It is no secret that Glock is an industry giant. They supply pistols to law enforcement, government agencies, and militaries worldwide, in addition to their massive civilian sales.
Although they weren’t the first to develop a polymer handgun, Glock was the first to achieve widespread market success with a polymer pistol.
But with a history dating back to the 1980s and different generations of each model, shopping for Glocks can be a bit daunting if you don’t know what you are looking for. But that’s why you have us!
We’ll go over Gen 3 through the newest Gen 6 models, cover when each generation got its start, and the unique features each generation offers.
So if you’ve got your heart set on a specific Glock but don’t know which generation to go with, read on!
Table of Contents
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Gen 1
Most people know about the legend of Gaston Glock by now. But if you don’t, you’re about to find out.
Founded in 1963, Glock did not start out as a firearms company. It was initially a wood, steel, and plastic manufacturing company. In the 1970s, Glock began manufacturing military products such as knives, grenades, machine gun belt links, and similar items.
Though they hadn’t produced a firearm yet, the wheels inside Gaston’s head were turning. He had expertise in synthetic polymers and big ideas for a gun that would eventually change the firearms world.
Glock created a working prototype of the Glock 17 — an innovative yet reliable and cost-effective pistol.
Under the name “P80” (not to be confused with polymer80), Glock entered the Austrian military handgun trials as a complete dark horse.
After thorough testing, it was accepted as the new Austrian sidearm, and thus, the first generation of Glock was born.
After that, Glock exploded in popularity. Agencies around the world began adopting the new polymer pistols. Glock didn’t hit the U.S. market until the late 1980s, but it took America by storm in both law enforcement and commercial markets.
First-gen Glocks are easily identifiable by the soft “pebble” texture covering the entire grip and the lack of an accessory rail. There are no thumb rests or adjustable backstraps on these models.
The vast majority of Gen 1 pistols were standard Glock 17s, with some Glock 17L (longslide) versions being made. Glock also produced Gen 1 Glock 18 machine pistols, as well as a few ultra-rare compact Glock 19s.
Gen 2
In 1988, Glock introduced its second-generation handguns.
Changes over the Gen 1 included more aggressive checkering on the front and back straps of the grip, a one-piece captive recoil spring, a small cutout at the front of the magwell, and the now-standard metal serial number plate at the bottom of the dust cover.
More importantly, Glock added several new models to its lineup. The ubiquitous Glock 19 became a standard model.
In addition, Glock introduced the subcompact G26, three .40 S&W models, and larger-framed models in .45 ACP and 10mm.
Gen 3
Glock released their Gen 3 models in 1998. But despite being almost 30 years old, some gun owners swear by Gen 3 over the newer models.
Gen 3 was the first generation to offer an accessory rail, thumb rests, and the ever-controversial finger grooves. A third locking block pin was also added above the trigger pin to help strengthen the Gen 3’s newer, larger locking block, which was designed to better accommodate .40 S&W.
Thanks to its popularity and spot on the California-approved roster of handguns, Gen 3 Glocks remained in production up until late 2025. After Glock introduced their V Models and announced their upcoming Gen 6 pistols, they ceased mainstream production of their Gen 3 pistols.
The major functional patents for the Gen 3 expired around 2020, leading to the large influx of Gen 3 Glock clones from new manufacturers around that time.
Between its long sales life, all of the clones, and the rising popularity of 3D-printed frames, the Gen 3 Glocks have the largest aftermarket of any generation by far.
Gen 4
Born in 2010, the Gen 4 Glock didn’t feature anything particularly groundbreaking, but still boasted a few new updates.
We got a new grid-like grip texture, a larger magazine release button, as well a redesigned double recoil spring. To many people’s dismay, the finger grooves remained.
Glock also made some minor tweaks to the internals, which resulted in a trigger that was slightly heavier and mushier than the Gen 3 models.
The biggest upgrade is arguably the introduction of the interchangeable backstraps. Previous Glock generations only allowed for a single size grip, but every Gen 4 shipped with two additional backstraps – allowing for three different grip sizes.
Most Gen 4 Glocks also featured a newer, matte-style finish on the slide. However, some earlier Gen 4 guns still retain the older Gen 3 “frying pan” finish, which is typically lauded for its better wear resistance.
Between the controversial finger grooves, the slightly worse trigger, and the lack of 100% compatibility with Gen 3 parts, the Gen 4s are typically looked back on as the least desirable “modern” generation.
The last of the Gen 4s were discontinued in late 2025.
Gen 5
In 2017, Glock hit us with the Gen 5. Many consider the Gen 5 to be the biggest leap forward Glock made since the original guns came out.
Glock introduced some features that people had been clamoring for. That is to say, they listened to the consumers.
It is important to note that there are two different Gen 5 iterations out there: the original and the Front Serrations (FS) series.
The original Gen 5 came with a half-moon cut in at the bottom of the grip and did not have front slide serrations.
The half-moon was meant to help when/if magazines got stuck during a reload. It was later removed because well, they were kind of ugly and mostly useless outside of being a pinch point for your hand during reloads.
On the other hand, the FS model features front slide serrations to help with those high-speed press checks.
