The Glock 19 has long held a legendary status among handguns, renowned for its reliability, ease of use, and versatility. The fifth generation, or Gen 5, represents a significant refinement of this already popular platform. This in-depth review dives into the key improvements, performance enhancements, and overall user experience of the Glock 19 Gen 5, helping you determine if it's the right pistol for you.
What's New in the Glock 19 Gen 5?
The Gen 5 Glock 19 isn't just a minor facelift; it incorporates several substantial upgrades built upon the robust foundation of its predecessors. These key changes significantly impact the shooting experience and overall handling:
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Marksman Barrel: This improved barrel boasts a more precise rifling profile, contributing to enhanced accuracy and consistency. The difference is noticeable, particularly at longer ranges.
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Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever: Both right and left-handed shooters will appreciate this addition, providing more comfortable and accessible operation for manipulating the slide.
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Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB): This enhanced barrel design contributes significantly to improved accuracy compared to previous generations. The tighter tolerances and refined rifling contribute to better bullet stabilization and grouping.
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Improved Trigger: The Gen 5 trigger boasts a cleaner, crisper feel with reduced pre-travel. This results in a more predictable and responsive trigger pull, beneficial for both accuracy and speed.
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No Finger Grooves: The removal of finger grooves allows for a more customizable grip, accommodating a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles. This is a significant improvement for shooters who found the finger grooves on previous generations restrictive or uncomfortable.
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N+1 Surface Finish: This enhanced surface treatment provides improved corrosion resistance and reduces friction, allowing for smoother operation and easier cleaning.
Performance & Handling: On the Range
The improvements in the Gen 5 Glock 19 are readily apparent on the range. The improved trigger contributes significantly to accuracy, allowing for more precise shot placement. The Marksman barrel delivers noticeably tighter groups, even for less experienced shooters. The ambidextrous slide stop lever offers convenience and adaptability, and the absence of finger grooves provides a more personalized and comfortable grip.
The recoil management remains excellent, a hallmark of the Glock 19 platform. The pistol remains manageable and easy to control, even during rapid-fire drills.
Ergonomics and Comfort: A Subjective Assessment
While the removal of finger grooves is a significant change, it's a largely positive one. It provides greater adaptability for diverse hand sizes and shooting styles. However, some shooters who preferred the defined grip of the previous generations might require an adjustment period. Ultimately, the enhanced ergonomics make the Gen 5 more comfortable for a broader range of users.
Reliability and Durability: The Glock Standard
Like its predecessors, the Gen 5 Glock 19 maintains the legendary Glock reliability. Its robust design, simple mechanics, and high-quality construction ensure consistent performance, even under harsh conditions. The improved N+1 surface finish further contributes to its durability and corrosion resistance.
Conclusion: Is the Gen 5 Glock 19 Worth It?
The Glock 19 Gen 5 represents a significant upgrade to an already exceptional handgun. The refinements to the trigger, barrel, and controls enhance accuracy, comfort, and overall handling. The ambidextrous features add significant value, making it a more versatile option for a wider range of shooters. While the absence of finger grooves might require some adjustment for some, the overall improvements make the Gen 5 Glock 19 a worthy successor and a compelling choice for both experienced shooters and newcomers alike. It’s a testament to Glock’s commitment to continuous improvement, solidifying its place as a top contender in the compact pistol market.
