Table of Contents

• Action
• Trigger and Safety
• Cleaning and Maintenance
• Magazine Capacity and Accessories
• Finger Grooves and Holsters
• Glock Gen 3 VS Gen 4 Differences
• Slide
• Recoil Spring Assembly
• Frame Grip
• Trigger Bar
• Trigger Housing and Connector
• Ejector
• Back Straps
• Magazine Release
• Magazines
• Cost
• Glock Gen 3 VS Gen 4 Reliability Comparison
• Conclusion

The two latest versions of the Glock 19 are not what you would call ‘new’. The Gen 4 has been around for about six years now, and the Gen 3 was introduced in 1996, but people still ask me which one I would recommend, as both versions are readily available on the market. Many folks either love Glocks or hate them. Generally, those that don’t like Glock pistols don’t like polymer “plastic toy guns,” period. But those that do love Glocks, such as myself, often own several of them. Sure, they may not be the most attractive handguns on the market, but there is something appealing even in their utilitarian look to me. It is no secret that my family loves Glocks – between me and my relatives, the members of my family own every Glock model several times over! If you’re looking into buying a Glock, 19 or otherwise, you must have heard some good things about them. The Glock 19 has had some impressive iterations over the years, and we will compare two of their very best in this, our Glock 19 Gen 3 VS Gen 4 Review.

Most people are familiar with at least one of the models of these popular revolutionary polymer-frame pistols. The reason they were considered so revolutionary when they were introduced in the early 80’s mainly comes down to their striker fired, no-external hammer design, and the fact that they were one of the first polymer-framed handguns to be marketed in large numbers (the Glock 17).  Despite no longer being unique in these aspects; the availability and variety of holsters, OEM replacement parts and upgrades, and the ability to customize the Glocks to a shooters specifications and needs, have kept them popular and in demand throughout the years.

The Glock 19 is a compact polymer framed, locked-breech, double stacked, 9mm’s with no external hammer, and is one of the most popular of the Glock models, which is impressive given such entries as the Glock 17 and the Glock 26. For many, it is the go-to-gun for concealed carry and self-defense purposes. If you’ve ever fired or dry-trained on any of the Glock models, the Glock 19 will feel familiar to you, which is the beauty of having a unified-across-models Glock design. It means that even though you may be practicing with the subcompact or full size, the muscle memory will translate to the compact and vice versa, no matter which Gen it is. The Gen 3 and 4 versions of this compact pistol are similar but have some important differences that should be noted and considered when choosing between the two. Let’s start though by going over the similarities:

Glock Gen 3 VS Gen 4 Similarities

Action

Glocks are all striker-fired pistols, without external hammers. Instead of external hammers, the firing pin is “cocked” by an internal spring until the trigger releases it to strike the cartridge. When you rack the slide of a Glock to chamber the first round, the firing pin is only partially cocked. That provides a degree of safety because the gun can’t fire from the partially cocked configuration. When you pull the trigger, the cocking operation is completed until the backward motion of the trigger releases the fully cocked striker. With the striker-fired design, every trigger pull will feel the same.

Trigger and Safety

As with all Glock models, there are no external manual safeties. This means that all Glocks can be quickly drawn and employed if deadly force is required without the shooter needing to worry about flipping the safety on or off. Assuming there is a bullet in the chamber, just draw, point and you’re ready to fire. If you’re ever in a real-life blood pounding situation with adrenaline shooting through you, you’re going to want to have a gun that is as simple and direct as possible to operate. The Glock 19 trigger is part of the Glock Safe Action Pistol safety system.

