Choosing between a Glock Gen 4 and Gen 5 can feel overwhelming. Both are incredibly reliable and popular handguns, but subtle yet significant differences exist. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which generation best suits your needs and shooting style. We'll explore key features, performance aspects, and ultimately, help you make an informed purchase.
Key Differences: A Head-to-Head Comparison
The Glock Gen 5 represents an evolution of the Gen 4, refining existing features and incorporating new advancements. Let's break down the most crucial distinctions:
1. Marksmanship Enhancements: The Trigger and Slide
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Trigger: The Gen 5 boasts a significant upgrade: the marksman trigger. This refined trigger offers a smoother, lighter pull with a more consistent break. While the Gen 4 trigger is reliable, the Gen 5's improved design contributes to enhanced accuracy and control.
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Slide: The Gen 5 slide features nDLC (nitride) coating as standard, unlike the Gen 4. This enhances durability, corrosion resistance, and reduces friction. The Gen 5 slide also lacks the finger grooves found on the Gen 4. This design change allows for a more customizable grip and accommodates a wider range of hand sizes.
2. Ergonomics and Customization
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Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever: Both generations offer this, but the Gen 5 lever has a slightly refined design for improved usability.
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Interchangeable Backstraps: Both generations provide interchangeable backstraps for personalized grip adjustment. However, some shooters find the Gen 5's slightly different backstrap design more comfortable.
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Finger Grooves: As mentioned, the Gen 5 omits finger grooves, opting for a more uniform, snag-free slide texture. This is a polarizing change – some shooters prefer the added grip provided by the grooves, while others appreciate the smoother, more versatile Gen 5 design.
3. Reliability and Performance
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Reliability: Both generations are renowned for their reliability. There's little practical difference in their operational reliability; both are exceptionally durable and function flawlessly under demanding conditions.
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Accuracy: The improvements to the Gen 5 trigger contribute to slightly enhanced accuracy for many shooters. However, individual shooting skill and practice remain the most significant factors determining accuracy.
4. Magazine Compatibility
- Compatibility: While generally compatible, there are subtle differences. Gen 5 magazines typically fit in Gen 4 pistols, though some minor feeding issues have been reported in rare instances. Gen 4 magazines generally do not fit into Gen 5 pistols.
Which Generation is Right for You?
The best choice depends on your individual preferences and priorities.
Choose the Glock Gen 5 if:
- You prioritize a smoother, more refined trigger pull.
- You value the enhanced durability and corrosion resistance of the nDLC slide coating.
- You prefer a more customizable and versatile grip without finger grooves.
Choose the Glock Gen 4 if:
- You prefer the feel of finger grooves on the slide.
- You have a significant investment in Gen 4 magazines.
- You find the Gen 4's trigger satisfactory.
Conclusion
Both the Glock Gen 4 and Gen 5 are exceptional handguns. The Gen 5 represents a refinement of the already-reliable Gen 4, offering subtle yet significant improvements in several key areas. Ultimately, the "better" generation comes down to your personal preferences and shooting style. Consider handling both models if possible before making your decision. This hands-on experience will be crucial in determining which generation best fits your grip and shooting technique.
