How To Tell What Gen A Glock Is?

Glocks are some of the most popular handguns on the market, and for good reason. They’re reliable, accurate, and easy to use. But with so many different Glock models available, it can be difficult to tell what generation a Glock is.

In this article, we’ll take a look at how to tell what generation a Glock is. We’ll cover everything from the external features to the internal components, so you’ll be able to identify a Glock’s generation with ease.

So whether you’re looking to buy a Glock or you just want to learn more about them, read on!

How To Tell What Gen A Glock Is?

| Feature | Gen 1 | Gen 2 | Gen 3 |
|—|—|—|—|
| Frame Material | Steel | Steel | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Steel | Steel | Polymer |
| Barrel Length | 4.5″ | 4.5″ | 4.5″ |
| Sights | Fixed | Fixed | Adjustable |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 | 10 | 15 |
| Trigger Pull Weight | 5.5 lbs | 5.5 lbs | 5.5 lbs |
| MSRP | $500 | $550 | $600 |

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

In this guide, we will discuss how to tell what generation a Glock is by looking at the following features:

  • The serial number
  • The markings on the slide
  • The magazine release
  • The grip

We will also provide a table that summarizes the differences between the different generations of Glock pistols.

Serial Number

The first way to tell what generation a Glock is by looking at the serial number. Glock serial numbers are typically located on the left side of the frame, just below the trigger guard. The first two digits of the serial number indicate the generation of the Glock.

  • Gen 1: 01-09
  • Gen 2: 10-29
  • Gen 3: 30-49
  • Gen 4: 50-69
  • Gen 5: 70-99

Markings on the Slide

The second way to tell what generation a Glock is by looking at the markings on the slide. The markings on the slide will vary depending on the generation of the Glock.

  • Gen 1: The slide will have the Glock logo, the model number, and the caliber.
  • Gen 2: The slide will have the Glock logo, the model number, the caliber, and the word “Austria”.
  • Gen 3: The slide will have the Glock logo, the model number, the caliber, and the word “USA”.
  • Gen 4: The slide will have the Glock logo, the model number, the caliber, the word “USA”, and the letters “MOS” (which stands for Modular Optics System).
  • Gen 5: The slide will have the Glock logo, the model number, the caliber, the word “USA”, and the letters “NS” (which stands for Non-Slip).

Magazine Release

The third way to tell what generation a Glock is by looking at the magazine release. The magazine release on a Glock pistol is located on the left side of the frame, just below the trigger guard. The magazine release on a Gen 1 Glock is a small, round button. The magazine release on a Gen 2 Glock is a larger, rectangular button. The magazine release on a Gen 3 Glock is a smaller, rectangular button with a lip on the top. The magazine release on a Gen 4 Glock is a larger, rectangular button with a lip on the top and a serrated edge. The magazine release on a Gen 5 Glock is a smaller, rectangular button with a lip on the top and a serrated edge.

Grip

The fourth way to tell what generation a Glock is by looking at the grip. The grip on a Glock pistol is made of polymer. The grip on a Gen 1 Glock is smooth. The grip on a Gen 2 Glock has finger grooves. The grip on a Gen 3 Glock has finger grooves and a beavertail. The grip on a Gen 4 Glock has finger grooves, a beavertail, and interchangeable backstraps. The grip on a Gen 5 Glock has finger grooves, a beavertail, interchangeable backstraps, and a flared magwell.

By looking at the serial number, the markings on the slide, the magazine release, and the grip, you can easily tell what generation a Glock is.

Here is a table that summarizes the differences between the different generations of Glock pistols:

| Generation | Serial Number | Markings on the Slide | Magazine Release | Grip |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Gen 1 | 01-09 | Glock logo, model number, caliber | Small, round button | Smooth |
| Gen 2 | 10-29 | Glock logo, model number, caliber, “Austria” | Larger, rectangular button | Finger grooves |
| Gen 3 | 30-49 | Glock logo, model number, caliber, “USA” | Smaller, rectangular button with lip on top | Finger grooves and beavertail |
| Gen 4 | 50-69 | Glock logo, model number, caliber, “USA”, “MOS” | Larger, rectangular button with lip on top and serrated edge | Finger grooves, beavertail, and interchangeable backstraps |
| Gen 5 | 70-99

How To Tell What Gen A Glock Is?

Glock pistols are some of the most popular handguns on the market, and for good reason. They are reliable, accurate, and affordable. But with so many different Glock models available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a Glock is the generation. Glock pistols are divided into four generations, each with its own unique features.

Glock Generation 1

The first generation of Glock pistols was introduced in 1982. These pistols are characterized by their simple design and lack of features. They have a fixed barrel, a non-ambidextrous safety, and a plastic frame.

Glock Generation 1 pistols are still popular today, but they are no longer manufactured by Glock. However, you can still find them on the used market.

Glock Generation 2

The second generation of Glock pistols was introduced in 1990. These pistols introduced a number of improvements over the first generation, including a modified trigger, a reversible magazine catch, and a textured grip.

Glock Generation 2 pistols are still popular today, and they are still manufactured by Glock.

Glock Generation 3

The third generation of Glock pistols was introduced in 1998. These pistols introduced a number of additional improvements, including a wider slide release, a more durable finish, and a modular backstrap system.

