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Is the Glock 17 worth carrying over the 19? Many of us ask this question and this comparsion may help you. Glock Ges.m.b.H., a famous Austrian producer of polymer-framed pistols, has been in business for nearly 6 decades. And ever since its foundation back in 1963, Glock has introduced dozens of near-perfect handguns, all of which are known for their simplicity and an impressive pool of aftermarket possibilities. But none of their models have received more recognition and popularity than the Glock 17 and Glock 19. But which of these two flagship pistols is the better gun?
While this question might sound quite simple, finding the right answer might prove quite difficult. Are you asking why? Well, then just have a look at our brief comparison of these two Austrian striker-fired behemoths and I'm sure you'll quickly understand why.
Meet Glock 17
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The Glock 17 was developed in the 1980's to meet the needs of the Austrian military. But shortly after its introduction, the pistol became a go-for sidearm choice for plenty of law enforcement agencies around the world. one of the most produced pistols for civilian, law enforcement and military use. The Glock 17 is a semi-automatic pistol that uses the short recoil mechanism, similar to the Browning High Power. The original Glock 17 is the most common model that fires the 9x19mm round from a 17 round magazine. The barrel of this pistol is 4.49” long and its overall weight is 24.87-oz. The Glock 17 is equipped with fixed, white dot front and white square U rear sights. This model can also be used as a backup or concealed carry pistol, especially when paired up with a well-fitting, Holster For Glock 17.
What's Glock 19?
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This compact pistol has a 4.01 inch long barrel, which means it can be easily hidden if using a well fitting Holster For Glock 19, providing a good concealment option for everyday carry. The Glock 19 is equipped with a double stack 15-round magazine, which is more than enough, and it relies on the use of the famous 9 mm cartridge. Due to its dimensions it is ideal for use as a backup weapon or for concealed carry purposes. This particular pistol easily allows customization with different triggers, grips, and sights. What more the Glock 19 is compatible with factory magazines from the previous models 17 and 18. If you wish to know more about all of its features, read our Glock 19 review.
GLOCK 17 VS 19 - battle begins
Both of these Glock pistols assume the main features making them a good choice for everyday concealed carry. Although there are some differences between these models that can count when considering to choose one of them as a part of your EDC. So let’s take a deeper look at the similarities and differences of the Glock 19 and the Glock 17.
Round 1 - Size comparison
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Well, the size really matters, especially when talking about the concealment. In the case of Glock 19 vs 17, the smaller the gun is, the more compact it is, the better result you get when concealed carrying it. The Glock 19 is 7.36” long and 1.26” wide, featuring a 4.01” long barrel. Although its compact size results in super easy concealment, the firepower is a little lower when compared to the full-sized handguns.
The Glock 17 is also designed the way it can be used as a concealed carry gun. The overall length of this pistol is 8.03”, it is 1.26” wide and it’s equipped with a 4.49” long barrel. With regards to the dimension of both models, it is obvious that the Glock 17 is a little bit longer in both overall length and barrel length. When talking about the wideness, both Glock 19 and the Glock 17 are the same wide. With regards to the size, the G19 is a little bit more compact and more suitable for concealed carry though.
The Glock 19 with its weight of 23.65-oz is also a little bit more lightweight than the G17 model that weights 24.87-oz. Although the difference is not that significant, it counts when talking about everyday concealment and gives the G19 advantage.
This means that the first battle point goes to … the Glock 19.
ROUND 2 - GLOCK 17 VS 19 MAGAZINE CAPACITY
When it comes to magazines and capacity, the Glock 19 was designed with the lower capacity of magazines than the Glock 17. This pistol inicialy comes with 15-round magazine capacity which is less then the 17-round magazine capacity offered by the Glock 17 pistol. But this is really not a big deal as this particular G19 pistol easily allows customization and it is compatible with factory magazines from the previous models 17 and 18. Giving the Glock 19 available capacities of: 17 rounds (standard magazine with +2 extension), 10, 17, and 19 (standard Glock 17 magazine with +2), 24 and 26 (standard magazine with +2 extension) and the 31 (standard Glock 18 magazine with +2 removed) and 33 rounds of the G18.
In comparison with the Glock 19, the G17 model has a bigger magazine capacity in general and can be also extended by adding aftermarket magazine extensions.
So it seems the second point goes to … the Glock 17.
Round 3 - GLOCK 19 VS 17 RECOIL, ACCURACY AND RANGE PERFORMANCE
The Glock 19 brings a nice shooting experience, which is quite unusual for pistols this small. Even though most shooters frequently have to put up with quite a lot of hand slapping recoil when using the compact gun such as Glock 19, with its lovely design and comfortable grips, you probably won’t have this issue.
The balance of this pistol is excellent and controlling the recoil during shooting strings is quite easy too. When shooting at the range, the Glock 19 is neither too big nor too small for precision manipulations and keeping rounds on target. So it really brings an ultimate shooting experience. And what more, it accomplishes the main factor when looking at a CCW gun, which is reliability. This reliability has some consequences, though, as it derives in part from the loose tolerances baked into the pistol. This means that pinpoint accuracy is not among the Glock 19’s core qualities. While in no way an inaccurate weapon, the Glock will have small variations in accuracy, especially at longer distances (25 – 100 yards). While this variation is largely insignificant, the Glock 19 is not a perfect nail driver.
Though the heavier Glock 17 is made the way it seems more controllable under recoil than the Glock 19. The Glock 17’s longer barrel allows for more of the powder inside the cartridge to burn while still in the rifling of the barrel. This is resulting in slightly higher muzzle velocities for the Glock 17 versus the Glock 19. However, both pistols provide nice accuracy results.
Thus, a slight advantage in this battle is goes to … the Glock 17.
