The 7 Best Glocks of 2024: [Home Defense, Concealed Carry & More]

“You’re gonna need a bigger Glock.” That’s what they said when Jaws popped out of the water, right?

You find yourself in the market for your first Glock, but don’t know how to choose. There are so many models available. What’s the best for concealed carry? What’s the best for home defense? What’s the best for women?

When it comes to semi-auto sidearms, Glock has consistently maintained a high level of prestige among gun buyers since its inception in 1982. Synonymous with reliability, durability, and versatility, Glocks are ambidextrously designed to serve a wide array of battle applications.

These specialized striker-fired polymer handguns have seen widespread adoption across a multitude of government agencies, from law enforcement, to customs agents, to seeing deployment in the Armed Forces for their innate combat capabilities.

What’s more, Glocks are the concealed carry firearm of choice for many looking for personal protection.

These modular handguns are prized for their expert engineering, sharp contours, and a very clean look. Glock’s stable of pistols have seen a multitude of variations and quality of life changes from sights, slides, and grips to suit every preference and shooting discipline.

Over the years we’ve tested and reviewed many of the best Glock models on the market. For people who want an easy-to-handle, reliable, and inexpensive home defense handgun, we recommend the Glock 17 Gen 5. Of all the Glocks we’ve tested, we think the G17 offers the best operator experience, provides plenty of stopping power, and is easy to adopt.

If you’re looking for a better conceal carry option, a different caliber Glock, or something more female friendly, we have other recommendations, too.

From the subcompact, concealable variants favored by covert operators and civilians alike to the full-sized versions revered by hunters and competition shooters, we take deep-dive into Glock and discuss our favorites to better help you find yours.

This is our list of the best Glocks available today with recommended scenarios and usage.

There are some great Glocks not on this list, and just because we don’t list them below, doesn’t mean we don’t like them. Nonetheless, we think the ones below are solid recommendations.

You can place an online order for them to be shipped to a shop that holds an FFL (Federal Firearms License) to handle the necessary procedures. However, it’s advisable to visit a local gun store and handle them in person, if possible.

Cue the intro music…

BEST HOME DEFENSE GLOCK: G17 Gen 5

The first of its kind, the Glock 17 (G17) was a masterpiece in engineering with its lightweight, durable polymer frame. Upon its creation in 1982 for use in the Austrian military, the handgun’s “17” nomenclature denotes its robust 17+1 mag size.

Why we recommend it: If you’re in the market for a home defense Glock, this is the one. It has enough stopping power to cause serious damage and the OEM factory mags carry up to 17 rounds (larger capacity mags are available). Because it’s a 9mm handgun, ammo is easy to find and relatively inexpensive.

One of the things we appreciate about this model is that while it has become one of the most popular sidearms for both government and civilian use, Glock has consistently implemented several ergonomic improvements to ensure handling and ease of use, and the fifth generation of the G17 continues that trend.

For one, if you get the Gen 5, they’ve significantly upgraded the rifling of the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB). It makes it a little more accurate than previous iterations. Additionally, the nDNC finish on the G17’s slide provides increased durability and resistance to corrosion.

The Gen 5 also features a more straight forward grip than previous generations. They removed the deep finger grooves and opted for a more universal, ambidextrous, texture-driven design that accommodates an overall safer grasp, while maintaining shooter comfort and control.

It’s a small design change, but noticeable.

Another thing we like about the Glock 17 is that it sports a flared magwell for easier funneling and chambering of rounds, making mag changes quick, which is imperative during both competitive and high-stress shooting scenarios.

We like that the G17’s design utilizes a reversible magazine catch that aids in easier mag release, making it more accessible to left-handed shooters.

Overall, the Gen 5 is still the same great, reliable pistol with a few nuanced changes for improved operator experience and longevity.

We were surprised that the lightweight polymer-framed G17 was weightier than we expected which, admittedly, took some getting used to, but it never presented issues in handling or during the firing sequence. In fact, we found the trigger travel to be satisfyingly smooth, crisp, and responsive.

The G17’s pebble-lined grip felt natural in our hands, racked easily, and cycled our 9mm loads seamlessly, showcasing a light, but punchy recoil. All that to say, the Glock 17 is one of the most user-friendly firearms we’ve tested and is simply a pleasure to shoot.

Foreseeable Drawbacks: Unlike previous generations of Glock firearms, the Gen 5 mags are no longer compatible with older model Glocks. There are plenty of options for extra Gen 5 mags out there though.

