How To Tell What Generation A Glock Is?

ByBuffalo Rifles Blog

Glock handguns are some of the most popular and widely used firearms in the world. They are known for their reliability, accuracy, and durability. But with so many different Glock models on the market, it can be difficult to tell what generation a Glock is.

In this article, we will discuss how to tell what generation a Glock is. We will cover the different features that are unique to each generation, and we will provide some tips on how to identify a Glock by its serial number. By the end of this article, you will be able to confidently identify the generation of any Glock handgun.

| Generation | Feature | Year Introduced |
|—|—|—|
| Gen 1 | Fixed sights, no accessory rail | 1982 |
| Gen 2 | Adjustable sights, accessory rail | 1988 |
| Gen 3 | Polymer frame, finger grooves, improved trigger | 1998 |
| Gen 4 | Modular backstraps, ambidextrous slide stop, extended magazine release | 2010 |
| Gen 5 | Marksman barrel, ambidextrous magazine release, no finger grooves | 2017 |

Glock pistols are some of the most popular and widely used handguns in the world. They are known for their reliability, accuracy, and durability. However, it can be difficult to tell what generation a Glock is, especially if you are not familiar with the different models.

In this article, we will discuss how to tell what generation a Glock is. We will cover the different features that you can look for to identify the generation of a Glock, and we will provide some tips on how to determine the age of a Glock.

Features of Glock Generations

The different generations of Glock pistols have a number of different features that can be used to identify them. These features include:

  • The slide serrations
  • The barrel crown
  • The trigger housing
  • The magazine release
  • The slide stop
  • The sights

Slide Serrations

The slide serrations on Glock pistols are one of the easiest ways to identify the generation of a Glock. The first generation of Glock pistols had vertical slide serrations, while the second generation had angled slide serrations. The third generation had a combination of vertical and angled slide serrations, and the fourth generation had all-angle slide serrations.

Barrel Crown

The barrel crown on Glock pistols is another way to identify the generation of a Glock. The first generation of Glock pistols had a round barrel crown, while the second generation had a square barrel crown. The third generation had a combination of round and square barrel crowns, and the fourth generation had all-square barrel crowns.

Trigger Housing

The trigger housing on Glock pistols is also a way to identify the generation of a Glock. The first generation of Glock pistols had a trigger housing with a rounded trigger guard, while the second generation had a trigger housing with a squared-off trigger guard. The third generation had a combination of rounded and squared-off trigger guards, and the fourth generation had all-squared-off trigger guards.

Magazine Release

The magazine release on Glock pistols is another way to identify the generation of a Glock. The first generation of Glock pistols had a magazine release that was located on the left side of the frame, just behind the trigger guard. The second generation had a magazine release that was located on the right side of the frame, just behind the trigger guard. The third generation had a magazine release that was located on the left side of the frame, just in front of the trigger guard. The fourth generation had a magazine release that was located on the right side of the frame, just in front of the trigger guard.

Slide Stop

The slide stop on Glock pistols is another way to identify the generation of a Glock. The first generation of Glock pistols had a slide stop that was located on the left side of the frame, just behind the slide. The second generation had a slide stop that was located on the right side of the frame, just behind the slide. The third generation had a slide stop that was located on the left side of the frame, just in front of the slide. The fourth generation had a slide stop that was located on the right side of the frame, just in front of the slide.

Sights

The sights on Glock pistols are another way to identify the generation of a Glock. The first generation of Glock pistols had fixed sights, while the second generation had adjustable sights. The third generation had a combination of fixed and adjustable sights, and the fourth generation had all-adjustable sights.

By looking for the features listed above, you can easily identify the generation of a Glock pistol. If you are not sure what generation a Glock is, you can always contact the manufacturer or a qualified gunsmith.

Additional Tips for Identifying Glock Generations

In addition to the features listed above, there are a few other things you can look for to help you identify the generation of a Glock pistol. These include:

  • The serial number
  • The markings on the slide
  • The packaging

The serial number of a Glock pistol can be found on the frame, just below the trigger guard. The markings on the slide can include the model number, the caliber, and the year of manufacture. The packaging for a Glock pistol will also include the model number and the caliber.

