Glock 17 Vs 19
Specification Comparison and Reviews
The Glock 17 and the Glock 19 are two of the most popular handguns in America. Both pistols are used by law enforcement agencies, military units, and civilians for personal protection. They are almost identical in size, with only a very slight difference in barrel length. Which model is better? This article will discuss how these Glock 17 vs 19 9mm pistols compare to each other.
Table of Contents
Features of Glock 17 Vs 19
Grip and Textures
The grip of the Glock 17 is slightly larger than that of the compact Glock 19. This difference in size contributes to the significant difference in weight between these two models. The reason for this weight difference can be traced back to one main factor: barrel length. The Glock 17 has a 4.49-inch long barrel, while the Glock 19 has a 4.02-inch barrel. The longer barrel gives the Glock 17 a weight of 22.05 ounces, while the shorter Glock 19 weighs just 21.16 ounces. Both models have an identical grip width of 1.18 inches wide, with each model is capable of handling Gen 3 and 4 back straps to increase the grip size if needed.
Both the Glock 17 and 19 have interchangeable backstraps to increase or decrease the circumference of the grip. If you are unhappy with the size of your standard grip, simply replace it with a larger or smaller version. The choice is completely up to you based on what feels more comfortable in your hand. The Gen 3 and Gen 4 textured grips on these two models are identical. Both pistols come with the standard Gen 3 textures, which allow for a more secure grip. For those who feel that this doesn’t provide enough traction, you can upgrade to the Gen 4 textured grips. These new grips have a small protrusion on each side of the grip and slightly different checkering patterns. The Gen 4 textured grips are more aggressive and provide a better gripping surface.
Sights
The Glock 17 has three standard factory sights: two metal dovetail sights on the rear and one large metal blade mounted to the front sight. These factory sights are made out of steel with a white dot painted in the center. The rear sights are fixed, while the front of this model is adjustable for windage and elevation. The Glock 19 features slightly different factory sights than the standard models of the Glock 17. This small difference makes a big change in how these pistols to shoot, especially regarding accuracy and precision.
Instead of having metal dovetail sights on the rear, these mid-size pistols have fixed polymer night sights. The front sight is the same metal blade with white dots painted in the center of each, like on the Glock 17. Both models have fully adjustable rear sights, but only the Glocks 17 has an adjustable front sight for elevation and windage.
Trigger Differences
One of the most noticeable differences between the Glock 17 and the Glock 19 is the trigger. The Glock 17 has a much heavier and longer trigger pull than the lighter and shorter trigger of the 19. Instead of having one consistent weight throughout its entire length, the Glock 17 requires just over 5 pounds to fully pull the trigger all the way through to fire each shot. This weight increases as you move closer to the break of the trigger. This increased weight results from Glock’s new Gen 5 upgrades and can be traced back to both a different connector and a reshaped trigger bar. The Glock 17 also has a significantly longer pre-travel distance, from when you begin pulling until the point where rounds start firing.
This pre-travel distance is about .4 inches, while most of the trigger’s travel space comes in at just 4mm. A pre-travel distance short enough to give you a nice clean break when firing has become standard on all Glock models except for the compact versions of their pistols. This longer pre-travel distance can result in missed shots if you are not careful. The trigger pull on the Glock 17 is about twice as heavy as that of the Glock 19, and it has a much longer pre-travel distance. These factors make this model more difficult to shoot than the 19, which could be an issue if you plan to take your training seriously and get very accurate at shooting your sidearm.
Capacity Differences
If you are looking for a sidearm to use in both home defense and EDC scenarios, the higher capacity of the Glock 17 over the 19 will be one of your main deciding factors. The Glock 19 has almost an entire inch shaved off the total length of its grip which gives it approximately 15 rounds (2 less) than what you would get in the Glock 17. This change makes it much easier to conceal, which is great for an EDC pistol since you are probably not expecting to have to fire at anyone outside of your home if there should come a time when that happens. The smaller frame also allows you to carry the 19 comfortably inside the waistline, which is a must for anyone who spends time at the range and wants to draw their sidearm when necessary quickly.
The decreased capacity of the Glock 19 may make it slightly harder to immediately control either during rapid-fire or in any other situation where you need to fire multiple shots without having much time to aim. The Glock 17’s added capacity over the 19 makes it a good choice for home defense, while the smaller frame of this model allows you to have an easier time concealing it. If you are looking for a pistol with a higher capacity, consider getting the 17 instead.
Finish Differences
The two pistols also have different finishes, which can play a large role in how your sidearm looks and feels. If you want a more tactical look, consider getting the Glock 17 because it is available with both a matte black slide and a matte silver one. On the other hand, the only finish options available on the 19 are either a matte black or a very shiny stainless steel to give it that classic Glock look. Although both finishes are very durable, the stainless steel slide of the Glock 19 will show signs of wear much faster than that of its matte black counterpart.
This means you can get more life out of your model if it is finished in black instead of silver. Since this finish does not cause as much glare or show dirt nearly as easily as something made of stainless steel, you will be better off with this pistol if you intend to use it in conditions where high visibility and low maintenance are important. The two different finishes available for both pistols make them easy to customize colors-wise and provide different looks to their users. Consider which finish will fit your intended use case best before making your purchase.
