Glock Generations & Their Meaning

Posted by Ghost Inc. on Nov 15th 2022

Over the years, different generations of Glocks have been released. Glock uses the term generation or "gen" to signify a new and improved model. Like anything else, improvements are made, and new versions of the product are released to the public. This is to provide consumers with the best product possible as technology changes and improves.

Glock Generations

It can be overwhelming to research something, especially if you are new to a community. You might be unsure of the difference between each generation of Glock and what they might mean. Knowing all of the different generations of Glocks will benefit you as you become more familiar with guns.

GEN 1

Similar to any other handgun that has multiple generations, GEN 1 features the first-ever Glock created. The Glock 17 is the initial model produced. Designed for the Austrian military, Gaston Glock made this particular handgun to be both powerful and compact for soldiers to carry. Released in 1984, GEN 1 Glock models are a rarity these days and can sell for a high price tag in the used gun market.

Featuring a simple construction that held 17+1 rounds of 9mm bullets, it made its mark throughout police departments in the U.S. Today, it's highly sought after by gun collector's since there seems to be less of them available for sale.

GEN 2

By the time the second line of Glocks rolled out, they'd made several changes to GEN 2 to improve the overall performance. Firstly, they designed it with a steel insert was added to the frame for the serial number. This was done in an attempt to be more compliant with ATF regulations.

Post GEN 1 models, GEN 2 carried a larger selection for a versatile choice among all gun enthusiasts. This generation included the Glock models: Glock 19, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, and the Glock 17c. Some changes made to this model include larger frames and a barrel and slide porting in the latest addition to the second generation of Glocks.

GEN 3

Known as still in its production phase, GEN 3 includes a general base used for all Glock models. There was an obvious improvement between both GEN 2 and GEN 3, featuring weapon lights, finger grooves, and raised texture. Depending on who you talk to, the finger groove addition is an improvement while others disagree.

GEN 4

Compared to GEN 3, GEN 4 Glocks only displayed minor improvements and changes. The most significant upgrade made to GEN 4 was the Glock modular backstrap system. It allows shooters to customize the fit of the pistol. Although there wasn't many differences in this generation, the backstrap system is arguably one of the most favored.

GEN 5

Yet to be released, Glock has rumored to make significant improvements to the next generation of Glocks - GEN 5. Some even say that GEN 5 will be the best model ever created by Glock since it has been awhile since they've released anything new. In addition to having a more precise accuracy from long distances, GEN 5 models also are rumored to have the best trigger pull as well. After reading discussion thread boards, other people mentioned the release of the infamous Glock 45.

In the end, Glock could release the newest GEN 5 models tomorrow or next year so we can't make any accurate claims until it happens.

Overall, Glock has made a solid name for itself throughout this country. From being the standard-issued firearm for police officers to even making Hollywood appearances for its popularity over the years, We can only hope there are many more generations to come.

Check out Ghost Inc's wide selection of Glock parts and Glock accessories available online for everything model we've discussed here.