Glock 19 Gen 4 Vs Gen 5
Specification Comparison and Reviews
In this article, we will take a detailed look at two of Glock’s constructions: the Glock 19 gen 4 vs gen 5.
Table of Contents
The Glock 19 is a popular firearm that many civilians and law enforcement personnel carry. The Glock 19 has been around since 1980. The Gen 5 features a new design, improved ergonomics, and interchangeable backstraps for a personalized fit. Although the differences between the Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5 are minimal, they’re worth considering if you’re thinking about getting one of these handguns. Here are the differences between the Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5 that you must know.
Features of Glock 19 Gen 4 Vs Gen 5
Grip and Textures
The Glock 19 Gen 5 has interchangeable backstraps that allow you to customize the grip for your hand. The gun comes with additional backstraps. The Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5 both have interchangeable backstraps that allow you to customize your grip. However, only the Gen 5 has an option to change the grip. One can also change the texture of the grip panels for a firmer hold on the gun. There are three different textures to choose from: rough, medium, and fine.
The texture of the Glock 19 Gen 4 is more aggressive than that of the Gen 5, which makes it easier to control the firearm when performing different shooting techniques. The other difference in textures between these models is in their front and back straps. The Glock 19 Gen 4 has a straight cut front strap and a beveled rear strap while the Gen 5 features new texturing that runs from top to bottom on its straps.
Size and Weight
The Glock 19 Gen 5 is 2 inches wider than the Gen 4. Rest is all the same height, length, line of sight, and trigger distance. The difference in the width between these two models is mainly due to the interchangeable backstraps. The weight of the Glock 19 Gen 5 is 21.16 ounces unloaded which is the same as Glock 19 Gen 4. So if you are new to using this gun, it does not matter if you are using the Gen 5 or Gen 4. The gun will weigh about the same – 21 to 22 ounces unloaded.
The difference in weight between these models may not seem like much, but every ounce counts when you’re out on the range or keeping your firearm concealed under your clothes. Both of the handguns have the same barrel length, but the Glock 19 Gen 5 is a little bit wider than the Gen 4. It’s around an inch or so bigger in width. So if you are looking for something that conceals well, your best bet would be to go with the Glock 19 Gen 4. The magazine capacity on both Glock 19 Gen 4 as well as Glock 19 Gen 5 is 15 rounds.
Stopping Power
The stopping power of the Glock 19 Gen 4 is good enough to bring down an assailant and it would be the same case with Glock 19 Gen 5. You can expect both handguns to have about the same stopping power on your target. The difference in stopping power is that the Glock 19 Gen 5 is bigger in size and weight, so it will have more momentum. The Glock 19 Gen 4 is slightly more responsive than the Gen 5. The trigger needs less pressure on the Glock 19 Gen 4 but it would also vary from person to person depending upon how they are using this gun.
Safety Features
The Glock 19 Gen 4 has a different safety mechanism than the Gen 5. This difference can be useful to some individuals, but not everyone needs this feature on their handgun. The original trigger safety on the Glock 19 Gen 4 is not the same as its counterpart on the Glock 19 Gen 5. If you’re looking to buy a handgun for your home, both of these models can offer solutions when it comes to safety. Both guns have the necessary features that allow you to keep your gun secure when it’s not in use. However, if you want something safer than the Glock 19 Gen 4, you can go with the Glock 19 Gen 5.
The trigger on the Glock 19 Gen 4 earlier models has a safety lever on it which means that it’s less likely to get caught on your clothes or something else when it’s in your holster or pocket. However, the new Glock 19 Gen 5 lacks this safety lever, which means you may have to take more caution when placing it in your holster. The Glock 19 Gen 5 comes with passive instead of active trigger safety which was present in the Glock 19 gen 4. People who feel more secure and comfortable with a steel trigger would prefer the gen 4, while people who like things simple with fewer buttons that can break or malfunction might be better off with gen 5.