Due to Glock’s popularity and the fact that this G17 is current gen, there may be instances of longer waiting periods and backorders.

Some shooters find Glock trigger pulls to feel mushy and less direct (it’s not) compared to aftermarket triggers. What they are most likely feeling is the safety mechanism in the trigger disengaging, which gives Glock triggers a more pronounced wall. See the Safe Action section for more details.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for an excellent home defense or personal carry handgun, the Glock 17 is the way to go. Based on our experience, it’s easy to use, reliable when you need it to be, and overall, just feels badass.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Caliber: 9mm (Luger 9×19)Barrel Length: 4.49 inchesOverall Length: 7.95 inchesHeight; 5.47 inchesWidth: 1.26 inchesWeight: 22.60 ounces (unloaded)

BEST CONCEALED CARRY GLOCK: G43X

Why we recommend it: Glock created the 43X with only one thing in mind—make the best damn concealed carry weapon on the market. With a thin profile and longer grip, this micro-sized build coupled with its robust 9mm designation is really the complete package, however small it is.

Compared to the wider grip and the blockier G26, which is a very capable sidearm, the 43X is better tailored for CCW, as its slight frame is more easily concealed and greatly cuts down on gun printing, even under tight clothing, which was a definite selling point for us.

The modular 43X is highly customizable, the stock U-sights can be swapped out for night sights or another aftermarket option. The standard 43X does not support mounting optics, but the barrel and slide can be removed and chambered in a different caliber.

Alternatively, you can check out the Glock 43X MOS (Modular Optics System) variant because it possesses cutouts to mount optical sights and an accessory pic rail to fasten flashlights so you can run this half-pint in low-light conditions.

If you have any previous generations of Glocks that you want retro-actively fitted for optics, there are services you can pay to have it milled.

The 43X offers a comfortable hold where handling is concerned, but how does it shoot? This miniature handgun has a remarkably light recoil by design, but fires like a full-size option with a signature snappy discharge, which comes standard with shorter barrelled firearms.

The customary Glock Safe Action combat trigger on the 43X has a clean take-up, a definable wall, and a crisp break, which comes as no surprise. But the trigger’s fast reset allowed us to take more deliberately-timed shots or just run wild with it—emptying our mags in seconds—while maintaining the same level of accuracy and responsiveness with each trigger pull.

Read our full G43X review here.

Foreseeable Drawbacks: Shooters have taken issue with the 10+1 mag size of the 43X, to counter that complaint, Shield Arms have created the S15, a 15-round mag that’s compatible with the 43X to vastly increase its fire power.

The stock U-sights are also lacking for some shooters, but they can be swapped out for aftermarket sights. Of course, you can do what we did, go with the MOS variant of the 43X, mount your preferred optic setup to the firearm’s topside, and you’re golden.

The trigger guard is very similar to other Glocks, so, if you get “Glock knuckle,” you’ll likely get it with this gun as well.

Bottom Line: We’ve really enjoyed shooting the sleek 43X, it’s the real deal—its small size, light handling, reliability, piercing muzzle crack have made us believers. If we’re choosing a Glock model for concealed carry, we’re rolling with this subcompact sidearm every time.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Caliber: 9mm Luger (9×19)Barrel Length: 3.41 inchesOverall Length: 6.50 inchesHeight; 5.04 inchesWidth: 1.10 inchesWeight: 16.40 ounces (unloaded)

BEST HUNTING SIDEARM GLOCK: G20

With its generous 15+1 double-stack capacity and defensive applications at the forefront, the G20’s reinforced build helps to mitigate the significant recoil that comes from a 10mm cartridge.

Why we recommend it: If you’re a wilderness hunter in need of a high powered round, the concussive 10mm cartridge of the G20 is most certainly, for the lack of a better term, your Huckleberry. This bombastic heavyweight round will indeed kill whatever predator needs killing.

The recoil is noticeable, it has some kick, somewhat comparable to the ballistics seen in a .357 Magnum. One of the advantages with the Glock 20, however, is it accommodates a significantly higher round capacity versus that of your standard 7-round Dirty Harry-esqe Magnum.

But take it from us, there’s a stark difference between firing 9 and 10mm ammunition, in the form of the latter’s near concussive blast. For this reason, the G20 is not a one-hand wield, by any stretch, its thick design coupled with a longer slide makes it a handful in terms of its natural hold and operation.

