Hey there, fellow shooters! Today, we’re diving into a comparison: the Glock 17 versus the Glock 19. I’ve taken these two popular models to the field to put them through their paces.
I’ll look at each gun’s specs and performance to help you decide which might be the winner for your needs.
Specification Table Glock 17 Vs 19
| Feature | Glock 17 | Glock 19 |
| Weight w/ No Mag (oz) | 22.2 | 21.4 |
| Weight w/ Full Mag (oz) | 32.4 | 29.4 |
| Height (inches) | 5.47 | 4.89 |
| Length (inches) | 8.03 | 6.99 |
| Width of Grip (inches) | 1.18 | 1.18 |
| Width of Slide (inches) | 1.01 | 1.00 |
| Width Across Controls (inches) | 1.33 | 1.33 |
| Barrel Length (inches) | 4.49 | 4.01 |
| Capacity | 17+1 | 15+1 |
| Unloaded Weight (oz) | 24.87 | 21.16 |
| Overall Dimensions (LxWxH) | 7.95″ x 1.26″ x 5.47″ | 7.36″ x 1.26″ x 5.04″ |
Overview of Glock 17
The Glock 17, a classic among the Glock series, is renowned for its reliability and has been a top choice for law enforcement and military personnel worldwide.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Length: 8.03 inches
- Height: 5.47 inches
- Width: 1.26 inches
- Barrel Length: 4.49 inches
- Weight (without magazine): 22.22 oz
- Magazine Capacity: Standard 17 rounds
- Trigger Pull: ~5.5 lbs
- Sight Radius: 6.49 inches
- Frame Material: Polymer
- Finish: Gas nitride
Overview of Glock 19
The Glock 19, slightly smaller than the 17, is favored for its compact size, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry without sacrificing firepower.
Specs
- Weight with No Magazine: 21.4 oz
- Weight with Empty Magazine: 23.9 oz
- Weight with Full Magazine: 29.4 oz
- Height (Top of Slide to Bottom of Magazine Baseplate): 4.89 inches
- Length: 6.99 inches
- Width of Grip: 1.18 inches
- Width of Slide: 1.00 inches
- Width Across Controls: 1.33 inches
- Barrel Length: 4.01 inches
- Capacity: 15+1 rounds
- Unloaded Weight: 21.16 oz
- Overall Dimensions (LxWxH): 7.36″ x 1.26″ x 5.04″
Top 5 Features Comparison of Glock 17 Vs Glock 19
1. Concealment and Carry Comfort
Glock 17
The Glock 17, a full-size pistol, offers a substantial grip and frame that might be challenging for some to conceal, especially for smaller-framed individuals. Its larger size, however, provides a more comfortable grip and easier control for those with larger hands.
Glock 19
The Glock 19, slightly smaller and lighter than the 17, strikes a balance between firepower and concealability. Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for concealed carry, especially for those who find the Glock 17 a bit too bulky for daily concealment.
Winner
The Glock 19 takes the lead here. Its compact size makes it more versatile for a variety of users, especially for concealed carry, without significantly compromising on firepower or handling.
2. Ergonomics and Control
Glock 17
The larger frame of the Glock 17 allows for a full grip, which can be crucial for maintaining control and managing recoil, especially in high-stress scenarios. This is beneficial for shooters with larger hands or those who prefer a more substantial grip.
Glock 19
While the Glock 19 has a slightly shorter grip, it still offers excellent ergonomics. For some shooters, especially those with smaller hands, the Glock 19’s grip might actually offer a more comfortable and controllable shooting experience.
Winner
It’s a tie. The Glock 17 is better for those needing a larger grip, while the Glock 19 suits shooters who prefer a more compact grip. It ultimately comes down to individual hand size and comfort preferences.
3. Versatility and Adaptability
Glock 17
The Glock 17, with its full-size frame, is versatile for various roles, including home defense, range shooting, and duty use. Its larger size can accommodate more attachments like lights and lasers, making it a strong candidate for a home defense firearm.
Glock 19
The Glock 19’s compact size makes it incredibly versatile. It’s not only suitable for concealed carry but also performs well as a home defense weapon. Its slightly smaller frame still allows for the addition of various attachments, and its ubiquity means a wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories are available.
Winner
The Glock 19 edges out slightly as the winner in this category. Its compact size, combined with its capability to function well in various roles, from concealed carry to home defense, gives it a slight advantage in versatility.
4. Customization and Accessories
Glock 17
The Glock 17, being a full-size pistol, offers more real estate for attachments and accessories. Its larger frame can easily accommodate rail-mounted lights, lasers, and even larger aftermarket sights.
For shooters interested in customization, the Glock 17 presents a broad canvas. This includes slide modifications, extended controls, and various grip enhancements.
The market for Glock 17 accessories is vast, providing endless possibilities for customization to fit specific needs or aesthetic preferences.
Glock 19
The Glock 19, while compact, still maintains a degree of versatility in customization. It can accept many of the same accessories and modifications as the Glock 17, albeit in a more compact form.
It’s particularly popular for those looking to add a red dot sight, as the MOS (Modular Optic System) versions of the Glock 19 are well-suited for concealed carry with optics.
