Glocks are one of the most popular, recognizable, and divisive brands in the firearms world.
Even if you take a step out of the gun community, most people know about Glock. From movies to rap lyrics, the brand seemingly exists everywhere.
But within the gun world, Glocks are one of those guns that foster a conversation.
Whether you love Glocks or love to hate them, we’re going to take a look at some of the best models the Austrian company has to offer.
From concealed carry 9mm variants all the way to full-auto (oh yeah, they have one of those, too), we’ll tell you which Glocks are worth your time and money or are just plain fun.
Let’s get to it!
THE QUICK LIST
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Best Full-Size Glock
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Best Concealed Carry Glock
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Best .45 ACP Glock
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Best 10mm Glock
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Best .380 ACP Glock
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Best Rimfire Glock
Table of Contents
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How We Tested the Best Glocks
The Pew Pew Tactical team of editors and writers have all owned and shot Glocks for decades (collectively). We’ve had hands-on time with each model listed below and our experience comprises prior law enforcement, military, concealed carry instructors, competitors, and hobbyists.
When creating this list of the best Glocks, we looked at several criteria, including price, features, caliber, and purpose.
Best Glocks
1. Glock 17 – Best Full-Size Glock
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Glock G17 Gen 5 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Large aftermarket
- Reliable performance
- Durable
Cons
- Trigger isn't the best
- Iron sights aren't great
Glock G17 Gen 5
Specs
Features
Ok, so we had to kick this list off with the OG, the one that started it all…the Glock G17. A full-size, 9mm model, the G17 is available in all multiple generations. (Don’t know the difference between a Gen. 3 and a Gen. 5, head over to our Glock Generations article to get the low-down.)
The G17 is the gold standard for most law enforcement, and its reliability has made it a winner in the civilian market.
From carry to home defense, the G17’s larger style makes it a perfect pistol for self-defense and personal protection. In fact, I use the Glock 17 as my preferred bedside pistol because the full-size build helps mitigate some recoil and it’s got plenty of room for accessories like lights.
2. Glock 19 – Best Glock for Concealed Carry
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Glock 19 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lots of aftermarket support
- Reliability proven
- Fieldstrips without tools
Cons
- Plastic sights
- Mediocre trigger
Glock 19
Specs
Features
The Glock 19 is remarkably similar to the G17 but on a slightly smaller scale.
This midsize model is versatile and easily transitions from the range to concealed carry with its double-stack design. Again, it’s seen wide use in the law enforcement realm and, like most Glock products, is renowned for its ease of use and reliability.
Not to mention, the 9mm chambering means that, in non-ammo shortage scenarios, you should be able to easily train with it alongside its standard 15-round magazine.
The G19 also benefits from a wealth of aftermarket support, so you can switch sights, triggers, and slides if you so choose.
I carried the Glock 19 for many years. While its blocky ergonomics aren’t for everyone, it is a solid, reliable pistol — perfect for CCW. Not to mention, its popularity means there’s no lack of holsters available.
Interested in learning even more, especially about the Gen 5 G19, then head over to our full review.
What do you think of the Glock 19? Rate it below.
3. Glock 43X MOS – Best Subcompact Glock
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Glock 43X Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very reliable
- Simple controls & easy to shoot
- Compact & great for CCW
Cons
- Snappy due to shorter barrel
- Slight offset on rear sight
- Stiff trigger
- 10-rd standard capacity
Glock 43X
Specs
Features
Coming in with a subcompact style, the Glock 43X MOS is another great CCW option if you need something slightly smaller than the Glock 19 and want something red dot ready.
The Glock 43X MOS sports the Glock Marksmen Barrel found on Gen. 5 Glocks, which is said to improve accuracy. While we’ve never had any issues with accuracy on older gen Glocks, this might be a selling point for some.
The most notable change in the Glock 43X MOS (over its predecessor, the Glock 43) is that this model’s grip has been altered so that you can now get a full three-finger grip on the gun without a magazine. This means a better overall grip for most shooters.
We have a full review and a video on the Glock 43X MOS if you seek more information.
4. Glock 30SF – Best .45 ACP Glock
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Glock 30 SF Pros & Cons
Pros
- 10-round capacity
- Easy to carry
Cons
- Not great trigger or sights
Specs
Features
Some people love their .45 ACP, and who are we to tell you you’re wrong? If a .45 ACP is what you want, then the G30 SF is the Glock pistol for it.
Based on the G30 design, the G30 SF brings a subcompact appearance with a 10-round capacity.