Depressing the center part of the trigger releases the safety and allows the pistol to be fired. This is meant to reduce the risk of accidental discharge. Second, the Glock has an internal firing pin safety. This pin will keep the striker from launching itself forward. Third, there is a drop safety, which means the gun may be dropped from a significant height, with a round in the chamber, and this safety will ensure that the gun does not discharge. Trigger pull is about 5.5 pounds on all Glocks and can be easily increased or decreased depending on your preference by changing parts readily available from Glock.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Without a doubt, cleaning and maintaining Glocks are one of their major selling points: Because there are so few parts, the field stripping is really quick. Fewer parts also mean fewer malfunctions and less hassle. The less time it takes to maintain, the more likely you are to maintain the gun better and more frequently; so you will be dealing with fewer stoppages and problems. The Glock is the definition of rugged and low-maintenance: you can fire it dry or simply oiled since the slick surfaces of polymer don’t seem to have any wearing effects on the steel slide.  I personally do add a little lubricant on my G19 but it is not critical on the Glock. The Glock has an easy four piece disassembly process for cleaning and lubrication.  The spring is integral to the recoil assembly and guide rod so there is no chance of inverting the spring incorrectly or losing it.

Magazine Capacity and Accessories

Both Glock 19s have a 15+1 round capacity in their standard magazine and you can get purchase capacity magazines if you want (though this takes away from the concealability factor).  Both come equipped with a Picatinny accessory rail on which you can mount a variety of different accessories from lights to lasers etc.

Finger Grooves and Holsters

Both Glock 19 Gen’s have the same finger grooves and you can use the same exact holster for both generations, even if you’re using the different sized back straps of the Gen 4 – which I will explain about below.

Glock Gen 3 VS Gen 4 Differences

Though the list below might make it seem like there are many differences, they are really more noticeable to someone who has lots of experience with both. If you’re trying to figure out which to buy, most of the differences will likely not be as important to you, but they should still be considered.

Slide

One of the first differences people note about the Gen 4 Glocks across all models (even if you’re holding a Gen 3 and 4 that at a close glance seem to be very similar) is the fact that the slide is stamped with “Gen 4” on it. Another easy way to determine if you’re holding a Gen 4 is to look at the guide rod right below the muzzle; the Gen 4, which uses a dual-recoil spring guide rod, has a larger hole. For those really paying attention, the slide and barrel finish are different between the Gen 3 and 4. This doesn’t really make much of a difference, but the earlier Tenifer surface treatment has now been replaced by a similar process that is faster and safer to apply (and is meant to be better for the environment). The metal surfaces of the Gen 4 are of a slightly different color, being a lighter and somewhat duller grey than their Gen 3 contemporaries.

Recoil Spring Assembly

The recoil guide rod assemblies, as stated above, are different. Gen 3 features a single-spring guide rod assembly, and the Gen 4 has a dual-spring assembly. You can put a Gen 3 guide rod into the Gen 4 if you use the recoil spring adapter (it will not work the other way around). The dual recoil spring helps reduce the felt recoil and also increases the lifespan of the assembly because it isn’t working as hard as the Gen 3 single-spring. I personally do not find this recoil difference to be tremendous, and since I don’t do any competition shooting, I can manage fine with both. Still, any tiny help with accuracy and the reduction of recoil energy to the wrist sure feels nice when you spend a lot of time at the range like I do. Inside the frame, the dust cover features a wider channel to accommodate this larger dual-recoil spring assembly.

Frame Grip

The texture on the grip is a little different, with a more aggressive rougher texture on the Gen 4 grip which helps slightly for a surer grip when your hands are wet or sweaty.  This new checkering improves your grip and at the same time is still comfortable in long shooting sessions at the range, even without gloves.

Trigger Bar

The trigger bars on the Gen 3 and Gen 4 models are completely different. The Gen 4 features a rounded bump on the part that deactivates the firing pin safety, though it is still compatible with previous generation guns This bump helps keep the trigger bar centered on the firing pin safety. This also makes the trigger pull feel slightly rougher and increases the weight of the pull (by an estimated half-pound). Some people really don’t like this, though I have never had an issue with it. You can switch out the Gen 4 trigger bar for a Gen 3 if you prefer.

Trigger Housing and Connector

The trigger housings are different as well, though not drastically different. The Gen 4 has been redesigned to be compatible with the new and smaller frame, and the connector engagement angle is also slightly different. Because of this angle change, the connector features a modified angle to preserve the same trigger pull weight of the Gen 3 pistols. A Gen 4 connector can be used in a Gen 3 Glock, although it will alter significantly the weight of pull.

