The Glock 19 Gen 4 has solidified its place as a favorite among law enforcement, competitive shooters, and everyday carry enthusiasts. Its compact size, reliable performance, and customizable features make it a truly versatile handgun. This in-depth review will explore the Glock 19 Gen 4's strengths and weaknesses, helping you determine if it's the right firearm for you.
What Makes the Glock 19 Gen 4 Stand Out?
The Glock 19 Gen 4 builds upon the already successful Glock 19 platform, incorporating several key improvements. These enhancements address some common criticisms of earlier generations and cater to a wider range of user preferences.
Enhanced Features:
- Improved Grip Texture: The Gen 4 features an aggressive, textured grip, offering superior control and a more secure hold, even in wet or sweaty conditions. This is a significant upgrade over the smoother texture of previous generations.
- Interchangeable Backstraps: The inclusion of multiple backstraps allows for customized fitting to different hand sizes. This personalization significantly improves comfort and ergonomics, contributing to improved accuracy and shootability.
- Ambidextrous Magazine Release: Both left- and right-handed shooters will appreciate the ambidextrous magazine release, enhancing usability and speed of reloading.
- Improved Trigger: While still maintaining the characteristic Glock trigger feel, the Gen 4 trigger is often described as having a slightly improved pull and reset.
- Dual Recoil Spring Assembly: This system contributes to smoother recoil management and reduced felt recoil, particularly beneficial for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
Performance and Reliability:
The Glock 19 Gen 4 is renowned for its exceptional reliability. Its robust design and simple, straightforward mechanism contribute to its ability to function flawlessly under demanding conditions. This reliability is a key factor in its popularity among law enforcement and self-defense users.
The accuracy of the Glock 19 Gen 4 is also consistently praised. With proper technique and practice, it's capable of impressive accuracy at various ranges. The comfortable grip and manageable recoil contribute significantly to its accuracy potential.
Common Criticisms:
While the Glock 19 Gen 4 is widely lauded, it’s important to address some common criticisms:
- Trigger: While improved, the Glock trigger remains a point of contention for some shooters. Its somewhat long and heavy pull is a matter of preference and can be adjusted with aftermarket parts.
- Polymer Frame: The polymer frame, while lightweight and durable, might feel less substantial than a metal-framed pistol to some users.
- Lack of External Safety: The Glock's lack of a manual safety is a design choice that is both praised and criticized. Users should be fully trained and comfortable with the trigger safety mechanism before carrying or using this pistol.
Who is the Glock 19 Gen 4 For?
The Glock 19 Gen 4 is a versatile handgun suitable for a wide range of users. Its compact size makes it ideal for concealed carry, while its reliability and accuracy make it a suitable choice for home defense and competitive shooting. The customizable features cater to a broad spectrum of hand sizes and shooting styles.
Conclusion:
The Glock 19 Gen 4 remains a top contender in the compact handgun market. Its blend of reliability, performance, and customizable features make it a strong choice for many shooters. While it's not without its minor drawbacks, its strengths significantly outweigh its weaknesses, solidifying its position as a popular and highly regarded firearm. However, potential buyers should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences before making a purchase. Always handle firearms responsibly and seek professional training before using any handgun.
