Beretta Apx Compact vs Glock 19: Which Pistol Reigns?
Choosing the right handgun can feel like navigating a minefield, especially with so many excellent options available. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Beretta APX Compact and the Glock 19. Both offer reliability, accuracy, and a solid reputation, but which one truly shines?
This comparison dives deep into the heart of the matter, pitting the Beretta APX Compact against the Glock 19 in a head-to-head battle. We’ll explore everything from ergonomics and handling to performance and features. Get ready to discover which pistol might be the perfect fit for your needs.
Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a newcomer to the world of firearms, understanding the nuances of these two models is crucial. We will break down key aspects such as trigger feel, recoil management, and overall build quality. Ultimately, our goal is to help you make an informed decision when choosing between the Beretta APX Compact and the Glock 19.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | APX Compact | Glock 19 |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm Luger | 9mm Luger |
| Capacity | 13+1 (Standard) | 15+1 (Standard) |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 24.9 oz | 23.63 oz |
| Overall Length | 7.3 inches | 7.36 inches |
| Barrel Length | 3.7 inches | 4.02 inches |
| Width | 1.3 inches | 1.26 inches |
| Height | 5.2 inches | 5.04 inches |
| Action | Striker-fired | Striker-fired |
| Sights | 3-dot | 3-dot (or optional) |
| Frame Material | Polymer | Polymer |
| Trigger Pull | 6.5 lbs | 5.5 lbs |
| Safety | Integrated safety features | Trigger safety, drop safety |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Size and Dimensions
- Beretta Apx Compact: Slightly smaller and lighter than the Glock 19, making it potentially easier to conceal. It has a shorter barrel and overall length. Some may find the more compact size advantageous for everyday carry.
- Glock 19: Considered a “compact” pistol, it is larger than the APX Compact, offering a longer barrel and grip. This provides a slightly better grip and sight radius, potentially aiding in accuracy. It might be less comfortable to conceal for some.
- Winner: APX Compact
Ergonomics and Grip
- Beretta Apx Compact: Features aggressive grip texturing and interchangeable backstraps to customize fit. The grip angle is more vertical, which some find more natural. The grip is generally comfortable, but may feel slightly blocky to some hands.
- Glock 19: Known for its simple, ergonomic design with a relatively neutral grip angle. The grip is comfortable for many, but the lack of aggressive texturing can be a drawback for some users, especially in wet conditions.
- Winner: Tie
Trigger
- Beretta Apx Compact: Features a consistent and crisp trigger pull with a short reset. The trigger is generally regarded as one of its stronger points. The trigger pull weight is moderate.
- Glock 19: Known for its simple, consistent “Safe Action” trigger system, which is a striker-fired trigger. The pull is typically a bit longer and less crisp than the APX Compact. The trigger pull weight is moderate.
- Winner: APX Compact
Capacity
- Beretta Apx Compact: Typically holds 13 rounds in the magazine.
- Glock 19: Holds 15 rounds in the standard magazine.
- Winner: Glock 19
Sights
- Beretta Apx Compact: Comes with standard 3-dot sights, which are adequate. Aftermarket sight options are available.
- Glock 19: Comes with standard Glock sights, which are basic. Many aftermarket sight options are available for customization.
- Winner: Tie
Reliability
- Beretta Apx Compact: Generally reliable, but some users have reported occasional malfunctions.
- Glock 19: Renowned for its exceptional reliability and is known to function reliably in a wide range of conditions.
- Winner: Glock 19
Price
- Beretta Apx Compact: Typically more affordable than the Glock 19.
- Glock 19: Generally more expensive due to higher demand and brand recognition.
- Winner: APX Compact
Aftermarket Support
- Beretta Apx Compact: Has a growing, but smaller, aftermarket compared to Glock.
- Glock 19: Has a massive aftermarket with countless customization options, parts, and accessories.
- Winner: Glock 19
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Ergonomics | Beretta APX Compact |
| Aftermarket Support | Glock 19 |
| Capacity | Glock 19 |
| Overall Size | Glock 19 |
| Trigger Feel | Subjective |
What They Have in Common:
- Caliber: Both the Beretta APX Compact and the Glock 19 are chambered in the widely popular 9mm Luger cartridge, ensuring readily available ammunition. This commonality makes them suitable for a wide range of shooting applications.
- Action: Both pistols utilize a striker-fired action, a system known for its simplicity and consistent trigger pull. This design contributes to ease of use and reliability.
- Frame Material: Both pistols feature polymer frames. This material choice contributes to their lightweight nature, durability, and resistance to corrosion, making them suitable for everyday carry.
- Magazine Release: Both pistols feature a standard magazine release button, positioned for easy access and manipulation by the shooter, facilitating quick magazine changes.
- Sights: Both pistols come standard with a 3-dot sight system, which is a common and user-friendly sight configuration. This allows for quick target acquisition.