Ejector

The ejector was changed in the Gen 4 and can be swapped out between generations. However, it is not sold by itself – only with the trigger housing. I don’t see any real reason to do swap it out, though, as it functions just fine.

Back Straps

Gen 4 models come with two extra, alternate back straps to help fit these Glocks comfortably into a wider range of hand sizes. The smallest back strap is integrated into the frame, reducing the trigger distance of the standard size Gen 3 frame by approximately .08 in, making it more similar to a 1911. The medium back strap will add approximately .08 in. making it equal the size of a standard frame. Finally, the large backstrap increases the trigger distance by a total of approximately .16 in.

Magazine Release

Gen 4 magazine release buttons are not only larger for easier releases but are also ambidextrous, so unlike in earlier Gens, these are now made to be as equally comfortable in right or left-handed shooters.

Magazines

The magazines of both are generally compatible with each other, although if you change the magazine release over to the right-side (for left-handed shooters), then the older Gen 3 magazines, which were built for standard left-sided releases, will not work. The Gen 4 magazine has a notch on both sides, whereas the Gen 3 has only on the left-side (so they are good only for right-handed shooters).

Cost

The Gen 4, as a newer model, does cost more, but not by very much. The Gen 3 will run about $400-$500, with the Gen 4 coming in at about $100-$200 more in price – depending on where you’re purchasing from.

Glock Gen 3 VS Gen 4 Reliability Comparison

These are Glocks we’re talking about here – that means rugged reliability, no matter what generation you own! The Gen 4 had some issues when it first came out (as do many new guns and earlier Glock Gens), but Glock quickly ironed those out. In general, the simplicity and excellent design of the Glocks, with so few parts to break down, have given them a reputation of durability that is well deserved. They function well in almost any condition and hold up to abuse better than their lightweight construction might suggest, which is one of the reasons why many civilians and law enforcement officers in the U.S. and around the world carry a Glock of one model or another. Just imagine if you take care of your Glock properly – it’ll function that much smoother.

Conclusion

For me, the compact Glock 19, whether in Gen 3 or 4, is truly the Goldilocks pick of the Glock family. The 9mm bullet has enough stopping power for most practical self-defense needs. It isn’t too big for concealment, and weight-wise many will be comfortable carrying it. The Glock 19 also isn’t too small that you need to sacrifice much bullet capacity, grip comfort or sight radius. Also, most men and a large percentage of women can grip it and handle it properly and feel comfortable carrying it.

Personally, since I’m right-handed, I never needed the ambidextrous option of the Gen 4, nor did my hand need a different back strap size to fit well, but I do like the more aggressive grip texture of the Gen 4 and the larger magazine release makes switching mags, especially when you’re under stress, much easier. Though the dual-recoil spring assembly doesn’t make much of a difference in a 9mm gun like the Glock 19, every little bit helps. I would be happy if I ended up with either one, but at the end of the day, if I had to choose, I would take the Gen 4.

It truly boils down to a matter of taste. As always, no matter which you choose: as long as you are comfortable with your pistol choice and spend time becoming proficient with it, you’ve made a good choice. Both the Gen 3 and the Gen 4 also feature a plethora of accessory and modification options, making them as user-friendly as can be. Just remember to practice regularly to become the best shooter that you can be, and to always practice proper gun safety. It will also ensure that you’re confident in the handling of your weapon to be able to use it if ever you need to. The harder you train, the easier it will be when you’re in a stressful real-life situation to remember what to do and not fumble. That can be a real lifesaver. There is no wrong choice here, and I hope you’ll be happy with whichever one you get.

Thanks for reading our Glock 19 Gen 3 VS Gen 4 Review – be sure to check back for more on all things guns here at Gunivore!

The post Glock 19 Gen 3 VS Gen 4 Review appeared first on Gunivore.

The Glock 26 is the subcompact version of the Glock 9mm handgun. When the Glock 17 and 19 (G26’s older brothers) came out in the 1980’s, they immediately made a huge difference in the world of handguns. In 1995, Glock released the subcompact 9mm Glock 26, which was then followed by more subcompacts of varying calibers. In short, it was a hit.

