The Best Glock

When people talk about modern handguns, the Best Glock is almost always part of the conversation. It represents the rise of polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols—and while it wasn’t the very first of its kind, it’s easily the most successful.

When choosing a defensive or duty handgun, two things matter most: reliability and ease of maintenance. Glock delivers on both. Beyond that, affordability, adaptability, and ease of training all play important roles. A simple system that builds confidence and supports good shooting habits is a major advantage, and that’s exactly where Glock shines.

This large-frame Glock in .45 ACP has been tested repeatedly under demanding conditions—and it has passed every time.

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Consistency Across the Line

One of Glock’s biggest strengths is consistency. From the smallest Glock 42 to full-size models like the Glock 34, the controls are the same. The slide stop, takedown levers, magazine release, and trigger feel are nearly identical across models.

That means if you train with one Glock, you can pick up another and feel instantly at home. Whether you’re using one for competition and another for concealed carry, the familiarity carries over seamlessly.

Glocks are also easy to upgrade. This particular example is fitted with a Vortex optic (courtesy of Vortex), showing how adaptable the platform can be.

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One Glock for Every Purpose

No handgun is perfect for every role—but Glock comes close by offering a model that fits just about any mission. I consider Glock the baseline handgun: affordable, durable, and extremely reliable. If you pay less, something was likely compromised. If you pay more, you’d better be sure you’re actually getting added value.

This original Glock 19X has been used hard for years and continues to perform without complaint.

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Deep Concealment: Glock 43X

The original Glock 43 is a slim, six-round pistol that works well for discreet carry. That said, the Glock 43X improves on the concept in meaningful ways. Its ten-round magazine and longer grip make it easier to shoot well and more comfortable during extended sessions.

That longer grip gives you better control, a faster draw, and improved consistency from the holster. In short, the 43X is more forgiving and more capable, without sacrificing concealability.

My Glock 43X is equipped with a Shield Sights translucent-roof red dot, and the grip has been customized to strike a balance between traction and comfort.

For its size, the 43X shoots exceptionally well and stays true to Glock’s reputation for reliability.

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Glock 19 – The Best All-Around Glock

If I could only own one Glock, the Glock 19 would be it. It strikes an outstanding balance between size, weight, and performance. By slightly shortening the Glock 17’s slide and frame, Glock created a pistol that’s easier to carry while still shooting extremely well.

The Glock 19 holds 15 rounds and gives up very little to larger pistols in real-world use. It’s equally at home with police, military, and civilian shooters.

My Glock 19 is one of the longest-serving pistols I own. I’m not sentimental about firearms—I upgrade when something better comes along—but the Gen 5 Glock 19 has earned its place. The Marksman barrel and improved trigger are real upgrades, and mine is fitted with a Holosun red dot and Streamlight weapon light.

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Glock 17 – The Best Service Glock

For long-term military and law-enforcement use, the Glock 17 has an unmatched reputation for reliability. It runs consistently across a wide range of ammunition and remains well-balanced and easy to shoot.

Decades ago, the FBI found that pistols weighing over 35 ounces became tiring over a full day of carry. The Glock 17 solves that problem, weighing under 24 ounces unloaded and just over 32 ounces when fully loaded. That makes it comfortable, practical, and dependable.

My Glock 17 wears a Shield Sights optic, and it’s an excellent choice for anyone starting their journey into handguns.

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The Big Glock: Glock 34

Among modern Glocks, the Gen 5 MOS models represent the platform at its best. With forward serrations, improved fit, the Marksman barrel, and Glock’s best trigger to date, these pistols are outstanding service handguns.

The Glock 34 stands out even within this lineup. Its long slide and 5.31-inch barrel provide increased accuracy and reduced muzzle rise. Despite its size, it remains surprisingly light and well-balanced, weighing just over 26 ounces.

This is the softest-shooting 9mm Glock available and a pleasure to fire. The lighter trigger connector gives it a crisper pull than standard models, and in trained hands, it’s often the most accurate Glock.

I shoot the Glock 34 not just for training, but because it’s genuinely enjoyable. It also makes an excellent entry-level competition pistol, with a massive aftermarket available.

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Final Thoughts

There are plenty of Glock models I haven’t covered here—the Glock 19X, the powerful 10mm variants, and the .45 ACP models among them. All are service-grade firearms, and all uphold Glock’s core strengths.

Whether you’re looking for deep concealment, duty use, competition, or an all-around handgun, there’s a Glock that fits the role.

As shown, the Glock 19 (left) is slightly smaller and lighter than the Glock 17 (right), yet gives up very little in real-world performance.