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​All Glock Models Explained & What to Expect from Each

Glock models are world renowned for their reliability, but whether it comes to practice shooting or self-defense, choosing the right model can be a challenge.

A simple search through Glock models will bring in all kinds of models and numbers, each of them with a particular meaning.

This guide will take you through all the models ever created, as well as the overall purpose and capabilities of each of them.

What do those Glock codes mean?

All Glocks are given a code. The first model ever created was the Glock 17, introduced in 1982. Ever since the Glock 17 Gen 1, every model has had the same production code, which includes the brand’s name and a number, sometimes a letter code, such as the Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS.

The code name on every Glock model refers to the model number, while the letter defines a variant of the respective model, usually related to a feature. It could be the slide length or perhaps the barrel.

Some models, such as Generation 4 and 5, come with generation marking as well, which underlines particular features. Previous generations don't come with such markings.

Moving on to Glock models explained, what does each number mean, and how can you distinguish between one code and another?

Glock 9x19mm explained

There are more types of guns in this Glock line up, some of them with a few different variants too.

Glock 17

Boosting a 17 round magazine, hence the name, Glock 17 is a double stack pistol in full size. It's the first model ever produced by Glock and has a few variants:

  • G17C is the compensated variant. Its barrel and slide are ported.
  • G17L has a long slide, while the barrel is 6.02”.
  • Glock 17 MOS comes with a redesigned slide to mount red dot sights.
  • P80 Classic Edition is a commemorative variant of the original G17. The name is related to the original Austrian pistol, Pistole 80.
  • Glock 17 Gen 2 comes with a stippling by the front, as well as a trigger guard and back straps.
  • Glock 17 Gen 3 was introduced a decade later, in 1998, and features a universal Glock rail, thumbrests, and finger grooves on the grip strap.
  • Glock 17 Gen 4 came out in 2010 and stands out with its new ergonomics and recoil spring assembly. Backstraps are interchangeable, and the grip frame is shorter.
  • Glock 17 Gen 5 clears out the frame finger grooves and boosts ergonomics and a few enhancements. The ambidextrous slide stop lever makes the difference too.
  • Glock 17M was originally designed for the FBI only, but it’s become more obtainable lately.

While highly desired for, the Glock 17 threaded barrel is quite rare compared to others. A few models are, however, available with a threaded barrel, such as Glock 9mm Luger, Glock 45 Auto, Glock 42, and Glock 43.

Glock 18

Glock 18 is similar to Glock 17, but it’s a machine pistol variant. However, it’s nearly impossible to get it, as it’s made for law enforcement forces and military personnel.

  • G18C is almost identical, but it also comes with a few enhancements, such as a ported slide and barrel.

Glock 19

Glock 19 is also a double stack pistol, but unlike the G17, it has a 15 round magazine. However, it’s compatible with G17 magazines too.

Glock 19 Gen 1 is now one of the rarest variants. Unlike other types of Glocks, there aren’t too many differences between Glock 19 Gen 2, Glock 19 Gen 3, Glock 19 Gen 4, and Glock 19 Gen 5.

The fifth gen is often known as Glock 19 Desert Tan.

Those interested in a Glock 19 threaded barrel will also find a few different variants.

A few models stand out though:

  • Glock 19C comes with a ported slide and barrel.
  • Glock 19 MOS is ideal for those interested in adding red dot sights. There’s a different one based on the generation, such as Glock 19 Gen 4 MOS or Glock 19 Gen 5 MOS.
  • Glock 19X is a crossover variant. Surprisingly, it doesn't take the standard 19 magazines, so you'll need 17 magazines or even longer.
  • Vickers Glock 19 is a Glock enhanced with parts and features developed by Vickers Tactical.

Apart from the MOS option in more Glock 19 models, there are specific variants based on the design and purposes too:

Fancy colors? Purple Clock 19 and Pink Glock 19 are well appreciated.

Glock 26

Compatible with G19 and G26 magazines, Glock 26 is a subcompact double stack pistol. Similar compatibility can be observed in all generations, including Glock 26 Gen 4 and Glock 26 Gen 5.

G26 MOS is the main variant and takes red dot sights, with Glock 26 MOS Gen 5 being the most popular option.

From all standard generations, Glock 26 Gen 3 is the easiest to find in most online and offline stores, as well as pawnshops.

In terms of popularity, Glock 26 Gen 4 FDE is sought after because of its high level of customization.

Glock 34

Boosting a 5.31” barrel, Glock 34 is the competitive alternative to the classic Glock 17.

  • Glock 34 Gen 2 is a two pin pistol that might feel a bit outdated today.
  • Glock 34 Gen 3 followed up closely, with the only major difference being in how the locking block is kept in it.
  • Glock 34 Gen 4 is rated extremely accurate, not to mention the excellent target acquisition.
  • Glock 34 Gen 5 is lighter than previous generations and makes fast fire a breeze.
  • Glock 34 MOS allows red dot sights, with Glock 34 Gen 4 MOS being a top seller.

Glock 43

From all types of Glocks, the so called slimline stands out and comes with its own six round magazine. It’s also known as Glock 43 with night sights.

  • Glock 43X is a crossover variant and also compatible with a unique 10 round magazine used by Glock 48 too.
  • Glock 43X MOS has a cut slide to take red dot sights.

