Glock G22 Review – The Ultimate .40 Caliber Handgun for Duty & Defense

The Glock G22 is one of the most trusted .40 caliber pistols, widely used by law enforcement agencies, security professionals, and civilian defenders worldwide. It strikes a balance between firepower, capacity, and reliability, making it a top-tier choice for those seeking a high-performing duty or self-defense handgun.

In this in-depth Glock 22 review, we’ll explore its features, advantages, comparisons to other calibers, and why it remains a top-selling .40 S&W handgun.

Overview of the Glock G22

Glock G22 Generations – What’s New?

The Glock 22 has evolved through multiple generations, improving performance, ergonomics, and durability.

1. Glock G22 Gen 3

✅ Finger grooves for improved grip
✅ Standard rifled barrel
✅ Non-ambidextrous slide stop

2. Glock G22 Gen 4

✅ Dual recoil spring – Reduces felt recoil
✅ Interchangeable backstraps – Customizable grip
✅ Rough Textured Frame (RTF) – Improved handling

3. Glock G22 Gen 5 (Latest Model)

✅ Marksman Barrel (GMB) – More accuracy
✅ No Finger Grooves – Universal grip comfort
✅ Ambidextrous Slide Stop – Left-hand friendly
✅ nDLC Coating – Enhanced corrosion resistance

 Choosing the Glock 22?

1. High Capacity in .40 S&W

The Glock 22 offers a 15+1 capacity, more than most .40 caliber pistols, making it superior for duty and self-defense scenarios.

2. .40 Caliber Power with Manageable Recoil

The .40 S&W balances power and control, delivering greater stopping power than 9mm while being easier to manage than .45 ACP.

3. Trusted by Law Enforcement

The G22 is the standard issue for many U.S. police departments, thanks to its durability, reliability, and performance under stress.

4. Compatibility with Glock Ecosystem

The Glock 22 accepts Glock 23 (compact) and Glock 27 (subcompact) magazines, increasing versatility.

Glock G22 vs. Other Calibers: .40 S&W vs. 9mm vs. .45 ACP

Pros & Cons of .40 Caliber

Stronger stopping power than 9mm
Better penetration than .45 ACP
Balances recoil & capacity
More recoil than 9mm
Higher ammo cost than 9mm

How Does the Glock G22 Perform?

1. Accuracy & Shooting Experience

The Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) in Gen 5 models improves accuracy, and the low bore axis minimizes muzzle flip, ensuring better control during rapid fire.

2. Reliability & Durability

Glocks are renowned for their reliability, and the G22 handles dirt, dust, and extreme conditions exceptionally well. The nDLC coating enhances slide durability, preventing corrosion.

3. Concealed Carry & Comfort

Though larger than a Glock 19, the G22 can still be concealed with the right holster, such as:

• IWB (Inside Waistband) holsters – Best for concealed carry
• OWB (Outside Waistband) holsters – Ideal for open carry or duty use

Glock G22 Accessories & Customization

The Glock 22 is highly customizable, allowing shooters to enhance its performance.

1. Best Night Sights for Glock G22

🔹 Trijicon HD XR – Excellent low-light visibility
🔹 AmeriGlo Bold – Budget-friendly night sights

2. Best Red Dot Optics for Glock G22 MOS (Optics-Ready Models)

🔹 Trijicon RMR Type 2 – Military-grade durability
🔹 Holosun 507C – Affordable & feature-rich

3. Best Triggers for Glock G22

🔹 Apex Tactical Glock Trigger – Smoother pull & reset
🔹 ZEV PRO Trigger – Crisp break for competition shooting

4. Best Holsters for Glock G22

🔹 Safariland 7378 – OWB holster for duty use
🔹 Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.0 – IWB holster for concealed carry

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Glock G22 good for self-defense?

 Yes! The .40 S&W caliber offers strong stopping power, and its 15+1 capacity makes it a great home defense and carry option.

2. Can I convert my Glock G22 to 9mm?

 Yes! You can use a 9mm conversion barrel and Glock 17 magazines to shoot 9mm from your G22.

3. What’s the difference between the Glock 22 and Glock 23?

The Glock 22 (full-size) has a longer barrel & more capacity, while the Glock 23 (compact size) is easier to conceal.

4. How does .40 S&W compare to 9mm?

.40 S&W has more stopping power, but 9mm has less recoil and cheaper ammo.

5. Is the Glock G22 better than the Glock G17?

It depends! If you want higher stopping power, the G22 (.40 S&W) is better. If you want less recoil & cheaper ammo, go for the G17 (9mm).

 – Is the Glock G22 Worth Buying?

YES! The Glock G22 remains one of the best .40 caliber handguns, offering:

• Strong stopping power
• High capacity (15+1 rounds)
• Exceptional reliability
• Law enforcement-proven durability