Choosing the right handgun is a deeply personal decision, often influenced by factors like intended use, hand size, and personal preference. Within the popular Glock 19 family, the choice between the original Glock 19 and the Gen 5 model presents a compelling comparison. This detailed analysis will dissect the key differences, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each to help you make an informed decision.
Key Differences: A Head-to-Head Comparison
The Glock 19 Gen 5 represents a significant evolution from its predecessor. While retaining the core characteristics that made the Glock 19 famous – its compact size, manageable recoil, and reliable performance – the Gen 5 incorporates several refinements designed to enhance the shooting experience and overall functionality.
1. Trigger: Enhanced Performance and Feel
- Glock 19: Features the classic Glock trigger, known for its slightly gritty feel and somewhat long trigger pull. While reliable, it's often seen as a less refined trigger compared to other high-end handguns.
- Glock 19 Gen 5: Boasts a significant upgrade with the improved trigger, offering a smoother, cleaner break and a slightly shorter reset. Many shooters find this updated trigger noticeably more comfortable and precise, contributing to improved accuracy.
2. Slide: Marks of Distinction
- Glock 19: Features traditional Glock serrations, which some shooters find less aggressive than other options.
- Glock 19 Gen 5: Employs ambidextrous slide serrations, making manipulation easier for both right-handed and left-handed shooters. The front and rear serrations are also more aggressively textured, providing improved grip, especially when the slide is wet or oily.
3. Frame: Refined Ergonomics
- Glock 19: Features a standard polymer frame with finger grooves, a feature that some find beneficial while others find it hinders their grip.
- Glock 19 Gen 5: The Gen 5 model removes the finger grooves, offering a more versatile and customizable grip for a wider range of hand sizes. This design facilitates a more natural grip for many users, leading to improved comfort and control. It also features an improved magazine catch, making magazine changes quicker and more efficient.
4. Magazine: Enhanced Reliability
- Glock 19: Uses standard Glock 19 magazines, readily available everywhere.
- Glock 19 Gen 5: Uses the same magazines, but the magazine release is ambidextrous.
5. Recoil Spring Assembly: Simplified Maintenance
- Glock 19: Has a dual recoil spring assembly, requiring more steps during field stripping and cleaning.
- Glock 19 Gen 5: Employs a single recoil spring assembly, simplifying the disassembly and maintenance process considerably, making it faster and easier for the shooter.
Which Glock 19 is Right for You?
The decision between the Glock 19 and Glock 19 Gen 5 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Glock 19 if:
- You prefer the classic Glock trigger feel and are comfortable with the traditional slide serrations and finger grooves.
- You're on a tighter budget, as the Gen 5 is typically slightly more expensive.
- You have a smaller budget and are comfortable with the classic Glock features.
Choose the Glock 19 Gen 5 if:
- You value a smoother, more refined trigger and enhanced ambidextrous controls.
- You prefer a more aggressive, easier-to-grip slide and a more versatile, finger groove-less grip.
- You appreciate simplified maintenance and quicker magazine changes.
Conclusion:
Both the Glock 19 and the Glock 19 Gen 5 are reliable and capable handguns. The Gen 5 represents a notable improvement in several key areas, offering enhanced ergonomics, a refined trigger, and simplified maintenance. However, the original Glock 19 remains a popular and effective choice, especially for those who appreciate its classic features and potentially lower cost. Thorough research, ideally including hands-on experience at a shooting range, is crucial in making the best choice for your individual needs.
