How Do You Know What Gen Your Glock Is?
Glock pistols are some of the most popular and well-respected handguns on the market. They’re known for their reliability, accuracy, and durability. 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 and benefits. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different Glock generations and help you figure out which one is right for you.
We’ll start by discussing the different features of each generation, and then we’ll provide some tips on how to identify the generation of your Glock. So whether you’re a Glock owner or you’re just thinking about buying one, read on to learn more about Glock generations!
| Generation | Characteristics | Dates of Production |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Generation |
|
1986-1998 |
| 2nd Generation |
|
1998-2008 |
| 3rd Generation |
|
2008-Present |
Glock pistols are some of the most popular and widely used handguns in the world. They are known for their reliability, accuracy, and durability. Glocks are also available in a variety of generations, each with its own unique features.
If you are not sure what generation your Glock is, there are a few ways to find out. In this article, we will discuss the different ways to identify the generation of your Glock.
Serial Number (SN)
The first four digits of the Glock serial number indicate the generation of the firearm. The following table shows the generation of Glock pistols and their corresponding serial number ranges:
| Generation | SN |
|—|—|
| Gen 1 | 170,000-220,000 |
| Gen 2 | 220,000-300,000 |
| Gen 3 | 300,000-400,000 |
| Gen 4 | 400,000-500,000 |
| Gen 5 | 500,000-600,000 |
To find the serial number of your Glock, look for a small number stamped on the frame, usually on the left side of the slide.
Magazine Catch
The magazine catch on a Glock is located on the left side of the frame, just below the trigger guard. The shape of the magazine catch can vary depending on the generation of the firearm.
| Generation | Magazine Catch |
|—|—|
| Gen 1 | Round |
| Gen 2 | Square |
| Gen 3 | Rectangular |
| Gen 4 | Rectangular with finger groove |
| Gen 5 | Rectangular with extended lip |
To identify the generation of your Glock by the magazine catch, look for the following:
- Gen 1: Round magazine catch
- Gen 2: Square magazine catch
- Gen 3: Rectangular magazine catch
- Gen 4: Rectangular magazine catch with finger groove
- Gen 5: Rectangular magazine catch with extended lip
Slide Serrations
The slide serrations on a Glock are located on the front and rear of the slide. The number and shape of the serrations can vary depending on the generation of the firearm.
| Generation | Slide Serrations |
|—|—|
| Gen 1 | 2 vertical serrations on the front of the slide |
| Gen 2 | 3 vertical serrations on the front of the slide |
| Gen 3 | 3 vertical serrations on the front of the slide and 2 horizontal serrations on the rear of the slide |
| Gen 4 | 3 vertical serrations on the front of the slide and 2 horizontal serrations on the rear of the slide |
| Gen 5 | 3 vertical serrations on the front of the slide and 2 horizontal serrations on the rear of the slide |
To identify the generation of your Glock by the slide serrations, look for the following:
- Gen 1: 2 vertical serrations on the front of the slide
- Gen 2: 3 vertical serrations on the front of the slide
- Gen 3: 3 vertical serrations on the front of the slide and 2 horizontal serrations on the rear of the slide
- Gen 4: 3 vertical serrations on the front of the slide and 2 horizontal serrations on the rear of the slide
- Gen 5: 3 vertical serrations on the front of the slide and 2 horizontal serrations on the rear of the slide
Other Features
In addition to the serial number, magazine catch, and slide serrations, there are a few other features that can help you identify the generation of your Glock. These features include:
- The grip texturing
- The barrel crown
- The trigger
- The sights
The grip texturing on a Glock can vary depending on the generation of the firearm. Gen 1 Glocks have a smooth grip, while Gen 2 Glocks have a stippled grip. Gen 3 Glocks have a combination of smooth and stippled grip, while Gen 4 Glocks have a rough textured grip. Gen 5 Glocks have a smooth grip with finger grooves.
The barrel crown on a Glock can also vary depending on the generation of the firearm. Gen 1 Glocks have a flat barrel crown, while Gen 2 Glocks have a crowned barrel. Gen 3 Glocks have a crowned barrel with a radiused edge, while Gen 4 Glocks have a crowned barrel with a chamfered edge. Gen 5 Glocks have
3. Slide Serrations
The slide serrations on a Glock are located on the front and rear of the slide. The number and size of the serrations can vary depending on the generation of the firearm.
| Generation | Slide Serrations |
|—|—|
| Gen 1 | 20 small serrations |
| Gen 2 | 23 small serrations |
| Gen 3 | 27 small serrations |
| Gen 4 | 29 small serrations |
| Gen 5 | 31 small serrations |
4. Other Features
In addition to the serial number, magazine catch, and slide serrations, there are a few other features that can be used to identify the generation of a Glock. These features include:
- The shape of the trigger guard
- The shape of the grip
- The location of the firing pin safety
- The type of barrel
By looking at these features, it is possible to determine the generation of a Glock with a high degree of accuracy.
Determining the generation of a Glock can be helpful for identifying the age of the firearm, as well as for determining the parts that are compatible with it. By looking at the serial number, magazine catch, slide serrations, and other features, it is possible to determine the generation of a Glock with a high degree of accuracy.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
- [Glock’s Official Website](https://us.glock.com/)
- [Glock Forum](https://www.glockforum.com/)
- [Glock Owners Manual](https://us.glock.com/en/documents/ownersmanual/owners-manual-glock-pistols-gen5)
How Do You Know What Gen Your Glock Is?
Q: What is the Glock generation number?
A: The Glock generation number is a two-digit number that indicates the major revision of the Glock pistol design. The first generation Glocks were introduced in 1982, and the latest generation is the fifth generation, which was introduced in 2017.
Q: How can I find the generation number of my Glock?
A: The generation number of your Glock is located on the frame, just below the slide release. It is a two-digit number, followed by a letter. The letter indicates the year in which the Glock was manufactured. For example, a Glock with the generation number 4G was manufactured in 2014.
Q: What are the differences between the different Glock generations?
A: The different Glock generations have a number of differences, including:
- Frame material: The first generation Glocks were made from a single piece of steel, while the later generations are made from a polymer frame.
- Slide design: The slides on the first generation Glocks were milled from a solid block of steel, while the slides on the later generations are stamped from sheet metal.
- Sights: The first generation Glocks had fixed sights, while the later generations have adjustable sights.
- Magazine release: The magazine release on the first generation Glocks was located on the left side of the frame, while the magazine release on the later generations is located on the heel of the grip.
Q: Which Glock generation is the best?
A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as the best Glock generation for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, the fifth generation Glocks are generally considered to be the best overall, as they offer a number of improvements over the previous generations, including a more ergonomic grip, improved sights, and a more durable finish.
Q: Can I convert a Glock from one generation to another?
A: It is not possible to convert a Glock from one generation to another. The different generations of Glocks have different frame and slide designs, so parts from one generation are not compatible with another generation.
there are a few different ways to determine the generation of your Glock. You can look at the serial number, the markings on the slide, or the model number. Once you know the generation of your Glock, you can be sure that you have the right parts and accessories for it. Additionally, you can learn more about the specific features and performance of your Glock. Knowing the generation of your Glock is an important part of owning and maintaining this firearm.