Introduction
Glock pistols are synonymous with reliability, simplicity, and a polymer-framed design that revolutionized the firearms industry. Their enduring popularity stems from their ease of use, rugged construction, and a commitment to consistent performance across various environments. The Glock design philosophy, focused on practical application, has made these pistols a staple in law enforcement, the military, and among civilian shooters worldwide.
Central to the Glock story is its generational evolution. Each new generation represents an attempt to refine the platform, incorporating feedback from users and advancements in materials and manufacturing. This iterative approach has led to continuous improvements, solidifying Glock’s position as a leader in the handgun market.
This article dives into a detailed comparison of two key iterations: the Glock Gen 4 and the Glock Gen 5. Our goal is to dissect the features, advantages, and disadvantages of each, helping gun enthusiasts, potential buyers, and anyone curious about these iconic pistols understand the nuances that differentiate them. We’ll examine the specifications, and discuss performance to provide you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
An Overview of Glock Generations
Glock’s journey began in the early 1980s. Gaston Glock, an Austrian engineer, envisioned a handgun that was simple to operate, reliable, and utilized advanced materials. The first generation, introduced in 1982, laid the groundwork for the future. Key features included a polymer frame, a striker-fired system, and a relatively low parts count.
Subsequent generations built upon this foundation. The second generation brought refinements to the frame and other components. The third generation introduced finger grooves on the grip and an accessory rail, making it more adaptable for accessories. The fourth generation, the subject of much of our attention, saw significant changes to the recoil spring assembly, grip texture, and magazine release. And then, the Gen 5 emerged.
The generational advancements were not merely aesthetic; they represented a commitment to improving ergonomics, accuracy, and overall performance. Each iteration reflects a response to user feedback, new technologies, and an ongoing quest to enhance the reliability and user experience of the Glock pistol.
Glock Gen 4: A Detailed Look
Features of Gen 4
The Glock Gen 4 represented a significant step forward in the evolution of the Glock pistol. Several key features distinguished it from its predecessors:
Recoil Spring Assembly (RSA): This was perhaps the most impactful change. The Gen 4 introduced a dual recoil spring assembly, designed to mitigate felt recoil and improve reliability, particularly with lighter loads. This system incorporated two nested springs, which helped to absorb the energy of the slide’s rearward movement and buffer the impact.
Grip Texture: The Gen 4 featured a textured grip that offered improved purchase compared to the smooth frame of earlier generations. While effective, the texture was considered by some to be slightly abrasive. This was aimed to enhance the shooter’s control, especially in wet or challenging conditions.
Interchangeable Backstraps: The Gen 4 offered users the option to customize the grip size with interchangeable backstraps. This was a welcome addition, allowing shooters with different hand sizes to tailor the grip to their individual needs, improving ergonomics and shooter comfort and control. Three different sizes were commonly available.
Magazine Release: The Gen 4 introduced a larger, reversible magazine release. This enhancement was a direct response to feedback from users, particularly those with smaller hands or those who preferred a more accessible magazine release. The reversibility was a significant improvement, allowing both left and right-handed shooters to easily operate the magazine release.
Pros and Cons of Gen 4
Advantages
The dual recoil spring assembly provided noticeably improved recoil management, which made the pistol more pleasant to shoot and allowed for faster follow-up shots.
The interchangeable backstraps were a substantial upgrade, enabling personalized fit for different hand sizes.
The enlarged and reversible magazine release made magazine changes quicker and more intuitive for shooters of all sizes and hand preferences.
Disadvantages
Early Gen 4 models were known to have some issues with the dual recoil spring assembly, which caused malfunctions with certain ammunition types. Glock addressed this issue with subsequent revisions.
The original grip texture, while providing better grip than previous generations, was sometimes considered too aggressive for some shooters.
While a notable upgrade, some users may find the Gen 4 grip still somewhat blocky, but the backstraps mitigated this to some degree.
Glock Gen 5: A Detailed Look
Features of Gen 5
The Gen 5 marked another significant evolution in the Glock lineage, building upon the improvements of the Gen 4 while introducing further refinements and new features:
Recoil Spring Assembly (RSA): The Gen 5 retained the dual recoil spring assembly, however, it had been further refined. Glock made changes to enhance durability and reliability, seeking to eliminate the issues some users experienced with early Gen 4 models. This refined design was aimed to provide enhanced reliability and consistent performance across a wider range of ammunition.
Grip Texture: One of the most noticeable changes was the introduction of the new grip texture, often referred to as the “rough texture”. This texture provides an excellent grip, improving control and comfort, even in wet conditions. It is less abrasive compared to the Gen 4 texture, for better usability.
Elimination of Finger Grooves: The finger grooves, a prominent feature of the Gen 3 and Gen 4, were removed. The elimination of the finger grooves provided a more natural grip for a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles. The grooves did not fit every shooter perfectly. The Gen 5, with a flatter, more streamlined grip, aimed to accommodate a greater number of users.
