Choosing between the Glock 17 Gen 5 and Gen 4 can feel overwhelming. Both are excellent handguns, but subtle differences cater to specific preferences and shooting styles. This in-depth comparison will highlight the key distinctions, helping you decide which Glock 17 best suits your needs.
Key Differences: A Head-to-Head Comparison
The Glock 17 Gen 5 boasts several improvements over its predecessor, the Gen 4. These enhancements, while seemingly minor, significantly impact the shooting experience and overall functionality. Let's break down the critical differences:
1. The Trigger: Enhanced Smoothness and Predictability
-
Gen 5: Features an improved trigger with a smoother, more consistent pull. The reduced trigger travel contributes to faster and more accurate shot execution. The absence of the trigger safety also contributes to this improved feel.
-
Gen 4: Retains the traditional Glock trigger with a built-in trigger safety. While reliable, it offers a slightly heavier and less crisp pull compared to the Gen 5.
Takeaway: The Gen 5 trigger is generally preferred by shooters who value a cleaner, lighter, and more predictable trigger pull.
2. Slide Modifications: Enhanced Handling and Reliability
-
Gen 5: The Gen 5 slide features an nDLC (nickel boron) finish, enhancing durability and corrosion resistance. The absence of finger grooves offers a more ambidextrous grip, catering to a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles. The front serrations are also more aggressive.
-
Gen 4: Uses a tenifer finish, also highly durable, but the nDLC finish on the Gen 5 offers superior protection against wear and tear. Finger grooves are present on the Gen 4, which some shooters find comfortable, while others find them restrictive.
Takeaway: The Gen 5's nDLC finish and lack of finger grooves provide superior durability and versatility, accommodating a wider range of hand sizes and preferences. The more aggressive front serrations provide improved slide manipulation.
3. Magazines: Enhanced Reliability and Capacity
-
Gen 5: Utilizes a new, improved magazine design with a slightly modified follower for enhanced reliability. Both generations offer the same magazine capacity.
-
Gen 4: Employs the previous generation's magazine design, which remains reliable but is slightly less refined than the Gen 5's.
Takeaway: The Gen 5 magazine demonstrates minor but noticeable improvements in reliability and feeding. While both function well, the Gen 5 offers a slight edge.
4. Recoil Spring Assembly: A Smoother Shooting Experience
-
Gen 5: Features a redesigned recoil spring assembly for smoother operation and reduced felt recoil. This leads to improved accuracy, especially during rapid firing.
-
Gen 4: Employs a dual recoil spring system, reliable and functional, but slightly less refined than the Gen 5's system.
Takeaway: The Gen 5’s updated recoil spring assembly results in a smoother, more controlled shooting experience.
Which Glock 17 Should You Choose?
The choice between the Glock 17 Gen 5 and Gen 4 largely depends on individual preferences and priorities.
-
Choose the Gen 5 if: You prioritize a smoother, more predictable trigger pull; prefer a more ambidextrous grip without finger grooves; value enhanced durability and corrosion resistance; and desire a smoother shooting experience with reduced felt recoil.
-
Choose the Gen 4 if: You prefer the feel of finger grooves; are on a tighter budget (Gen 4s are often slightly cheaper); or are simply comfortable with the features and performance of the previous generation.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to handle both models and see which one feels more natural in your hand. Visiting a local gun range and renting both pistols is a smart way to determine which model better suits your shooting style and comfort level.
