Intro
Discover the ultimate showdown between the Glock 34 and Glock 17. Learn the key differences between these two popular pistols, including accuracy, reliability, and concealability. Find out which reigns supreme for competitive shooting, self-defense, and everyday carry, and make an informed decision for your next firearm purchase.
The Glock 34 and Glock 17 are two of the most popular pistols in the world, known for their reliability, durability, and versatility. Both pistols have been widely adopted by law enforcement, military, and civilian shooters, but they have some key differences that set them apart. In this article, we'll delve into the details of each pistol and compare their features, performance, and practicality to help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
History and Design
The Glock 17 was first introduced in 1982 and was the first commercially successful pistol to use a polymer frame. It was designed by Gaston Glock, an Austrian engineer, and was initially met with skepticism by the firearms community. However, its reliability, durability, and innovative design quickly made it a favorite among shooters.
The Glock 34, on the other hand, was introduced in 1998 as a competition-oriented pistol. It was designed to meet the needs of competitive shooters who required a pistol with a longer barrel and slide. The Glock 34 was essentially a Glock 17 with a longer barrel and slide, but it also had some internal modifications to make it more suitable for competition shooting.
Key Features and Differences
Here are some of the key features and differences between the Glock 34 and Glock 17:
- Barrel Length: The Glock 34 has a 5.31-inch barrel, while the Glock 17 has a 4.49-inch barrel.
- Slide Length: The Glock 34 has a 7.28-inch slide, while the Glock 17 has a 6.85-inch slide.
- Weight: The Glock 34 is slightly heavier than the Glock 17, weighing in at 24.5 ounces unloaded compared to the Glock 17's 22.9 ounces.
- Capacity: Both pistols have a standard capacity of 17 rounds, but the Glock 34 can also be fitted with extended magazines that increase its capacity to 19 rounds.
- Trigger: The Glock 34 has a lighter trigger pull than the Glock 17, with a pull weight of around 3.5 pounds compared to the Glock 17's 5.5 pounds.
Performance and Accuracy
Both pistols are known for their exceptional accuracy and reliability, but the Glock 34 has a slight edge in this department. The longer barrel and slide of the Glock 34 give it a slightly higher muzzle velocity and better accuracy at longer ranges.
In terms of reliability, both pistols are virtually identical. They both use the same Glock Safe Action system, which is renowned for its reliability and durability. Both pistols also have the same level of maintenance requirements, which is minimal.
Practicality and Concealment
While the Glock 34 is a great pistol for competition shooting, it's not the most practical choice for everyday carry. The longer barrel and slide make it more difficult to conceal, and it's also slightly heavier than the Glock 17.
The Glock 17, on the other hand, is a great choice for everyday carry. It's smaller and lighter, making it easier to conceal, and it's also more versatile. It can be used for self-defense, competition shooting, and even law enforcement applications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Glock 34 and Glock 17 are exceptional pistols that are well-suited for different applications. The Glock 34 is a great choice for competition shooting, while the Glock 17 is a more practical choice for everyday carry.
Ultimately, the choice between the two pistols will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're a competitive shooter who requires a pistol with a longer barrel and slide, the Glock 34 may be the better choice. However, if you're looking for a versatile pistol that's suitable for self-defense and everyday carry, the Glock 17 may be the better choice.
Glock 34 and Glock 17 Image Gallery
What is the main difference between the Glock 34 and Glock 17?
+The main difference between the Glock 34 and Glock 17 is the length of the barrel and slide. The Glock 34 has a 5.31-inch barrel and a 7.28-inch slide, while the Glock 17 has a 4.49-inch barrel and a 6.85-inch slide.
Which pistol is more accurate?
+The Glock 34 is slightly more accurate than the Glock 17 due to its longer barrel and slide.
Which pistol is more practical for everyday carry?
+The Glock 17 is more practical for everyday carry due to its smaller size and lighter weight.