Glock 17 vs 19 vs 43: Which Glock Is Right for You?
Choosing the right Glock can feel like navigating a maze. With so many models, it’s easy to get lost in the specifications and features. This article dives deep into the popular Glock 17, Glock 19, and Glock 43, helping you make an informed decision.
We’ll break down the key differences between these firearms, focusing on size, capacity, and intended use. The Glock 19 is often considered the ‘Goldilocks’ of Glocks, but the 17 and 43 also have their strengths. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for finding the perfect fit.
Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a first-time buyer, this comparison will provide valuable insights. We’ll explore the pros and cons of each model, considering factors like concealability, handling, and overall performance. Get ready to explore the world of Glock and discover which pistol reigns supreme for your needs.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | G17 | G19 |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9x19mm Parabellum | 9x19mm Parabellum |
| Overall Length | 8.03 inches | 7.28 inches |
| Height | 5.47 inches | 5.04 inches |
| Width | 1.26 inches | 1.26 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 22.22 oz | 23.63 oz |
| Magazine Capacity | 17 rounds (standard) | 15 rounds (standard) |
| Barrel Length | 4.49 inches | 4.02 inches |
| Action | Safe Action (Striker-fired) | Safe Action (Striker-fired) |
| Sights | Fixed Glock Sights | Fixed Glock Sights |
| Frame Material | Polymer | Polymer |
| Trigger Pull | Approximately 5.5 lbs | Approximately 5.5 lbs |
| Accessory Rail | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Size & Dimensions
- Glock 17: Full-size frame, longer slide and barrel. Offers a larger grip and increased sight radius for improved accuracy. However, it can be less concealable.
- 19: Compact frame, shorter slide and barrel. More easily concealed and carried, offering a balance between size and shootability.
- Winner: 19
Magazine Capacity
- Glock 17: Typically holds 17 rounds (standard). Offers a higher capacity, reducing the need for frequent reloads.
- 19: Typically holds 15 rounds (standard). Still offers a good capacity, but slightly less than the G17.
- Winner: 17
Overall Weight (Unloaded)
- Glock 17: Heavier due to the larger frame and slide. This can help with recoil management.
- 19: Lighter than the G17, making it easier to carry for extended periods.
- Winner: 19
Concealability
- Glock 17: Less concealable due to its larger size. Best suited for open carry or specific concealed carry situations.
- 19: More easily concealed due to its smaller size. A popular choice for everyday carry.
- Winner: 19
Barrel Length
- Glock 17: Longer barrel (4.49 inches). Can potentially offer slightly better accuracy at longer ranges.
- 19: Shorter barrel (4.02 inches). Still provides good accuracy while being more compact.
- Winner: 19
Grip Size
- Glock 17: Larger grip, which may be more comfortable for shooters with larger hands. Can be less comfortable for those with smaller hands.
- 19: Smaller grip, offering a better fit for a wider range of hand sizes.
- Winner: 19
Recoil Management
- Glock 17: The heavier weight and larger frame can help to mitigate recoil, making it slightly easier to control during rapid firing.
- 19: Recoil is slightly more noticeable compared to the G17 due to the lighter weight and smaller frame, but still manageable.
- Winner: 17
Market Availability and Accessories
- Glock 17: Widely available with a vast aftermarket for customization and accessories.
- 19: Also extremely popular, with a massive aftermarket and wide availability of holsters, magazines, and other accessories.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Concealability | Glock 19 |
| Magazine Capacity (Standard) | Glock 17 |
| Overall Length | Glock 19 |
| Handling (Subjective) | Tie |
| Versatility | Glock 19 |
What They Have in Common
- Caliber: Both the Glock 17 and Glock 19 are chambered in the widely popular 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge, offering a balance of stopping power and manageable recoil. This makes ammunition readily available and affordable.
- Trigger System: Both pistols utilize Glock’s Safe Action trigger system, known for its consistent trigger pull and integrated safety features. This contributes to a familiar and reliable shooting experience.
- Frame Material: Both pistols feature a polymer frame, making them lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion. This material also contributes to the overall affordability of the firearms.
- Accessory Rail: Both models include an accessory rail, allowing for the easy attachment of lights and lasers. This enhances the pistol’s versatility for various applications.
- Reliability: Both the G17 and G19 are renowned for their reliability and are trusted by law enforcement and civilians alike. They are designed to function consistently under various conditions.
Glock 17 Vs 19 Vs 43 Buying Guide
Concealed Carry Considerations
When considering concealed carry, the Glock 43 clearly has the advantage. Its slim profile and smaller dimensions make it significantly easier to conceal than the Glock 17 or 19. The Glock 19, while smaller than the 17, still presents more of a challenge for concealed carry, especially for individuals with a smaller frame or those who prefer deep concealment. The Glock 17’s larger size makes it the least suitable choice for everyday concealed carry, though it can be done with appropriate holster selection and clothing.
