Glock 19 Gen 4 Review: Unbiased Look At The Classic

The Glock 19 has been a staple in the firearms community for decades, and for good reason. Its compact size, reliability, and versatility have made it a favorite among law enforcement, concealed carriers, and recreational shooters alike. In this review, we'll take an in-depth look at the Glock 19 Gen 4, exploring its features, benefits, and potential drawbacks.

History of the Glock 19

The Glock 19 was first introduced in 1988, and it quickly gained popularity due to its compact size and reliable performance. Over the years, Glock has continued to improve and refine the design, releasing new generations of the pistol. The Gen 4, released in 2010, brought several significant upgrades to the table, including a new frame design, improved trigger, and enhanced ergonomics.

Key Features of the Glock 19 Gen 4

So, what makes the Glock 19 Gen 4 so special? Here are some of the key features that contribute to its popularity:

Compact Size: The Glock 19 is designed to be compact and concealable, making it ideal for concealed carry or as a backup pistol.
Reliability: Glock is known for its reliability, and the 19 Gen 4 is no exception. It's built to withstand heavy use and harsh environments.
Ergonomics: The Gen 4 frame features a new, more aggressive texture and a redesigned grip that provides a secure hold, even in wet or sweaty conditions.
Trigger: The Glock 19 Gen 4 features a smooth, consistent trigger pull that's designed to reduce fatigue and improve accuracy.
Capacity: The standard magazine capacity for the Glock 19 is 15 rounds, but aftermarket options can increase this to 17 or 19 rounds.

Shooting the Glock 19 Gen 4

So, how does the Glock 19 Gen 4 perform on the range? In short, it's a pleasure to shoot. The compact size and light weight make it easy to handle, and the smooth trigger pull allows for accurate shot placement. Here are some observations from our range time with the Glock 19 Gen 4:

Recoil: The recoil on the Glock 19 Gen 4 is manageable, even for smaller-handed shooters. The compact size and light weight help to reduce the felt recoil, making it easier to control.
Accuracy: The Glock 19 Gen 4 is accurate, with groups averaging around 2-3 inches at 10 yards. With proper technique and sighting, it's possible to achieve even tighter groups.
Reliability: We put the Glock 19 Gen 4 through a series of torture tests, including firing it wet, dirty, and with a variety of ammunition. It performed flawlessly, with no failures to feed or eject.

Disassembly and Maintenance

One of the advantages of the Glock 19 Gen 4 is its simplicity and ease of maintenance. The pistol can be disassembled without tools, making it easy to clean and inspect. Here's a step-by-step guide to disassembling the Glock 19 Gen 4:

Remove the Magazine: Start by removing the magazine from the pistol.
Pull the Slide Back: Pull the slide back and hold it in place with the slide lock.
Remove the Slide: Carefully pull the slide forward and off the frame.
Remove the Barrel: Remove the barrel from the slide.
Remove the Guide Rod: Remove the guide rod from the slide.
Reassemble: Reverse the steps to reassemble the pistol.

Upgrades and Accessories

The Glock 19 Gen 4 is a popular platform for upgrades and accessories. Here are some popular options:

Optics: The Glock 19 Gen 4 is compatible with a variety of optics, including red dot sights and scopes.
Lights: The pistol can be equipped with a variety of lights, including flashlight attachments and laser sights.
Triggers: Aftermarket triggers can improve the feel and performance of the Glock 19 Gen 4.
Barrels: Aftermarket barrels can improve the accuracy and reliability of the pistol.

Conclusion

The Glock 19 Gen 4 is a classic pistol that has stood the test of time. Its compact size, reliability, and versatility make it an ideal choice for concealed carry, law enforcement, and recreational shooters. While it may not be the most exciting or innovative pistol on the market, its proven track record and widespread adoption make it a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and effective sidearm.