I’m a professional shooter who’s spent some quality time testing out two of Glock’s popular models: the Glock 45 Vs Glock 19.
You might be wondering, “Which one’s better?” Well, I’ve taken these guns through their paces in the field to give you the lowdown. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of these two impressive firearms.
| Feature | Glock 45 | Glock 19 |
| Caliber | 9x19mm | 9x19mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 17 (Standard) | 15 (Standard) |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches | 4.02 inches |
| Weight (Empty Magazine) | 24.48 oz | 23.63 oz |
| Trigger Pull | 26 N (5.85 lbs) | 28 N |
| Overall Length | 7.44 inches | 7.36 inches |
| Slide Length | 6.85 inches | 6.85 inches |
| Overall Width | 1.34 inches | 1.26 inches |
| Height (Including Magazine) | 5.47 inches | 5.04 inches |
Overview of Glock 45
The Glock 45, a powerhouse in the Glock lineup, combines the best of the Glock 17 and 19. It’s known for its full-sized frame and compact slide, offering a unique blend of size and performance.
Specs
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- System: Safe Action®
- Magazine Capacity: Standard: 17 rounds; Optional: 19 / 24 / 31 / 33 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
- Weight (Empty Magazine): 24.48 oz
- Trigger Pull: 26 N (5.85 lbs)
- Overall Length: 7.44 inches
- Slide Length: 6.85 inches
- Overall Width: 1.34 inches
- Slide Width: 1.0 inch
- Height (Including Magazine): 5.47 inches
Overview of Glock 19
The Glock 19, a compact and versatile firearm, is a favorite among law enforcement and civilians alike. It’s well-known for its balance of size and capacity, making it ideal for various uses.
Specs
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- System: Safe Action®
- Magazine Capacity: Standard: 15; Optional: 17 / 19 / 24 / 31 / 33 / 10
- Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
- Weight (Empty Magazine): 23.63 oz
- Trigger Pull: 28 N
- Overall Length: 7.36 inches
- Slide Length: 6.85 inches
- Overall Width: 1.26 inches
- Slide Width: 1.0 inch
- Height (Including Magazine): 5.04 inches
Feature Comparison: Glock 45 Vs Glock 19
1. Size and Concealability
Glock 45
The Glock 45 boasts a full-size frame, providing a solid grip and an easy handle. In my field tests, this larger grip made the gun feel more secure and stable in my hands.
Despite its full-size frame, it retains a compact slide, making it a bit easier to conceal than expected. While carrying it, I found it to be pretty comfortable, but it’s definitely bulkier compared to its counterpart.
Glock 19
The Glock 19, known for its compactness, shines in concealability. Its smaller frame makes it an ideal choice for concealed carry. During my field tests, I noticed its lighter weight and smaller size made it much easier to carry discreetly.
It fits snugly in a holster and doesn’t print much, even under lighter clothing. Its compact design also makes it more comfortable to carry over longer periods.
Winner
When it comes to size and concealability, the Glock 19 takes the cake. Its compact design and lighter weight make it a more practical choice for concealed carry, especially over long periods.
While the Glock 45 does a good job for its size, it just can’t beat the ease of carrying that the Glock 19 offers.
2. Trigger Action
Glock 45
The Glock 45’s trigger action is notably smooth. During my testing, I found that the trigger pull was consistent and predictable, which is crucial for accuracy, especially in competitive shooting or high-stress scenarios.
The trigger’s responsiveness and feel contribute significantly to the
overall shooting experience.
Glock 19
The Glock 19’s trigger, while consistent, didn’t feel as smooth as the Glock 45’s in my tests. It’s reliable and does the job well, but it lacks that extra smoothness and predictability.
However, it still provides a solid performance and is more than adequate for most shooting needs.
Winner
In the trigger action department, the Glock 45 edges out its competitor. The smoother trigger contributes to better control and accuracy, making it a preferable choice for those who prioritize these aspects in their shooting experience.
3. Ammo Capacity
Glock 45
The Glock 45 comes with a standard magazine capacity of 17 rounds, which I found to be quite advantageous during testing.
The extra rounds mean you can fire more shots before needing to reload, which is a significant plus in both self-defense and competitive scenarios.
Glock 19
The Glock 19, with its compact size, has a standard magazine capacity of 15 rounds. While it’s slightly less than the Glock 45, it still provides ample rounds for most situations.
During my testing, I didn’t find the two-round difference to be a major issue, but in a critical situation, those extra rounds could be beneficial.
Winner
When it comes to ammo capacity, the Glock 45 is the winner. The extra two rounds can be crucial in a self-defense scenario or during competitive shooting.