Slide Stop and Magazine Release
The Glock 19 Gen 4 has the same slide stop and magazine release as its predecessor, which means that they are both in similar spots to where they were in the previous generation. The Glock 19 Gen 5 also comes with the same slide stop and magazine release as its predecessor. The slide stop on the Glock 19 Gen 4 has a right-side mounted lever that can be accessed by your support hand easier than the left-side mounted lever on the Glock 19 Gen 5. So if you’re looking for something easier to use you can choose you can select among the given options. Both of the gun models have a standard magazine release button which allows you to quickly reload your weapon if needed. You can hold it in your hand with the safety on and fire away without any problems.
Recoil and Muzzle Flip
Both of these handguns feature a standard recoil and muzzle flip. They’re pretty good for concealed carry. Both handguns have a manageable amount of recoil. The Glock 19 Gen 4 has the same amount as the previous generation, so it’s just as manageable as its predecessor. The Glock 19 Gen 5 also has a manageable amount of muzzle flip and it isn’t any different from its predecessor either.
Trigger Mechanism
The Glock 19 Gen 4 has a uniform trigger characteristic. This uniformity ensures consistent performance on every shot. The Glock 19 Gen 5 also comes with a uniform trigger mechanism which is present in its predecessor, making both ideal options for people who are looking to improve their accuracy skills. The Glock 19 Gen 4 and the Glock 19 Gen 5 might be similar but there are some significant differences between them that you should know of before making a purchase.
As mentioned earlier the Glock 19 Gen 4 comes with active trigger safety which means that it’s safer as well as stronger. On the other hand, Glock 19 Gen 5 features passive trigger safety which can be tougher to use. The Glock 19 Gen 4 is a better option for people who want the best in accuracy and strength. However, if you feel more comfortable with a simple trigger mechanism that doesn’t have any redundancies then you should go for the Glock 19 Gen 5.
Concealability
The Glock 19 Gen 4 has a shorter width, better grip feel, and more magazine capacity making it a good choice for concealed carry. On the other hand, the Glock 19 Gen 5 is heavier than Gen 4, also has more width which makes it slightly harder to conceal as compared to the Glock 19 Gen 4.
Reliability
Both the Glock 19 Gen 4 and 5 are reliable and durable handguns. They can withstand any environment and they can also be used continuously for years without needing any repairs or maintenance. However, if you are judging them using their predecessor as a benchmark then we’ll say that the Glock 19 Gen 5 is more likely to survive longer than the Glock 19 Gen 4.
Customizable
When it comes to customizing the Glock 19 Gen 4 vs 5 have different options. The Glock 19 Gen 5 has a reversible magazine catch, interchangeable backstraps, ergonomic grip, and front serrations while the Glock 19 Gen 4 doesn’t have any of these features.
Price
Although both of the guns share some features and they are very similar in several aspects, there is a difference in their prices as well. The Glock 19 Gen 4 costs around $600 while the Glock 19 Gen 5 is $559 to $645. These two different prices might be due to some minor changes that were made to both of these guns.
After Market Accessories - Glock 19 Gen 4 Vs Gen 5
You can upgrade both guns with several different accessories, including new sights, lights, and lasers. The Glock 19 Gen 4 comes with a Picatinny rail mounted at the front so you can attach accessories such as an under-barrel laser or flashlight. The Glock 19 Gen 5 has a more concealed rail system but if you want to attach a flashlight or laser sight you can do so with the use of an adapter. The biggest advantage of both guns is that they come standard with Glock sights.
