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Is FN better than Glock? This question has sparked much debate among gun enthusiasts. The FN 509 vs Glock 19 comparison delves into two of the top handgun models available.
Glock pistols, particularly the Glock 19, are renowned for their reliability, simplicity, and ease of maintenance. FN pistols, such as the FN 509, are praised for their modularity, advanced features, and tactical versatility. This review will examine whether FN or Glock is the better choice by evaluating their performance, concealability, ergonomics, accuracy, and price.
What Gun Model does Glock and FN Herstal have in Common?
The Glock 19 and FN 509 are the most comparable models from Glock and FN Herstal, respectively. Both are compact, polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols designed for concealed carry and duty use. The Glock 19 and FN 509 share similar features such as barrel length, magazine capacity, and trigger pull weight, making them common choices for self-defense and law enforcement. All Glock models, including the Glock 19, are known for reliability and extensive aftermarket support, including Glock holsters. FN Herstal is recognized for innovation and advanced ergonomics, with a growing market for FN holsters.
What are the Glock 19 Series?
The Glock 19 series is a lineup of compact 9mm pistols that includes the Glock 19 Gen 3, Gen 4, Gen 5, and the Glock 19X, all known for their reliability and versatility. Each generation offers improvements in design and performance: the Gen 3 is known for reliability, the Gen 4 features an improved grip and dual recoil spring, the Gen 5 includes a flared magwell and enhanced accuracy, and the 19X combines a full-size frame with a compact slide. These models are popular for concealed carry and duty use due to their balance of size, capacity, and firepower.
Glock 19 Gen 1
The Glock 19 Gen 1 is a compact 9mm pistol. The Glock 19 Gen 1 was designed for versatility, making it suitable for concealed carry and duty use. The Glock 19 Gen 1 has a magazine capacity of 15 rounds, an overall length of 7.36 inches, a barrel length of 4.02 inches, an overall width of 1.18 inches, and a height (with magazine) of 5.04 inches. The weight is 21.16 ounces with an empty magazine and 29.98 ounces with a loaded magazine. The trigger pull weight is approximately 5.5 pounds. The Glock 19 Gen 1 is known for its reliability and ease of use while setting the standard for compact handguns.
Glock 19 Gen 2
The Glock 19 Gen 2 is a compact 9mm pistol designed for both concealed carry and duty use. The Glock 19 Gen 2 retained the same core features as its predecessor but added a checkered front and back strap for improved grip. The Glock 19 Gen 2 has a magazine capacity of 15 rounds, an overall length of 7.36 inches, and a barrel length of 4.02 inches. Its overall width is 1.18 inches, with a height (including magazine) of 5.04 inches. The Glock 19 Gen 2 weighs 21.16 ounces with an empty magazine and 29.98 ounces when loaded. The trigger pull weight is approximately 5.5 pounds. The Glock 19 Gen 2 continued to build on the reputation of reliability and ease of use established by the first generation.
Glock 19 Gen 3
The Glock 19 Gen 3 is a compact 9mm pistol known for its enhanced ergonomics and versatility. The Glock 19 Gen 3 is designed for concealed carry and duty use. The Glock 19 Gen 3 features an accessory rail for mounting tactical lights and lasers. The Glock 19 Gen 3 has a 15-round magazine capacity, an overall length of 7.36 inches, and a barrel length of 4.02 inches. Its overall width is 1.18 inches, with a height (including magazine) of 5.04 inches. The Glock 19 Gen 3 weighs 21.16 ounces with an empty magazine and 29.98 ounces when loaded. The trigger pull weight is approximately 5.5 pounds. This generation is favored for its balance of size, capacity, and the addition of finger grooves and a textured grip for improved handling.
Glock 19 Gen 4
The Glock 19 Gen 4 is a compact 9mm pistol known for its enhanced modularity and improved ergonomics. The Glock 19 Gen 4 is designed for concealed carry and duty use. The Glock 19 Gen 4 features an interchangeable backstrap system to accommodate different hand sizes and a dual recoil spring assembly for reduced recoil and increased durability. The Glock 19 Gen 4 has a 15-round magazine capacity, an overall length of 7.28 inches, and a barrel length of 4.02 inches. Its overall width is 1.18 inches, with a height (including magazine) of 5.04 inches. The Glock 19 Gen 4 weighs 21.16 ounces with an empty magazine and 29.98 ounces when loaded. The trigger pull weight is approximately 5.5 pounds. This generation is praised for its adaptability, enhanced grip texture, and increased comfort for a wide range of users.