Both versions use a nDLC coating, ambidextrous slide release, improved trigger, flared magwells, and a new barrel dubbed the “Glock Marksman Barrel.”
The Glock Marksman Barrel is a step back from the polygonal rifling that Glocks used to feature. It features traditional rifling and a thicker wall than previous generations. Both of these updates allow for a more accurate barrel, according to Glock.
Ultimately, the Gen 5 represents Glock’s pursuit of perfection over the pursuit of novelty. They looked at what works and built a Glock that is up-to-date and good to go straight out of the box.
Glock announced the discontinuation of all Gen 5 in late 2025. However, some remaining stock is still available as of early 2026.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Gen 6
Gaston Glock passed away in 2023 at the age of 94. As unfortunate as his passing was, it opened the door for more innovation within Glock.
In late 2025, Glock announced that the Gen 6 was just around the corner. This time around, they didn’t just make minor improvements — they took a big leap forward.
Many people feel that Glock has always fallen short in the ergonomics category. But Gen 6 rectified this issue by ditching the blocky 2×4-feeling grip.
The flat grip surfaces and hard corners have been left behind in favor of a much more rounded grip shape. We also got an extended beavertail, a more aggressive RTF6 grip texture, and a prominent flared magwell.
Unlike the Gen 5, the extended beavertail on the Gen 6 is not part of the backstrap. This means you can get all the benefits and comfort of the beavertail without adding any thickness to the grip.
Further improvements to ergonomics include the addition of thumb ledges for easy grip indexing and deeper front slide serrations.
Glock also wisely moved to a much-improved direct-mount optics system (and away from the weak MOS plates) and also a flat-face trigger that feels much nicer to use.
We also got a return to the flat-wound recoil spring, which offers an overall smoother recoil impulse.
As of early 2026, Glock only offers Gen 6, V models (not to be confused with Gen 5), and Slimline models. The only currently available Gen 6 models are the G17, G19, and G45.
Overall, Glock managed to address many of the commonly complained about shortcomings of the Glock platform as a whole, while still keep the core feeling, reliability, and holster compability that shooters have come to expect.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Other Glock Models: Slimline & V
There are a few different Glock models that exist outside of the realm of specific generations. These usually have a mix of different generational features and don’t fit neatly into one of the categories above.
Slimline
The Slimline series of Glocks are thinner, single-stack pistols designed with concealed carry in mind.
Slimline Glocks are technically neither Gen 4 nor Gen 5, but rather have features from both generations. The lineup for the Slimline Glocks includes the .380 ACP G42, and the 9mm G43, G43X, G43X MOS, G48, and G48 MOS models.
These models come with most of the bells and whistles of the Gen. 5, but in a smaller, single-stack package.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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V Series
In 2025, Glock made the controversial move of completely ceasing production of Gen 4 and Gen 5 pistols.
California lawmakers had introduced a bill that would have outright banned all current Glocks due to being “easily convertible into machineguns” through the use of illegal backplate switches.
Glock hastily announced the new Gen V models, which featured a internal modifications that aimed to prevent the use of the aforementioned illegal full-auto switches. They acheived this by adding raised channels around the striker assembly and redesigning the backplate.
Aside from those changes, the Glock V is largely just a modified Gen 5. But for some reason, Glock does not currently offer any optics-ready (MOS) versions for any of the 9mm Glock V offerings.
The lack of optics-ready options and the reduction in existing aftermarket parts compatibility from the redesigned trigger has caused many people to consider the V a “bastard” generation that serves no real functional purpose other than meeting the proposed California legal requirements.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Final Thoughts
Some Glock generations have been big steps forward, while others have only had small incremental changes. Some people prefer certain generations over others, and that is totally okay.
But the truth is, no matter which Glock generation you decide is right for you, you can count on all of them being rugged and reliable pistols across the board.
Which Glock generation and model is your fave? Share your thoughts in the comments! Read up on the Best Glock Upgrades to take your Glock to the next level or settle on a model with the Best 9mm Glocks or Best Glocks (Across All Calibers).
Latest Updates
- March 2026: Added information on Glock Gen 6 and V-series, as well as supplemental data and media to Generations 1-5.
- July 2024: Added information on Glock generations 1-2, as well as supplemental data and media to the existing Gen 3, 4, and 5.
27 Leave a Reply
I have the GEN 3 21 45acp and yes its my favorite full size pew pew. thinking of getting some conversion barrels to have different calibers with the same frame
I hear you, I've always preferred SIG or HK, I still say the P226 is best handgun ever created but I got a chance to get a glock 40 a couple years ago ( long slide 10mm version ) and I'm not unimpressed with it's feel, handling or shooting. I'm actually in the market for another but would like the factory OD green G22 or one in .357 SIG and they are quite hard to find.
The Beretta is a solid gun, it doesn't have the slight barrel tilt action like most semi autos which I believe improves inherent accuracy slightly.
Glock 21 gen 3 and 26 gen 3. Thousands of rounds with no issues. Updrades and parts are cheap and plentiful. Tested in all types of environments and outperforms most other brands costing much more. Light and accurate. I know lots of haters because they say their ugly. Pretty won't necessarily save your life. The bad guys don't care how pretty your gun is. I have no doubt my Glocks will fire when and if I need it.
