The Glock 26 Gen 5 is a highly-coveted subcompact handgun and the latest addition to Glock’s family of polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols. Known for its reliability and durability, the Gen 5 has quickly gained a loyal following among law enforcement officers, concealed carry enthusiasts, and recreational shooters alike. However, no firearm is perfect, and some issues have been noted by Glock 26 Gen 5 owners. This post aims to delve into the most common problems faced by Glock 26 Gen 5 users, review their causes, and provide practical solutions for rectifying these issues.
Grip and Trigger Issues
1. Inadequate Grip Width
Some users complain that the grip width on the Gen 5 is too wide, making it challenging for those with smaller hands to grip the pistol firmly.
Solution:
One solution to address this issue is to invest in aftermarket grip sleeves or handgrips. These accessories can help modify the width of the grip to better accommodate your hand size and gripping preferences.
2. Trigger Reach
The Glock 26 Gen 5 features an adjustable trigger reach, with three options for users to choose from. However, some individuals still experience issues with obtaining a comfortable and secure trigger placement.
Solution:
A potential remedy to this problem is to explore aftermarket trigger options. Several manufacturers offer custom triggers explicitly designed to address reach challenges and offer diversity in terms of trigger strokes and pull weights.
Slide-related Issues
1. Slide Bite
Slide bite is a commonly reported problem across many Glock models. Glock 26 Gen 5 users with larger hands or aggressive grips are more susceptible to encountering slide bite during firing, resulting in discomfort and injury.
Solution:
Change your grip technique to minimize the likelihood of slide bite. In addition, installing a beavertail backstrap can protect the webbing of your hand from the slide by creating separation between the slide and the shooter’s hand.
2. Slide Lock Lever Snagging
A minor issue, but worth noting in this discussion, is the apparent propensity for the slide lock lever to become snagged on certain holsters or clothing when attempting to draw the Glock 26 Gen 5.
Solution:
Ensure that your holster is designed explicitly for the Glock 26 Gen 5 or is compatible with this model. In addition, invest in a low-profile aftermarket slide lock lever to mitigate the risk of snagging during your draw.
Ammunition-related Issues
1. Ammo Sensitivity
While the Glock 26 Gen 5 is renowned for its reliability, some users have reported issues with specific types of ammunition. In some cases, failures to eject or stovepipe malfunctions may occur due to the gun’s sensitivity to certain ammo.
Solution:
Test various brands and types of ammunition to determine which works best with your Glock 26 Gen 5. Once you identify a reliably cycling brand, consider using it as your primary ammunition for training and self-defense purposes.
2. Brass Shavings in the Chamber
Another issue concerning ammo usage is the accumulation of brass shavings in the chamber. This can result from differences in the Gen 5’s chamber design and the quality of the ammunition used.
Solution:
Regularly inspect and clean your Glock 26 Gen 5, paying special attention to the chamber, and remove any brass shavings or debris. Ensure that you are using quality ammunition to minimize the likelihood of brass shavings accumulating.
Accuracy and Sights Issues
1. Glock Bold Sights
Some Glock 26 Gen 5 owners are less than thrilled with the factory Glock Bold sights, citing issues with the sight picture or visibility in low light conditions.
Solution:
If you find the Glock Bold Sights unsuitable for your needs, consider upgrading to an aftermarket sight system that better suits your preferences. There are night sights, fiber optic sights, and red-dot optics to suit various shooting preferences.
2. Barrel Accuracy
While many users believe the Glock 26 Gen 5 to be a highly accurate firearm, others have experienced issues with bullet groupings. However, it is essential to remember that the Gen 5 is primarily designed as a concealed carry weapon, and certain accuracy parameters are necessary trade-offs.
Solution:
Employ different ammunition types to see if you notice any improvements in accuracy. If this does not rectify the problem, seek professional assistance by reaching out to Glock or a certified Glock armorer for support.
In conclusion, while the Glock 26 Gen 5 is generally a reliable and robust pistol, some users have encountered problems with its design and performance. If you encounter any of these issues, consider the suggested solution or contact a qualified gunsmith or Glock’s customer support for further assistance. Remember, routine maintenance, proper handling, and safe storage of your firearm can prevent many potential issues and significantly enhance your handgun’s performance and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why does my Glock 26 keep jamming?
There could be several reasons why your Glock 26 is jamming, such as a dirty or damaged magazine, a weak recoil spring, or using low-quality ammunition. It’s recommended to clean and inspect your firearm frequently and use high-quality ammunition to prevent jams.
2. Is it better to shoot Glock 26 or 19?
It ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. The Glock 26 is a smaller and more compact firearm, making it easier to conceal, but may have a shorter effective range than the Glock 19. The Glock 19 is slightly larger and more versatile, with a longer barrel and larger magazine capacity.
3. What is the effective range of a Glock 26?
The effective range of a Glock 26 is typically around 25 yards or less. It is primarily designed for close-range self-defense situations.
4. What is the sight radius of a Glock 26?
The sight radius of a Glock 26 is approximately 5.75 inches.
5. Are Gen 5 GLOCKs more accurate?
The accuracy of a Gen 5 Glock may vary depending on several factors, such as the shooter’s skill level, ammunition used, and environmental conditions. However, improvements in the Gen 5 trigger system and barrel may result in slightly improved accuracy compared to previous generations.
6. Why is my Glock 26 ejecting shells into my face?
This issue could be caused by a few different things, such as a weak or damaged ejector, using low-power ammunition, or limp-wristing the firearm. It’s recommended to have your firearm inspected by a certified gunsmith to determine the cause of the issue.
7. What is the magazine capacity of the Glock 26?
The standard magazine capacity of a Glock 26 is 10 rounds, but it can accept higher capacity magazines as well.
8. What kind of holsters are compatible with the Glock 26?
The Glock 26 is a popular firearm and is compatible with a wide range of holsters, including inside the waistband (IWB), outside the waistband (OWB), and shoulder holsters. It’s important to choose a holster that fits your individual needs and preferences.
9. Can I use a Glock 19 magazine in a Glock 26?
No, the Glock 19 magazine is slightly larger than the Glock 26 magazine and is not compatible with the firearm. However, the Glock 26 can accept magazines from larger Glock models, with an adapter.
10. Is the Glock 26 a good choice for concealed carry?
Yes, the Glock 26 is a popular choice for concealed carry due to its small size, lightweight, and reliable performance. However, it’s important to train regularly and choose the proper holster and accessories to ensure safe and effective carry.