Glock 19 Gen 5
The Glock 19 Gen 5, is a compact 9mm pistol that incorporates several design improvements for enhanced performance and user experience. The Glock 19 Gen 5 is designed for concealed carry and duty use, featuring a flared magwell for faster reloads, ambidextrous slide stop levers, and the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) for improved accuracy. The Glock 19 Gen 5 has a 15-round magazine capacity, an overall length of 7.28 inches, and a barrel length of 4.02 inches. Its overall width is 1.34 inches, with a height (including magazine) of 5.04 inches. The Glock 19 Gen 5 weighs 21.52 ounces with an empty magazine and 30.16 ounces when loaded. The trigger pull weight is approximately 5.5 pounds. This generation is noted for its improved ergonomics, lack of finger grooves, and enhanced durability, making it a preferred choice for both professional and civilian users.
Glock 19X
The Glock 19X is a crossover pistol combining the full-size frame of the Glock 17 with the compact slide of the Glock 19, designed primarily for military use. The Glock 19X is chambered in 9mm, providing a versatile option for both concealed carry and duty use. The Glock 19X has a 17+1 round magazine capacity, an overall length of 7.44 inches, and a barrel length of 4.02 inches. Its overall width is 1.30 inches, with a height (including magazine) of 5.47 inches. The Glock 19X weighs 22.05 ounces with an empty magazine and 31.39 ounces when loaded. The trigger pull weight is approximately 5.5 pounds. The Glock 19X is distinguished by its Coyote color, ambidextrous slide stop levers, and lanyard loop, enhancing its appeal for military and tactical applications.
Glock 19M
The Glock 19M is a specialized version of the Glock 19 Gen 5. The Glock 19M was developed for the FBI and introduced to the public. The Glock 19M is a compact 9mm pistol designed for law enforcement and professional use, incorporating several custom features requested by the FBI. The Glock 19M has a magazine capacity of 15 rounds, an overall length of 7.28 inches, and a barrel length of 4.02 inches. Its overall width is 1.34 inches, with a height (including magazine) of 5.04 inches. The Glock 19M weighs 21.52 ounces with an empty magazine and 30.16 ounces when loaded. The trigger pull weight is approximately 5.5 pounds. Notable features include an ambidextrous slide stop lever, no finger grooves on the grip, a rounded FBI magazine catch, and a marksman barrel for enhanced accuracy, making it a highly reliable and accurate firearm for professional use.
Which Glock is the most accurate?
The Glock 34 is widely considered the most accurate Glock model. The Glock 34, designed specifically for competition shooting, features a longer barrel and slide, which contribute to its superior accuracy. The Glock 34 is chambered in 9mm. The Glock 34 has a barrel length of 5.31 inches, which allows for a longer sight radius and improved ballistic performance. The Glock 34 incorporates a lighter trigger pull weight of around 4.5 pounds, compared to the standard 5.5 pounds found in other Glock models, which enhances precision shooting. The extended slide length and reduced muzzle flip make the Glock 34 exceptionally stable, allowing shooters to maintain accuracy even during rapid fire. The Glock 34 is a favorite among competitive shooters and is often chosen for its reliable and consistent performance in accuracy-critical situations.
Which Glock is the best performer?
The Glock 17 is the best performer among Glock models. The Glock 17 is chambered in 9mm. The Glock 17 is known for its exceptional balance of size, capacity, and reliability, making it a top performer in various applications. The Glock 17 features a 4.49-inch barrel and an overall length of 8.03 inches, providing a good balance between accuracy and ease of handling. The Glock 17 offers ample firepower with a magazine capacity of 17 rounds. The Glock 17's design includes a standard trigger pull weight of approximately 5.5 pounds, which ensures consistent performance. Its durability, ease of maintenance, and widespread use by law enforcement and military forces globally underscore its reputation as a reliable and high-performing pistol. The Glock 17’s versatility makes it suitable for duty use, home defense, and even competition shooting, highlighting its all-around superior performance.
Which Glock is used by the military?
The Glock 19 is used by various military forces around the world. The Glock 19 is a compact 9mm pistol. The Glock 19 is favored for its reliability, versatility, and ease of use. The Glock 19 features a barrel length of 4.02 inches and an overall length of 7.36 inches, making it suitable for a range of military applications, including concealed carry and duty use. With a magazine capacity of 15 rounds, The Glock 19 offers a good balance of firepower and compactness. The Glock 19’s standard trigger pull weight of approximately 5.5 pounds ensures consistent performance. Its adoption by military units, including U.S. Special Operations forces, highlights its robustness and dependability in various operational environments. The Glock 19’s combination of size, capacity, and performance makes it an ideal choice for military use.