The Glock 19’s compact frame may limit the size of certain attachments, like larger lights or extended magazines, but it still offers ample opportunity for personalization.
Winner
The Glock 17 slightly edges out due to its larger frame and capacity to accommodate a wider range of accessories. However, the Glock 19 remains a close contender, offering substantial customization in a more compact package.
5. Handling and Shooting Experience
Glock 17
The Glock 17’s larger size provides a more stable shooting platform, which can contribute to better recoil management and a smoother shooting experience.
Its longer barrel and sight radius can potentially offer a slight edge in accuracy, especially over longer distances.
The full-sized grip ensures that all fingers have a place on the gun, which can be crucial for consistent shot placement and control during rapid firing.
Glock 19
The Glock 19, being slightly smaller, offers a more agile handling experience. It is easier to maneuver, especially in confined spaces or during tactical drills.
Its compact size does not significantly compromise shooting performance. Many shooters find the Glock 19 almost as accurate and controllable as the full-sized 17.
The slightly smaller grip and frame may be more comfortable for shooters with smaller hands, facilitating a more natural and firm grip.
Winner
It’s a tie. The Glock 17 is preferable for those valuing stability and a fuller grip, while the Glock 19 is ideal for agility and comfort, especially for those with smaller hands or requiring a more compact firearm for various scenarios.
Pros & Cons of Glock 17 Vs Glock 19
Glock 17
Pros
- Higher ammunition capacity (17+1 rounds).
- Larger frame provides a more stable shooting platform.
- Longer barrel increases accuracy, especially at longer distances.
- Easier to grip for shooters with larger hands.
- More space for attachments and accessories.
Cons
- Larger size can be challenging to conceal for everyday carry.
- Heavier weight may not be suitable for all users.
- Might be too large for shooters with smaller hands.
Glock 19
Pros
- Compact size ideal for concealed carry.
- Adequate capacity (15+1 rounds) in a smaller frame.
- Easier handling and maneuverability in confined spaces.
- Suitable for shooters with smaller hands.
- Balanced size and capacity making it a versatile choice.
Cons
- Slightly reduced ammunition capacity compared to Glock 17.
- Smaller size may affect grip comfort for users with larger hands.
- Slightly more perceived recoil due to lighter weight and smaller size.
Similarities between Glock 17 & Glock 19
- Both have a width of grip at 1.18 inches.
- Width of slide is nearly identical (G17: 1.01″, G19: 1.00″).
- Same width across controls at 1.33 inches.
- Identical frame ergonomics across generations.
- Similar texturing options for grip and handling.
- Both models offer similar sight options from the factory.
- Available in various generations (Gen 3, 4, and 5) with incremental improvements.
- Both can be used with a variety of after-market modifications and accessories.
- Known for reliable performance and durability.
Differences between Glock 17 & Glock 19
- Glock 17 is longer than Glock 19 .
- Glock 17 is taller compared to Glock 19.
- Weight difference: Glock 17 is slightly heavier across all weight categories.
- Glock 17 has a longer barrel than Glock 19 .
- Ammunition capacity: Glock 17 holds 17+1 rounds, Glock 19 holds 15+1.
- Glock 17 is more suited for open carry, duty use, or home defense.
- Glock 19 is more suited for concealed carry due to its compact size.
- Glock 17 offers a slightly more stable shooting experience due to its size.
- Glock 19 is better for users who prioritize ease of concealment and carry.
- Glock 17 is more suitable for users with larger hands, while Glock 19 is better for those with smaller hands.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing both the Glock 17 and Glock 19, it’s clear that each has its unique strengths tailored to specific needs.
The decision between them isn’t about which is superior overall, but which better suits individual requirements and preferences.
I lean towards the Glock 19 for its adaptability to various roles, making it a more versatile companion in different scenarios. Ultimately, both models uphold the Glock reputation for reliability, performance, and durability, making either a commendable choice depending on your specific needs.
FAQ’s
What is better, a Glock 19 or a Glock 17?
The better choice between a Glock 19 and a Glock 17 depends on individual preferences and intended use. The Glock 17 is more suited for accuracy and longer-range shooting, while the Glock 19 is favored for its compactness and maneuverability, especially for concealed carry.
Why do Navy Seals use Glock 19 over 17?
Navy Seals prefer the Glock 19 over the 17 due to its ideal size. It is smaller than most duty-sized handguns, making it both a capable duty weapon and a concealable firearm. Its size allows for versatility in various operational contexts.
Is a Glock 17 powerful?
Yes, the Glock 17 is powerful and highly effective as a full-sized 9mm pistol. It is particularly renowned as a duty weapon for police and military and serves well for home defense with options for extended magazines and additional attachments.
Is a Glock 19 waterproof?
Yes, Glock 19, like all Glock firearms, is designed with corrosion and saltwater-resistant metal parts. Its polymer frame also contributes to its durability and resistance to harsh conditions.
Is Glock 17 or 19 longer?
The Glock 17 is longer and taller than the Glock 19. The Glock 17 has a barrel length of approximately 4.5 inches and an overall length of just over 8 inches, while the Glock 19 has a 4-inch barrel and a total length of 7.36 inches.
