Choosing between a Glock Gen 4 and Gen 5 pistol can feel overwhelming, given their similarities. Both are renowned for reliability and performance, but subtle yet significant differences exist. This in-depth comparison will illuminate the key distinctions, helping you decide which generation best suits your needs and shooting style.
Key Differences Between Glock Gen 4 and Gen 5 Pistols
While both generations share the same fundamental Glock design, several key features differentiate them:
1. The Frame: Texture and Backstraps
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Gen 4: Features a rough, aggressive texturing on the grip, along with interchangeable backstraps (small, medium, large) to customize the grip size and feel. This was a significant improvement over previous generations, offering greater control and ergonomics for a wider range of hand sizes.
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Gen 5: Retains the aggressive texturing but eliminates the interchangeable backstraps. Glock opted for a more refined, integrated grip texture, claiming it provides superior feel and control without the need for swapping backstraps. This streamlined design contributes to a slightly slimmer grip.
2. The Slide: Features and Finish
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Gen 4: Features a slightly thicker slide compared to the Gen 5. The slide finish is often a more traditional, harder-wearing coating.
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Gen 5: Boasts a thinner, lighter slide, contributing to improved balance and recoil management. Glock also introduced the nDLC (nitride DLC) finish on many Gen 5 models, renowned for its enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. This results in a smoother slide action compared to the Gen 4.
3. The Trigger: Improvements in Feel
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Gen 4: Uses the same trigger as the Gen 3, with a generally heavier pull weight and slightly more noticeable trigger travel.
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Gen 5: Employs a Marksman-style trigger, featuring a reduced trigger pull weight and smoother, more consistent trigger travel. This refined trigger contributes significantly to improved accuracy and shot placement.
4. The Recoil Spring Assembly: A Notable Shift
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Gen 4: Utilizes a dual recoil spring assembly.
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Gen 5: Simplifies the design with a single, redesigned recoil spring assembly. This change is largely credited with contributing to improved reliability and reducing potential malfunctions.
5. The Front Serrations: Enhanced Functionality
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Gen 4: Generally lacks front slide serrations, making manipulation slightly more challenging for some users.
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Gen 5: Includes front slide serrations, providing additional grip points for slide racking. This enhanced functionality improves overall handling and speed of operation, especially in high-stress situations.
Which Generation is Right for You?
The "better" generation depends entirely on individual preferences and priorities.
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Choose Gen 4 if: You prioritize interchangeable backstraps for a perfectly customized grip, and prefer the slightly more substantial feel of a thicker slide. The dual recoil spring assembly has proven reliable over many years, and the absence of front serrations isn't a major concern for you.
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Choose Gen 5 if: You value a more refined, integrated grip texture, a lighter and thinner slide for improved recoil management, a smoother trigger pull, and appreciate the added benefit of front slide serrations for easier slide manipulation. The simplified recoil spring assembly is also a plus for many shooters.
Ultimately, handling both models is highly recommended before making a decision. The best Glock for you will be the one that feels most comfortable and natural in your hand, allowing for consistent accuracy and reliable performance.