Which Glock is the most reliable?
The Glock 19 is the most reliable Glock model. The Glock 19 is a compact 9mm pistol. The Glock 19 is celebrated for its outstanding reliability across various conditions and environments. The Glock 19 has a barrel length of 4.02 inches and an overall length of 7.36 inches. The Glock 19 strikes an optimal balance between portability and performance. The Glock 19 has a magazine capacity of 15 rounds and a trigger pull weight of approximately 5.5 pounds, ensuring consistent and dependable operation. Its design simplicity, ease of maintenance, and robust construction contribute to its reputation for reliability. Law enforcement and military units globally rely on the Glock 19, further cementing its status as a highly reliable firearm. The combination of its durable design, reliable performance, and widespread use makes the Glock 19 a standout choice for those seeking an unerring handgun.
Which Glock offers the best ergonomics?
The Glock 19 Gen 4 offers the best ergonomics among Glock models. The Glock 19 Gen 4 features an interchangeable backstrap system that allows users to customize the grip to fit their hand size, enhancing comfort and control. The improved grip texture provides a secure hold, even in adverse conditions. Its compact size, with a barrel length of 4.02 inches and overall length of 7.28 inches, makes it comfortable for a wide range of users. The ambidextrous magazine catch and reversible backstraps make the Glock 19 Gen 4 adaptable for both right- and left-handed shooters. These ergonomic enhancements contribute to the Glock 19 Gen 4’s popularity among users seeking a comfortable, customizable, and reliable handgun.
Which Glock is favored by law enforcement?
The Glock 22 is favored by law enforcement agencies. The Glock 22, chambered in .40 S&W, is preferred by many law enforcement agencies for its balance of stopping power and capacity. The Glock 22 has a barrel length of 4.49 inches and an overall length of 7.95 inches, offering a good combination of accuracy and handling. The Glock 22 provides adequate firepower for law enforcement duties with a magazine capacity of 15 rounds. The Glock 22's robust design, reliability, and ease of maintenance make it a trusted choice among officers. Its widespread adoption by numerous police departments in the United States highlights its effectiveness and dependability in the field.
What are FN 509 Herstal Series?
The FN 509 Herstal Series is a family of semi-automatic pistols designed for versatility and reliability, including the FN 509, FN 509 Tactical, FN 509 Compact, and FN 509 Compact Tactical. The FN 509, chambered in 9mm, features a standard barrel length of 4 inches and a magazine capacity of 17 rounds. The Tactical variant includes a threaded barrel for suppressors and a 24-round extended magazine, making it suitable for more specialized applications. The Compact and Compact Tactical models offer shorter barrel lengths of around 3.7 inches and reduced magazine capacities of 12 rounds, tailored for concealed carry while maintaining the series' robust performance. The FN 509 series are known for their ergonomic design, improved grip texture, and ambidextrous controls. The FN 509 series is widely appreciated for its accuracy, modularity, and reliability in various conditions, making it a popular choice for both law enforcement and civilian use.
FN 509 Standard
The FN 509 is a versatile and reliable 9mm semi-automatic pistol designed for a range of applications including self-defense and duty use. The FN 509 Standard features a magazine capacity of 17 rounds, an overall length of 7.4 inches, and a barrel length of 4 inches. The overall width of the FN 509 Standard is 1.35 inches, with a height (including magazine) of 5.56 inches. The FN 509 Standard with an empty magazine weighs 26.9 ounces, and approximately 34.04 ounces when loaded. The trigger pull weight is around 5.5 to 7.5 pounds, offering a balance between safety and performance. The FN 509 Standard is known for its ergonomic design, aggressive grip texture, and ambidextrous controls. The FN 509 Standard provides excellent handling and accuracy, making it a popular choice among both civilian and law enforcement users.
