The Glock 19 is popular among shooters across the globe. It is reliable for self-defense, police work, and personal defense. But with two great options: Gen 4 and Gen 5—how do you pick? Let’s break down the differences to determine which is best for you.
Glock made big improvements with Gen 5, but Gen 4 also has its strengths. Gen 5 has improved balance plate fitment, grip texture, and trigger feel. I have tested both extensively and will share my experiences so you can make the right decision.
Even if you’re a new Glock user or a long-time fan, this comparison will help you. At Paramount Defense LLC, a gun shop in Downingtown, we offer both Gen 4 and Gen 5 Glock 19 models and break down the upgrades, like no-finger grooves and a smoother trigger on the Gen 5, so you can choose the one that fits you best. By the end, you’ll know exactly where you stand in the Glock 19 Gen 4 vs Gen 5 debate.
So, let’s jump right in!
Overview of Glock 19 Gen 5:
The Glock 19 Gen 5 is an elegant 9mm pistol introduced in 2017. The latest Gen 5 includes upgraded trigger smoothness, enhanced accuracy, and easy controls that are great for first-timers and seasoned shooters.
This Gen 5 model has a lightweight but tough polymer frame and a steel slide with an nDLC coating. The enhanced mag well design helps you increase reload speeds, and the more advanced barrel boosts accuracy. The slide can also be night sights or optic-ready, increasing versatility.
Overview of Glock 19 Gen 4:
The compact 9mm pistol Glock 19 Gen 4 was released in 2010. It improves the already reliable Gen 3 with a better grip and an advanced recoil spring system. Fans love it for its robust construction and smooth performance.
This pistol maintains Glock’s signature polymer frame mated to a steel slide but now includes adjustable backstraps for a better fit for more hands. It shoots smoothly, holds 15 rounds, and is still easy to carry. Whether for duty or defense, the Gen 4 provides reliable firepower.
Glock 19 Gen 4 vs. Gen 5: Specification Chart
Similarities Between Glock 19 Gen 4 & Gen 5:
1. Caliber:
The Glock models Gen 4 and Gen 5 both shoot 9mm bullets. This ammo type is economical, widely available, and easy to shoot. You get the benefit of 9mm ammo that provides reliability for practice shooting and defense purposes.
2. Size & Weight:
Both pistols have a barrel length of 4.02 inches and feel almost the same in weight. Whether you examine them side by side or hold one at a time, both pistols are easy to handle as they are identical in size, weight, and comfort when shooting.
3. Magazine Capacity:
The Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5 store 15 rounds in their default magazines and an additional one if the chamber is loaded.
Want more bullets? No problem!
These handguns can also take larger magazines from other Glocks, such as the Glock 17 (which holds 17 rounds), the 19X (which holds 19 rounds), or advanced shooters using the Glock 18 (which holds 33 rounds).
4. Reliability & Durability:
Glock pistols are built tough. That’s why the Glock 19 Gen 4 vs Gen 5 models can take years of hard use. They resist rust, scratches, and rough treatment due to their polymer frames and steel slides. Their simple design translates to fewer breakdowns.
5. Easy to Use:
The Glock 19 Gen 5 vs Glock 19 Gen 4 are user-friendly for beginners and experts. They share the same easy trigger pull, lack a confusing safety switch, have an ambidextrous mag release, and can be disassembled with a few clicks, with no tools required. They are great for personal defense, concealed carry, or the range.
Key Differences – Glock 19 Gen 4 vs Gen 5:
The Glock 19 Gen 5 vs 4 comes down to a few crucial changes in how they look, feel, and perform. The key differences are explained below:
1. Barrel:
The barrel of the Glock 19 Gen 5 is made for accuracy. The polygonal rifling increases speed while preventing residue from building up because the inside is smoother. The recessed crown protects the edge of the barrel, and the tighter chamber aids in keeping the bullets straighter to improve precision.
The Gen 4, with its traditional rifling, loses grip on the bullet and creates more friction and residue. The Gen 5 simply shoots smarter.
