Glock 19 Gen 5 Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
The Glock 19 Gen 5 is one of the most talked-about handguns in the world of self-defense, concealed carry, and law enforcement. As the latest iteration of one of the most trusted firearms ever built, this compact 9mm pistol is packed with upgrades and refinements designed to enhance accuracy, durability, and shooter comfort.
But the question remains: Is the Glock 19 Gen 5 worth the upgrade?
Whether you’re upgrading from an older generation or buying your first Glock, this in-depth Glock 19 Gen 5 review will help you make an informed decision.
A Quick Introduction to the Glock 19 Line
The Glock 19 has long been considered one of the best 9mm pistols for concealed carry, combining compact size with impressive capacity, reliability, and ease of use. Introduced in the 1980s, the G19 quickly earned its place in both civilian and law enforcement circles.
Over the years, Glock has released several generations of this iconic handgun, with each version offering minor tweaks. The Gen 5, however, represents one of the most significant updates to date.
What’s New in the Glock 19 Gen 5?
The Glock 19 Gen 5 includes more than 20 design changes from the Gen 4. Here are the standout improvements:
1. Marksman Barrel (GMB)
The Gen 5 introduces the Glock Marksman Barrel, featuring enhanced polygonal rifling and a better crown. This change significantly improves accuracy, especially for longer-range shooting and tighter groupings.
2. No Finger Grooves
Many shooters found the finger grooves on the Gen 4 frame uncomfortable. The Gen 5 removes them entirely, allowing for a more natural and customizable grip, regardless of hand size.
3. Flared Magwell
A subtle but important improvement, the flared magwell makes reloads faster and smoother. It helps guide magazines into the pistol more efficiently under pressure.
4. Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever
Glock added an ambidextrous slide stop to accommodate both left- and right-handed shooters. This enhances usability and control for a wider audience.
5. nDLC Finish
The Gen 5’s slide features a new nDLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) finish, providing superior resistance to corrosion and wear. It also gives the pistol a deep, matte black look.
6. Improved Trigger System
While still a striker-fired system, the Gen 5’s trigger has a cleaner break and shorter reset compared to earlier generations, resulting in better control and accuracy during follow-up shots.
Glock 19 Gen 5 Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 15+1 (standard) |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.28 inches |
| Weight (unloaded) | 23.63 oz |
| Sights | Fixed Glock Sights (standard) |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Finish | nDLC |
| Trigger Pull | ~5.5 lbs |
Performance & Reliability in the Field
Ask any Glock fan why they love the brand, and the word “reliability” is sure to come up. The Glock 19 Gen 5 lives up to this legacy—and then some.
Range Performance
In live-fire testing, the Gen 5 delivers superior shot-to-shot consistency, largely due to its improved barrel and trigger. Whether you’re a new shooter or a seasoned marksman, you’ll notice tighter groups and smoother handling.
Ease of Maintenance
The Glock 19 Gen 5 is as easy to maintain as its predecessors. Its simple takedown, lack of unnecessary parts, and corrosion-resistant finish make it a favorite for those who prioritize function over flash.
Long-Term Durability
From its slide to the frame and internals, every component is designed to withstand thousands of rounds without failure. The updated nDLC coating enhances long-term durability even further, making this a true workhorse.
Glock 19 Gen 5 vs. Gen 4: Key Differences
If you’re wondering whether to upgrade from the Glock 19 Gen 4 to Gen 5, here are the main distinctions:
| Feature | Glock 19 Gen 4 | Glock 19 Gen 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Finger Grooves | Yes | No |
| Barrel Type | Standard rifling | Marksman Barrel |
| Slide Finish | Tenifer | nDLC |
| Slide Stop | Right-handed only | Ambidextrous |
| Magwell | Standard | Flared |
| Trigger | Slightly heavier | Smoother, cleaner |
Ideal Use Cases: Who Should Buy the Glock 19 Gen 5?
🔹 Concealed Carry
With its compact dimensions and high-capacity magazine, the Glock 19 Gen 5 is one of the top choices for concealed carry. Its slimmer profile and lack of finger grooves improve concealability and comfort under clothing.
🔹 Home Defense
For home protection, the G19 Gen 5 offers rapid target acquisition, a balanced grip, and dependable stopping power. Adding a weapon-mounted light or optic to the MOS version enhances this even further.
🔹 Law Enforcement & Security
Many law enforcement agencies have adopted the Glock 19 Gen 5 as their duty weapon, citing reliability, ergonomics, and magazine compatibility with other Glock models.
🔹 Range & Training
The Gen 5’s improved accuracy and recoil control make it an excellent firearm for range shooting and tactical training.
Glock 19 Gen 5 Price and Where to Buy
Prices for the Glock 19 Gen 5 typically range between $550 to $700, depending on the configuration (MOS, night sights, etc.).
Buy Glock 19 Gen 5 Online at Nate Guns Shop
At Nate Guns Shop, we offer:
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Competitive pricing
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Multiple configurations in stock
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Fast, legal FFL transfers
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Discreet packaging and shipping
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Support for Bitcoin and traditional payments
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Secure online checkout and nationwide delivery
Recommended Accessories for Glock 19 Gen 5
To get the most out of your G19 Gen 5, consider adding:
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IWB holsters for concealed carry
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Night sights or fiber optics
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Extended magazines
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Weapon lights (Streamlight, SureFire)
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Custom backstraps for improved ergonomics
These add-ons can take your Glock 19 from great to exceptional based on your intended use.
Final Verdict: Is the Glock 19 Gen 5 Worth It?
Absolutely. The Glock 19 Gen 5 offers meaningful upgrades over previous generations that improve comfort, performance, and adaptability. Its balance of size, firepower, and reliability makes it a clear leader in the compact 9mm pistol category.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or considering an upgrade from Gen 3 or Gen 4, the Glock 19 Gen 5 is one of the best investments you can make in a defensive firearm.