The one thing which could be considered a disadvantage of the G26 is the relatively-small two finger grip which it sports. Compared to the full and compact sized 9mm Glocks, the G26’s grip is noticeably smaller. Some people are fine with shooting that way, but for others this can be an issue.

For this reason, various aftermarket grips and extensions are available for subcompact Glock models. One of the most commonly-used grips is made by Pearce Grip.

Note: for the sake of this article: grips don’t change a magazine’s capacity, but extensions do. Pearce makes many grips. Some of them alter the round count, and others don’t.

Pearce Grip Corporation

Pearce Grip is one of the leading producers of grips and extensions in the United States. The company was founded in 1994 by Robert Lane Pearce III, a former Bell Helicopter employee. He actually started his business as a hobbyist, making grips for other pistols. When the company was founded, its first product was a grip for the Glock 26. Over time, more than 40 other types of handguns have been the focus of Pearce grips.

Glock’s subcompact model is popular with civilians, as well as with security / law-enforcement personnel. To this day, the G26 (also known as the Baby Glock) remains the go-to firearm for many people, whether it is for backup purposes or for use as a primary weapon. It is easy to conceal, and simple to shoot.

As with any weapon, shooters can (and should!) practice and improve their technique. Owning a firearm is a lot more than just getting a smaller grouping. It means drawing, cocking, aiming, and firing, again and again. Getting a solid grip on your handgun is crucial. It could mean the difference between getting a shot out, and hitting the dirt and scrambling for cover.

Pearce items are made from high-impact polymer, and they have the ability to withstand extreme conditions and abuse, not unlike the G26 itself. The model which fits the 26 also fits other Glock subcompacts: models 27, 33, and 39. Pearce grips seamlessly blend in with the factory made look, feel, and texture. The grip basically replaces the magazine base plate, but keeps all other factory components.

Popular Pearce Grips for Glock 26

Accessories are a personal thing. There isn’t one accessory which fits every single individual. What fits one shooter’s habits and needs may not fit another’s. Pearce grips understand this, and they made it their business to reach many different types of shooters.

Some of the most popular Pearce Grip items for the Glock 26 are:

• Extra-long grip – replaces the base plate, and adds 1 inch to the existing grip. The magazine capacity is unaltered.
• Gen4 grip – replaces the base plate, and adds ¾ of an inch to the Gen4 grip. The magazine capacity is unaltered.
• Frame insert – helps keep dirt and debris out of the magazine well, by plugging the Glock’s rear cavity. It also provides the shooter with a quicker, smoother magazine change, since the insert help to guide the magazine into the well.
• Plus – replaces the base plate, and adds 1 inch to the existing grip. 3 rounds are added to the bullet count.

Best Glock 26 Grip Extension

With Pearce, you turn the G26’s alleged disadvantage on its head, and come out with a full-sized grip on a subcompact handgun. The newer version even has a finger groove pattern which is an exact match to the Glock’s. This means that when you draw your weapon, you get the full feel of it. This is huge.

Without the grip, your pinky finger could be left hanging. It seems so trivial, so inconsequential, and maybe even unnecessary. So what? So your little finger isn’t on the gun. Big deal. However, seasoned shooters recognize that it is, in fact, a big deal. They know that if (for instance) you have extreme conditions of cold, where your fingers are stiff and freezing – it can make a whole world of difference.

The world doesn’t begin and end in the range. Getting your hand around that gun is essential for proper shooting. Your feel, your grip, is everything. It affects your draw, your aim, and your trigger pull. Under stress and pressure, a lot of things could go wrong. You want to be able to get your hand around that weapon, and fast. This also means you have to keep training, keep practicing, and also keep in mind that in an actual emergency situation, your brain and hands will most likely be operating on auto-pilot. If you have trained, you will be successful, if not – you may be leaving your fate to chance. Nobody wants that. That is the precise reason that most people purchase a firearm to begin with – because they don’t want to leave their life to probability. They want to be in control, they want to be ready, and they want to know that they are doing everything they can to defend themselves and others.

