Glock 17 Gen-5 Review: The Evolution of Perfection?

The Glock 17 is arguably one of the most recognizable and widely used handguns in the world. The fifth generation, or Gen-5, represents the latest iteration of this iconic firearm. This Glock 17 Gen-5 review will delve into the key features, improvements, and overall performance of this popular pistol, helping you decide if it’s the right choice for your needs.

A Brief History of the Glock 17

Before diving into the Gen-5, it’s important to understand the legacy of the Glock 17. Introduced in the early 1980s, the Glock 17 revolutionized the handgun market with its polymer frame, simple design, and reliable performance. It quickly became a favorite among law enforcement agencies and civilian shooters alike. Each subsequent generation has brought refinements and improvements, building upon the original’s success.

Key Features and Improvements of the Glock 17 Gen-5

The Glock 17 Gen-5 boasts several key improvements over previous generations, designed to enhance performance, reliability, and user experience.

Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB)

One of the most significant upgrades is the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB). This barrel features enhanced rifling that is designed to improve accuracy. Many users report tighter groupings and improved consistency compared to older Glock barrels.

Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever

The Glock 17 Gen-5 includes an ambidextrous slide stop lever, making it easier for both left-handed and right-handed shooters to operate the firearm. This is a welcome addition for lefties who previously had to manipulate the slide stop with their trigger finger or have aftermarket modifications done.

No Finger Grooves

The finger grooves that were present on previous generations of the Glock frame have been removed in the Gen-5. This allows for a more comfortable and adaptable grip for a wider range of hand sizes. Some shooters found the finger grooves on earlier models to be restrictive or uncomfortable, so their removal is a popular change.

nDLC Finish

The Glock 17 Gen-5 features Glock’s nDLC (nitride Diamond-Like Carbon) finish on the slide and barrel. This finish provides enhanced corrosion resistance and durability, helping to protect the firearm from wear and tear. It’s a tougher finish than previous generations, making the Gen-5 more resistant to scratches and other damage.

Flared Magazine Well

The magazine well on the Glock 17 Gen-5 has been slightly flared to aid in faster and more reliable magazine changes. This is particularly useful in high-stress situations where quick reloading is critical. The flared magwell helps guide the magazine into place, reducing the chance of a fumble.

Modified Trigger Mechanism

While the Glock trigger is never going to be confused with a tuned 1911 trigger, the Glock 17 Gen-5 features a slightly modified trigger mechanism that some users find to be smoother and more consistent than previous generations. The trigger pull weight remains similar, but the overall feel is improved.

Interchangeable Backstraps

Like previous generations, the Glock 17 Gen-5 comes with interchangeable backstraps, allowing users to customize the grip size to fit their hand. This helps improve comfort and control, leading to better accuracy and recoil management. The backstraps are easy to install and remove, allowing for quick adjustments.

Performance and Handling

The Glock 17 Gen-5 lives up to the Glock reputation for reliability and ease of use. The pistol is comfortable to shoot, with manageable recoil thanks to its polymer frame. The improved grip texture and lack of finger grooves contribute to a more secure and comfortable hold.

Accuracy is also excellent, thanks to the Glock Marksman Barrel. In testing, the Glock 17 Gen-5 consistently produced tight groupings at various distances. The improved trigger also contributes to better accuracy, allowing for more precise shots.

Reliability is a hallmark of the Glock platform, and the Gen-5 is no exception. It functions flawlessly with a wide variety of ammunition, including both factory and reloaded rounds. The nDLC finish provides excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring that the pistol will continue to perform reliably even in harsh conditions.

Pros and Cons of the Glock 17 Gen-5

To provide a balanced Glock 17 Gen-5 review, let’s consider the pros and cons of this firearm.

Pros:

• Improved Accuracy: The Glock Marksman Barrel significantly enhances accuracy.
• Ambidextrous Controls: The ambidextrous slide stop lever caters to both left-handed and right-handed shooters.
• Enhanced Durability: The nDLC finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and protects against wear and tear.
• Improved Ergonomics: The removal of finger grooves and the inclusion of interchangeable backstraps make the pistol more comfortable to hold and shoot.
• Reliability: The Glock 17 Gen-5 is known for its reliability and ability to function flawlessly with a wide variety of ammunition.
• Flared Magwell: Aids in faster magazine changes.

Cons:

• Trigger: While improved, the Glock trigger is still not as refined as some other handgun triggers.
• Price: The Glock 17 Gen-5 can be more expensive than some other polymer-framed pistols.
• Aesthetics: Some shooters may find the Glock’s utilitarian design to be unappealing.

Who is the Glock 17 Gen-5 For?

The Glock 17 Gen-5 is a versatile handgun that is suitable for a wide range of users. It is an excellent choice for:

• Law Enforcement: The Glock 17 is a popular choice among law enforcement agencies due to its reliability, durability, and ease of use.
• Home Defense: The Glock 17’s high capacity and ease of operation make it a good choice for home defense.
• Concealed Carry: While the Glock 17 is a full-size handgun, it can be concealed carried with the right holster and clothing. [See also: Best Concealed Carry Holsters for Glock 17]
• Competition Shooting: The Glock 17 is a popular choice for competition shooting, particularly in IDPA and USPSA.
• Recreational Shooting: The Glock 17 is a fun and easy-to-shoot handgun that is suitable for recreational shooting.

Alternatives to the Glock 17 Gen-5

While the Glock 17 Gen-5 is an excellent handgun, there are several alternatives that you may want to consider:

• Sig Sauer P320: The Sig Sauer P320 is another popular polymer-framed pistol that offers excellent modularity and a smooth trigger. [See also: Sig Sauer P320 Review]
• Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0: The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 is a reliable and accurate pistol that offers a comfortable grip and a competitive price. [See also: Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 vs Glock 17]
• CZ P-10 C: The CZ P-10 C is a compact pistol that offers excellent ergonomics and a crisp trigger.

Final Verdict

The Glock 17 Gen-5 is a significant improvement over previous generations, offering enhanced accuracy, durability, and ergonomics. It is a reliable and versatile handgun that is suitable for a wide range of users. While it may not be the perfect pistol for everyone, it is undoubtedly one of the best polymer-framed handguns on the market. If you are looking for a reliable, accurate, and easy-to-use handgun, the Glock 17 Gen-5 is definitely worth considering. This Glock 17 Gen-5 review highlights its strengths and makes it clear why it remains a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Ultimately, the best handgun for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. It is always a good idea to try out different handguns before making a purchase. Visit your local gun range and rent a Glock 17 Gen-5 to see if it is the right fit for you.