This gives them an added advantage over other pistols in this price range. The pistol comes with polymer sights which provide for more accurate target shooting in all lighting situations. The Glock 19 Gen 5 is a newer gun so more options are available for it in terms of aftermarket accessories but the older version also has its fair share of accessories. Here are some of the accessories you can get for the Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5:
Sights
You can change the sights either using a Glock factory replacement kit or you can get aftermarket sights. There are plenty of options for front and rear combination sight sets that come with green fiber optic rods that you can use to boost your sight visibility. The Glock 19 Gen 5 comes standard with Glock’s Tritium night sights which are considered to be the best solution for low light target identification. Here is a list of aftermarket manufacturers who make high-quality tritium night sights: Crimson Trace, Bushnell (TruGlo), Trijicon, Meprolight, and AmeriGlo all make excellent sights for both the Glock 19 Gen 4 and 5.
Lights
The Glock 19 Gen 4 and 5 don’t come with rail systems so you will have to use an adapter if you want to attach a light. These adapters typically cost between $15 and $50 depending on the model you choose.
Laser Sights
If you want to use your Glock for target practice or hunting then an aftermarket laser sight is the best option for you. Laser sights give you better accuracy and faster targeting in all lighting conditions. One can easily install lasers that are specifically designed for the Glock 19 Gen 4 and 5 models. These accessories are available for both models and they don’t cost a lot of money when compared with other options on the market.
Magazines
The Glock 19 Gen 5 is the more modern gun so it has better aftermarket options in terms of magazines. The Gen 5 mags are also more durable and of higher quality when compared to the starters included with the gun. Glock 19 Gen 4 uses standard-sized magazines for 9mm. If you need extra magazines then consider buying Glock 19 Gen 4 standard magazines or Glock 17 mags, which will work perfectly in the Glock 19. Glock 19 magazines are stealthy and won’t protrude out of your weapon when you carry it with a belt.
Magazine Pouches
You can consider getting a magazine stealthy pouch that protects your magazines from scratching or getting scuffed up. These types of pouches are available for both models and they cost around $20. The Glock 19 Gen 4 and 5 use the same magazines, which come in a 15 round capacity. You can always get extended magazines if you want to carry more rounds with you.
Holsters
There are many Glock-specific holsters available for Gen 4 and 5. These holsters offer a perfect fit as well as allow maximum retention which means your gun won’t fall out of its holster even if you run, jump, or jerk around. Since both guns have widely used rail systems, they can also be fitted with many universal holsters which you can find for the most popular handguns. This is a cost-effective option if you already own a holster that fits your current gun and wants to use it with your Glock 19.
CYA Supply Co. Base IWB Concealed Carry Holster
CYA Supply Co.’s Base IWB holster is a sturdy, easy to conceal, and comfortable product that will be a great asset to your concealed carry needs. The CYA product line is rapidly growing in popularity with real-world shooters. The holster is made of .08″ thick Boltaron material which is strong enough to withstand years of use. It also has a sweat guard that covers the full length of the slide.
It is specifically designed for a right-hand draw only, so someone carrying a Glock out on their left side will need a different product to protect themselves. One of the best features of the holster is that it comes with fully adjustable cant. The company also backs up its product with a lifetime warranty, so if you have any issues down the road just let them know and they’ll have it fixed in no time.
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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 Universal Holsters that come with many handguns work well with both guns, so if you already own one then just use that until it no longer serves your needs. If you’re looking for a new product then try the CYA Supply Co. holster at around $30, which works well with both models.
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.
If you are looking for concealed carry, then consider getting something that is lightweight, thin, and easy to conceal under your clothing.
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 biggest difference between the two guns is their frame. The Gen 5 uses a newer material that offers better relief which improves handling and comfort levels for users.
Conclusion
Overall, the Glock 19 Gen 4 and 5 are two of the best guns on the market in terms of the overall design. They’re high-end products that continue to dominate their respective spaces and offer a great deal for both professionals and recreational shooters. One should buy one based on his preference for gun features. This Glock 19 gen 4 vs gen 5 review will surely assist you in your decision in buying a Glock 19 handgun. As per this review, the Glock 19 gen 4 vs gen 5 do not have much difference when it comes to design and structure, except in terms of comfortability.
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.