Pearce items are effective and inexpensive. Their accessories carry with them so many benefits; it is no wonder that so many shooters choose to adorn their weapons with their designs. Pearce have been around for over 20 years, manufacturing and marketing products which change the way we use firearms.

If you are looking for a way to get the most of your weapon, consider checking out the Glock 26 gen 4 Pearce Grip Extension. If you want to own a subcompact, without compromising your grip and usability – check Pearce out. Their grips are one of the most popular additions to subcompact models, in the United States as well as the rest of the globe.

Check out our review of the New Glock 19 & 17 Gen 5.

The post Glock 26 Gen 4 Pearce Grip Extension appeared first on Gunivore.

This is a small item which can be very useful. Glock’s gunsmith bench mat essentially resembles a giant rubber foam mouse pad. It isn’t just like any ordinary mat, though. It has some advantages.

Glock Guns at a Glance

Gaston Glock began the Glock company way back in 1963. They were initially a company that focused on plastic and metal parts. I sometimes wonder if Gaston Glock had any idea how much of an impact his company would have on the world of firearms way back in 63′. In the following decade Glock produced his first products for military use. This included knives and training grenades.

Glocks journey into firearm design and production began in 1980 when the Austrian Army invited Gatson to design a new gun for their military. After a series of grueling tests the Austrian Army granted Glock a contract in 1982 and by 1983 he delivers the first 30,000 of his ground breaking Glock 17’s. What separated the Glock 17 from all handguns produced previously was Glocks use of a unique polymer material for the frame and safe action system. The polymer allowed the gun to be lightweight and extremely durable. These guns can withstand extreme heat and damp environments. The safe action system made the Glock 17 one of the safest guns on the market.

Customers loved the Glock 17 but some wanted a gun that was a bit more compact. Glock has always valued his customers concerns and in 1988 the Glock 19 was born. This subcompact semi-automatic pistol along with its older brother, the Glock 17, have become the go-top handguns for beginners and experienced shooters alike. Since the introduction of both guns Glock has expanded its product line to include nearly 30 handguns. No matter your hand size Glock has a gun that can fit your hands and your needs.

An element that shooters love about the Glock handgun family is the ease of disassembly and reassembly. This allows the shooter to take the gun apart and clean it fast. Although there are not too many parts it is best to have a place where you can maintain your gun while keeping track of all its parts. This is where the Glock bench mat comes into play. This rubberized mat is the perfect candidate for Glock handgun maintenance. This mat is the ultimate check-list of your Glocks assembly and various parts. This is why I personally believe this should be a part of any Glock owners tool kit.

Look and Feel – Glock Bench Mat

The mat itself provides a spongy work area, and not much more. What is different about this mat, is that it has an exploded diagram of a Glock pistol, including all of its parts. It serves as a great place to clean or service your firearms, and because most Glock pistols are essentially the same (other than the fully automatic ones), this mat is very useful in understanding the pistol.

The 35 parts which make up the Glock are displayed, along with the three safety mechanisms (which make up the world famous Glock “Safe Action”). On the bottom side of the mat are key contact points, which are essential for proper maintenance and lubrication of the Glock. The mat specifies exactly where to lube and where not to lube, as well as how much lube to use.

The Glock bench mat can make a lovely and relatively inexpensive gift, which will no-doubt be appreciated by anyone who owns a Glock. It functions as a non-slip gunsmith workspace, as an educational tool to learn about the Glock, as a workout mat (for those who are into sit-ups and such), and – yes – it even doubles as an oversized mouse pad.

Glock has always manufactured high-quality products, and this one is no exception. The print doesn’t wear off easily, and the oils and cleaning materials used in gun maintenance don’t seem to harm it. If used properly and cleaned occasionally, it is guaranteed to last a good long while.

Glock is always looking for new ways to reach its customers. This bench mat is a perfect example of how Glock knows their stuff. A bench mat with an exploded diagram appeals not only to the practical side of gun-owning, but also to the “coolness” factor – a side of gun-owning which is not to be underestimated.

The post Glock Bench Mat appeared first on Gunivore.