Love all my Glocks, but my fave is the 43X.
I like my guns like I like my women. Thicc n slippery down low. Gen 3 for life!
My first glock is a gen 2 g22. Its been so reliable. I have no problems with the way it looks or feels.
I bought a 9mm conversion barrel for it and love it. Ended up buyin a gen3 g22 next. It is a bit more accurate then the gen2.
Since then, have acquired and g42, 43, 44, 23.
All shoot great, but dont care much for the 43. Just doesnt fit hand very well, but my wife loves it.
Ive just built 2 poly80s, one as a g19, the other a g23. Have a another coming soon as a g17.
My only complaint with the glock is the trigger pull. Very inconsistant from one model to the other. The best fix was to remove all sharp points and burrs, polish all friction areas. I then added Taren tactical spring kits. Wow, what a difference. Trigger break is now down to 4.5lbs from the 6-7lbs that some of these had.
One thing i suggest if you go out to the range with multible calibers is paint or mark your mags a different color. I made the mistake of putting a 9mm mag in my g22 and fired it. It made a small thud sound and shoved the case halfway down the barrel...not fun
Hahaha. I can relate. I was at the range with my 7.62x39R AR15 and a 5.56 NATO round somehow made it into my ammo can. It did fire and the case swelled up to fit the chamber. Needless to say the case did not eject and I had to run a rod down the barrel to get it out. When the case landed on the bench a little voice in my head said, "Well there's your problem!". Anyway, I love both my G3 G17 and G22 and yes my magazines are clearly marked. I used a paint pen to fill the caliber etching marks in on the back of the mags. White for 9 and orange for .40.
Favorite is the Gen 3, like the short pull and crisp break. Have g3 in models 30, 19, 27. Tried the G5 in a 20, & 19. Trigger sucks, a lot of creep, 1/4” or more, quite distracting.
I had one of the first Glocks in the US. It had a 1 letter 3# serial number.
I'm a small female and found the grip on my Gen 3 was just too big for my small hands. Even my firearm instructor told me to find a Semi Auto with smaller grips.
There are custom shops/Glock "tuners" that can fill the "dead" space in the grip with epoxy, and then shave it down add stippling to make it more comfortable for you, if you like the gun otherwise and don't want to switch
Glock 43
G43x with psa mags
Man I get you have to focus on SEO and stuff but this is such a frustrating article to read through. For an article about glock generations why do I have to scroll past history and generic statements that I did not search for? Additionally the info that WAS about the generations lacked so much focus and often went off on tangents. I got the feeling that whoever wrote this does not really know much about glocks so tried to substitute expertise for word count.
Oh and just trying to read through this trainwreck there was like 3 pop ups asking me to join or sign up for some email list. Hard pass
You need some vagasil for that pussy of yours?
One of the funniest things ive ever read lol!
Just about every generation has had a recall
I always have been and will continue to be a massive Beretta 92FS fan, however I carry the Glock 17 Gen 5.2 as my duty weapon, only because my agency wrote the Beretta out of policy. I very much like the Glock 17 and I have no problem with it. It remains ahead of its time in ingenuity and design. This article was great, full of great data, and highly entertaining.
Content was fine, but all the GIFs drive me crazy. I really wish you guys would rethink all that unnecessary fluff.
Got my Glock 19 as my first handgun last year and have learned a lot about handling it along with maintenance and modifications. Have done the recommended easy modifications and found Glocks to be reliable and versatile. Have also gotten Browning BuckMark and a classic Colt NM .45 ACP for my collection. The foundation of my Glock for my introduction to firearms was solid footing. Am interested in also getting a Glock 35 for the 40 S&W caliber and can get a conversion barrel for 9 mm. I appreciate your article about the Glock generations, gives me perspective on their history.
Having fired a Glock gen 1 years ago. I was just not wowed by it. It felt off to my hold, like I need to point it down to see the sights. Moved in hand with recoil.
So, I have always been a Glock hater. I just never liked them. Look like squirt guns. Then my son's department retired all of their G22s and he bought his duty weapon for a song and gave it to me. Bought a conversion barrel and some mags and put hundreds of 9 mm and .40 cal through it. I'm sold, but now I'm wondering what else I've been wrong about all these years because I'm a dumb-ass.
I am one of those die-hard Glock lovers almost from the beginning. I still have the generation 1 Glock 17 I carried as my duty gun in the late 80's or early 90's. I also have my generation 2 Glock 22 I replaced my Glock 17 with when the .40 S&W round was new and considered much less effective than the .45 auto. Both of these guns served me well both in law enforcement and competition, way before this gun would achieve the popularity it enjoys today., The Glock is still my preferred gun for Concealed Carry and Home Defense. I have purchased several since then. I do like other brands, but always return to my Glock. The Glock is still a gun you either love to the exclusion of many, or you hate it. To each his own.
Hahahahaha. I hear you.....me, too.
If you want to know what else you've been wrong about, just ask your kid. This works for me.
Why blame the gun for a weak grip?