Designs are quite varied, and popular options include:

Glock 45

Glock 45 shares many of the features of Glock 19X, but comes with a few features from Gen 5. Glock 45 Gen 5 is the most advanced in the range.

  • Glock45 MOS allows fitting red dot sights.
  • Gen 1 to Gen 5 brings in different improvements with every new release, just like all Glock gens for other models.

Glock 48

Glock 48 is another slimline compact design with its own 10 round magazine, which is also used by Glock 43X.

  • Glock 48 MOS is the version allowing red dot sights.
  • There are multiple generations with associated upgrades for each gen.

Glock 10mm auto explained

The 10mm auto was introduced in 1983. The design was adopted by different manufacturers, including Glock.

Glock 20

The Glock 20 10mm is a full size double stack auto pistol boosting a 15 round magazine. While not as popular, the Glosk 20SF 10mm offers the same high level of reliability and features, but it comes with a short frame for small hands.

Glock 29

Glock 29 is a subcompact double stack auto pistol with a 10 round magazine. It also accepts Glock 20 magazines. Glock 29 Gen 3 is one of the best selling models. Glock 29 Gen 4 has a more tactile grip, though.

Glock 29SF is the short frame variant, meaning the frame is 3mm shorter, designed for small hands only.

Glock 40 MOS

Glock 40 MOS is practically a larger version of Glock 20. Like many Glock models, it comes in more generations, with Glock 40 Gen 4 being a very popular option.

.380 ACP

The low power of the cartridge means pistols need to rely on straight blowback action. From all Glock models out there, a few of them rely on this cartridge.

  • G25 is a double stack unit with a 15 round magazine and is not available to civilians in the USA.
  • G28 is similar, but it has a 10 round magazine and features the same type of restrictions.
  • G42 is a single stack slimline with a six round magazine. The Purple Glock 42 is one of the best sellers.

Glock .40 S&W explained

To keep it simple, the .40 cal Glock is a shorter version of the 10mm round. There are quite a few models in the Glock line up relying on it.

Glock 22

Glock 22 is the .40 caliber alternative to G17 and features a 15 round magazine.

  • Glock 22 Gen 2 is the model that made the brand popular for its reliability and durability.
  • Glock 22 Gen 3 is one of the front runners in the third generation, while Glock 22 Gen 4 is a top choice in terms of self defense.
  • Glock 22 Gen 5 stands out with its front serrations and an excellent grip.
  • Glock 22 MOS allows red dot sights.
  • Glock 22C has a compensated barrel and allows easy followup shots. There are more types of Glocks carrying this type of design, including the popular Glock 23C.

Glock 23

With Glock 23, compact designs were revolutionized. The model has a 13 round magazine and can take G22 magazines as well.

Glock 24

This is the longslide variant of the G22. Like other Gen 2 Glocks, the second gen in this model is still considered to be one of the best on the market.

Glock 27

G27 is a subcompact pistol that works with 9 round magazines, as well as G22 and G23 magazines. Glock 27 has been through a few updates overtime, with each gen bringing a specific approach for the brand.

Glock 35

Glock 35 is the G22 alternative for professional sportspeople. Glock 35 Gen 4 and Glock 35 Gen 5 are the top options, with Glock 35 Gen 5 MOS allowing red dot sights too.

Glock .357 SIG explained

Glock models carrying the .357 SIG standard are similar to the Glock .40 S&W units, with differences in chambers and barrels.

  • Glock 31 is a full size 15 round unit.
  • Glock 31C is the compensated alternative.
  • Glock 32 is a compact model with a 13 round magazine that also takes G31 magazines. Glock 32 Gen 3 and Glock 32 Gen 4 dominate sales.
  • Glock 33 is a subcompact and takes nine round magazines, like other pistols in this range.

Glock .45 ACP explained

The .45 ACP cartridge was introduced in 1904 for Colt and is now widely spread among other manufacturers too.

Glock 21

Glock 21 is a full size pistol using a 13 round magazine. It’s been constantly improved over multiple generations.

Glock 30

The subcompact pistol uses 10 round magazines, but it’s compatible with Glock 21 magazines too. It’s a large frame pistol.

Glock 36

Glock 36 is the first slimline pistol produced by the brand and works with its own unique six round magazine.

Glock 41

This is the Glock 21 alternative for competitions. Like other Glock models, it has a MOS version too, for those who prefer red dot sights.

Glock .45 GAP explained

The .45 GAP was introduced by a project by Glock and CCI/Speer.

  • Glock 37 is a double stack unit with a 10 round magazine.
  • Glock 38 is more compact and can take eight round and Glock 37 magazines.
  • Glock 39 is a subcompact design that takes magazines from both G37 and G38, but it also has its own six round magazine.

.22 Long Rifle in small details

The .22 Long Rifle is the long alternative to the popular .22 caliber rimfire.

Glock 44 is the only Glock in this category and makes a solid compact unit. It’s also the first rimfire design coming from Glock. In terms of size, it’s similar to Glock 19.

Bottom line, Glock models have touched most calibers. No matter what type of pistol you’re interested in, knowing codes and what they mean can clear out the Glock line up and making it more accessible.​