Glock G17 Gen 4 Review : The Best Full-Size 9mm Handgun?
The Glock G17 Gen 4 is one of the most widely recognized and trusted full-size 9mm handguns. Used by law enforcement, military personnel, competitive shooters, and civilian gun owners, the Glock 17 Gen 4 is known for its reliability, accuracy, and high-capacity magazine. But how does it compare to other full-size 9mm pistols? And is it the best choice for you?
In this detailed review, we’ll break down the features of the Glock G17 Gen 4, compare it with other top full-size 9mm pistols, and explore its pros and cons against other calibers.
Overview
The Glock 17 Gen 4 is a fourth-generation model of the legendary Glock 17, offering enhanced ergonomics, modular backstraps, and improved recoil management.
Key Features of the Glock G17 Gen 4
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 17+1 rounds (compatible with extended mags)
- Barrel Length: 4.49 inches
- Overall Length: 7.95 inches
- Height: 5.47 inches
- Weight (Unloaded): 25.06 oz
- Frame: Polymer with a rough texture
- Trigger Pull: 5.5 lbs
- Recoil System: Dual recoil spring assembly
Upgrades in the Gen 4 Version
- Modular Backstrap System: Allows for a customizable grip size
- Rough Textured Frame (RTF): Provides improved grip control
- Dual Recoil Spring System: Reduces felt recoil and improves durability
- Reversible Magazine Catch: Ambidextrous-friendly design
Glock G17 Gen 4 vs. Other Full-Size 9mm Pistols
When choosing the best full-size 9mm handgun, there are several strong contenders on the market. Let’s compare the Glock G17 Gen 4 with other top-rated 9mm full-size pistols:
| Feature | Glock G17 Gen 4 | SIG Sauer P320 Full-Size | Smith & Wesson MP9 2.0 | CZ 75 SP-01 | Beretta 92FS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 17+1 | 17+1 | 17+1 | 18+1 | 15+1 |
| Barrel Length | 4.49 inches | 4.7 inches | 4.25 inches | 4.6 inches | 4.9 inches |
| Trigger Pull | 5.5 lbs | 6.5 lbs | 6.5 lbs | 4.5 lbs | 5.5 lbs |
| Frame Material | Polymer | Polymer | Polymer | Steel | Alloy |
| Recoil Management | Excellent | Very Good | Very Good | Superior | Good |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 25.06 oz | 29.5 oz | 24.7 oz | 40.5 oz | 33.3 oz |
| Optics-Ready | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Rail for Accessories | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Why Choose the Glock G17 Gen 4 Over Other Full-Size 9mm Pistols?
–Lighter than metal-framed pistols (CZ 75, Beretta 92FS)
-More aftermarket support than SIG P320 and M&P9
-Reliable, easy to maintain, and great for all users
-Great capacity (17+1 rounds) and accepts 33-round mags
However, some users may prefer the SIG P320 for its modularity or the CZ 75 for its all-metal construction and smooth recoil.
Choosing The GLOCK 17 Gen 4
Pros
Reliable & Durable: Tested in extreme conditions
High Capacity: 17+1 rounds standard (compatible with 33-round magazines)
Customizable Grip: Modular backstraps fit all hand sizes
Simple & Easy to Maintain: Few parts, easy disassembly
Lightweight for a Full-Size Pistol: Great for duty or home defense
Large Aftermarket Support: Custom triggers, sights, and accessories available
Cons
Stock Trigger Could Be Better: Some users prefer upgrading to a lighter trigger
Polymer Frame Isn’t for Everyone: Some prefer metal-framed guns
No Manual Safety: May not be ideal for beginners or those who prefer external safeties
Glock G17 Gen 4 vs. Other Calibers
How does the 9mm Glock 17 Gen 4 compare to other popular handgun calibers?
| Feature | Glock G17 (9mm) | Glock G21 (.45 ACP) | Glock G22 (.40 S&W) | Glock G31 (.357 SIG) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 17+1 | 13+1 | 15+1 | 15+1 |
| Recoil | Low | Moderate | Moderate-High | High |
| Stopping Power | Moderate | High | High | Very High |
| Ammo Cost | Affordable | Expensive | Moderate | Expensive |
| Mag Compatibility | Interchangeable with G19, G34, G45 | Limited to .45 ACP | Shares mags with G23, G27 | Shares mags with G32, G33 |
Best Caliber for You?
🔹 Choose 9mm (Glock 17 Gen 4) if you want a balanced, high-capacity, and affordable handgun.
🔹 Choose .45 ACP (Glock 21) if you want more stopping power at the cost of magazine capacity.
🔹 Choose .40 S&W (Glock 22) if you want a middle ground between 9mm and .45 ACP.
🔹 Choose .357 SIG (Glock 31) if you want extreme velocity and penetration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Glock G17 Gen 4 good for home defense?
Yes! The high capacity (17+1 rounds), reliability, and ease of use make it an excellent home defense weapon.
2. Is the Glock G17 Gen 4 good for concealed carry?
The Glock 17 is full-sized, making it harder to conceal than compact models like the Glock 19 or Glock 43X.
3. Does the Glock G17 Gen 4 accept red dot sights?
No, the Gen 4 version does not come with an MOS (Modular Optic System) slide. If you need an optics-ready Glock 17, consider the Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS.
4. What are the best upgrades for the Glock 17 Gen 4?
- Night Sights or Fiber Optic Sights (Trijicon HD)
- Extended Slide Release for Faster Reloads
- Aftermarket Trigger (Apex, Overwatch, Zev)
- Weapon Light for Home Defense (Streamlight TLR-1, SureFire X300U)
– Is the Glock G17 Gen 4 the Best Full-Size 9mm?
- If you want a no-nonsense, reliable, and battle-proven full-size 9mm pistol, the Glock G17 Gen 4 is one of the best choices available. It delivers excellent performance for self-defense, duty carry, and range use.
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