I’m here to share my hands-on experience with two of Glock’s popular models: the Glock 26 Vs Glock 30. As a professional shooter, I’ve had the chance to test these firearms in various scenarios, and I’m excited to help you figure out which one might be the best fit for your concealed carry needs.
Let’s dive in and compare these two side by side.
| Feature | Glock 26 | Glock 30 |
| Caliber | .40 S&W | .45 Auto |
| Magazine Capacity | Standard 13 rounds | Standard 10 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches | 3.78 inches |
| Weight (w/o magazine) | 21.34 oz | 23.81 oz |
| Overall Length | 7.28 inches | 6.97 inches |
| Slide Length | 6.85 inches | 6.77 inches |
| Overall Width | 1.26 inches | 1.38 inches |
| Slide Width | 1.0 inch | 1.12 inches |
| Height (incl. Magazine) | 5.04 inches | 4.80 inches |
Overview of Glock 26
The Glock 26 is a subcompact 9mm powerhouse, designed for concealed carry without compromising on firepower.
Specs
- Caliber: .40 S&W
- Magazine Capacity: Standard 13 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
- Weight with empty magazine: 23.81 oz
- Overall Length: 7.28 inches
- Slide Length: 6.85 inches
- Overall Width: 1.26 inches
- Slide Width: 1.0 inch
- Height (including Magazine): 5.04 inches
Overview of Glock 30
The Glock 30 stands out as a compact .45 Auto, blending the stopping power of a larger caliber with a design that’s still suitable for concealed carry.
Specs
- Caliber: .45 Auto
- Magazine Capacity: Standard 10 rounds (Optional: 9 / 13 / 10)
- Barrel Length: 3.78 inches
- Weight with empty magazine: 26.28 oz
- Overall Length: 6.97 inches
- Slide Length: 6.77 inches
- Overall Width: 1.38 inches
- Slide Width: 1.12 inches
- Height (including Magazine): 4.80 inches
Top 3 Features Comparison Glock 26 VS Glock 30
1. Size and Concealability
Glock 26
The Glock 26 is known for its compactness, a key advantage for concealed carry. In my tests, carrying the Glock 26 IWB at 4 o’clock was a breeze. Its smaller size and lighter weight made it almost invisible under my clothing.
When moving around, sitting, or bending, it remained unobtrusive and comfortable. This subcompact size is ideal for those who prioritize discretion and comfort in everyday carry.
Glock 30
The Glock 30, while still compact, is noticeably thicker and slightly heavier than the Glock 26. During my time carrying it, I found that its increased size made it more noticeable under the same clothing.
While it’s still manageable for concealed carry, it demands more thought in wardrobe choices to maintain the same level of concealment as the Glock 26.
Winner
In terms of size and concealability, the Glock 26 takes the lead. Its smaller frame and lighter weight make it a top choice for those who need a firearm that’s easy to conceal and comfortable to carry for extended periods.
2. Handling and Recoil
Glock 26
The Glock 26, with its 9mm caliber, offers a more manageable recoil, which I found appealing during testing. This makes it easier to maintain accuracy, especially for rapid follow-up shots.
The smaller grip can be a challenge for those with larger hands, but overall, the 26 provides a smooth shooting experience.
Glock 30
The Glock 30’s .45 Auto caliber comes with a noticeably heavier recoil. However, during my testing, I found this to be manageable with a bit of practice. The larger grip of the Glock 30 provided a more comfortable hold, especially for those with bigger hands, contributing to better control during firing.
Winner
When it comes to handling and recoil, it’s a close call, but the Glock 26 edges out slightly. Its lighter recoil and ease of handling make it more user-friendly, especially for less experienced shooters or those who prioritize quick and accurate follow-up shots.
3. Ergonomics and Comfort
Glock 26
The Glock 26, with its subcompact design, is a clear favorite for those who prioritize ease of carry and concealability. In my hands-on experience, its ergonomics are well-suited for smaller hands, though some may find the grip a bit short, leading to a dangling pinky.
It’s lightweight and compact, making it less noticeable and more comfortable for all-day carry, especially in an IWB holster. During my tests, it felt less intrusive and more a part of my daily attire, which is a big plus for anyone looking for a discreet carry option.