Ergonomics and Handling
The Glock 19 generally offers the best balance in ergonomics and handling for most shooters. Its grip size is more manageable for a wider range of hand sizes compared to the Glock 17, which can feel bulky for some. The Glock 43’s smaller grip, though advantageous for concealment, may feel less secure in the hand for those with larger hands, potentially impacting control during rapid firing. All three Glocks share the same basic Glock grip angle and controls, allowing for easy transition between models.
Magazine Capacity and Ammunition
The Glock 17 boasts the largest standard magazine capacity, typically holding 17 rounds. The Glock 19 holds 15 rounds, offering a good balance between capacity and compactness. The Glock 43, being a single-stack pistol, has a much lower capacity, usually around 6-10 rounds depending on the magazine. The choice depends on your needs. More rounds are useful, but less concealable. All three pistols chamber the same 9mm ammunition, providing the same stopping power.
Accuracy and Range Performance
The longer barrel of the Glock 17 typically provides a slight advantage in terms of accuracy at longer ranges. The Glock 19, with its shorter barrel, still offers excellent accuracy for most practical shooting scenarios. The Glock 43, with its even shorter barrel, can be slightly more challenging to shoot accurately at distance, but it remains a capable pistol at self-defense ranges. The shooter’s skill is the greatest factor in accuracy.
Price and Availability
All three Glock models are generally affordable and widely available. The Glock 19 and 43 are often a bit less expensive than the Glock 17. The cost difference is usually minimal. Availability is rarely a problem, as Glocks are among the most popular handguns in the world. Prices can vary based on location, retailer, and any included accessories. Consider features and availability when choosing.
Intended Use Cases
The Glock 17 is best suited for duty carry, home defense, and range use, where size is less of a concern. The Glock 19 is a versatile choice, well-suited for concealed carry, home defense, and range shooting. The Glock 43 excels in concealed carry situations where maximum discretion is required. Consider your primary use case to help make the best decision. Consider how often you will carry and if you prefer a smaller gun.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Glock 17 If…
- You prioritize a full-size pistol with a longer barrel for potentially increased accuracy.
- You want a higher standard magazine capacity (17 rounds).
- You prefer a pistol with a slightly larger grip for better handling (for some).
- You plan to use the pistol primarily for home defense or duty carry.
Buy Glock 19 If…
- You want a more compact pistol that is easier to conceal and carry.
- You prefer a slightly shorter barrel and overall length for improved maneuverability.
- You want a pistol that offers a good balance between size, capacity, and shootability.
- You need a versatile pistol suitable for both concealed carry and home defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Glock is the easiest to conceal?
The Glock 43 is the easiest to conceal due to its smaller size and slim profile. It’s specifically designed for concealed carry, making it ideal for everyday wear. The Glock 19 is also a viable option, though slightly more difficult to conceal. The Glock 17 is the most difficult to conceal because of its larger frame and grip.
What are the key differences in size?
The Glock 17 is the largest, with a full-size frame and a longer barrel. The Glock 19 is a compact version, offering a good balance of size and capacity. The Glock 43 is the smallest, a subcompact single-stack pistol. This difference in size significantly impacts concealability and handling.
Which Glock has the highest magazine capacity?
The Glock 17 typically has the highest standard magazine capacity, holding 17 rounds. The Glock 19 holds 15 rounds. The Glock 43, being a single-stack, has a much lower capacity, ranging from 6 to 10 rounds depending on the magazine configuration. This is crucial for self-defense situations.
Are the Glock 17, 19, and 43 compatible with each other?
No, the Glock 17, 19, and 43 are not directly compatible in terms of parts. Magazines, slides, and frames are all different sizes. Some aftermarket accessories may fit different models, but the core components are not interchangeable due to the varying frame sizes and designs. This is important to understand when purchasing accessories.
Which Glock is best for beginners?
The Glock 19 is often recommended for beginners due to its balanced size, manageable recoil, and widespread availability of training resources. The Glock 17 is also a good choice. The Glock 43 can be more challenging for beginners due to the smaller grip and potentially more felt recoil. The best choice depends on the person.
What ammunition do these Glocks use?
All three Glocks chamber the same 9mm Luger ammunition, a widely available and effective cartridge. Ensure you use the correct ammunition type and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for safe and reliable operation. Proper maintenance and cleaning are also essential for optimal performance and longevity of your firearm.
How do the Glock 17, 19, and 43 compare in terms of recoil?
The Glock 17, due to its larger size and weight, typically has the least felt recoil. The Glock 19 has slightly more felt recoil. The Glock 43, being the smallest and lightest, will have the most felt recoil of the three. This can affect follow-up shots. Factors like grip and stance also influence this.
Final Verdict
The choice between the Glock 17, 19, and 43 depends on individual needs and priorities. The Glock 19 offers the best overall balance of size, capacity, and shootability, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users. Its compact size makes it suitable for concealed carry while still providing a comfortable grip and sufficient magazine capacity for self-defense.
Winner: Glock 19