiator that many shooters find appealing.
The Trigger: A Matter of Feel
The trigger mechanism is another area where the Gen 4 and Gen 5 differ significantly. The Gen 4 trigger, while reliable, often felt “squishy” or less defined than some shooters might prefer. This is not a defect; it’s simply the nature of the design. The reset, the point where the trigger returns to its starting position after firing, might have felt a little longer, but the function, as one should expect from a Glock, was flawless.
The Gen 5 trigger represents a notable enhancement. Glock redesigned the trigger mechanism, resulting in a noticeably crisper and cleaner trigger pull. The reset is shorter and more positive, which means the shooter can achieve faster follow-up shots. The pull weight has also been slightly refined, contributing to a more predictable and controllable shot. This improvement is more than just a marketing gimmick; it’s a tangible enhancement that can translate into improved accuracy and faster split times for the competitive shooter. The smoother trigger action is often cited as a significant advantage of the Gen 5, offering a more refined shooting experience.
Slide and Barrel: The Heart of Performance
The slide and barrel play critical roles in a pistol’s performance. The Gen 4 slide, with its tough finish, was known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. It was a reliable workhorse, capable of withstanding harsh conditions.
The Gen 5 boasts a redesigned slide with a “nDLC” (diamond-like carbon) coating. This coating is exceptionally durable and wear-resistant, providing increased corrosion protection and smoother operation. The nDLC coating on the slide reduces friction, allowing the slide to cycle more reliably. It also adds to the overall aesthetic appeal, giving the gun a sleek, modern look.
The Gen 5 also introduces the “Marksman Barrel.” This barrel features improved rifling and a tighter manufacturing tolerance. The rifling helps to stabilize the bullet in flight, improving accuracy. The tighter tolerances, combined with the improved rifling, contribute to tighter groupings downrange. Many shooters have reported noticeable improvements in accuracy with the Gen 5 compared to the Gen 4, making the Marksman Barrel a welcome addition.
Magazine Release and Slide Stop Lever: Ambidextrous Advantage
For those who are left-handed, or who appreciate versatility, the Gen 5 offers a significant upgrade in the form of ambidextrous controls. The magazine release on the Gen 5 is reversible, allowing both right- and left-handed shooters to easily eject the magazine.
The slide stop lever, a crucial control for locking the slide back or releasing it, is also ambidextrous in the Gen 5. The ambidextrous slide stop allows shooters to operate the slide stop from either side, further enhancing the pistol’s versatility.
This is a major advantage for left-handed shooters, who often find themselves adapting to right-handed controls on other firearms. For right-handed shooters, the ambidextrous slide stop offers an alternate means of operation, which can be useful in various scenarios. The enhanced controls in the Gen 5 make it more accessible and user-friendly for a wider range of shooters.
Minor Improvements, Major Impact
Beyond the major changes, the Gen 5 incorporates a few other refinements. For example, the front slide serrations, which were absent on the Gen 4, have been added to the Gen 5, enabling shooters to manipulate the slide more easily, particularly when performing press checks or clearing malfunctions. These minor changes contribute to a more user-friendly overall experience.
Performance: Putting Them to the Test
How do these design changes translate to real-world performance? Let’s examine the key aspects of accuracy, reliability, and handling.
Accuracy: Hitting the Mark
The Marksman Barrel in the Gen 5 is the key to improved accuracy. Many shooters have reported tighter groupings and better overall performance at various distances. While the Gen 4 is still accurate, the Gen 5 offers a noticeable edge, especially for those seeking the highest levels of precision. This is not to say that the Gen 4 is inaccurate, but the Gen 5 gives the shooter more confidence in reaching the intended target.
Reliability: Built to Endure
Both the Gen 4 and Gen 5 are known for their exceptional reliability. Glock pistols are renowned for their ability to function flawlessly under harsh conditions. The Gen 5’s nDLC coating on the slide and the improved slide design further enhance reliability. While the differences are subtle in this area, the overall reliability is maintained, which is what makes Glock so successful.
Handling and Recoil: Feel the Difference
The enhanced grip texture and the absence of finger grooves in the Gen 5 contribute to improved handling and reduced felt recoil. The more secure grip allows for better control, especially during rapid firing. The Gen 5’s trigger also helps in controlling the recoil. The Gen 4, with its more traditional grip, can be slightly less comfortable for some shooters. Both generations of Glocks have excellent handling and minimal recoil compared to many other pistols, but the Gen 5 feels that the recoil is better managed.
Weighing the Options: Pros and Cons
Before making a final decision, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each generation.
Gen 4 Advantages
Cost-Effectiveness: Gen 4 Glocks are often available at lower prices, making them an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers.
Extensive Aftermarket Support: The Gen 4 has been around for a long time, which means there is an abundance of aftermarket parts available. From triggers to sights to slide modifications, you’ll find plenty of options to customize your Gen 4 to your liking.
Familiarity: Many shooters are already familiar with the Gen 4. It has a proven track record and a loyal following.
Gen 4 Disadvantages
Finger Grooves: The finger grooves might not fit all hand sizes comfortably. This could impact handling and lead to less-than-optimal performance for some.
Trigger: Older Design While not a defect, the Gen 4 trigger isn’t as refined as the Gen 5, which is what many shooters find desirable.
Gen 5 Advantages
Superior Grip Texture: The Gen 5 grip texture offers a more secure and positive grip, regardless of the environment.
Enhanced Trigger: The improved trigger pull and reset in the Gen 5 provide a more refined shooting experience.
Marksman Barrel: The Marksman Barrel offers improved accuracy, allowing for tighter groupings.
Ambidextrous Controls: The ambidextrous magazine release and slide stop lever make the Gen 5 more user-friendly for both right- and left-handed shooters.
Gen 5 Disadvantages
Higher Price Point: The Gen 5 typically comes with a higher price tag.
Aftermarket Availability: Although the Gen 5 has been around for some time, the availability of aftermarket parts can be slightly less extensive than the Gen 4’s.
Finding the Right Fit: A Personal Choice
Choosing the right Glock generation is a highly personal decision. Consider the following factors:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend?
- Hand Size: Do you prefer a grip without finger grooves?
- Intended Use: What will you be using your Glock for (self-defense, competition, recreational shooting)?
- Dominant Hand: Do you prefer the versatility of ambidextrous controls?
- Trigger Preference: Do you prefer the crisper pull of the Gen 5 trigger?
If you’re on a budget, the Gen 4 is still an excellent choice, offering a lot of value for its price. If you value a more refined shooting experience, the Gen 5 is often a clear choice. It is often worth noting that most ranges will let you rent a pistol to see which one feels best.
The Final Shot
Ultimately, both the Gen 4 and Gen 5 are outstanding pistols. The Gen 5 represents a significant evolution, with improvements in grip, trigger, accuracy, and controls. The Gen 4 remains a reliable, cost-effective option with extensive aftermarket support. The best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. There is no right or wrong answer, but a wise and educated choice is always best. Try to handle and, if possible, shoot both generations to see which one feels best in your hands. This hands-on experience will provide the most accurate picture and allow you to discover the Glock that is right for you.