Glock 30
The Glock 30 offers a slightly larger and thicker grip, which I found to be more comfortable for my hand size. This additional bulk, while making it slightly more challenging to conceal, provides a sturdier feel and better control, especially for those with larger hands.
During field testing, the enhanced grip surface contributed to a more secure hold, which can be crucial in stressful situations. The downside is its increased weight and size, which might be a bit more cumbersome for prolonged carry compared to the Glock 26.
Winner
Choosing a winner in ergonomics and comfort really depends on individual preferences and hand size. For me, the Glock 26 takes the lead due to its superior concealability and lighter frame, making it ideal for extended periods of carry.
However, for those who prefer a more substantial grip and don’t mind the extra weight and size, the Glock 30 would be a better fit. Ultimately
Pros & Cons of Glock 26
Pros
- Compact and Lightweight: Ideal for concealed carry, especially IWB at 4 o’clock.
- Higher Magazine Capacity: Standard 13 rounds, offering more firepower.
- Less Recoil: Easier to manage, facilitating accuracy and quicker follow-up shots.
- More Affordable: Lower cost, including the ammunition (9mm).
- Easier to Conceal: Smaller frame and lighter weight for discreet carry.
Cons
- Smaller Grip: Can be less comfortable for those with larger hands.
- Lower Caliber: .40 S&W might be considered less powerful than .45 Auto.
Pros & Cons Glock 30
Pros
- Superior Stopping Power: .45 Auto caliber offers more stopping power.
- Better Grip for Larger Hands: More comfortable and easier to control.
- Magazine Compatibility: Can use G21 magazines for increased capacity.
- More Suitable for Larger Hands: The thicker grip fits better in larger palms.
Cons
- Heavier and Bulkier: More challenging for concealed carry.
- Noticeable Recoil: Might take time to get used to, especially for new shooters.
Similarities between Glock 26 & Glock 30
- Safe Action System®: Both models feature Glock’s reliable Safe Action system.
- Quality and Durability: Renowned Glock reliability and build quality.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly for both experienced shooters and beginners.
- Aesthetics: Similar Glock design aesthetics and finish.
- Aftermarket Support: Wide range of accessories and parts available for both models.
Differences between Glock 26 & Glock 30
- Caliber: Glock 26 is .40 S&W, while Glock 30 is .45 Auto.
- Size: Glock 26 is more compact than Glock 30.
- Weight: Glock 26 is lighter, making it easier for extended carry.
- Recoil: Glock 26 has less recoil compared to Glock 30.
- Magazine Capacity: Glock 26 typically has a higher standard magazine capacity.
- Grip Size: Glock 30’s grip is better suited for larger hands.
- Concealability: Glock 26 is easier to conceal due to its smaller size.
- Price: Glock 26 is generally more affordable, including the cost of ammo.
- Magazine Compatibility: Glock 30 can use G21 magazines for added versatility.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing both the Glock 26 and Glock 30, it’s clear that each has its own set of strengths catered to different needs and preferences.
In most of the comparisons, the Glock 26 emerged as my preferred choice. Its balance of firepower, size, and ease of use makes it exceptionally well-suited for everyday carry.
While the Glock 30 is undoubtedly a strong contender, especially in terms of caliber and comfort for larger hands, the overall versatility and practicality of the Glock 26 make it my top pick for concealed carry.
FAQ’s
Is Glock 26 too small?
No, the Glock 26 strikes a balance between compactness for concealability and sufficient size for performance and accuracy.
Is the Glock 30 heavy?
The Glock 30 is slightly heavier than similar-sized models, but it remains manageable and remarkably light for a double-stack .45 pistol.
What is the advantage of the Glock 26?
The Glock 26’s advantages include its ability to accept high-capacity magazines, firing power, excellent accuracy, and a comfortable grip for people with small hands.
Is Glock 30 reliable?
Yes, the Glock 30 is highly reliable, offering ease of use, excellent accuracy, and a lightweight design, making it a strong choice for a .45 ACP pistol.
How many rounds can a Glock 30 hold?
The Glock 30 has a magazine capacity of 10 rounds, offering a total of 11 rounds (10+1 in the chamber) for use.
