Hey there! If you’re keen on understanding the details of Glock 26 Vs Glock 34, you’ve hit the right spot.
As a professional shooter, I’ve had the chance to test these firearms extensively. Let’s dive into the specifics and see how they stack up against each other.
| Feature | Glock 26 | Glock 34 |
| Caliber | .40 S&W | 9x19mm |
| Magazine Capacity | Standard 13 rounds | Standard 17 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches | 5.31 inches |
| Weight (w/o Magazine) | 21.34 oz | 23.10 oz |
| Weight (w/ Empty Mag) | 23.81 oz | 25.93 oz |
| Weight (w/ Loaded Mag) | 31.39 oz | 33.33 oz |
| Overall Length | 7.28 inches | 8.82 inches |
| Slide Length | 6.85 inches | 8.15 inches |
| Overall Width | 1.26 inches | 1.30 inches |
| Slide Width | 1.0 inch | 1.0 inch |
| Height (incl. Mag) | 5.04 inches | 5.47 inches |
Overview of Glock 26
The Glock 26 is a compact powerhouse, designed for concealed carry without compromising firepower.
Specs
- Caliber: .40 S&W
- Magazine Capacity: Standard 13 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
- Weight:
- Without magazine: 21.34 oz
- With empty magazine: 23.81 oz
- With loaded magazine: 31.39 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 34
The Glock 34 is a tactician’s dream, tailor-made for accuracy and performance in competitive shooting.
Specs
- Caliber: (Same as Glock 26)
- Magazine Capacity: (Same as Glock 26)
- Barrel Length: (Same as Glock 26)
- Weight:
- Without magazine: 23.10 oz
- With empty magazine: 25.93 oz
- With loaded magazine: 33.33 oz
- Overall Length: 8.82 inches
- Slide Length: 8.15 inches
- Overall Width: 1.30 inches
- Slide Width: 1.0 inch
- Height (including Magazine): 5.47 inches
Features Comparison Glock 26 vs Glock 34
1. Handling and Ergonomics
Glock 26
The Glock 26 feels like it’s made for quick, on-the-go situations. Its compact size makes it super easy to handle, especially in tight spaces.
During my testing, I found its grip comfortable even for long periods, which is a big plus for concealed carry. The balance is just right, not too heavy, not too light; perfect for swift movements.
Glock 34
In contrast, the Glock 34 has a longer frame and slide, giving it a different handling dynamic. It’s bulkier, sure, but this adds a sense of stability, especially for aimed shots.
During my range sessions, the extended barrel length of the Glock 34 provided a noticeable improvement in accuracy. The grip, although larger, still felt comfortable and controlled.
Winner
This one’s tough. For concealed carry and ease of maneuvering, the Glock 26 takes the cake. However, for accuracy and a more controlled shooting experience, especially at longer ranges, the Glock 34 shines.
It really depends on what you’re looking for. For everyday carry, I’d lean towards the Glock 26, but for range days and competitive shooting, the Glock 34 is my go-to.
2. Magazine Capacity and Reloading
Glock 26
The Glock 26, with its standard 13-round capacity, offers a decent balance between size and firepower. In my field tests, I found the reloading process to be smooth and quick.
The smaller size does limit the capacity, but for most practical scenarios, it’s more than adequate.
Glock 34
The Glock 34, on the other hand, comes with a standard 17-round magazine, and options to extend this even further. This higher capacity means fewer reloads during shooting drills.
I appreciated this during target practice, as it allowed for longer sessions before needing to reload.
Winner
For sheer capacity and less frequent reloads, the Glock 34 wins out.
The added rounds can be a significant advantage in a competitive setting or even in self-defense scenarios where more shots could be crucial.
3. Concealability and Portability
Glock 26
The Glock 26 is a champion when it comes to concealability. Its smaller frame makes it easy to carry discreetly, a feature I tested by carrying it in various holsters and clothing options. It’s light enough not to be a burden but still packs a punch.
