Choosing between a Glock Gen 4 and Gen 5 can feel overwhelming. Both are highly 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 delve into key features, examining their ergonomics, performance, and overall value to aid your informed decision.
Ergonomics and Handling: A Tale of Two Grips
One of the most noticeable differences lies in the grip texture and design. The Gen 4 boasts interchangeable backstraps, allowing for customization to fit various hand sizes. This feature is absent in the Gen 5, which opts for a more aggressively textured grip with a slightly slimmer profile.
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Gen 4: The interchangeable backstraps are a major advantage for shooters seeking a perfect fit. This significantly impacts comfort and control, especially during extended shooting sessions. However, some find the slightly larger grip less concealable.
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Gen 5: The Gen 5's aggressive texturing provides excellent grip, even with sweaty hands. Its slimmer profile makes it more comfortable for smaller hands and easier to conceal. The lack of interchangeable backstraps, while simplifying the design, limits customization.
The Verdict: Ergonomics
The "better" grip depends on individual preferences. Gen 4 wins for customization, offering a tailored fit. Gen 5 excels in its aggressive texture and slimmer profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize concealability and a secure grip without the bulk.
Trigger and Accuracy: A Refinement in Performance
Both generations offer reliable and relatively consistent triggers, but the Gen 5 boasts improvements.
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Gen 4: The Gen 4 trigger is known for its slightly heavier pull weight, which some shooters find preferable for accuracy. However, the trigger's feel can be somewhat rough.
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Gen 5: Glock refined the trigger in the Gen 5, resulting in a smoother, lighter pull weight. This smoother action contributes to improved accuracy and a more pleasant shooting experience for many. The trigger's improved design makes for a crisper break.
The Verdict: Trigger and Accuracy
The Gen 5's refined trigger provides a clear advantage in terms of smoothness, lighter pull weight, and overall shooting experience. While some might prefer the heavier pull of the Gen 4, the Gen 5's improvements are generally considered an upgrade.
Slide Design and Features: Subtle but Significant Changes
The slide design differentiates the two generations noticeably.
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Gen 4: Features front and rear serrations, offering improved slide manipulation, particularly for users with a variety of hand sizes and grips.
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Gen 5: Eliminates the finger grooves from the slide, creating a cleaner, more modern design. The enhanced front and rear serrations are often considered superior for improved handling. Additionally, the Gen 5 incorporates a Marksman barrel, designed for improved accuracy.
The Verdict: Slide Design
The Gen 5's improved serrations and Marksman barrel provide a tangible advantage in terms of accuracy and handling. The removal of finger grooves is a matter of personal preference; some find them helpful, while others prefer the cleaner design of the Gen 5.
Overall Value and Conclusion
Ultimately, the "better" generation depends on individual needs and priorities. The Gen 4 offers excellent value with its customizable backstraps and proven reliability. The Gen 5 represents a refinement of the design, improving upon the trigger, slide, and overall handling. Both are reliable, accurate pistols. Consider what aspects are most important to you—customizability, concealability, trigger feel, or modern design—to make the best choice. Spending time handling both models at a gun range will undoubtedly aid in your decision.