How does Glock accomplish this? With a shortened frame and reduced grip dimensions, of course.
With a barrel length measuring 3.78 inches and an overall length of 6.97 inches, the SF weighs 33.69 ounces loaded.
The choice of many plain-clothed street cops and security personnel, the G30 SF fits naturally into a concealed carry or defensive setup.
Like all Glocks, it’s easy to operate and maintain.
5. Glock 20 – Best 10mm Glock
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Glock 20 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Reliable
- Accurate
- Customizable
Cons
- Mediocre trigger
- Blockier ergonomics
Glock 20
Specs
Features
There’s something cool about shooting 10mm. Whether you’re doing it on the hunt or at the range, it’s a fun round!
Luckily, Glock has a few 10mm offerings up its sleeve, but our favorite is the G20.
With a capacity of 15 rounds, the G20 is a full-size model with 8.07 inches in total length to its name.
The barrel measures 4.61 inches, and the total loaded weight is 39.86 ounces.
While the G20 only comes in the Gen. 4 variant, Glock does offer an SF, or short frame, model.
You still get that 15-round capacity with the SF, and most of the measurements are on par with the G20.
But the SF downsizes the receiver’s circumference at the rear for a little more ease when shooting.
Interested in a deep dive into this 10mm bad boy? Check out our full review here!
8. Glock 42 – Best .380 ACP Glock
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Glock 42 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compact and concealable
- Aftermarket support
- Reliable
- Affordable
Cons
- Low capacity
- Plastic sights
Glock 42
Specs
Features
The G42 comes chambered in .380 ACP, which means there’s little to no recoil while shooting.
This subcompact offers a barrel length of 3.25 inches with an overall length measuring 5.94 inches. The weight rests at 15.87 ounces loaded.
Glock’s G42 is an ultra-compact pistol designed for concealed carry. This is your summer gun!
The trade-off for such a small handgun, though, is capacity. In the case of the G42, that means 6 rounds. Probably want to stock up on the spare mags…
It keeps to Glock’s easy-to-shoot-and-maintain platform and brings that durability you’ve come to expect from the Glock brand.
If .380 ACP is still too much, you can always go with a cartridge most of us probably started on…a .22 LR.
9. Glock 44 – Best Rimfire Glock
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Glock 44 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Rimfire, great for training
- Affordable
- Familiar Glock design
Cons
- Has been known to crack
- Feels cheap
Glock 44
Specs
Features
Ok, so I know the G44 is controversial. I’m sorry to all the fanbois who wanted a Glock PCC but instead got a .22 LR. Don’t throw hate at me.
The G44 burst onto the scene with a .22 LR chambering. According to the company, they wanted to introduce a gun specifically for first-time gun owners and those that put in a lot of training reps at the range.
Mimicking the size of the G19, the G44 comes with a 4.02-inch barrel and an overall length of 7.28 inches. Loaded with its standard 10 rounds, it weighs 16.40 ounces.
While you most likely won’t be packing this in your IWB holster, the G44’s strength comes from the fact that you can easily plink with it.
Normally, .22 LR ammo is cheap and easy to find, making this gun a perfect training companion.
Not to mention, the .22 LR has virtually no recoil, so first-timers will find this comfortable and less intimidating to shoot.
To see the G44 in action, peep our video below or you can read our full review here!
Glock History
We would be remiss if we didn’t at least touch on the history of Glock. Since it is a powerhouse brand, we feel we kinda owe it to you to explain how they got to where they are.
Glock began in the early 1960s, helmed by Gaston Glock.
At the time, pistols weren’t really on his mind. Instead, the company manufactured wood, steel, and plastic.
Fast forward to the groovy era of the 1970s, marking Glock’s entry to the world of weaponry — specifically, knives, grenades, and machine-gun belt links.
It didn’t take long for the wheels to start turning and by the 1980s, the Glock 17 emerged.
While it wasn’t the first polymer pistol to land on shelves (that honor belongs to HK VP70), it was the first one to be a big hit.
Before you knew it, law enforcement was arming up with the plastic fantastic and its stellar 17-round magazine.
So, why has Glock maintained its stature?
Well, like it or not, the pistols are affordable and reliable. Two things that make both government agencies and civilians fall in love.
Since Glock’s emergence into the firearms community, the brand has continued to release new models based on the tried-and-true design.
Whether that’s upgrading generations or producing new models in different calibers (I’m looking at you G44), Glock isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Final Thoughts
Glock pistols set the standard for polymer, striker-fired pistols. With a range of calibers from .22 LR all the way to 10mm, you’re guaranteed to find a model that fits your needs.