By looking for these additional clues, you can be even more confident in identifying the generation of a Glock pistol.

Resources

  • [Glock’s Official Website](https://us.glock.com/)

How To Tell What Generation A Glock Is?

Glock pistols are some of the most popular and widely used handguns in the world. They are known for their reliability, durability, and accuracy. But with so many different Glock models on the market, it can be difficult to tell what generation a particular Glock is.

Here is a quick and easy guide to help you identify the generation of your Glock:

1. Look at the serial number. The first two digits of the serial number will tell you the generation of your Glock.

  • Gen 1: 00-09
  • Gen 2: 10-19
  • Gen 3: 20-29
  • Gen 4: 30-39
  • Gen 5: 40-49

2. Look at the slide. The slide on a Glock is the part that covers the barrel and houses the firing pin. The generation of your Glock can be determined by the markings on the slide.

  • Gen 1: The slide will have a single “hump” behind the ejection port.
  • Gen 2: The slide will have two “humps” behind the ejection port.
  • Gen 3: The slide will have a “shelf” behind the ejection port.
  • Gen 4: The slide will have a “recoil spring plug” on the back of the slide.
  • Gen 5: The slide will have a “markings” on the front of the slide.

3. Look at the frame. The frame of a Glock is the part that houses the trigger, magazine, and other internal components. The generation of your Glock can be determined by the markings on the frame.

  • Gen 1: The frame will have a “square” trigger guard.
  • Gen 2: The frame will have a “rounded” trigger guard.
  • Gen 3: The frame will have a “recessed” trigger guard.
  • Gen 4: The frame will have a “modular” design that allows for interchangeable backstraps.
  • Gen 5: The frame will have a “nub” on the back of the grip.

4. Look at the magazine. The magazine of a Glock is the part that holds the ammunition. The generation of your Glock can be determined by the magazine catch.

  • Gen 1: The magazine catch will be located on the left side of the frame.
  • Gen 2: The magazine catch will be located on the right side of the frame.
  • Gen 3: The magazine catch will be located on the left side of the frame, but it will be reversible.
  • Gen 4: The magazine catch will be located on the right side of the frame, but it will be reversible.
  • Gen 5: The magazine catch will be located on the left side of the frame, and it will not be reversible.

5. Look at the sights. The sights on a Glock are the parts that you use to aim the gun. The generation of your Glock can be determined by the type of sights that are installed.

  • Gen 1: The sights will be fixed.
  • Gen 2: The sights will be adjustable.
  • Gen 3: The sights will be adjustable, and they will have a white dot on the front sight.
  • Gen 4: The sights will be adjustable, and they will have a tritium dot on the front sight.
  • Gen 5: The sights will be adjustable, and they will have a tritium dot on the front sight and a serrated rear sight.

Once you have determined the generation of your Glock, you can learn more about its specific features and capabilities. You can also find out what accessories are compatible with your Glock.

Differences Between Glock Generations

The different generations of Glock pistols have a number of differences in terms of their appearance, features, and performance. Here is a brief overview of the key differences between each generation:

  • Gen 1: The Gen 1 Glocks were the first generation of Glock pistols to be introduced. They were characterized by their simple design and rugged construction. However, they also had a number of drawbacks, such as a lack of ergonomics and a heavy trigger pull.
  • Gen 2: The Gen 2 Glocks were introduced in 1991. They addressed some of the shortcomings of the Gen 1 Glocks, such as the addition of a more ergonomic grip and a lighter trigger pull. However, they still retained the basic design of the Gen 1 Glocks.

How to Tell What Generation a Glock Is?

Q: What are the different generations of Glocks?

A: There are currently four generations of Glock pistols. The first generation was introduced in 1982, the second generation in 1990, the third generation in 1998, and the fourth generation in 2010.

Q: How can I tell what generation my Glock is?

