Glock G45 vs. G17 Gen 5: Which Is the Better Option?
Glock is a reputable brand in the gun industry, producing some of the most sought-after firearms in the market. When it comes to handguns, Glock is a go-to brand for firearms enthusiasts for a variety of reasons, including reliability, durability, accuracy, and affordability. Two of the company’s recent models, the Glock G45 and the G17 Gen 5, are among the most popular models on the market.
As a gun enthusiast, how do you choose between the Glock G45 and the G17 Gen 5? In this blog post, we delve deeper into the features and specifications of both firearms to provide a comprehensive comparison.
What are the Glock G45 and G17 Gen 5?
The Glock G45 and G17 Gen 5 are both full-sized, semi-automatic handguns designed for personal protection and law enforcement purposes. The Glock G45 is a hybrid of the G17 and G19 models, combining the best of both. On the other hand, the G17 Gen 5 is an upgraded version of the company’s iconic G17 model.
Size and Weight
When it comes to size and weight, the Glock G45 and G17 Gen 5 are quite similar. Both firearms are 8 inches long, with a barrel length of 4.5 inches. However, the Glock G45 is slightly lighter, weighing 24.9 ounces compared to the G17 Gen 5’s 25.26 ounces.
Magazine
The Glock G45 and G17 Gen 5 both come with a standard capacity of 17 rounds, which is pretty standard for full-sized handguns. Additionally, both firearms are compatible with Glock’s extended magazines, which increase their maximum capacity to 33 rounds.
Frame Material
The Glock G45 features a polymer frame, which is lightweight and durable. The frame is designed to reduce recoil and absorb shock to enhance accuracy during firing. The G17 Gen 5 also features a polymer frame but comes with an improved grip texture that provides a more secure hold. Additionally, the G17 Gen 5 comes with a flared magwell, which makes it easier to reload the firearm.
Sights
The Glock G45 and G17 Gen 5 both come with standard fixed sights. However, users have the option of customizing their firearms with Glock’s adjustable sights or night sights.
Trigger Mechanism and Trigger Pull
Both firearms feature Glock’s signature Safe Action System, which includes a trigger safety, firing pin safety, and a drop safety. However, the G17 Gen 5 has an improved trigger mechanism with a smoother trigger pull compared to the G45. The improved trigger mechanism makes the G17 Gen 5 more accurate and easier to shoot.
Price
The Glock G45 and G17 Gen 5 are both priced similarly, with the G45 being slightly cheaper. On average, the Glock G45 retails for around $620, while the G17 Gen 5 retails for around $640. However, pricing may differ depending on the dealer and location.
Conclusion
Both the Glock G45 and G17 Gen 5 are reliable, durable, and accurate firearms. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to preference. If you prefer a lighter firearm, the Glock G45 is the better option. If you’re looking for an improved trigger mechanism, the G17 Gen 5 is the way to go. Regardless of which option you choose, both firearms are excellent choices for personal protection and law enforcement purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Glock 45 better than the 17?
Both the Glock G45 and G17 Gen 5 are excellent firearms, but which one is better depends on your specific preferences and needs. The G45 combines elements of the G17 and G19, offering a full-size grip for improved control, while having a slightly shorter barrel for better concealability. The G17 Gen 5 has a longer barrel, which provides a slightly longer sight radius and potentially better accuracy at longer distances. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your intended use and personal comfort.
What are the advantages of the Glock 45?
The Glock G45 offers a hybrid design that combines the grip of the Glock 17 for better control and the shorter barrel of the Glock 19 for easier concealment. Its compact slide reduces weight, making it more comfortable for extended periods of carrying. In addition, the G45 features several ambidextrous controls, such as the slide stop lever and magazine release, and a flared magwell for easier magazine changes. With the G45, you get the benefits of both compact and full-size Glock models.
What is the difference between a Glock 19 Gen 5 and a Glock G45?
The main difference between the Glock 19 Gen 5 and the Glock G45 is the grip length and the inclusion of some updated features. The G45 has a full-size grip similar to the Glock 17, whereas the G19 has a shorter grip. This means the G45 can accommodate larger hands comfortably and allow for a more stable shooting platform. The G45 also includes additional features such as a front serrated slide, which enables forward press checks, and a lanyard ring for secure attachment.
Is the Glock G45 a Gen 5?
Yes, the Glock G45 is considered a Gen 5 pistol. It shares many of the same design and feature upgrades as other Gen 5 models, such as the G17 and G19. These upgrades include improved trigger pull, a marksman barrel, an ambidextrous slide stop lever, a flared magwell, and finger groove removal resulting in a more ergonomic grip.
Which is better for concealed carry, the Glock G45 or the G17 Gen 5?
For concealed carry purposes, the Glock G45 may be a better choice due to its more compact slide and shorter barrel, making it easier to conceal. Additionally, the G45 has a full-size grip that offers improved control and comfort during shooting, making it an attractive option for concealed carry users who want a balance of size, control, and concealability.
What caliber is the Glock G45 and G17 Gen 5?
Both the Glock G45 and G17 Gen 5 are chambered in 9mm Luger, which is one of the most popular and widely used handgun calibers in the world.
What is the weight difference between the Glock G45 and G17 Gen 5?
The Glock G45 weighs approximately 24.98 ounces unloaded, while the Glock G17 Gen 5 weighs about 25.26 ounces unloaded. The difference in weight is minimal, making both guns relatively similar in terms of handling and overall feel.
Can the Glock G45 use G17 Gen 5 magazines?
Yes, the Glock G45 can use G17 Gen 5 magazines. Both pistols share the same frame size and caliber, so the magazines are interchangeable between the two models.
Which has a higher capacity, the Glock G45 or the G17 Gen 5?
Both the Glock G45 and G17 Gen 5 have the same standard magazine capacity of 17 rounds in their 9mm Luger configuration. Larger capacity magazines are also available for both models if you desire more ammo capacity.
Which is more accurate, the Glock G45 or the G17 Gen 5?
Accuracy can vary depending on the individual shooter, but generally, the Glock G17 Gen 5 may have a slight advantage due to its longer barrel and sight radius, allowing for better alignment and more accurate shots at longer distances. However, the Glock G45’s compact slide design and full-size grip still offer excellent accuracy and control, making it a strong contender in terms of shootability.