What is your favorite Glock? Did it make our list? Let us know in the comments below. If you’ve already got a Glock but want to snazz it up, check out some of our other articles on how to Gucci your Gat: Best Glock Upgrades, Best Glock Sights, and Best Glock Triggers.
Latest Updates
April 28, 2024: Removed Glock 43, Glock 23. Added Glock 43X MOS and mentioned Glock 17 MOS. Added supplemental data to each product and enhanced the How We Tested section with additional information.
112 Leave a Reply
I have a number of Glocks, a real fanboy !
My favourite is the Glock 48 MOS, I think it’s the best CCW out there, it can’t be beaten. Accurate, concealable and immediate co-witness with iron sights.
Thanks for the informative and well written article, as always.
I have the 30S, which I find superior to the 30 and 30SF, due to thinner slide, so little lighter and no difference in recoil from the others that I could tell.
Also, have the 43X, also have the OEM 48 slide and prefer it with the longer slide, not as snappy and no real difference for me for appendix carry (Tenicor holster is essential same for both, even the one made purely for 43X is same length, simply cut down in the front (not the side closer to body, same length).
For the best .380 Glock, the Glock 25 is now available in the US. A Gen 3 19 with a .380 barrel. 15 round mag, easy to handle, and reliable.
My favorite Glock is a PSA Dagger Compact in .40 caliber.
How come no mention of the g45?
I think it's the best of the 9mm for all-around use. Just my 2 cents
My favorite Glock is a newer release, although many hardcore DIYers & gunsmiths have been producing them for a while, that being the Glock 49. Personally, I enjoy a compact frame A) for concealability & B) because I don't have the biggest hands, but I also like the balance & longer sight radius of a full sized slide. I'm a fan of this sort of configuration in almost ANY pistol & will buy one if I see one I like. I have a CZ P10 SC & a Shadow Systems MR920L & love them both! I also have a Walther PDP compact with a 4 inch slide, but plan to buy a 4.5 inch slide for it. I'm utterly befuddled as to why Walther DIDN'T offer the compact with all 3 configurations like they did with the full sized line (4in., 4.5in. & 5in. for the full size line, but only a 4in. & 5in. in the compact line).
I'm wonder why you guys left out 40 S&W ? There are so many of these still being used as people's
everyday carry? Maybe im.oldcschool but I want the perp to go down hard ! What's your reasoning for not listing tnis important series?
Probably the same reason they didn’t update that “g20 only comes in gen 4”.
Lazy recycle for easy clicks. They can do better.
Glocks have no aesthetics. They look like a brick with a handle. I prefer guns that look good. I have four Glocks, so I have nothing against their reliability. They are just ugly.
SIGs are guns you show your friends. Glocks are guns you show your enemy .
Would like to see all models in a single comparison chart
The Glock 30s comes only in Gen 3, and being a southpaw the G30 Gen 4 is ambidextrous.
I like the way the Glock remains open after the pistol clip has no rounds left. The weapon appears designed/made/created for easy reload.
The sight/aimer on the barrel of the weapon has a big white dot that is easy to see. :-)
Glock MOS gen5 slides on Nomad frames with Kineti flat face triggers…that’s the right fit & feel for me! And like the 43/43x/48 frames upgraded to Shield Arms Z9 or S15 capacity.
Ms. Billings,
Your article was articulate and quite informative. I own a few Glocks and have been very pleased with their performance. But to hear a female viewpoint, especially a woman highly skilled in martial arts, I find very encouraging. It’s been difficult at times to convince my girlfriend to show any interest in firearms for self-defense, much less continued situational awareness of her surroundings. Therefore, I constantly worry about her personal safety. Thank You for setting a prime example for all women to follow.
Travis Young
Own the G19X & the G45. Never be better for me！
What about a Glock 45 9mm
G45 is GOAT
Everyone list the G19 as the best. The G26 is the correct answer in 9mm. 10rounds to 33rounds. G30 .45 power but less snappy than a G27. G21 .45 or 10mm with a conversion barrel Note: Gen4 in a G21 offers a slimmer grip (like a SF)and a better recoil spring design. As for the G43... Why? trigger sucks and 6rd count is sad, the Sig p365 is so much better of a gun 10rds, size, with a better trigger
. One thing never mentioned in any Glock articles is Glock perfection is only achieved after you change to a 3.5 connector and a extended controls with Night sites also. YMMV
I have a first gen Glock 17 that is great to shoot but my favorite is my Glock 40 Gen 4 MOS with a Trijicon red dot sight. That 10mm pairs nicely with my CMMG Banshee Mk 10 with interchangeable magazines. What’s even better is that I live in rural NW Georgia on 32 acres of land outside the city limits and can shoot anything I want at any time. It’s a firearm enthusiast’s dream scenario.