Magazine Release: The Gen 5 retained the enlarged, ambidextrous magazine release found on the Gen 4, a critical design change for accessibility and ease of use by left-handed shooters.
Slide Release Lever: The Gen 5 introduced an ambidextrous slide release lever, a significant enhancement for both left and right-handed shooters. The slide release is critical for chambering rounds and clearing malfunctions.
Marksman Barrel (MB): The Gen 5 features Glock’s Marksman Barrel (MB). This barrel uses a new rifling design. This improved rifling is said to increase accuracy and shot grouping.
Front Slide Serrations: Serrations were added to the front of the slide on the Gen 5. This allowed users to more easily manipulate the slide for press checks or malfunction clearance.
Pros and Cons of Gen 5
Advantages
The new grip texture provided superior grip and comfort.
The elimination of finger grooves offered a more universal grip experience.
The ambidextrous slide release enhanced usability for both left and right-handed shooters.
The refined recoil spring assembly and Marksman Barrel contributed to improved reliability and accuracy.
The front slide serrations improved grip and manipulation of the slide.
Disadvantages
The price, usually higher than Gen 4 models.
Although most shooters adapt to the new ambidextrous controls quickly, some may experience a learning curve.
Key Differences: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Recoil Spring Assembly
Both Gen 4 and Gen 5 utilize dual recoil spring assemblies. However, the Gen 5 model has a further-refined version, aimed to increase the reliability. The Gen 4’s initial iteration had reported problems, whereas the Gen 5 has a redesigned spring that has helped solve this problem.
Grip Texture
The grip texture is significantly different. The Gen 4 has a slightly more abrasive feel, whereas the Gen 5 is more like a sandpaper texture. Both offered improvements, but the Gen 5’s feel is favored by most.
Finger Grooves
The Gen 5 eliminated the finger grooves found on the Gen 3 and Gen 4. Removing these grooves provided a more adaptable fit for shooters with varying hand sizes and grip styles. This allows the shooter to grip the handgun more comfortably.
Magazine Release
Both pistols share the larger, reversible magazine release, a marked improvement from earlier generations.
Slide Release Lever
The key difference here is that the Gen 5 provides an ambidextrous slide release lever. This is a major usability improvement for left-handed shooters or those who prefer to manipulate controls with either hand.
Barrel
The Glock Gen 5 features the Marksman Barrel. It is designed to improve accuracy, making it a clear improvement over earlier models.
Slide Serrations
The addition of front slide serrations on the Gen 5 allows users to have a better grip to check for a loaded chamber. This allows for a quick and easy safety measure.
Other Minor Differences
There are minor differences in the slide finish and other details, but the core elements remain the same.
Performance and Reliability
Both the Glock Gen 4 and Gen 5 are renowned for their reliability. Glock’s reputation for building durable, robust firearms is well-earned. Both generations are generally considered to be very reliable. The Gen 5, benefiting from the refinements made in the Gen 4, along with further enhancements. This generally results in a more robust overall platform. The dual recoil spring assembly in both generations contributes to this high level of reliability. Glock pistols are designed to function consistently across a wide range of ammunition and environmental conditions.
Which Glock is Right for You?
Considerations
Price: The Gen 5 models usually command a slightly higher price, and this can be a factor for potential buyers.
Hand Size and Grip Preference: Your personal preference will affect your decision. Both the grip texture and the removal of the finger grooves in the Gen 5 will affect your experience with the pistol.
Dominant Hand: If you’re left-handed, the ambidextrous controls of the Gen 5 make it a superior option.
Prior Experience: If you have prior experience with Glock pistols, adapting to the new controls of the Gen 5 is likely to be quick.
Recommendation
Both the Glock Gen 4 and Gen 5 are excellent choices. The best option depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize the latest advancements in ergonomics, the ambidextrous controls, and the enhanced grip texture and Marksman Barrel, the Gen 5 is the better choice. If budget is a key consideration, and you appreciate the Gen 4’s features, then it remains a reliable and capable choice. There is not one “right” choice, it is whatever works for you.
Conclusion
The differences between Glock Gen 4 and Gen 5 are significant and represent a continuous effort by Glock to refine their designs and address the concerns of its user base. The Gen 4 was a pivotal model, with improvements in recoil reduction and grip customization. The Gen 5 built upon those improvements, refining the recoil spring, the grip, and introducing ambidextrous controls.
The evolution of the Glock pistol reflects a commitment to continuous improvement and a deep understanding of user needs. This dedication has cemented Glock’s position as a leader in the firearms industry. With both the Gen 4 and Gen 5, shooters have access to reliable, accurate, and well-designed handguns.
Ultimately, the decision of which Glock is right for you is a personal one. Consider your budget, hand size, shooting style, and the importance of ambidextrous controls when making your choice.
