Exterior Appearance and Aesthetic Nuances
Frame
The Glock 19 Gen 4, with its Rough Textured Frame, or RTF, frame exhibits a specific tactile feel. This texture, while providing grip, is marked by the presence of finger grooves along the front of the grip. These grooves, intended to aid in hand placement and secure grip, can be a point of contention for some shooters. Some find they perfectly align with their fingers, providing a natural and comfortable hold. Others, however, find that the grooves don’t quite match their hand size, potentially causing an awkward grip. The overall appearance, while utilitarian, is clearly defined by these characteristic grooves.
The Gen 5, on the other hand, embraces a more streamlined approach. The finger grooves are absent, yielding a smoother profile and a grip experience tailored towards universal fit. The grip texture itself is also modified. It’s the “Gen 5 Rough Texture,” which provides excellent purchase without the potentially mismatched feel of the finger grooves. The texture is more refined, and the feeling is more consistent across the entire grip surface. The Gen 5 thus presents a cleaner and more modern aesthetic.
Slide
The slide, too, contributes to the overall aesthetic. The Glock 19 Gen 4, like its predecessors, usually has front slide serrations. These grooves, cut into the front portion of the slide, facilitate press checks and slide manipulation.
The Gen 5 takes this a step further. Front slide serrations are retained, and the metal finish on the slide is improved. This results in a more wear-resistant and arguably more visually appealing finish, enhancing the overall impression of quality and durability.
Enhanced Grip and Ergonomic Refinements
Ergonomics play a crucial role in handgun control, especially during a fast-paced scenario. These two Glock 19 generations reflect different approaches to ergonomics, each with its unique advantages.
Finger Grooves
We already touched upon the most obvious ergonomic differentiator: the finger grooves. The absence of these grooves in the Gen 5 makes a noticeable impact. For those who have felt that the Gen 4 finger grooves were ill-suited to their hand size, the Gen 5 offers a welcome change. The smoother grip allows for a more adaptable and comfortable hold for a broader range of hand sizes and grip styles. The revised grip texture also complements this, enhancing the overall tactile experience.
Magazine Release Button
The magazine release button is another notable point of change. The Gen 4 features a reversible magazine release. Shooters can switch the release button from the left to right side of the pistol, catering to both right and left-handed shooters. However, the Gen 5 provides a significant advantage. The Gen 5 has an ambidextrous magazine release button. This dual-sided design eliminates the need for any switching and grants easy access to the magazine release regardless of the shooter’s dominant hand. This can prove vital in a high-stress situation where rapid magazine changes are crucial.
Internal Mechanical Features and Design Innovations
Beneath the surface, the Glock 19 Gen 5 boasts a range of changes in its internal mechanical systems. These changes significantly influence the shooting experience.
Trigger Mechanism
The trigger mechanism is a key area of evolution. While the fundamental Glock Safe Action system remains, there are subtle refinements in the Gen 5. The overall trigger feel is perceived as improved by many shooters. This can manifest as a smoother pull, a more crisp break, or a more positive reset. These nuances in the trigger pull can contribute significantly to more accurate and controlled shooting.
Barrel
The barrel itself receives a significant upgrade in the Gen 5. The Glock Marksman Barrel, or GMB, is a hallmark of the Gen 5 design. This barrel incorporates enhancements to the rifling, resulting in tighter groups and improved accuracy. The overall effect of the GMB is an enhanced ability to hit your intended target, especially at extended ranges.
Slide Stop Lever
The slide stop lever is also modified. In Gen 5, the slide stop lever is also ambidextrous. This means that whether you’re a right-handed or left-handed shooter, you can easily manipulate the slide stop to lock the slide back or release it after a magazine change.
Magazine Compatibility and Design Evolution
Glock magazines are renowned for their durability and reliability, and they are interchangeable across many Glock models. But how do Gen 4 and Gen 5 magazines interact?
In many cases, the magazines between the Gen 4 and Gen 5 are designed in such a way that they are cross-compatible. However, there may be some differences in the design. Gen 5 magazines commonly feature an orange follower, which is an easy visual way to distinguish them. This is in addition to possible design modifications to the magazine’s base plate or other parts.
Shooting Performance: Accuracy and Practicality
When it comes to performance, understanding the possible implications of the mechanical changes is essential. The GMB incorporated into the Gen 5 is aimed at precision. Based on user reviews and independent testing, the Gen 5 often exhibits a slight edge in accuracy. This translates into tighter groupings and greater confidence at varying distances.
The improved trigger pull in the Gen 5, as mentioned earlier, often contributes to enhanced control. A smoother trigger pull gives the shooter a more predictable and manageable firing experience.
The modifications to the grip texture and the lack of finger grooves in the Gen 5 further enhances grip and control. This is a crucial feature, especially during rapid-fire scenarios.
Price and Availability in the Current Market
The price of a Glock 19 can vary depending on the retailer, the specific configuration, and market demand. Generally, the Gen 4 models might be available at a slightly lower price point, due to the increased availability and the natural progression of the product lifecycle.
However, the Gen 5 models typically command a premium due to their updated features and more recent production. These often enjoy high demand. Regardless of the generation, the Glock 19 represents a solid value for its performance, durability, and widespread availability.
Which Glock 19 Suits You Best? Making a Decision
Ultimately, the “best” Glock 19 – Gen 4 or Gen 5 – depends on individual needs and preferences.
Consider the following
Grip and Ergonomics: If finger grooves don’t suit your hand size, or if you favor a smoother grip profile, the Gen 5 is worth exploring. The ambidextrous magazine release in the Gen 5 is also an advantage for left-handed shooters or those prioritizing ease of access.
Shooting Performance: The GMB may result in increased accuracy. However, the overall shooting performance between the two generations is comparable. Consider this as a significant factor only if you are chasing every possible advantage in accuracy.
Budget: While the Glock 19 is accessible, your budget may also affect the decision-making process. In many markets, you might encounter a slightly lower cost on a Gen 4. However, it’s important to weigh the price difference against your individual feature preferences.
Availability: While the Glock 19 is readily available in both generations, specific models or configurations may be easier to find than others. Check with your local gun stores to determine what is most readily accessible.
In summary, the Glock 19 Gen 4 represents a proven design. The Glock 19 Gen 5 introduces several key updates, enhancing ergonomics, and performance. Both are exceptional handguns. By understanding the “Difference Between Glock 19 Gen 4 And 5,” you can make an informed decision and select the best Glock 19 for your specific needs.
Conclusion: A Timeless Design Evolving
The Glock 19, in both its Gen 4 and Gen 5 iterations, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, reliable, and effective firearms. The Gen 5 represents a refinement of an already excellent design. Whether you’re drawn to the more streamlined ergonomics, the enhanced trigger, the improved barrel, or the ambidextrous controls of the Gen 5, or the reliable performance of the Gen 4, you’re choosing a handgun that is renowned for its reliability. Ultimately, the choice is yours. Thorough research and hands-on experience are the best approaches to understanding which features you value most. The Glock 19, in any generation, will serve you well.