Beretta APX Compact Vs Glock 19 Buying Guide
Ergonomics and Handling
The Beretta APX Compact and Glock 19 both prioritize ergonomic design, but they offer distinct feels. The APX Compact features a more aggressive grip texture and a slightly more sculpted grip, which some users find enhances purchase and control, particularly in wet conditions. The Glock 19, with its more rounded grip and smoother texture, offers a slightly more natural point of aim for many. Both offer a good balance and are easy to handle, however, the APX’s more aggressive texturing may appeal to shooters who prioritize grip.
Size and Concealability
Both the APX Compact and Glock 19 are designed for concealed carry, but they differ slightly in dimensions. The Glock 19 is marginally larger overall, especially in the slide length and grip. The APX Compact, being a bit smaller, can be slightly easier to conceal, especially for those with smaller frames or who prefer deeper concealment. The differences are not significant, but they can matter for everyday carry comfort and how the firearm prints under clothing. The APX is a tad easier to conceal.
Trigger and Accuracy
Trigger feel is a crucial factor, and both pistols have their unique characteristics. The Glock 19’s trigger is known for its consistent pull and predictable reset, though some find it a bit mushy. The APX Compact boasts a crisp trigger with a shorter reset, which many shooters prefer for faster follow-up shots. Accuracy is largely dependent on the shooter, but the APX’s trigger can contribute to more precise shot placement. Both are accurate guns.
Reliability and Durability
Both Beretta and Glock have excellent reputations for reliability and durability. The Glock 19 is renowned for its ability to function flawlessly in a wide range of conditions, and its simple design contributes to its robust nature. The APX Compact, while relatively newer, has proven to be a reliable pistol, with a durable polymer frame and stainless steel slide. Both guns can handle a lot of use. Both firearms are built to withstand rigorous use.
Aftermarket Support and Customization
The Glock 19 benefits from an enormous aftermarket, with a vast array of parts, accessories, and customization options available. This allows shooters to tailor the pistol to their specific needs and preferences. While the APX Compact’s aftermarket is growing, it’s still smaller compared to Glock. This means fewer options for things like sights, triggers, and holsters. The Glock 19 has far more readily available accessories.
Price and Value
Price is an important consideration. The Glock 19 and Beretta APX Compact are often similarly priced, though prices can fluctuate depending on the retailer and any special offers. Considering the build quality, reliability, and features offered by each pistol, both offer excellent value for the money. The availability of accessories and familiarity also add value. It is important to compare prices from multiple sources.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Beretta APX Compact If…
- You prefer a slightly more aggressive grip texture for enhanced control.
- You like the feel of the more ergonomic grip of the APX Compact.
- You prefer a slightly different trigger feel than the Glock.
Buy Glock 19 If…
- You prioritize a large aftermarket support for customization.
- You’re already familiar with the Glock platform.
- You prefer a slightly slimmer profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference in the trigger mechanisms?
The Glock 19 features a trigger known for its consistent pull and predictable reset, which some find a bit mushy. The APX Compact boasts a crisper trigger with a shorter reset, often preferred for faster follow-up shots and potentially enhanced accuracy. The APX trigger offers a more tactile feel.
Which pistol is easier to conceal?
The Beretta APX Compact is generally considered slightly easier to conceal due to its slightly smaller dimensions, especially in the slide length and grip. This can make a difference in comfort and how the firearm prints under clothing. The difference is minor, but it can be beneficial for those with smaller frames.
How does the aftermarket support compare?
The Glock 19 has a much larger and more established aftermarket, offering a vast array of parts, accessories, and customization options. The APX Compact’s aftermarket is growing but remains smaller, with fewer options for sights, triggers, and holsters. This is critical if the owner wishes to customize.
Which pistol is more accurate?
Accuracy is largely dependent on the shooter’s skill. Both the Glock 19 and Beretta APX Compact are capable of excellent accuracy. The APX Compact’s trigger may provide a slight advantage for some shooters, allowing for more precise shot placement. Both are accurate, and the shooter makes the difference.
Which pistol is more reliable?
Both the Glock 19 and the APX Compact are highly reliable firearms. The Glock 19 is known for its proven track record and ability to function in various conditions. The APX Compact has also demonstrated impressive reliability. Both are constructed from durable materials and are designed for rigorous use. Both are very reliable.
What are the key differences in ergonomics?
The APX Compact features a more aggressive grip texture and a slightly more sculpted grip, which some users find enhances purchase and control. The Glock 19 has a more rounded grip and a smoother texture. This means that the user can get a better grip with the APX. Both are comfortable, but the APX is more aggressive.
Which pistol is better for a beginner?
Both pistols are suitable for beginners. The Glock 19’s simplicity and widespread availability of training resources may make it slightly more accessible. The APX Compact is also easy to learn. The best choice depends on individual preferences and the availability of training and support. Both are safe firearms.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the Beretta APX Compact and the Glock 19 depends on individual needs. The APX Compact offers a crisper trigger and potentially easier concealability. The Glock 19 boasts a larger aftermarket and a proven track record. The ideal choice is often determined by the user’s preferences, budget and intended use case. Both are excellent firearms.
Winner: Glock 19