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Glock 17 vs. Glock 19: Unpacking the Size Difference – Is a Glock 17 Smaller Than a 19?

The Glock 17 and Glock 19 are two of the most popular handguns in the world, trusted by law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. Both are renowned for their reliability, simplicity, and ease of use. However, a common question arises: Is a Glock 17 smaller than a 19? The answer, quite simply, is no. The Glock 19 is the more compact option. This article will delve into the specific size differences between these iconic firearms, exploring their dimensions, weight, and how these factors influence their suitability for various purposes like concealed carry or duty carry.

Understanding the Glock Heritage

Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the context of the Glock pistol line. Developed by Glock Ges.m.b.H. in Austria, the Glock pistol revolutionized handgun design with its polymer frame and striker-fired mechanism. The Glock 17 was the original model, chambered in 9mm, and quickly gained acceptance due to its reliability and high capacity. The Glock 19, introduced later, was designed as a more compact version, retaining the key features of the Glock 17 but in a smaller package.

Glock 17: The Original Full-Size Glock

The Glock 17 is considered a full-size handgun. Here’s a breakdown of its key dimensions:

Overall Length: Approximately 8.03 inches (204 mm)
Slide Length: Approximately 7.32 inches (186 mm)
Overall Height: Approximately 5.47 inches (139 mm) (including magazine)
Width: Approximately 1.34 inches (34 mm)
Weight (Unloaded): Approximately 24.95 ounces (707 g)
Magazine Capacity: Typically 17 rounds of 9mm

The Glock 17 is favored for its longer sight radius, which can contribute to improved accuracy, and its larger grip, which is often more comfortable for shooters with larger hands. It’s a popular choice for duty carry by law enforcement and for competition shooting.

Glock 19: The Compact Workhorse

The Glock 19 is a compact handgun designed for versatility. Here’s a look at its dimensions:

Overall Length: Approximately 7.36 inches (187 mm)
Slide Length: Approximately 6.85 inches (174 mm)
Overall Height: Approximately 5.04 inches (128 mm) (including magazine)
Width: Approximately 1.34 inches (34 mm)
Weight (Unloaded): Approximately 23.65 ounces (670 g)
Magazine Capacity: Typically 15 rounds of 9mm

As you can see, the Glock 19 is shorter in both overall length and height compared to the Glock 17. This makes it a more concealable option, popular for everyday carry (EDC). Despite its smaller size, it still offers a comfortable grip for many shooters and a good balance of shootability and concealability. The Glock 19 is widely used by law enforcement, military personnel, and civilians.

Detailed Comparison: Size and Dimensions

Let’s break down the size differences in more detail. Is a Glock 17 smaller than a 19 in any dimension? No. The Glock 19 is consistently smaller. The Glock 19 is about 0.67 inches (17 mm) shorter in overall length and 0.43 inches (11 mm) shorter in height. While the width is the same for both models, the shorter grip and slide of the Glock 19 make it significantly easier to conceal. The weight difference, while not substantial (approximately 1.3 ounces), can also be a factor for those who carry a firearm for extended periods.

The Impact of Size on Concealability

Concealability is a primary consideration for many handgun owners. The smaller size of the Glock 19 makes it significantly easier to conceal under clothing. This is particularly important for individuals who carry a firearm for self-defense on a daily basis. The Glock 17, while still concealable for some, requires more careful consideration of holster selection and clothing choices. The Glock 19 offers greater flexibility in terms of carry positions and clothing options.

The Impact of Size on Shootability

While the Glock 19 is more concealable, the Glock 17 offers some advantages in terms of shootability. The longer sight radius of the Glock 17 can potentially lead to improved accuracy, especially at longer ranges. The larger grip of the Glock 17 can also be more comfortable for shooters with larger hands, providing a more secure and stable grip. However, the Glock 19 is still a very accurate and controllable handgun, and many shooters find it to be just as easy to shoot as the Glock 17.

Magazine Capacity Considerations

The Glock 17 typically holds 17 rounds of 9mm ammunition, while the Glock 19 typically holds 15 rounds. While two rounds may not seem like a significant difference, it can be a factor for some shooters. However, both the Glock 17 and Glock 19 can accept magazines of varying capacities, including extended magazines that hold 33 rounds or more. This allows shooters to customize their magazine capacity based on their individual needs and preferences. Notably, Glock 17 magazines are compatible with the Glock 19, offering increased capacity at the expense of concealability.

Choosing the Right Glock: Factors to Consider

Choosing between the Glock 17 and Glock 19 depends on individual needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Concealability: If concealability is a primary concern, the Glock 19 is the better choice.
Shootability: The Glock 17 may offer a slight advantage in terms of accuracy and comfort for some shooters, but the Glock 19 is still highly shootable.
Hand Size: Shooters with larger hands may find the Glock 17 grip more comfortable, while those with smaller hands may prefer the Glock 19.
Intended Use: If the firearm is primarily for duty carry or home defense, the Glock 17 may be a suitable option. If it’s primarily for concealed carry, the Glock 19 is likely the better choice.
Budget: Prices are generally similar, but availability might vary depending on the region.

Beyond Size: Other Glock Models to Consider

While the Glock 17 and Glock 19 are the most popular models, Glock offers a wide range of other handguns in various sizes and calibers. For example, the Glock 26 is a subcompact 9mm pistol that is even smaller than the Glock 19. The Glock 34 is a longer-slide version of the Glock 17, designed for competition shooting. Exploring the full Glock lineup can help you find the perfect firearm for your specific needs.

Common Misconceptions About Glock Sizes

One common misconception is that a Glock 17 is smaller than a 19 because it was the first model produced. This is incorrect; the model numbers do not directly correlate to size. The Glock 17 was simply the 17th patent of Gaston Glock. Another misconception is that the difference in size is negligible. While the difference may seem small on paper, it can have a significant impact on concealability and comfort.

Conclusion: Glock 17 and Glock 19 – Size Matters

In conclusion, the answer to the question, “Is a Glock 17 smaller than a 19?” is definitively no. The Glock 19 is the smaller, more compact option. The choice between the Glock 17 and Glock 19 depends on individual needs and priorities. If concealability is paramount, the Glock 19 is the clear winner. If shootability and a larger grip are more important, the Glock 17 may be a better choice. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to handle and shoot both firearms to see which one feels more comfortable and natural in your hand. [See also: Choosing the Right Handgun for Self-Defense] Remember to always practice safe gun handling techniques and to comply with all applicable laws and regulations.