Round 4 - CALIBER AND FIRING MECHANISM
The Glock 19 relies on the use of the 9 mm Luger alias 9 mm Parabellum. This cartridge was first adopted by the German Navy in 1904 and then by the German Army in 1908. This cartridge has since become the most popular and widely-used handgun cartridge in the world. Performance wise, the 9 mm cartridge has somewhat more power than the .38 Special but falls well short of the .357 Magnum. There is nothing to compare when speaking about the caliber as the Glock 17 relies on the use of the same 9mm cartridge.
When talking about the firing mechanism, the G19 and G17 are identical, as both pistols are striker-fired. They both feature a single-action (SA) trigger, meaning that the trigger does not cock the gun, but only releases the striker when pulled. Cocking of the striker is performed by the retracting slide. The Glock 19 has no manual safeties and the same goes with the G17 model. The only operating element for both guns is the trigger, as all three internal pistol safeties are deactivated when the unique single-action trigger is pulled. And they are automatically activated when the trigger is released. This kind of firing mechanism has a lower firepower than for example hammer-fired pistols. Although it doesn’t require the gun to be composed from that many parts and that results in a lower risk of any hardware malfunctions.
Based on the caliber and firepower, the last battle ends in … a TIE.
Glock 17 vs 19 size - main specs
So, it seems like the Glock 17 has taken a slight edge in this battle. However, before we pass the final judgement, let's have a look at a quick overview of the main specs of either of these great Glock pistols.
|
|
GLOCK 19 |
GLOCK 17 |
|
Caliber |
9 mm Luger |
9mm Luger |
|
Width |
1.26 inch |
1.26 inch |
| Overal length |
7.36 inch |
8.03 inch |
|
Height |
4.99 inch |
5.04 inch |
|
Weight (loaded) |
23.65 oz. |
24.87 oz. |
|
Barrel Length |
4.01 inch |
4.49 inch |
|
Magazine |
Double stack |
Double stack |
|
Capacity |
15 + 1 (flush) |
17 + 1 (flush) |
|
Trigger |
Striker-fired |
Striker-fired |
|
Frame |
Polymer |
Polymer |
|
Slide |
nDLC finish polymer |
nDLC finish polymer |
| MSRP | ca. $560 | ca. $580 |
GLOCK 17 VS 19 FAQ
The choice between carrying a Glock 17 or 19 depends on individual preferences and intended use. The Glock 17 has a slightly longer barrel and overall length, offering potentially better accuracy and velocity, and a higher capacity magazine. The more compact Glock 19, on the other hand, is easier to conceal, making it a popular choice for concealed carry. Both models are reliable and have similar functionality, so the decision should be based on your specific needs and comfort preferences.
The Navy Seals prefer the Glock 19 over the Glock 17 mainly for its compact size without a significant reduction in firepower. The more compact frame and barrel of the Glock 19 allow for easier concealment and maneuverability, crucial factors for special operations forces. Its reliable performance in diverse conditions, coupled with its size, makes it a preferred sidearm for the Navy Seals.
There isn't a direct cross between the Glock 17 and 19 models from the manufacturer, Glock. However, some gun owners personalize their firearms to achieve specific features, creating a hybrid version of sorts. This can include using the slide from one model on the frame of another to balance size and barrel length to individual preference. It's essential to ensure that any modifications adhere to safety standards and legal guidelines.
The Glock 19 might have a slightly perceptible increase in recoil compared to the Glock 17 due to its shorter barrel and slide. The difference is minor and may not be significant to all shooters. Both firearms are designed with recoil management in mind, and many shooters find them to be manageable and user-friendly in this regard.
It is difficult to determine definitively which model sells more as Glock does not release exact sales numbers. However, various reports and anecdotal evidence suggest that the Glock 19 might have a slight edge in sales over the Glock 17. The compact size and versatility of the Glock 19 make it a preferred choice for both law enforcement and civilian concealed carry, contributing to its potential higher sales volume. Ultimately, the best-selling model can vary from year to year and region to region.
How to carry Glock 17 and Glock 19?
Both Glock 19 as well as G17 were originally designed for duty carry, which is why Glock didn't have to make them as tiny as most of contemporary CCW guns are. If you get any of these guns to fulfil their initial purpose, then you can easily carry them in an open carry holster. So, if that's the case, go ahead and pick yourself a OWB Holsters For Glock 17 or if you prefer the G19, then treat yourself to a well made OWB Holsters For Glock 19.
But if you count among the "general public", I'm sure you're mainly interested in IWB carry (inside the waistband). For this purpose, the smaller of the two models - Glock 19 - seems to be the more ideal option. And here's a list of many excellent IWB Holsters For Glock 19. But I wouldn't give up on concealed carrying of Glock 17 either. The gun is a bit bigger than its main competitor, but if you get a well built Glock 17 concealed carry holster, I'm sure you'll be able to use the G17 as your go to carry gun.
Conclusion - Is the Glock 17 worth carrying over the 19?
Now we got to the point where the winner of this ultimate battle should be announced. With regards to this battle, the winner is the Glock 17. Mainly because of its little better accuracy and higher magazine capacity. However, with the addition of the right aftermarket accessories, such as extended magazine or even lights and lasers, the G19 becomes a real threat to the G17.
Although the winner of this ultimate battle is the G17, to be honest, when considering a new everyday concealed carry gun, the Glock 19 definitely makes a bit more sense. It is smaller, more compact and lightweight and surely will be the right choice for you. So, if a new CCW gun is what you're currently looking for, have a look at our list of top 5 before-you-buy Glock 19 reviews. I'm sure you'll quickly understand why this pistol deserve a chance, that is, if you haven't already.