Never mentioned the GAP #37 ,I think it is the best.....45gap
Very surprised the G45 didn’t make it. It’s my EDC and I love it.
Same here, it’s the perfect cc for me. Few little mods and it’s amazing so far.
I picked up a glock 48mos last month and stock its maybe the most accurate semi auto pistol I have. I was blown away. And I own a 17C that shoots flat as hell. It since has had a swampfox sentinel and threaded barrel with a tyrant comp so it's even better.
I picked the G45 Gen5. It's the perfect fit between the 17 and 19. I updated the trigger and added a red dot. During the Ammo shortage, I added a dryfire mag and MantisX. It has helped increase the accuracy at the range with live fire. G45 should be on that list.
Not to be left out in the cold, I had to get a Glock too... Seems everyone had the full/mid sized - and I tried the17, 19, and 21 at my local range - but I was looking for a smaller powerful package and was absolutely thrilled when I picked up a 27. Albeit a little fatter than I care for when carrying concealed (abdominal), the little beast in .40 S&W - 8 rounds packs a helluva punch. Best yet - The first time I pulled the trigger on the 27 I had a "death grip" on it figuring I'd have my wrist snapped off... far from it... due to it's ergonomics and heavy weight, it was a comfort and a joy to shoot - accurate too for such a small handgun. I got the mag extension so my pinky has a 'notch' which greatly improved the "feel and control".
I’m also a fan of the 26 and 27.
The Glock 26 can use Glock 17 and 19 magazines if you need larger backup reloads and the Glock 27 can use Glock 22 magazines.
Where I live I’ve seen both Detectives and security guards carrying the Glock 27.
However I had a female friend who had very weak wrists and she couldn’t handle the recoil from a Glock 17. She went back to starting with a 22 LR and doing exercises to build up her wrist strength. Everyone will be different so it’s a good idea to try before you buy.
Picked up g45 gen5 today with notched slide and leupold deltapoint pro... no mention of g45 even on the list???
What's wrong with the G34?! You have not mentioned it at all...
Mike is right there are other Gkicks that did not make the list . I have several number of them . From the Glock 42 to the Glodk 17 GEN4 . I like them .
You left out the G48 which I know is a single stack but she feels great in the hand and shoots like a dream. You also overlooked the G22 a very nice well respected 40 caliber pistol.
I purchased my first gun about 9 months ago. I got the Glock 48. Got a little over a thousand rounds through it. I’m hoping the price of ammo will start coming down soon so I can go out more often
I have the glock 43x mos, put night fusion glow sights on it and a carry clip back plate, got a caa micro conversation kit for it but it doesn't work with the sight plate on. Overall good gun.
Glock G17 Gen 4 with a Crimson Trace light.  G17 is the gold standard  MAKE : GLOCK MODEL : 17 CARTRIDGE : 9 MM LUGER CAPACITY : 17+1-ROUND BARREL LENGTH : 4.49" FINISH : GAS NITRIDE LENGTH : 7.32" MAGAZINE TYPE : REMOVABLE Glock 30SF (.45 ACP)  
You don't have the G45 on the table at the top. I love mine and the lasermax guiderod laser just makes that much better. I am absolutely a Glock fan. Thanks.
Well, so many to choose from.......
The 19X, the G45, the baby Glocks, the triplets, G26, G27, & G33, or get the G27 & you can have all 3.
However, if I could only have one..........
The Glock G43X, with the Shield Arms S15 magazines, for a 15 +1 capacity, in a flush fit magazine for Glock’s slime line series.
Glock Perfection!
I have to say picking a favorite Glock is like asking me to pick my favorite child. Being retired law enforcement I've carried both the Glock 19 gen3 and G22 gen4. For on duty carry I'd puck my G22, off duty my G19 gen3. Now I'm a big fan of the G48 which I carried concealed until my wife made it hers as a Bail Bind recovery agent. My next purchase will be a Glock 42. I did find the G43 a disappointment, difficult to draw was bad enough a little to small and snappy for a 9mm.
I’m not sure you’d gain anything with a G42 if you’re disappointed with drawing a G43, they are almost identical in size, with the G43 slightly larger.