Preview: GLOCK Gen5 Pistols

by
posted on September 1, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
glockgen5-a.jpg

GLOCK recently announced the new G19 Gen5 and G17 Gen5 pistols. The company says the Gen5 pistols feature over twenty design changes which improve them from the previous generation.

GLOCK Gen5 magwell
The GLOCK Gen5's new flared magwell.


The Gen5 has several key changes over Gen4. Of particular interest to production action shooters is the GLOCK Marksman Barrel (GMB), which ditches the previous polygonal rifling for a G43 derived one that GLOCK says will deliver improved accuracy. Additionally, the addition of a flared magwell will make for easier reloading on the move. Also gone are the finger grooves on the grip. The removal of the finger grooves and ambidextrous slide stop are to improve control and flexibility. The proprietary nDLC finish is tough and durable finish reminiscent of black nitride.

GLOCK Gen5 grip
The Gen5 grip omits the finger grooves from previous generations of GLOCKs.


“The development of our Gen5 pistols was the result of the constant pursuit of perfection and a desire to meet the requests of the consumer market,” said GLOCK vice president Josh Dorsey. “We have combined the standards of high-level performance and reliability with distinctive design enhancements to improve durability, accuracy, and performance. The benefits enhance the shooter experience at the range and in high-stress situations where fractions of a second matter.”

The origins of this new generation of GLOCK pistols lies in a request by Federal Law Enforcement for a new service pistol. As a matter of fact, the Gen5 pistols are a variation of the M pistol used by the FBI. “Our goal was to meet the demanding needs of law enforcement agencies while maintaining our standard of perfection,” commented Dorsey. “Once the pistols we submitted proved themselves in testing and were adopted, consumers began asking for those pistols. The Gen5 pistols we are introducing today meet that demand.”

Currently, only the G17 and G19 are in the Gen5 lineup. They are available at dealers now, with pricing similar to the previous generation. For more information go to us.glock.com/Gen5.

Latest

357Mag Handloading 1 Title
357Mag Handloading 1 Title

How to Duplicate .357 Magnum Factory Ballistics with Handloads

Extensive testing shows which powders and charge weights allow .357 Mag. handloads to reach factory velocities without exceeding published pressure limits.

New: Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 10 mm M2.0 Carry Comp

Smith & Wesson’s latest Performance Center pistol blends ported recoil control, optics compatibility and 10 mm power into a carry‑ready, shooter‑focused design.

Federal Unveils New All-American Target Loads Aimed at Trap and Skeet Shooters

Federal expands its All-American target loads for 2026, adding refined 12- and 20-gauge options aimed squarely at serious trap and skeet shooters.

Review: Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56 mm F1 Riflescope

An in-depth review of the Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56 mm F1, highlighting its rugged build, Mil-XT reticle, premium glass and performance in competition and long-range shooting.

Defining NRA Championship Moments: 1987 National Matches

Tight finishes and standout performances defined the 1987 National Matches, as nearly 5,000 competitors tested skill and endurance at Camp Perry.

Range USA: Redefining the Indoor Gun Range Experience

In 2025, Range USA opened its 50th location in Chester, Va., showing how a customer-first approach turned a single indoor gun range into a nationwide phenomenon.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.