Choosing between the Glock 17 and Glock 19 often comes down to size and personal preference. Both are incredibly popular and reliable handguns, but their dimensions significantly impact their suitability for different applications. This in-depth comparison will delve into the key size differences, helping you determine which Glock is right for you.
Key Size Differences: Glock 17 vs. Glock 19
The most significant distinction between the Glock 17 and 19 lies in their overall size and weight. The Glock 17 is the full-size model, while the 19 is the compact version. This size reduction impacts several key aspects:
Overall Length:
- Glock 17: Approximately 7.95 inches
- Glock 19: Approximately 7.28 inches
The Glock 19's shorter barrel and overall length make it significantly more concealable. This difference is crucial for concealed carry.
Slide Length:
- Glock 17: Approximately 6.97 inches
- Glock 19: Approximately 6.02 inches
The shorter slide of the Glock 19 contributes to its reduced size and weight, making it easier to handle and manipulate.
Height:
- Glock 17: Approximately 5.47 inches
- Glock 19: Approximately 5.04 inches
This seemingly small difference in height translates to a noticeable difference in how the gun prints (shows its outline) under clothing. The Glock 19's lower profile is a significant advantage for concealed carry.
Width:
- Glock 17: Approximately 1.26 inches
- Glock 19: Approximately 1.26 inches
Interestingly, both pistols share the same width. This means the Glock 19 maintains a similar grip profile despite its smaller size.
Weight (Unloaded):
- Glock 17: Approximately 22.0 oz (624g)
- Glock 19: Approximately 20.8 oz (590g)
While the weight difference isn't dramatic, the Glock 19's lighter weight makes it less tiring to carry throughout the day, especially when concealed.
Beyond Dimensions: Practical Considerations
Size isn't the only factor to consider. Here are some practical aspects to weigh when deciding between the Glock 17 and 19:
Concealed Carry:
The Glock 19's smaller size makes it far superior for concealed carry. Its reduced dimensions make it easier to conceal under clothing without significant printing.
Target Acquisition and Shooting Accuracy:
The Glock 17's longer sight radius offers a slight advantage in terms of target acquisition and potential accuracy at longer ranges. However, this difference is often negligible for most self-defense scenarios. The Glock 19 remains highly accurate.
Magazine Capacity:
The Glock 17 typically holds more rounds than the Glock 19. The capacity difference depends on the specific magazines used, but the Glock 17 generally offers a greater round count.
Recoil Management:
Both pistols are known for relatively manageable recoil, but the slightly lighter weight of the Glock 19 might produce a sharper recoil impulse for some shooters. This is often a matter of individual preference and shooting technique.
Which Glock is Right for You?
The best Glock for you depends entirely on your intended use:
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Choose the Glock 17 if: You prioritize maximum capacity, a longer sight radius, and less noticeable recoil. It's an excellent choice for range practice, competition shooting, or duty use where concealment isn't a primary concern.
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Choose the Glock 19 if: Concealed carry is your primary need. Its smaller size and reduced weight make it ideal for daily carry, without significantly sacrificing performance.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to handle both pistols and see which one feels better in your hand. Visit a local firearms retailer to test-fire both models and make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
