The Glock 21 Gen4. For many, the name alone conjures images of reliable firepower and robust performance. This full-sized .45 ACP pistol has earned a reputation as a workhorse, favored by law enforcement, competitive shooters, and everyday concealed carriers alike. But is the hype justified? This in-depth review will delve into the Gen4's features, performance, and overall suitability for various applications. We'll explore its strengths and weaknesses to help you determine if the Glock 21 Gen4 is the right .45 ACP pistol for you.
What Sets the Glock 21 Gen4 Apart?
The Glock 21 Gen4 builds upon the already successful Glock 21 platform, incorporating several key improvements introduced with the Gen4 series. These enhancements focus primarily on ergonomics and customization.
Enhanced Ergonomics:
- Improved Grip Texture: The Gen4 boasts a significantly improved grip texture, offering enhanced control and a more secure hold, even in wet or sweaty conditions. This is a notable upgrade over previous generations.
- Interchangeable Backstraps: The inclusion of interchangeable backstraps allows for personalized customization, allowing shooters to fine-tune the grip to their hand size and preference. This significantly improves the overall shooting experience and comfort.
- Reduced Recoil: While the .45 ACP round is known for its substantial recoil, the Glock 21 Gen4's design helps mitigate this, making it more manageable for extended shooting sessions.
Other Notable Features:
- Reliable Operation: Glock pistols are renowned for their reliability, and the Gen4 21 is no exception. Its robust design ensures consistent performance, even under demanding conditions.
- Durable Construction: Constructed from durable polymer, the Glock 21 Gen4 is built to withstand significant wear and tear, making it a reliable choice for both everyday carry and demanding applications.
- Large Capacity Magazine: The standard magazine holds 13 rounds of .45 ACP, providing substantial firepower. Extended magazines are also readily available for increased capacity.
Performance on the Range:
The Glock 21 Gen4's performance is largely consistent with expectations for a full-sized .45 ACP. Accuracy is excellent for its size and caliber, and the manageable recoil (relative to other .45 ACP pistols) allows for rapid follow-up shots. The improved grip texture and interchangeable backstraps contribute significantly to the overall shooting experience, making it easier to maintain consistent accuracy.
Who is the Glock 21 Gen4 For?
The Glock 21 Gen4 is a versatile pistol suitable for a variety of users:
- Concealed Carry (with caveats): While it's a full-sized pistol, some users successfully conceal the Glock 21 Gen4, particularly those with larger builds. However, its size makes it less ideal for concealed carry than smaller, more compact pistols.
- Home Defense: The substantial stopping power of the .45 ACP, combined with the Glock 21 Gen4's reliability, makes it an excellent choice for home defense.
- Law Enforcement: Its reliability and stopping power have made it a popular choice among law enforcement agencies.
- Competitive Shooting: The accuracy and manageable recoil make it a suitable choice for certain competitive shooting disciplines.
Potential Drawbacks:
While the Glock 21 Gen4 offers numerous advantages, it's essential to acknowledge its limitations:
- Size and Weight: Its full-sized nature makes it less than ideal for everyday carry for many users. The pistol is also relatively heavy.
- Recoil (though improved): Even with the improvements in the Gen4, the .45 ACP round still delivers noticeable recoil. This might be a drawback for users with less shooting experience or those sensitive to recoil.
- Cost: The Glock 21 Gen4, like most Glocks, sits at the higher end of the price spectrum for polymer-framed pistols.
Conclusion:
The Glock 21 Gen4 is a robust, reliable, and accurate .45 ACP pistol. The Gen4 improvements significantly enhance the ergonomics and overall shooting experience. While its size and weight might be limiting factors for some, its performance and reliability make it a strong contender for home defense, law enforcement, and even concealed carry for larger individuals. Ultimately, whether or not the Glock 21 Gen4 is the right choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your hand size, intended use, and tolerance for recoil before making a purchase.
