Are you trying to decide between the Glock 19 Gen 3 vs Gen 5? You’re not alone, as many people face this dilemma. There are several differences between these two popular handgun models, and knowing them will help you make the best decision.
This guide will cover the distinct features of the two Glock models and decide which one deserves a place in your holster. At Paramount Defense LLC, a gun shop in Downingtown, we’re here to help you make the best choice.
History and Evolution of the Glock 19:
Glock 19 is one of the most popular handguns all over the world. This compact 9mm pistol has gone through several generations of improvements since it was first released.
The Glock 19 Gen 3 – A Legendary Workhorse:
The Glock 19 Gen 3 gained popularity as one of the trusted firearms in the world after being released in 1998. Its legendary reliability makes it a perfect choice and a trusted companion in unexpected scenarios.
The Gen 3 established itself with features like:
- Finger grooves on the grip
- Accessory rail for lights and lasers
- Proven durability in harsh conditions
Many police departments still issue this model to officers due to its appreciated simplistic design.
The Glock 19 Gen 5 – Modern Upgrades:
TThe Gen 5 came out in 2017, marking Glock’s efforts to address new technological trends and consumer feedback. The FBI also adopted this model as its standard issue sidearm, which shows how much better it was than the previous model.
As with the previous models of Gen 5, Glock has focused on the ease of operation of the sidearm and its performance metrics. The engineers at Glock made phenomenal strides in almost all aspects of this pistol so that it can exceed customer expectations.
Glock 19 Gen 5 vs Gen 3 – Specification Comparison:
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Glock 19X vs 19 Gen 5 to help you compare their features side by side and see which one better fits your needs:
Key Differences – Glock 19 Gen 5 vs Gen 3:
Let’s examine the most important differences between the Glock 19 Gen 5 vs Gen 3.
1. Frame & Ergonomics:
- Finger Grooves: The most obvious change is that Gen 5 removed the finger grooves in Gen 3. This change makes the Gen 5 more comfortable and allows for a greater variety of hand sizes.
- Backstraps: The Gen 5 has interchangeable backstraps, which allow for customizing the grip size. The Gen 3 has no options, so the grip size is fixed.
- Flared Mag Well: The Gen 5 has slightly flared magazine wells, which help increase reload speed and reduce recoil. This is helpful for use in competitions or high-stress moments.
2. Slide & Sights:
- Forward Serrations: The front slide serrations on the Gen 5 have been added to aid slide manipulation. This is useful during press checks to confirm whether a round is chambered.
- Marksman Barrel: The “Marksman Barrel” is newly introduced on the Gen 5 model, which has superior rifling and provides better accuracy than the standard barrel used in Gen 3.
- Widened Rear Sight: The increased width of the rear sight notch helps more when acquiring targets quickly from different angles and lighting situations. This feature is also new to the Gen 5 model.
3. Controls & Ambidextrous Features:
- Ambidextrous Slide Stop/Release: The Gen 5 works perfectly for both hands, with slide stops mounted on both sides of the frame. The Gen 3 is designed primarily for right-handed shooters.
- Magazine Release: Gen 5 allows the magazine to be placed on either side, making it better for left-handed users.
4. Recoil System & Trigger:
- Spring Dual Recoil: Compared to the Gen 3’s single spring design, the Gen 5 uses an enhanced dual recoil spring assembly that provides smoother cycling and may extend service life.
- Trigger: The Gen 5 has an improved trigger system, having a smoother pull and cleaner break compared to the Gen 3. Many gun lovers claim the Gen 5 offers a much more uniform trigger experience.
5. Finish & Durability:
- nDLC Finish: The Gen 5 uses Glock’s nDLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) finish, which offers greater protection against corrosion and wear than the protective coat of Gen 3. This means better protection under challenging conditions and with rough usage.
6. Magazine Compatibility:
- New Mags: Gen 5 magazines have orange followers and work with Gen 3 and Gen 5 pistols. Gen 3 magazines, however, may need alterations to work in Gen 5 pistols.
User Experience – Shooting & Handling:
When comparing the Glock 19 Gen 3 vs 5, user experience in terms of shooting comfort, recoil management, and handling varies significantly.
At the Range – Accuracy & Recoil:
In the Glock 19 Gen 5 vs Gen 3 comparison, if you use the Gen 5, you’ll notice a better accuracy improvement with the Marksman Barrel, especially past 15 yards. With this model, most users will achieve tighter groups.
Gen 5 has a slight edge in recoil management with a dual recoil spring. This results in faster follow-up shots and reduced muzzle flip during rapid firing.
Ergonomics & Comfort:
The finger groove debate is real! Some shooters love the Gen 3’s finger grooves, claiming they provide a better grip. Others prefer the Gen 5’s smooth front strap since it allows better accommodation for different hand sizes. The Gen 5’s grip texture is slightly more aggressive. As a result, control is improved, especially with wet hands or when wearing gloves.
Reliability & Maintenance:
Both pistols continue to uphold Glock’s superior industry reputation. The maintenance difference between both models is almost negligible, although some users claim that the added finish on the Gen 5 makes cleaning after a shoot slightly easier.
The most recent and older models hold almost identical cleaning and field stripping procedures.
Making the Right Choice – Glock 19 Gen 3 vs Gen 5?
Choosing between the Glock 19 Gen 3 vs 5 ultimately depends on your personal preferences, shooting style, and what features matter most to you.
Who Should Buy the Glock 19 Gen 3?
- People on a budget: People looking to save dollars with their purchases will prefer the Gen 3 Glock since it is cheaper than the Gen 5 model.
- People who enjoy the feel of the older Gen models: The Gen 3 will feel more familiar if you have spent years training with finger grooves, because it has them.
- Residents of California: The Gen 3 remains the latest model that can be legally purchased in California due to state restrictions, so residents have that benefit.
Who Should Buy the Glock 19 Gen 5?
- Left-Handed Shooters: The Gen 5 is way more comfortable with fully ambidextrous controls for left-handed people.
- Competition Shooters: The improvements in accuracy, flared mag well, and better trigger provide some edge for competitive shooters.
- Technology Lovers: If having the latest features is your priority, the Glock 19 Gen 5 is the latest model from Glock.
FAQs:
1. Why is the Glock 19 Gen 3 so popular?
The Glock 19 Gen 3 is popular for its reliability, compact size, and balance of capacity and performance, making it a top choice for self-defense and law enforcement.
2. What is special about Glock 19 Gen 5?
The Glock 19 Gen 5 offers improved accuracy because of the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB), a smoother trigger, a more ergonomic design, and a flared magwell. It also has no finger grooves for a more comfortable grip.
3. Why is Glock 19 Gen 5 illegal in California?
The Glock 19 Gen 5 is illegal in California because it doesn’t meet the state’s handgun safety requirements, including microstamping and safety features.
4. Do Glock Gen 5 Mags fit Gen 3?
Yes, Glock Gen 5 magazines are compatible with Gen 3 models, though they may have a different follower.
Final Words: Which Glock 19 is Best for You?
Gen 3 is proven to be reliable, and its pricing reflects that history. It’s far too popular and has limitless holster and accessory options.
The Gen 5, on the other hand, offers better ergonomics, accuracy, and versatility improvements. These upgrades make the pistol worth the added cost for many new buyers.
Both the Gen 3 vs Gen 5 Glock 19 pistols maintain a reputation for reliability and simplicity. As always, the decision comes down primarily to personal preference, budget, and needs.
Want to get hands-on?
Visit our website and buy stocks of Glock 19 Gen 3 and Gen 5 variants at Paramount Defense LLC, a gun shop in Downingtown.
