The Glock 22 Gen4, chambered in the popular .40 S&W cartridge, has earned a solid reputation among law enforcement, competitive shooters, and civilian gun owners. This review delves deep into the features, performance, and overall user experience of this often-discussed handgun, offering a balanced perspective informed by extensive research and user feedback.
What Makes the Glock 22 Gen4 Stand Out?
The Gen4 iteration of the Glock 22 builds upon its predecessors, incorporating several key improvements that enhance both ergonomics and reliability. These upgrades solidify its position as a formidable choice in the .40 S&W market.
Enhanced Ergonomics:
- Improved Grip Texture: The Gen4's textured grip offers superior control and reduces slippage, even in wet or sweaty conditions. This is a significant enhancement over previous generations.
- Interchangeable Backstraps: The inclusion of interchangeable backstraps allows for customized grip size, catering to a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles. This personalization significantly impacts comfort and shootability.
- Reduced Recoil: While the .40 S&W is known for its snappy recoil, the Gen4's design and features work together to mitigate this, making it more manageable for both experienced and novice shooters.
Reliability and Performance:
- Proven Reliability: Glocks are renowned for their reliability, and the Gen4 22 is no exception. Its robust design and simple operation ensure consistent performance under pressure.
- Accurate Shooting: Many users praise the Glock 22 Gen4 for its accuracy, attributing this to the gun's design and the inherent stability of the .40 S&W cartridge.
- Durable Construction: Built from durable polymer, the Glock 22 Gen4 can withstand the rigors of daily use and harsh conditions. This rugged construction contributes to its longevity and reliability.
Features Often Highlighted:
- Safe Action: The Glock's safe action system is a prominent feature, combining a trigger safety, drop safety, and firing pin safety for enhanced safety.
- High-Capacity Magazine: The Glock 22 Gen4 typically comes with a high-capacity magazine, allowing for extended shooting sessions without frequent reloads.
- Ambidextrous Controls: The magazine release and slide release are ambidextrous, making the gun easily adaptable for both right- and left-handed shooters.
Areas for Consideration:
While the Glock 22 Gen4 boasts many advantages, it's important to acknowledge potential drawbacks:
- .40 S&W Recoil: As previously mentioned, the .40 S&W cartridge's recoil can be significant for some shooters.
- Polymer Frame: While durable, the polymer frame might not appeal to those preferring the feel of an all-metal frame.
- Trigger Feel: Some users find the Glock trigger's feel somewhat stiff, although this is subjective and can be improved with practice and potential aftermarket modifications.
Glock 22 Gen4 vs. Other .40 S&W Handguns:
The Glock 22 Gen4 competes with a variety of other .40 S&W handguns. A direct comparison requires considering individual preferences and priorities regarding features, ergonomics, and price point. Factors like the trigger feel, recoil management, and overall size and weight should be carefully evaluated against other models.
Conclusion:
The Glock 22 Gen4 is a capable and reliable handgun that offers a strong combination of features and performance. Its upgrades in ergonomics and the proven reliability of the Glock platform make it a popular choice for various applications. However, potential buyers should carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages, particularly considering the recoil of the .40 S&W cartridge, to determine if it aligns with their individual needs and shooting experience. Ultimately, hands-on experience is crucial before making a purchase decision.
