Choosing between the Glock 17 Gen 5 and Gen 4 can feel overwhelming. Both are highly reliable and popular handguns, but subtle yet significant differences exist. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which generation best suits your needs and shooting style. We'll delve into features, ergonomics, performance, and ultimately, help you determine the superior choice for you.
Key Differences: Gen 5 vs. Gen 4
The Glock 17 Gen 5 boasts several improvements over its predecessor, the Gen 4. These enhancements focus primarily on ergonomics, reliability, and ease of use. Let's break down the key distinctions:
1. Marksmanship Enhancements:
- Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever: The Gen 5 features a larger, ambidextrous slide stop lever, making manipulation significantly easier for both right- and left-handed shooters. The Gen 4 only has a right-side lever.
- Improved Trigger: While both generations utilize Glock's Safe Action system, the Gen 5 boasts a slightly smoother, more refined trigger pull. This contributes to improved accuracy and control. The difference is subtle but noticeable to experienced shooters.
- Markings: The Gen 5 features front and rear serrations on the slide, providing improved grip and control during manipulation. The Gen 4 lacks these front serrations.
2. Ergonomic Upgrades:
- No Finger Grooves: A significant change is the absence of finger grooves on the Gen 5 grip. This allows for a more customizable grip and accommodates a wider range of hand sizes. The Gen 4 retains the finger grooves, which some shooters find comfortable, while others find restrictive.
- Grip Texture: While both feature Glock's signature textured grip, the Gen 5 features an updated texture that offers enhanced grip even with wet or sweaty hands.
3. Internal Mechanisms:
- Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB): The Gen 5 incorporates the GMB, featuring an improved rifling design for enhanced accuracy and a smoother recoil impulse. The Gen 4 uses a standard barrel.
- Improved Reliability: While both are exceptionally reliable, the Gen 5 benefits from refined internal components, contributing to a potentially even more robust platform. This is largely due to the improvements in the barrel.
Performance Comparison: Real-World Differences
While both pistols offer exceptional reliability and accuracy, the Gen 5’s improvements translate to a slightly more refined shooting experience. The smoother trigger, enhanced grip texture, and ambidextrous slide stop lever contribute to faster target acquisition and improved shot-to-shot consistency. The GMB contributes to a noticeable increase in accuracy for many users.
Choosing the Right Glock 17: Gen 5 or Gen 4?
The "better" generation ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities.
Choose the Glock 17 Gen 5 if:
- You prioritize enhanced ergonomics and a more customizable grip.
- You prefer an ambidextrous slide stop lever.
- You value the improved trigger and enhanced accuracy provided by the GMB.
- You want the most up-to-date features and technology.
Choose the Glock 17 Gen 4 if:
- You prefer the feel of finger grooves on the grip.
- Budget is a major concern (Gen 4 models are often slightly less expensive).
- You're perfectly happy with the existing features of the Gen 4 and don't require the latest refinements.
Conclusion: A Refined Classic
The Glock 17 Gen 5 represents a thoughtful evolution of a classic design. While the Gen 4 remains a highly capable and reliable handgun, the Gen 5’s enhancements make it a superior choice for many shooters. The differences, while subtle in some aspects, collectively contribute to a more refined, ergonomic, and accurate shooting experience. Careful consideration of your individual needs and shooting style will ultimately guide you to the right choice.
