How To Tell Which Gen Glock I Have?
Glocks are one of the most popular handguns in the world, and for good reason. They’re reliable, accurate, and easy to use. But with so many different Glock models on the market, it can be difficult to tell which one you have. That’s where this guide comes in.
In this article, we’ll show you how to tell which generation Glock you have. We’ll cover everything from the serial number to the external features, so you can be sure of which model you’re shooting.
So whether you’re a new Glock owner or you’re just curious about your current gun, read on to learn how to tell which generation Glock you have.
Generation | Dates of Production | Characteristics |
---|---|---|
1st Generation | 1986-1998 |
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2nd Generation | 1998-2010 |
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3rd Generation | 2010-Present |
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Glock pistols are some of the most popular and widely-used handguns 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 which one you have.
If you’re not sure which Glock generation you have, there are a few ways to find out. In this article, we’ll discuss the different ways to identify Glock generations, as well as some of the key differences between each generation.
How to Identify Glock Generations by Appearance
The easiest way to identify a Glock generation is by looking at its appearance. Each generation of Glock pistols has its own unique features that set it apart from the others.
Here are some of the most common ways to identify Glock generations by appearance:
- Slide serrations: The slide serrations on Glock pistols have changed over the years. The first generation of Glocks had no slide serrations, while the second generation had vertical slide serrations. The third generation had horizontal slide serrations, and the fourth generation had a combination of vertical and horizontal slide serrations.
- Front sight: The front sight on Glock pistols has also changed over the years. The first generation of Glocks had a square front sight, while the second generation had a round front sight. The third generation had a triangular front sight, and the fourth generation had a serrated front sight.
- Rear sight: The rear sight on Glock pistols has also changed over the years. The first generation of Glocks had a fixed rear sight, while the second generation had a dovetail-mounted rear sight. The third generation had a Novak-style rear sight, and the fourth generation had a serrated rear sight.
- Magazine release: The magazine release on Glock pistols has also changed over the years. The first generation of Glocks had a button-style magazine release, while the second generation had a paddle-style magazine release. The third generation had a reversible magazine release, and the fourth generation had a ambidextrous magazine release.
How to Identify Glock Generations by Serial Number
If you don’t have the Glock in your possession, or if you can’t easily identify it by appearance, you can also use the serial number to determine the generation. Glock serial numbers are located on the frame of the pistol, just below the trigger guard.
The first two digits of the serial number indicate the year the pistol was manufactured. The following two digits indicate the month of manufacture. The last six digits are a unique identifier for the pistol.
Here is a table that shows how to decode Glock serial numbers:
| Year | Month | Serial Number |
|—|—|—|
| 1985 | 01-12 | 0000001-0009999 |
| 1986 | 01-12 | 0010000-0019999 |
| 1987 | 01-12 | 0020000-0029999 |
| 1988 | 01-12 | 0030000-0039999 |
| 1989 | 01-12 | 0040000-0049999 |
| 1990 | 01-12 | 0050000-0059999 |
| 1991 | 01-12 | 0060000-0069999 |
| 1992 | 01-12 | 0070000-0079999 |
| 1993 | 01-12 | 0080000-0089999 |
| 1994 | 01-12 | 0090000-0099999 |
| 1995 | 01-12 | 0100000-0109999 |
| 1996 | 01-12 | 0110000-0119999 |
| 1997 | 01-12 | 0120000-0129999 |
| 1998 | 01-12 | 0
How To Tell Which Gen Glock I Have?
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 which generation of Glock you have.
The good news is that there are a few simple ways to identify the generation of your Glock. Here’s a breakdown of the different generations of Glock handguns, and how to tell which one you have.
First Generation Glocks (Gen 1)
The first generation of Glock handguns was produced from 1982 to 1988. These pistols are characterized by their simple, no-frills design. They have a matte black finish, a fixed rear sight, and a plastic trigger housing.
Gen 1 Glocks are relatively rare, and they are not as popular as the later generations. However, they are still prized by collectors for their historical significance.
Here are some of the key features of a Gen 1 Glock:
- Matte black finish
- Fixed rear sight
- Plastic trigger housing
Second Generation Glocks (Gen 2)
The second generation of Glock handguns was produced from 1988 to 1998. These pistols introduced a number of improvements over the first generation, including a textured grip, a reversible magazine catch, and a new slide stop.
Gen 2 Glocks are still very popular today, and they are a good choice for both concealed carry and home defense.
Here are some of the key features of a Gen 2 Glock:
- Textured grip
- Reversible magazine catch
- New slide stop
Third Generation Glocks (Gen 3)
The third generation of Glock handguns was produced from 1998 to 2010. These pistols introduced a number of additional improvements over the second generation, including a new trigger safety, a wider magazine release, and a finger grooved grip.