FN 509 Midsize
The FN 509 Midsize is a 9mm semi-automatic pistol designed to offer a balance between full-size performance and compact concealability. The FN 509 Midsize features a magazine capacity of 15 rounds, an overall length of 7.4 inches, and a barrel length of 4 inches. The overall width is 1.35 inches, and the height (including magazine) is 5.2 inches. The FN 509 Midsize with an empty magazine weighs 26.5 ounces and approximately 33.3 ounces when loaded. The trigger pull weight is around 5.5 to 7.5 pounds. The FN 509 Midsize is known for its ergonomic design, enhanced grip texture, and ambidextrous controls. The FN 509 Midsize provides excellent handling and reliability, making it a versatile choice for both concealed carry and duty use.
FN 509 Tactical
The FN 509 Tactical is a 9mm semi-automatic pistol designed for tactical applications, offering advanced features for enhanced performance. The FN 509 Tactical has a magazine capacity of 17 or 24 rounds, providing flexibility for different operational needs. The overall length of the FN 509 Tactical is 7.9 inches, with a barrel length of 4.5 inches, which includes a threaded barrel for suppressors. The overall width is 1.35 inches, and the height (with magazine) is 5.75 inches. The weight with an empty magazine is 27.9 ounces and approximately 39.3 ounces when loaded with a 24-round magazine. The trigger pull weight ranges from 5.5 to 7.5 pounds. The FN 509 Tactical is equipped with a slide-mounted optic system, enhanced grip texture, and ambidextrous controls, making it highly versatile and reliable for tactical, law enforcement, and self-defense purposes.
FN 509 Compact
The FN 509 Compact is a 9mm semi-automatic pistol designed for concealed carry and personal defense. The FN 509 Compact features a 12-round magazine capacity, with optional 15- and 24-round extended magazines available. The overall length of the FN 509 Compact is 6.8 inches, and it has a barrel length of 3.7 inches. The overall width is 1.35 inches, and the height (with magazine) is 5 inches. The weight with an empty magazine is 25.5 ounces and approximately 31.5 ounces when loaded. The trigger pull weight ranges from 5.5 to 7.5 pounds. Known for its compact size, ergonomic design, and enhanced grip texture, the FN 509 Compact provides reliable performance and ease of concealment, making it an excellent choice for everyday carry.
FN 509 Compact Tactical
The FN 509 Compact Tactical is a 9mm semi-automatic pistol designed for concealed carry and tactical use. The FN 509 Compact Tactical features a 12-round magazine capacity, with 15- and 24-round extended magazine options available. The overall length of the FN 509 Compact Tactical is 7.4 inches, with a barrel length of 4.3 inches. The overall width is 1.35 inches, and the height (with magazine) is 5.3 inches. The weight with an empty magazine is 26.2 ounces and approximately 34.2 ounces when loaded. The trigger pull weight ranges from 5.5 to 7.5 pounds. The FN 509 Compact Tactical includes a threaded barrel for suppressors, a slide-mounted optic system, and enhanced grip texture, making it a versatile and reliable choice for both tactical applications and everyday concealed carry.
FN 509 MRD (Midsize Red Dot)
The FN 509 Midsize MRD (Midsize Red Dot) is a 9mm semi-automatic pistol designed to accommodate a red dot optic for improved accuracy. The FN 509 Midsize MRD features a 15-round magazine capacity, an overall length of 7.4 inches, and a barrel length of 4 inches. The overall width is 1.35 inches, and the height (with magazine) is 5.2 inches. The weight with an empty magazine is 26.5 ounces and approximately 33.3 ounces when loaded. The trigger pull weight ranges from 5.5 to 7.5 pounds. The FN 509 Midsize MRD is known for its enhanced modularity, ergonomic design, and compatibility with various red dot optics, making it an excellent choice for those seeking precision and versatility in a midsize handgun.
FN 509 LS Edge (Longslide Edge)
The FN 509 LS Edge (Longslide Edge) is a high-performance 9mm semi-automatic pistol designed for competition and tactical use. The FN 509 LS Edge features a 17-round magazine capacity, with an extended magazine option. The overall length of the FN 509 LS Edge is 8.2 inches, and it has a 5-inch barrel, providing increased accuracy and a longer sight radius. The overall width is 1.35 inches, and the height (with magazine) is 5.9 inches. The weight with an empty magazine is 31 ounces and approximately 43 ounces when loaded. The trigger pull weight is around 4.5 to 5.5 pounds, offering a crisp and consistent trigger press. The FN 509 LS Edge includes a slide-mounted optic system, enhanced grip texture, and ambidextrous controls, making it an excellent choice for shooters seeking precision and performance in a longslide pistol.
Which FN 509 is the Most Accurate?