2. Slide:
The Glock 19 Gen 5 slide gets a tough nDLC finish, way tougher than the Gen 4’s coating. This diamond-like layer combats rust, scratches, and wear while assisting the smoother operation of the gun.
The Gen 5 adds front serrations for better grip when checking the chamber or racking the slide. The Gen 4 has no serrations, just a plain, smooth surface.
3. Frame:
The Glock 19 Gen 5 frame has a flared mag well for quicker and smoother reloads compared to the Gen 4. The wider opening helps guide magazine insertion, and the thumb grip cutout lightens the gun while aiding in faster jam clearing.
Also, ditching finger grooves like the Gen 4 better fits all hands. It’s simple, smart, and slick.
4. Trigger:
The trigger on Gen 5 is smoother than that on Gen 4. It is sharp and precise, unlike the previous version, which felt soft and unresponsive.
Glock only requires two pins instead of three. With fewer components, the chances of something breaking are minimized.
5. Sights:
Gen 4 comes with plain plastic sights, adequate for daytime shooting. They can be upgraded later if necessary. The Gen 5 is better for nighttime shooting, featuring glowing sights (“night sights”) for aiming in the dark. Choose whichever option you need!
6. Magazine Well:
The Glock 19 Gen 5 has a broad magazine, and the Gen 4. This allows for quicker sliding of mags. You’ll notice the difference immediately if you are used to older models. However, this upgrade is only a slight advantage if you are an expert at reloading a Glock.
7. Safety Features:
The Glock 19 effortlessly guarantees firearm security. Three built-in safeties prevent accidental fires, even if the weapon is dropped and the trigger requires specific pressing.
The Gen 5 clear empty-chamber indicator and fewer parts make it more reliable. It’s safe, simple, and smart. Pull the trigger when set.
Performance Comparison:
1. Accuracy:
The polygonal rifling of Gen 5 helps your shots stay accurate, especially at long distances or after firing over 10,000 rounds. Unlike traditional rifling, its smooth design wears down slower, keeping its precision longer. But this feature might not matter much if you don’t shoot often or far. Choose what fits your needs!
2. Recoil Control:
Compared to Gen 4, the Glock 19 Gen 5 has improved recoil handling. The added features of a new smoother trigger and barrel reduce recoil and muzzle sway during firing. Less recoil means faster follow-up shots.
3. Concealability:
The Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5 are easy to hide when carried. Their compact size snugly fits inside-the-waistband (IWB) and outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters.
Lightweight and comfy, they won’t weigh you down though the Gen 5 is a tad heavier (half an ounce), which you might notice after hours of wear.
Glock 19 Gen 4 – Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Cheaper than Gen 5
- Proven reliability
- More aftermarket parts (easier to customize)
Cons:
- Finger grooves don’t fit all hands
- Older trigger system
Glock 19 Gen 5 – Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Better trigger & accuracy
- Ambidextrous controls (good for lefties)
- No finger grooves (fits more hands)
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive
- Fewer aftermarket mags at first
Which One Should You Choose?
To help you decide between the Glock 19 Gen 5 vs Glock 19 Gen 4, here’s what each model offers, depending on your preferences.
Pick the Gen 5 if you want:
- Best accuracy
- Smoother trigger
- Ambidextrous controls
Pick the Gen 4 if you want:
- Lower price
- More customization options
- Still a super reliable gun
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Does the police use Glock 19 Gen 5?
Absolutely! A lot of law enforcement has adopted the Gen 5.
2. Is the Glock 19 Gen 4 discontinued?
Not yet, but the standard is now Gen 5.
3. Can you use Gen 4 mags in Gen 5 Glocks?
Yes, but Gen 5 mags function better (they have an extra cut).
Ready to upgrade your Glock?
Paramount Defense LLC, a trusted gun shop in Downingtown carries both the Glock 19 Gen 4 and Gen 5, allowing you to select the most suitable model for your specifications.
Still wondering which one to choose? Our gunsmiths are ready to assist you, too! Whether you want to know more about balance, customization, or concealed carry, we’ll help you make the right choice.
⇒ Buy Today at Paramount Defense or reach out for customized suggestions!
(Limited stock available, so get yours before they sell out!)