Gen 3 Glocks are the most popular Glocks on the market today. They are a good choice for both experienced shooters and beginners.
Here are some of the key features of a Gen 3 Glock:
- Trigger safety
- Wider magazine release
- Finger grooved grip
Fourth Generation Glocks (Gen 4)
The fourth generation of Glock handguns was introduced in 2010. These pistols introduced a number of new features, including a modular backstrap system, a reversible ambidextrous slide stop, and a new striker safety.
Gen 4 Glocks are a good choice for shooters who want a Glock with a more customized fit. They are also a good choice for left-handed shooters.
Here are some of the key features of a Gen 4 Glock:
- Modular backstrap system
- Reversible ambidextrous slide stop
- New striker safety
Fifth Generation Glocks (Gen 5)
The fifth generation of Glock handguns was introduced in 2017. These pistols introduced a number of new features, including a new nDLC finish, a flared magwell, and a redesigned grip.
Gen 5 Glocks are the newest generation of Glock handguns, and they are a good choice for shooters who want the latest and greatest features.
Here are some of the key features of a Gen 5 Glock:
- nDLC finish
- F Flared magwell
- Redesigned grip
Glock handguns are some
How do I tell which generation Glock I have?
There are a few ways to tell which generation Glock you have. Here are the most common methods:
- 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
- Look at the markings on the slide. The markings on the slide will also tell you the generation of your Glock.
- Gen 1: No markings on the slide
- Gen 2: “GLOCK” in block lettering on the left side of the slide
- Gen 3: “GLOCK” in block lettering on the left side of the slide, and “Gen3” in small letters on the right side of the slide
- Gen 4: “GLOCK” in block lettering on the left side of the slide, and “Gen4” in small letters on the right side of the slide
- Gen 5: “GLOCK” in block lettering on the left side of the slide, and “Gen5” in small letters on the right side of the slide
- Check the features of your Glock. The different generations of Glocks have different features. Here are some of the most common features that can be used to identify the generation of your Glock:
- Gen 1: Fixed sights, no accessory rail
- Gen 2: Fixed sights, accessory rail
- Gen 3: Adjustable sights, accessory rail
- Gen 4: Modular backstraps, interchangeable grip textures, accessory rail
- Gen 5: Marksman barrel, nDLC finish, ambidextrous slide stop, reversible magazine catch
What are the differences between the different generations of Glocks?
The different generations of Glocks have a number of differences, including:
- Size: The different generations of Glocks come in a variety of sizes, from the compact Glock 19 to the full-size Glock 17.
- Features: The different generations of Glocks have different features, such as adjustable sights, interchangeable grip textures, and accessory rails.
- Performance: The different generations of Glocks have different performance characteristics, such as accuracy and reliability.
Which generation of Glock is best?
The best generation of Glock for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Some factors to consider include:
- Size: The size of the Glock should be appropriate for your hand size and intended use.
- Features: The features of the Glock should meet your needs, such as adjustable sights or an accessory rail.
- Performance: The performance of the Glock should meet your expectations in terms of accuracy and reliability.
If you are not sure which generation of Glock is best for you, it is best to consult with a firearms expert.
How can I tell if my Glock is a Gen 5?
The easiest way to tell if your Glock is a Gen 5 is to look at the serial number. The first two digits of the serial number will be 40-49. You can also look at the markings on the slide. The Gen 5 Glocks have “GLOCK” in block lettering on the left side of the slide, and “Gen5” in small letters on the right side of the slide.
How can I tell if my Glock is a Gen 4?
The easiest way to tell if your Glock is a Gen 4 is to look at the serial number. The first two digits of the serial number will be 30-39. You can also look at the markings on the slide. The Gen 4 Glocks have “GLOCK” in block lettering on the left side of the slide, and “Gen4” in small letters on the right side of the slide.
How can I tell if my Glock is a Gen 3?
The easiest way to tell if your Glock is a Gen 3 is to look at the serial number. The first two digits of the serial number will be 20-29. You can also look at the markings on the slide. The Gen 3 Glocks have “GLOCK” in block lettering on the left side of the slide, and “Gen3” in small letters on the right side of the slide.
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there are a few ways to tell which generation Glock you have. You can look at the serial number, the markings on the slide, or the magazine. If you are still not sure, you can always contact Glock customer service.
Here are the key takeaways:
- The first generation Glocks have a serial number that starts with a “P”.
- The second generation Glocks have a serial number that starts with a “G”.
- The third generation Glocks have a serial number that starts with a “9”.
- The fourth generation Glocks have a serial number that starts with a “4”.
- The fifth generation Glocks have a serial number that starts with a “5”.
By following these steps, you can easily identify which generation Glock you have.