Slide Length Differences
Another difference between the Glock 17 and 19 is the length of their slides, with this measurement being nearly an inch longer on the former. Considering that many other parts like the grip, trigger guard, and magazine base plate are also made slightly larger on the 17, it does not come as much of a surprise that carrying around this pistol can be more difficult. Consider getting this sidearm if you intend to use it for competitive shooting, concealed carry, or any other scenario where size is an important factor.
This added length makes it a little harder to handle in close quarters, making the 19 a better choice if you will rarely be in a situation that requires you to fire your sidearm at something under 10 feet away from you. The Glock 17 is easier to use in CQB scenarios, while the 19 will be slightly easier to handle when fired over a longer distance. If you are looking for a model that can work well in any situation, consider getting the 17 instead.
Line of Sight Differences
Another difference between these two pistols is the height of their sights above the center of the barrel. Due to this added height, which can be up to half an inch compared to its counterpart, it is much more difficult for people who use a Glock 17 to align their shots correctly. You will probably want to get the Glock 19 if you plan on using this pistol for competitive shooting or in any other context where every shot counts, and you cannot afford to miss it because of a sight alignment error.
Since its rear sight is made by placing two dots side-by-side, all you will need to do is center these dots with your target and pull the trigger to score an accurate hit. Even though the Glock 19 is very easy to shoot accurately, its added size makes it a little more awkward to carry around. If you plan to carry your pistol in a concealed holster or inside a bag most of the time, consider getting the 17 instead because it will be much easier to handle when not actively being fired.
Reliability and Durability Difference
The combination of a larger size and more powerful ammunition, which can wear on a slide much faster than the Glock 19, makes the 17 harder to use in extreme conditions. You will probably want this model if you plan on using your pistol primarily on indoor ranges or for home defense instead. In addition to being more durable due to its steel slide, the matte black finish also works to reduce glare when using this pistol in broad daylight. Since it does not lose its accuracy when fired repeatedly and due to the large size of its metallic components, this model will work well in nearly any environment. It is a great choice if you plan to go hunting with your sidearm or take it out into the desert for some shooting practice.
This pistol also benefits from having a longer barrel, which allows it to fire rounds at higher velocities than the 19. It does not suffer as much of an accuracy drop-off when firing rapidly, but it has a larger recoil because of its added power than other models in this line. Another downside to buying the Glock 17 is that it can be difficult to use when shooting with only one hand. If you want a sidearm that you can always rely on to hit what you are aiming at without having to transfer it from your left or right hand, consider getting the 19 instead.
Aftermarket Accessories - Glock 17 Vs 19
Another advantage of buying a Glock 19 is that it can be modified with several different aftermarket parts. More accessories become available as time goes on. Still, this model already has several official add-ons that you can purchase from the manufacturer’s website, including redesigned triggers and magazine release buttons. Whether or not these extras are worth purchasing depends on how much you plan on using your Glock 17. They do not make any discernible improvements to the pistol, so only get these if you want to personalize it with your unique style.
If you choose to buy one of the Glock 17 models, you will probably need to invest in a few different aftermarket parts to improve it truly. Although these upgrades are not necessary, they will increase the overall functionality of your sidearm to make it easier to use under pressure. Since one of the most important accessories for this pistol is a shoulder holster, consider purchasing or making one before deciding on which model you want to buy so that it does not limit your options later on.
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FAQs
Important Note:
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
The Glock 17 is popular because it can be used for home defense or recreational shooting, but the 19 will probably be a better choice for most people.
Important Note:
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
The Glock 17 is slightly larger, but they are very similar in size. A Glock 17 has the same cutting-edge features as the 19, but it can hold two more rounds.
Important Note:
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
They will probably use a Glock 19, but they might use a Glock 18, a fully automatic pistol.
I prefer a Glock 17 Gen 4 over the 19 because I have big hands, and using the slide release on my right hand with my index finger feels more natural than with my left hand.
Important Note:
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
The Glock 17 has a larger magazine capacity and the ability to hold an additional round in its chamber, while the 19 uses more powerful ammunition. Both of these pistols are ideal for self-defense and police work. I
Conclusion
The Glock 17 vs 19 debate ultimately comes down to how you intend on using your gun if you plan on taking it out hunting or engaging in shooting competitions where every shot counts; the superior reliability and accuracy of this model make it a better choice. However, if your priority has a compact sidearm to carry around easily and you do not care about aesthetics, the Glock 19 is a better option.
When in doubt, get whichever model has a lower price tag so that you can save money for other accessories. In general, the 17 is the superior choice for performance, while the 19 is more user-friendly and easier to modify with aftermarket parts. Although the 17 has a higher price tag, it is also more popular. It has a long list of accessories that you can attach to while improving its overall functionality and performance.
Author Profile
- Gabriel Tackett is an experienced shooter and hunter for over 15 years with a degree in Engineering from the University of Minnesota. He is also a certified National Rifle Association (NRA) officer for 10 years And his passion lies in teaching others how to safely enjoy the hobby by recommending the best practices & products in the gun industry.
- Sights2022.07.30Best Red Dot Sights