The higher capacity, combined with its full-sized grip, makes the Glock 45 a more appealing option for those who prioritize firepower.
4. Ergonomics and Handling
Glock 45
The Glock 45, with its hybrid design, offers a full-sized grip that’s comfortable for a variety of hand sizes. In my testing, the grip’s ergonomics felt natural, providing a stable and secure hold during shooting.
The balance, despite the larger frame, is commendable, and the controls are conveniently placed. However, its size might be a bit cumbersome for shooters with smaller hands.
Glock 19
The Glock 19, on the other hand, is a marvel of compact ergonomics. Its smaller frame fits snugly in most hands, making it easier to handle, especially for extended periods. The controls are well within reach, making it more intuitive to operate.
During my field tests, I found it easier to maneuver and quicker to draw, thanks to its compact nature.
Winner
In terms of ergonomics and handling, the Glock 19 edges out the Glock 45. Its compact design and intuitive layout make it a more versatile option for a wider range of shooters, especially those with smaller hands or who prioritize ease of handling.
5. Durability and Reliability
Glock 45
The Glock 45, being a newer model, benefits from the latest advancements in Glock’s design and materials.
During my field tests, it performed flawlessly, with no misfires or jams, even under different weather conditions and with various types of ammunition. Its build quality feels robust, and it seems built to last.
Glock 19
The Glock 19’s reputation for reliability is not just talk; it’s proven. Over the years, it has demonstrated exceptional durability and consistent performance.
My experience with it was no different. It handled all kinds of abuse and still functioned without any hiccups. Its track record speaks volumes about its dependability, making it a go-to choice for many professionals.
Winner
While both models are highly reliable, the Glock 19’s long-standing record of durability gives it the upper hand. Its proven track record over various generations makes it a more trustworthy choice in the long run, especially for those who need a dependable firearm in critical situations.
Pros & Cons of Glock 45
Pros
- A full-sized grip enhances stability and comfort.
- Higher standard capacity of 17 rounds.
- Smooth and predictable trigger action.
- Versatile for both home defense and concealed carry.
- Features modern design elements from Gen 5.
Cons
- Slightly heavier than Glock 19.
Pros & Cons of Glock 19
Pros
- Compact size ideal for concealed carry.
- Lighter weight makes it easy to handle.
- Proven track record with wide usage among law enforcement.
- Extensive aftermarket support for customization.
- Reliable and durable over long-term use.
Cons
- Trigger action might feel less smooth compared to Glock 45.
Similarities Between Glock 45 & Glock 19
- Both chambered in 9x19mm caliber.
- Utilize the Safe Action® System.
- Feature the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) for improved accuracy.
- Lack of finger grooves, characteristic of Gen 5 designs.
- Possess front slide serrations for improved manipulation.
- Equipped with a proprietary accessory rail for lights, lasers, etc.
- Polymer sights as standard.
- Ambidextrous slide stop lever.
- Interchangeable backstrap system for custom grip fitting.
- Flared magazine well for easier reloads.
Differences Between Glock 45 & Glock 19
- Glock 45 has a full-size frame vs. the compact frame of Glock 19.
- Standard magazine capacity: 17 rounds for Glock 45, 15 for Glock 19.
- Glock 45 is slightly heavier and larger overall.
- Trigger pull: 26 N for Glock 45, 28 N for Glock 19.
- Glock 45 is newer, incorporating some updated design features.
- Different ergonomic feel due to size and grip differences.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and comparison of the Glock 45 and Glock 19, it’s time to draw a conclusion. Both firearms have their unique strengths, making them suitable for different users and scenarios.
However, in my personal experience as a shooter who values versatility, practicality, and ease of use, the Glock 19 emerges as the winner. The compact design, lighter weight, and proven reliability of the Glock 19 make it an outstanding choice for both concealed carry and general shooting purposes.
FAQ’s
Is Glock 45 better than Glock 19?
The Glock 45 is excellent for duty use with its unique feature set, while the Glock 19 excels in concealed carry due to its compactness and lighter weight.
Are Glock 19 and Glock 45 slides the same?
Yes, the Glock 19 slide can fit on the Glock 45 frame, combining the compact slide of the Glock 19 with the full-size frame of the Glock 17.
Are Glock 19 and 45 parts interchangeable?
Yes, the larger component parts such as the frame, stock, and slide are interchangeable between Glock 19 and 45, along with many of the smaller internal parts.
Which is better Glock 40 or 45?
The Glock 40 and 45 are both highly accurate, but many shooters find the 45 ACP to be more accurate, potentially due to its softer felt recoil.