The FN 509 LS Edge is the most accurate model in the FN 509 series. The FN 509 LS Edge is designed with a longer barrel length of 5 inches, which enhances accuracy by providing a longer sight radius and improved ballistic performance. The FN 509 LS Edge’s refined trigger pull weight of around 4.5 to 5.5 pounds ensures a crisp and consistent trigger press, contributing to better shot placement. The slide-mounted optic system allows for precise aiming with red dot sights. These features collectively make the FN 509 LS Edge the preferred choice for shooters seeking maximum accuracy in a handgun.
Which FN 509 is the Performer?
The FN 509 Tactical is the top performer in the FN 509 series. The FN 509 Tactical stands out due to its advanced features designed for superior performance in tactical situations. The FN 509 Tactical has a threaded barrel for suppressors, a slide-mounted optic system for red dot sights, and extended 24-round magazine options, providing enhanced versatility and firepower. The 4.5-inch barrel and robust build ensure reliable accuracy and durability. These features make the FN 509 Tactical a highly effective and versatile option for tactical applications, self-defense, and competitive shooting, earning its reputation as the top performer in the FN 509 lineup.
Which FN 509 is Used by the Military?
The FN 509 Tactical is used by the military. The FN 509 Tactical is favored by military forces due to its advanced tactical features, such as a threaded barrel for suppressors and a slide-mounted optic system for red dot sights. The FN 509 Tactical offers a 17-round magazine capacity, with extended 24-round options available, enhancing its firepower in combat situations. The FN 509 Tactical’s robust design, 4.5-inch barrel, and enhanced ergonomics provide reliable performance and accuracy, making it well-suited for military operations. Its adoption by military units highlights its reliability, versatility, and superior tactical capabilities.
Is the FN larger than the Glock?
Yes, the FN 509 series is generally larger than the comparable Glock 19 series. The FN 509 Standard has an overall length of 7.4 inches and a height of 5.56 inches, while the Glock 19 Gen 5 has an overall length of 7.28 inches and a height of 5.04 inches. The FN 509 also tends to be slightly heavier, with the FN 509 Standard weighing 26.9 ounces with an empty magazine compared to the Glock 19 Gen 5's 23.63 ounces. These size differences make the FN 509 a bit bulkier, which may impact concealability but can also contribute to improved handling and recoil management.
Can you Fit the Glock 19 Barrel to the FN 509 Pistol?
No, you cannot fit the Glock 19 barrel to the FN 509 pistol. The Glock 19 and FN 509 have different barrel designs, dimensions, and locking mechanisms, making them incompatible. Each pistol is engineered with specific tolerances and parts that are not interchangeable. Attempting to fit a Glock 19 barrel into an FN 509 would result in improper function and could pose safety risks. Each manufacturer designs their barrels to work exclusively with their own models, ensuring reliability and safety.
What makes the FN 509 better than the Glock 19x?
The FN 509 is considered better than the Glock 19X in terms of modularity and optic readiness. The FN 509 Tactical variant comes with a slide-mounted optic system that allows for the easy attachment of red dot sights, a feature not standard on the Glock 19X. The FN 509 offers more modularity with its interchangeable backstraps and enhanced grip texture, providing a customizable fit for various hand sizes. The FN 509 also includes a threaded barrel for suppressors, enhancing its tactical versatility. These features contribute to the FN 509's reputation for being highly adaptable and suitable for a wider range of tactical applications compared to the Glock 19X.
What are the Best Holsters for Glock 19?
The best holsters for the Glock 19 are the Glock 19 Kydex IWB Holster and the Glock 19 Open Top Holster - Panther.
The Glock 19 IWB Holster offers excellent concealability and retention, making it ideal for everyday carry. This kydex holster is lightweight, durable, and provides a secure fit, ensuring that the Glock 19 remains firmly in place while allowing for a smooth draw. The Glock 19 Open Top Holster provides a comfortable and stylish option for those who prefer carrying outside the waistband. This pancake holster is made from high-quality leather, offering a snug fit and easy access to the firearm.
What are the Best Holsters for FN?
The best holsters for FN pistols are the FN IWB Holster W Steel Clip (Red Dot) and the FN Drop Leg Nylon Holster (Red Dot).
The FN IWB Holster is ideal for concealed carry, offering excellent retention, ample room for a red dot attachment, a secure fit, and a slim profile that makes it easy to wear discreetly. The FN Drop Leg Holster is designed for thigh carry and it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a tactical holster as it takes in your FN handgun equipped with an optics device.
