When it comes to concealed carry pistols, Glock has carved a reputation for producing some of the most reliable and practical firearms in the industry. Two of their most popular models are the Glock 26 and the Glock 27. Both are purpose-built for concealed carry and boast impressive track records for reliability and durability. Nonetheless, the age-old debate of which model is better persists, primarily due to their caliber differences.
In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the features, specifications, and performance of the Glock 26 and Glock 27, giving you an in-depth understanding of these compact firearms. Ultimately, it will help you decide which model is best suited to meet your concealed carry needs.
Caliber Comparison: 9mm vs. .40 S&W
Before diving into the specifics of each model, it’s essential to understand the caliber differences these two pistols offer. The Glock 26 is chambered in 9mm, whereas the Glock 27 is designed for .40 S&W. Understanding the differences between these calibers will set the tone for the rest of the discussion.
9mm Advantages
- Greater capacity: 9mm rounds are smaller, allowing for more rounds in the magazine.
- Lower recoil: 9mm generates relatively less recoil, making it easier to handle and more suitable for new shooters.
- Cost and availability: 9mm ammunition is generally more affordable and available compared to .40 S&W.
- Widespread use: 9mm is the standard caliber for many law enforcement agencies and militaries worldwide.
.40 S&W Advantages
- Higher energy: The .40 S&W round is more powerful than the 9mm, delivering more energy on impact.
- Better barrier penetration: The .40 S&W round has a better track record of penetrating barriers such as glass, wood, and metal.
- Leaning toward larger calibers: For those who prefer the balance between larger calibers (.45 ACP) and smaller ones (9mm), the .40 S&W occupies the sweet spot.
While the 9mm is generally more popular due to its capacity, lower recoil, and affordability, the .40 S&W holds its ground for its power and barrier penetration capabilities. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the shooter’s priorities and preferences.
Glock 26: The Baby Glock for Concealed Carry
The Glock 26, also known as the “Baby Glock,” is part of Glock’s subcompact series, specifically designed for the concealed carry market. This tiny powerhouse has gained immense popularity among shooters due to its size, capacity, and ease of use.
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Barrel Length: 3.43 inches
- Overall Length: 6.49 inches
- Height: 4.17 inches
- Width: 1.18 inches
- Weight (unloaded): 21.71 ounces
- Standard Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
- Trigger Pull: 5.5 pounds
Features and Performance
The Glock 26’s small size and light weight make it an ideal choice for concealed carry. It offers a 10-round standard magazine capacity with the option for extended magazines. The simple, yet reliable, Safe Action System provides users with confidence in the Glock’s safety features.
This pistol’s 9mm chambering contributes to a lower felt recoil and flatter shooting, which is essential for maintaining accuracy and control during rapid-fire scenarios. The Glock 26 has a stellar reputation for reliability and serves as an excellent backup firearm for law enforcement officers or a primary concealed carry pistol for civilians.
Glock 27: The Compact Powerhouse in .40 S&W
The Glock 27 is a compact, .40 S&W variant of the renowned Glock pistol family. It shares many similarities with the Glock 26 in terms of form factor, but offers increased power in a slightly larger package.
Specifications
- Caliber: .40 S&W
- Barrel Length: 3.43 inches
- Overall Length: 6.49 inches
- Height: 4.17 inches
- Width: 1.18 inches
- Weight (unloaded): 21.89 ounces
- Standard Magazine Capacity: 9 rounds
- Trigger Pull: 5.5 pounds
Features and Performance
Much like its 9mm counterpart, the Glock 27 offers a compact and easily concealable package for those seeking a higher-caliber pistol. The .40 S&W chambering raises the power level of the Glock 27 compared to the Glock 26, making it a more potent choice for self-defense.
The standard magazine capacity is 9 rounds, and with the option of extended magazines, individuals can increase their firepower further. While the Glock 27’s recoil is greater than the 26, it is still manageable for most experienced shooters.
The pistol has the same Safe Action System as the 26, allowing for a consistent and reliable trigger pull. The Glock 27 is trusted by countless law enforcement officers as both a primary and backup firearm for its reliability, powerful chambering, and compact size.
Comparing the Glock 26 and Glock 27: Which One Should You Choose?