Glock Generation 3 pistols are still popular today, and they are still manufactured by Glock.

Glock Generation 4

The fourth generation of Glock pistols was introduced in 2010. These pistols introduced a number of significant changes, including a new striker-fired trigger, a reversible magazine catch, and an ambidextrous slide stop.

Glock Generation 4 pistols are still popular today, and they are still manufactured by Glock.

How To Tell What Gen A Glock Is?

There are a few ways to tell what generation a Glock is.

  • The serial number: The first two digits of the serial number indicate the generation of the Glock. For example, a Glock with the serial number “17BD1234” is a Generation 1 Glock.
  • The markings: The markings on the slide will also indicate the generation of the Glock. Generation 1 Glocks have no markings on the slide. Generation 2 Glocks have a “G2” marking on the slide. Generation 3 Glocks have a “G3” marking on the slide. Generation 4 Glocks have a “G4” marking on the slide.
  • The features: The features of the Glock will also indicate the generation. Generation 1 Glocks have a fixed barrel, a non-ambidextrous safety, and a plastic frame. Generation 2 Glocks have a modified trigger, a reversible magazine catch, and a textured grip. Generation 3 Glocks have a wider slide release, a more durable finish, and a modular backstrap system. Generation 4 Glocks have a new striker-fired trigger, a reversible magazine catch, and an ambidextrous slide stop.

Glock pistols are some of the most popular handguns on the market, and for good reason. They are reliable, accurate, and affordable. But with so many different Glock models available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a Glock is the generation. Glock pistols are divided into four generations, each with its own unique features. By understanding the different generations of Glock pistols, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

How to Tell What Gen a Glock Is?

Q: What are the different generations of Glocks?

A: Glock has produced five generations of pistols since the original Glock 17 was introduced in 1982. The generations are distinguished by a number of features, including the slide serrations, the trigger, and the magazine release.

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 slide serrations. The first generation Glocks have squared-off serrations, while the second generation Glocks have angled serrations. The third generation Glocks have a combination of squared-off and angled serrations, and the fourth and fifth generation Glocks have only angled serrations.

You can also tell the generation of your Glock by looking at the trigger. The first generation Glocks have a curved trigger, while the second generation Glocks have a flat trigger. The third generation Glocks have a curved trigger with a serrated face, and the fourth and fifth generation Glocks have a flat trigger with a serrated face.

Finally, you can tell the generation of your Glock by looking at the magazine release. The first generation Glocks have a magazine release that is located at the bottom of the grip, the second generation Glocks have a magazine release that is located at the heel of the grip, and the third, fourth, and fifth generation Glocks have a magazine release that is located at the front of the grip.

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

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

  • Slide serrations: The first generation Glocks have squared-off slide serrations, while the second generation Glocks have angled slide serrations. The third generation Glocks have a combination of squared-off and angled slide serrations, and the fourth and fifth generation Glocks have only angled slide serrations.
  • Trigger: The first generation Glocks have a curved trigger, while the second generation Glocks have a flat trigger. The third generation Glocks have a curved trigger with a serrated face, and the fourth and fifth generation Glocks have a flat trigger with a serrated face.
  • Magazine release: The first generation Glocks have a magazine release that is located at the bottom of the grip, the second generation Glocks have a magazine release that is located at the heel of the grip, and the third, fourth, and fifth generation Glocks have a magazine release that is located at the front of the grip.
  • Other features: The different generations of Glocks also have a number of other differences, such as the barrel length, the grip size, and the weight.

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 and fifth generation Glocks are generally considered to be the best overall, as they offer a number of improvements over the earlier generations.

Q: How can I tell if a Glock is real or fake?

A: There are a few ways to tell if a Glock is real or fake. The easiest way is to look at the serial number. Glock serial numbers are engraved on the frame of the pistol, and they are unique to each individual gun. You can also check the Glock website to see if the serial number is valid.

You can also look at the overall quality of the gun. Fake Glocks are often made with cheap materials and construction, and they may have sloppy machining or assembly. Real Glocks are made with high-quality materials and construction, and they are very well-made.

Finally, you can try firing the gun. Fake Glocks often have problems with firing, and they may not cycle properly. Real Glocks are reliable and accurate, and they will cycle properly every time.

Additional Resources

  • [Glock’s website](https://us.glock.com/)
  • [The Glock Blog](https://us.glock.com/blog/)
  • [Glock Forums](https://www.glocktalk.com/)

In this blog post, we have discussed how to tell what generation a Glock is. We have covered the different generations of Glocks, the features that distinguish each generation, and how to find the generation of your Glock. We hope that this information has been helpful and that you are now able to identify the generation of your Glock.

Here are some key takeaways from this blog post:

  • The different generations of Glocks are distinguished by their features, such as the slide serrations, the barrel crown, and the trigger.
  • The easiest way to tell what generation a Glock is is to look at the slide serrations.
  • If you cannot see the slide serrations, you can also look at the barrel crown or the trigger.
  • If you are still not sure what generation your Glock is, you can contact Glock customer service for assistance.

We hope that you have enjoyed this blog post and that you have found it informative. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.

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