GLOCK 17 vs GLOCK 19: What are the Differences?
By Chris Edwards
Over 50 years ago, Gaston Glock created his first pistol design, which came to be designated the G17. Today, there are multiple models in different sizes and calibers. The second to come out was the G19, a slightly smaller pistol on the same design. Both are great handguns, but some people wonder how these pistols rate if one would pit the GLOCK 17 vs the GLOCK 19.
The G17 is classified as a standard- or full-size pistol. It is used by military personnel and law enforcement around the world, as well as citizens for defense. There are, as of 2024, five different generations of the G17 and all are basically identical in size and weight.
The G19 is smaller. As such, it better fits smaller hands and it is easier to carry concealed. However, it uses many of the same parts as the G17. It has also expanded through five generations of advancements.
History of the GLOCK
In 1986, GLOCK began to assemble and sell pistols in America. One of the first larger police departments to test and adopt the G17 was in the City of Miami a few years later.
The G17 was extensively tested, but the PD had a request of GLOCK. Could a slightly smaller version be made that could be issued to plainclothes detectives and administrators? GLOCK quickly made a few prototypes, and the G19 became a reality. The barrel was shorter by a half inch, and the frame was cut down by about the same for concealment. However, the G19 could accept and function with G17 magazines.
The G17 and G19 share a lot of internal parts, which Armorers appreciate. Miami PD liked the G19, and the model started to be produced as the second generation of GLOCKs began to be manufactured.
The basic differences in the GLOCK 17 vs the GLOCK 19 debate are 1.34 ounces in weight, .47 inches in length and .43 inches in height. This doesn’t seem like much, but it makes a difference to many.
GLOCK 17 vs GLOCK 19 Dimensions
With the G17 and G19 so close in dimensions, what do the small differences mean for the user? As with car seats, one model will feel better for the operator. Shooters with large hands may feel more comfortable with the G17.
I have large hands but I can shoot both the G17 and G19 within a point or two on the same courses of fire. The G17 is usually a bit easier to shoot past 15 yards due to its longer sight radius. Also, during speed reloads, the G17 handles slightly faster in my hands. However, the G19 is within a half second or so of the full-size frame. The differences are insignificant other than operators’ preference.
It is easier to carry a G19 concealed, as it is a bit smaller. There are even ankle holsters for the G19. That carry option wouldn’t work with the larger G17 pistol.
Some carry off body in a purse, pouch or waist pack, which, within reason, can hold standard-size handguns. Generally speaking, though, the G19 is just a little more size efficient.
It’s About The Mission
The G17, named because it was the company’s 17 project, has a standard magazine capacity of 17 rounds. The G19 magazine holds 15 rounds. This may be of importance to officers, but the G19 reliably functions with a G17 magazines.
Speaking of reliability, U.S. Federal law enforcement agencies have exhaustively tested both the G17 and G19. There was no difference between the two models; both provided 100-percent reliability.
From another perspective, military special operations personnel have both models in inventories. In full kit battle rattle, G17 pistols are in (unconcealed) holsters. The G19 may be issued for lower profile operations. Higher capacity magazines are available where needed and appropriate.
The slight differences between the GLOCK G17 and G19 are not significant. Everything really comes down to users’ mission.
For an individual in uniform the G17 has more capacity. The G19, however, is a little more versatile for concealed and off-duty carry. The New York City Police Department has authorized the G19, for on and off duty, for years. Today, both the G17 and G19 are authorized. Additionally, the adaptation of red dots on pistols over the past decade have minimized any difference in sight radius.
Generations of GLOCK
Each GLOCK generation of pistols had small evolutionary improvements. The 2nd generation G17s and G19s set the basic size “envelopes.” The Gen3 models introduced the frame rail system so lights and/or lasers could be mounted. The Gen4 GLOCKs had frames where one could add or take off sections (backstraps) to make the frame slightly larger or smaller. The dual recoil spring system was installed in these G17s and G19s.
Gen5 GLOCKs have different internal parts than the earlier generations and ambidextrous controls, but they still have GLOCK reliability, durability and performance.
In regard to the GLOCK 17 vs GLOCK 19, what’s the real difference? Only the owner can answer that question depending on needs, wants and preferences. As a final example, I have used both the G17 and G19 when training. The G17, for me, satisfies the home-defense role. But when I leave the house, I carry a G19 legally concealed. So, one might just consider both.
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