With both the Glock 26 and Glock 27 offering exceptional reliability, compactness, and ease of use, the choice between the two comes down to your preference for caliber, magazine capacity, and recoil management.
Choose the Glock 26 if you:
- Prefer a lower recoil pistol for faster follow-up shots and increased control.
- Want a higher standard magazine capacity for self-defense scenarios.
- Value ammunition affordability and availability.
- Are new to shooting or have limited experience handling handguns.
Choose the Glock 27 if you:
- Prefer the added power and energy of the .40 S&W caliber.
- Place a higher priority on barrier penetration capabilities.
- Have experience with handguns and can handle the increased recoil.
In the end, both the Glock 26 and Glock 27 are excellent choices for concealed carry. Evaluating your personal preferences and requirements will help you make the most informed decision when selecting the right Glock pistol for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a Glock 26 and 27?
The primary difference between the Glock 26 and Glock 27 resides in their calibers. The Glock 26 is chambered in 9x19mm, while the Glock 27 is chambered in .40 S&W. The Glock 27 is slightly heavier and has a lower standard round capacity compared to the Glock 26. The two guns are otherwise similar in size, making them both popular choices for concealed carry.
What is the difference between Glock 26, 27, and 33?
The main difference between these three Glock models is their respective calibers. The Glock 26 is chambered for 9x19mm, the Glock 27 for .40 S&W, and the Glock 33 for .357 SIG. As a result, the Glock 33 has a different barrel and a slightly larger frame than the other two models. The Glock 26 generally has a higher round capacity compared to the Glock 27 and 33.
Why carry a Glock 26?
Many people choose to carry a Glock 26 due to its compact size, lightweight design, and reliability, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry. The Glock 26 is also chambered in 9x19mm, which is a popular and widely available handgun caliber with relatively low recoil. Additionally, the Glock 26 has a generous magazine capacity for its size, typically holding 10 to 12 rounds.
Is Glock 27 good for concealed carry?
Yes, the Glock 27 is considered a good choice for concealed carry due to its compact size and lightweight design. It is similar in size to the Glock 26, making it easily concealable inside the waistband or in an ankle holster. Despite its small size, the Glock 27 is chambered in .40 S&W, providing more stopping power compared to the 9x19mm Glock 26. However, some people may prefer the Glock 26 over the 27 due to its lower recoil and increased magazine capacity.
How does the recoil of a Glock 27 compare to a Glock 26?
The recoil of a Glock 27 is generally considered to be snappier than that of a Glock 26 due to its .40 S&W chambering, which produces higher pressure and more energy than 9x19mm ammunition. Recoil is subjective and varies from person to person, but many shooters find the Glock 26 to be more comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
Which Glock is easier to find holsters and accessories for: the 26 or 27?
Both the Glock 26 and 27 are popular concealed carry pistols, so finding holsters and accessories for either should be relatively easy. Most holsters designed for the Glock 26 will also fit the Glock 27 due to their similar dimensions. Some popular accessories for both models include extended magazine base plates, aftermarket sights, and grip enhancements.
Can I use Glock 26 magazines in a Glock 27, or vice versa?
No, you cannot use Glock 26 magazines in a Glock 27 or vice versa, as the two guns are chambered for different calibers. Doing so can be dangerous and lead to malfunctions or even catastrophic failure.
Are the Glock 26 and 27 reliable for self-defense?
Yes, both the Glock 26 and 27 are known for their reliability and durability. Glocks have a reputation for functioning well in various conditions with minimal maintenance, making them popular choices for self-defense and law enforcement use.
Do the Glock 26 and 27 have similar trigger systems?
Yes, both the Glock 26 and 27 utilize Glock’s Safe Action trigger system, which features a consistent trigger pull weight and a built-in trigger safety. The trigger systems on both models have a similar feel, making it easy for shooters to transition between the two pistols.
Can the Glock 27 be converted to 9mm?
It is possible to convert a Glock 27 to shoot 9mm by replacing the barrel and magazine with those designed for the Glock 26. However, it is essential to remember that not all aftermarket conversion barrels are created equal, and the conversion may affect reliability. Always test your converted Glock extensively to ensure proper function and safety before relying on it for self-defense.