Glock 34
The Glock 34, given its larger size, poses more of a challenge in terms of concealment. It’s not the first choice if you’re looking for something to carry covertly.
During my tests, it was noticeable under lighter clothing and not as comfortable to carry for extended periods.
Winner
Without a doubt, the Glock 26 is the clear winner in terms of concealability and portability. It’s the ideal choice for anyone looking for a reliable, powerful firearm that won’t draw attention.
4. Accuracy and Precision
Glock 26
The Glock 26’s accuracy is quite impressive for its size. During my field tests, it consistently hit targets at close to medium range. Its shorter barrel, though, does limit its effectiveness at longer distances.
The .40 S&W caliber packs a punch, and the recoil is manageable, allowing for quick follow-up shots. For a compact gun, it’s a reliable shooter.
Glock 34
The Glock 34, with its longer barrel and sight radius, naturally lends itself to greater accuracy, especially at longer ranges. In my testing, it was a standout performer in precision shooting.
The longer sight line made aligning shots easier and more intuitive. Whether at the range or in a competitive setting, its accuracy was top-notch, even at distances where the Glock 26 started to falter.
Winner
The Glock 34 is the clear winner in terms of accuracy and precision. Its design caters to stable, precise shooting, making it the better choice for situations where accuracy is paramount.
Pros & Cons of Glock 26
Pros
- Compact and easy to conceal.
- Comfortable handling and ergonomics.
- Adequate magazine capacity for its size.
- Balanced weight makes it easy to handle.
- Versatile for various shooting conditions.
Cons
- Limited accuracy at longer ranges.
- Smaller magazine capacity compared to Glock 34.
- Not as ideal for competitive shooting.
- Recoil might be snappy for some shooters.
Pros & Cons of Glock 34
Pros
- Superior accuracy and precision, especially at longer ranges.
- Higher standard magazine capacity.
- Optimal for competitive shooting and range practice.
- Longer sight radius aids in better shot alignment.
Cons
- Bulkier, which may affect portability.
- Not as versatile for everyday carry situations.
Similarities between Glock 26 & Glock 34
- Both models feature the Safe Action® System.
- Standard magazine options are available for both.
- Similar slide width.
- Both have a robust and reliable build quality.
- Designed with user safety and ease of use in mind.
Differences between Glock 26 & Glock 34
- Glock 26 is smaller and more compact than Glock 34.
- Glock 34 offers higher magazine capacity options.
- Barrel length of Glock 34 is longer, enhancing accuracy.
- Glock 26 is more suitable for concealed carry.
- Glock 34 is better suited for competitive shooting.
- Weight of Glock 34 is more with and without the magazine.
- Glock 26 is designed for versatility, while Glock 34 is for precision.
- Overall dimensions vary significantly, influencing handling and use case.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and comparison of the Glock 26 and Glock 34, I’ve reached a verdict. Each pistol has its unique strengths tailored to specific needs.
In most comparisons, the Glock 26 emerged as my preferred choice. Its ease of handling, combined with sufficient firepower and excellent concealability, makes it a practical option for a variety of situations.
While the Glock 34 impresses in accuracy and is perfect for a specific niche, the Glock 26 offers a balanced blend of features suitable for broader applications.
FAQ’s
What is the Glock 34 used for?
The Glock 34 is commonly used in competitive shooting sports like IPSC and by SWAT teams, owing to its high accuracy and long slide design.
Is the Glock 26 too small?
No, the Glock 26 strikes a balance between portability and performance. It’s compact for easy concealment but still performs effectively, avoiding the drawbacks of smaller pocket guns.
What are the advantages of the Glock 34?
The Glock 34 features a lighter trigger pull, an adjustable rear sight, and a longer slide, enhancing its suitability for precision shooting and competitive scenarios.
Is the Glock 26 big?
The Glock 26 is not considered big; it’s designed as a compact firearm. The Gen 5 version optimizes its size for easier handling and carry, with slight adjustments in dimensions and weight for improved ergonomics.
