Gen 5 Vs Gen 4 Glock Differences

The Glock pistol has been a staple in the firearms industry for decades, with various generations offering unique features and improvements. Two of the most popular generations are the Gen 4 and Gen 5 Glocks. While both generations have their loyal followings, there are distinct differences between them. In this article, we will delve into the Gen 5 vs Gen 4 Glock differences, exploring the features, advantages, and disadvantages of each generation.

The Glock pistol has undergone significant changes over the years, with each generation building upon the previous one. The Gen 4 Glocks, introduced in 2010, offered several improvements over the Gen 3 models, including a more ergonomic design, interchangeable backstraps, and a reversible magazine catch. However, with the release of the Gen 5 Glocks in 2017, many shooters began to wonder what sets these new pistols apart from their predecessors.

One of the primary differences between the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks is the absence of finger grooves on the Gen 5 frames. Many shooters found the finger grooves on the Gen 4 models to be uncomfortable, and Glock addressed this issue by removing them altogether. This design change allows for a more universal fit, accommodating shooters with varying hand sizes and preferences.

Gen 5 Glock Features

The Gen 5 Glocks boast several notable features, including the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB), which provides improved accuracy and a more consistent trigger pull. The GMB features a more precise rifling and a recessed target crown, allowing for enhanced bullet expansion and reduced risk of bullet damage. Additionally, the Gen 5 Glocks have a nitrated finish, which provides a more durable and corrosion-resistant coating than the previous generations.

Another significant difference between the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks is the ambidextrous slide stop. The Gen 5 models feature a more pronounced and ergonomic slide stop, making it easier for shooters to release the slide with their thumb. This design change is particularly beneficial for left-handed shooters, who often struggled with the previous design.

Gen 5 Glock Ambidextrous Slide Stop

The ambidextrous slide stop on the Gen 5 Glocks is a significant improvement over the Gen 4 models. This feature allows shooters to easily release the slide with their thumb, regardless of their handedness. The more pronounced design of the slide stop also makes it easier to manipulate, reducing the risk of accidental slide release.

Gen 4 Glock Features

The Gen 4 Glocks, on the other hand, offer several features that are still popular among shooters today. The interchangeable backstraps, for example, allow shooters to customize the fit of their pistol to their individual hand size. This feature is particularly beneficial for shooters with smaller or larger hands, who may struggle with the standard grip size.

Another notable feature of the Gen 4 Glocks is the reversible magazine catch. This design allows shooters to easily switch the magazine catch to the left or right side of the pistol, accommodating both left- and right-handed shooters. The Gen 4 Glocks also feature a more aggressive texture on the grip, providing a more secure hold and reduced risk of slippage.

Gen 4 Glock Interchangeable Backstraps

The interchangeable backstraps on the Gen 4 Glocks are a significant advantage over the Gen 5 models. This feature allows shooters to customize the fit of their pistol, ensuring a comfortable and secure grip. The backstraps are easy to install and remove, making it simple for shooters to experiment with different sizes and find the perfect fit.

Comparison of Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks

When comparing the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks, it's essential to consider the individual needs and preferences of the shooter. Both generations offer unique features and advantages, and the right choice will depend on the specific requirements of the user. Here are some key differences to consider:

Finger grooves: The Gen 5 Glocks do not have finger grooves, while the Gen 4 models do.
Ambidextrous slide stop: The Gen 5 Glocks feature a more pronounced and ergonomic slide stop, while the Gen 4 models have a smaller and less pronounced design.
Glock Marksman Barrel: The Gen 5 Glocks feature the GMB, which provides improved accuracy and a more consistent trigger pull.
Interchangeable backstraps: The Gen 4 Glocks offer interchangeable backstraps, while the Gen 5 models do not.
Reversible magazine catch: Both generations feature a reversible magazine catch, but the Gen 4 models have a more aggressive texture on the grip.

Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glock Accessories

Both the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks offer a wide range of accessories, including holsters, sights, and magazines. The Gen 5 Glocks, however, have a more limited selection of accessories due to their newer release. The Gen 4 Glocks, on the other hand, have a more established market, with a wider range of accessories available.

Shooting Performance

When it comes to shooting performance, both the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks are highly accurate and reliable. The Gen 5 Glocks, however, feature the GMB, which provides a more consistent trigger pull and improved accuracy. The Gen 4 Glocks, on the other hand, have a more aggressive texture on the grip, providing a more secure hold and reduced risk of slippage.

In terms of recoil, both generations are relatively similar, with a mild and manageable kick. The Gen 5 Glocks, however, feature a more pronounced slide stop, which can make it easier to release the slide and reduce the risk of accidental slide release.

Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glock Trigger Pull

The trigger pull on both the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks is relatively similar, with a smooth and consistent pull. The Gen 5 Glocks, however, feature the GMB, which provides a more consistent trigger pull and improved accuracy. The Gen 4 Glocks, on the other hand, have a more aggressive texture on the grip, providing a more secure hold and reduced risk of slippage.

Reliability and Durability

Both the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks are highly reliable and durable, with a reputation for withstanding heavy use and harsh environments. The Gen 5 Glocks, however, feature a nitrated finish, which provides a more durable and corrosion-resistant coating than the previous generations.

In terms of maintenance, both generations are relatively similar, with a simple and easy-to-follow process. The Gen 5 Glocks, however, feature a more pronounced slide stop, which can make it easier to release the slide and reduce the risk of accidental slide release.

Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glock Maintenance

The maintenance process for both the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks is relatively similar, with a simple and easy-to-follow process. The Gen 5 Glocks, however, feature a more pronounced slide stop, which can make it easier to release the slide and reduce the risk of accidental slide release.

Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glock Image Gallery

What are the main differences between the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks?

The main differences between the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks are the absence of finger grooves, the ambidextrous slide stop, and the Glock Marksman Barrel. The Gen 5 Glocks also feature a nitrated finish, which provides a more durable and corrosion-resistant coating.

Which generation is more reliable, the Gen 5 or Gen 4 Glocks?

Both the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks are highly reliable, but the Gen 5 Glocks feature a nitrated finish, which provides a more durable and corrosion-resistant coating. This makes the Gen 5 Glocks slightly more reliable in harsh environments.

Can I use Gen 4 Glock accessories with my Gen 5 Glock?

Yes, many Gen 4 Glock accessories are compatible with the Gen 5 Glocks. However, it's essential to check the compatibility of each accessory before purchasing, as some may not fit or function properly with the Gen 5 Glocks.

Which generation is more accurate, the Gen 5 or Gen 4 Glocks?

The Gen 5 Glocks feature the Glock Marksman Barrel, which provides improved accuracy and a more consistent trigger pull. This makes the Gen 5 Glocks slightly more accurate than the Gen 4 Glocks.

Can I upgrade my Gen 4 Glock to a Gen 5 Glock?

No, it's not possible to upgrade a Gen 4 Glock to a Gen 5 Glock. The Gen 5 Glocks feature significant design changes, including the absence of finger grooves and the ambidextrous slide stop, which cannot be retrofitted onto a Gen 4 Glock.

In summary, the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks offer unique features and advantages, and the right choice will depend on the individual needs and preferences of the shooter. The Gen 5 Glocks feature a more ergonomic design, the Glock Marksman Barrel, and a nitrated finish, making them a popular choice among shooters. The Gen 4 Glocks, on the other hand, offer interchangeable backstraps, a reversible magazine catch, and a more aggressive texture on the grip, making them a great option for shooters who prefer a more customizable pistol. Ultimately, the decision between the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks will come down to personal preference and shooting style. We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences with the Gen 5 and Gen 4 Glocks in the comments below, and to explore our other articles for more information on firearms and shooting sports.