A: There are a few ways to tell what generation your Glock is. The easiest way is to look at the serial number. The first two digits of the serial number will tell you the generation. For example, a Glock with a serial number starting with “17” is a first generation Glock, a Glock with a serial number starting with “27” is a second generation Glock, and so on.

You can also tell what generation your Glock is by looking at the following features:

  • The slide serrations: The first generation Glocks have vertical slide serrations, the second generation Glocks have angled slide serrations, the third generation Glocks have no slide serrations, and the fourth generation Glocks have a combination of vertical and angled slide serrations.
  • The barrel: The first generation Glocks have a smooth barrel, the second generation Glocks have a fluted barrel, the third generation Glocks have a polygonal barrel, and the fourth generation Glocks have a Marksman barrel.
  • The trigger: The first generation Glocks have a smooth trigger, the second generation Glocks have a serrated trigger, the third generation Glocks have a textured trigger, and the fourth generation Glocks have a smooth trigger with a textured safety lever.

Q: What are the differences between the different generations of Glocks?

A: The different generations of Glocks have a number of differences, including:

  • The materials used: The first generation Glocks were made from a steel slide and a polymer frame, the second generation Glocks were made from a stainless steel slide and a polymer frame, the third generation Glocks were made from a Tenifer-coated steel slide and a polymer frame, and the fourth generation Glocks are made from a DLC-coated steel slide and a polymer frame.
  • The features: The first generation Glocks have a manual safety, the second generation Glocks have a frame-mounted safety, the third generation Glocks have a trigger-activated safety, and the fourth generation Glocks have a reversible magazine release.
  • The performance: The first generation Glocks have a reputation for being reliable but not particularly accurate, the second generation Glocks are more accurate than the first generation Glocks, the third generation Glocks are even more accurate than the second generation Glocks, and the fourth generation Glocks are the most accurate Glocks to date.

Q: Which generation of Glock is the best?

A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as the best generation of Glock for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, the fourth generation Glocks are generally considered to be the best overall Glocks, as they offer a combination of reliability, accuracy, and features that make them ideal for a wide variety of shooters.

Q: What are some common problems with Glocks?

A: Glocks are generally very reliable pistols, but there are a few common problems that can occur. These include:

  • Failure to feed: This can be caused by a dirty or damaged magazine, a weak or damaged spring, or a misaligned feed ramp.
  • Failure to eject: This can be caused by a dirty or damaged extractor, a weak or damaged ejector spring, or a misaligned ejector.
  • Failure to fire: This can be caused by a misaligned firing pin, a weak or damaged firing pin spring, or a damaged firing pin.

If you experience any of these problems, it is important to have your Glock repaired by a qualified gunsmith.

Q: How can I maintain my Glock?

A: To maintain your Glock, you should:

  • Clean it regularly after shooting.
  • Lubricate it with a light oil.
  • Check the condition of the springs and other parts.
  • Replace any worn or damaged parts.

By following these simple steps, you can help to keep your Glock in good working order and prevent any problems from occurring.

there are a few key ways to tell what generation a Glock is. By looking at the slide release, the magazine catch, and the barrel, you can usually determine the generation of your Glock with a high degree of accuracy. Keep in mind that there are some exceptions to these rules, so if you are not sure, it is always best to consult with a qualified gunsmith.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • The slide release is the easiest way to tell what generation a Glock is. Gen 1 Glocks have a square slide release, Gen 2 Glocks have a curved slide release, and Gen 3+ Glocks have a serrated slide release.
  • The magazine catch is another way to tell what generation a Glock is. Gen 1 Glocks have a small, round magazine catch, Gen 2 Glocks have a larger, rectangular magazine catch, and Gen 3+ Glocks have a serrated magazine catch.
  • The barrel is the final way to tell what generation a Glock is. Gen 1 Glocks have a smooth barrel, Gen 2 Glocks have a polygonal barrel, and Gen 3+ Glocks have a cold hammer-forged barrel.

By following these tips, you can easily determine the generation of your Glock and get the most out of your firearm.

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