When we took it to the range, the G20 certainly made its presence known. Its boisterous discharge provides a hearty, but manageable thump that we felt in our shoulders. Needless to say, there was a lot of power behind each successive shot we took downrange.

But the impact alone from these 10mm rounds easily gouged our stoutest of targets. We can see why hunters refer to this bad boy as the “Bear Killer” with good reason.

While the G20 is certainly a capable handgun for everyday plinking—and we strongly suggest that you get proficient with any gun at the range—this pistol is far better suited as an outdoor/ duty and personal defense firearm.

As Glocks go, the 10mm-chambered G20 is a quintessential example of accuracy and firepower in a singular sidearm. This full-size Glock definitely provided us with one of the most exhilarating shooting experiences we’ve ever had.

Foreseeable Drawbacks: In terms of price point, like with all of Glock’s stable of firearms, there’s a steeper premium and the G20 is no different. Of course, Gen 5’s of any model may be difficult to find due to their popularity—or imposed sales restrictions—previous generations of Glock are usually in wide circulation and can be bought for less.

From the standpoint of firepower, some shooters may find the 10mm G20 to be too much gun for them, if that’s you, check out any of our other picks to find what best suits you and your needs.

Bottom Line: The G20 carries a lot of stopping power. It has a bit more kickback and might be overload for many operators. It makes a great sidearm on a hunting trip and can be used for personal defense.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Caliber: 10mm AutoBarrel Length: 4.61 inchesOverall Length: 8.07 inchesHeight; 5.51 inchesWidth: 1.34 inchesWeight: 30.69 ounces (unloaded)

BEST .45 ACP GLOCK: G30S

Why we recommend it: With the emergence of the hybrid 30S, which mirrors a G19 in length and the 21 in caliber, the engineers at Glock married a slimline version of the original G36 slide and barrel with the compact frame and grip of the 30SF.

While its look can be deceiving, this pint-size .45 ACP-chambered handgun has the reverberating crack and stopping power that matches that of a longslide. For this reason, the 30S has become such an attractive concealed carry weapon for both law enforcement and civilians alike who prize it for its ease of concealment, as well as its innate tactical attributes.

Compared to the limited single-stack, 6-round capacity of the thicker G36, the slim build of 30S hosts an impressive 10+1 magazine, which serves as a significant upgrade in firepower, but in a more compact package. What’s more, unlike the full-size G36, the slide’s leaner dimensions on the 30S cuts down on the felt recoil that’s accustomed to the .45 ACP cartridge, while delivering the reliability, accuracy, and high end performance that Glock is known for.

We ran the 30S through its paces at various distances and we were consistently able to achieve close groupings. The customary Glock trigger pull was clean, as always—not much take-up, with an identifiable wall and breakpoint. The recoil was certainly there, given the weight behind the larger .45 ACP cartridge, but it was manageable.

Now, this handgun is a hole puncher, it absolutely hammered our paper targets and pulverized our steel-plated ones during our field tests at 15 yards.

In our estimation, the 30S handles .45 ACP Auto rounds better than other sidearms we’ve tested. Moreover, this hybrid makes for a powerful and compelling concealed carry option, which we’re completely okay with. Yes, the Glock 30S may be small in stature, but it’s certainly big in heart.

Foreseeable Drawbacks: The precise design and manufacturing practices of Glock call for a premium price tag. If price is an issue, look for the Glock model you want from a previous generation, they may be more budget-friendly.

Ammo will be more expensive than the more popular 9mm platform.

Bottom Line: Some shooters find the power of a .45 ACP to be overkill. If that’s you, and you want something for concealed carry, check out the 43X from our list.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Caliber: .45 ACPBarrel Length: 3.78 inchesOverall Length: 6.97 inchesHeight; 4.80 inchesWidth: 1.27 inchesWeight: 20.28 ounces (unloaded)

BEST GLOCK FOR WOMEN: G42

Why we recommend it: While the G43X is our main recommendation for conceal carry, the G42 is a worthy and capable alternative. Chambered in a weaker .380 ACP ammo-load, this smaller Glock is better served as a carry option for females or as a backup in an ankle holster.

Unlike the uniform stopping power of your standard 9mm or larger calibers, the naturally weaker .380 ACP cartridge has less penetrative strength than the big boys. But that doesn’t mean that the .380’s an inferior ammo load or that the G42 has no inherent value as a protective firearm.

Less experienced shooters will find this handgun easy to adopt, as the smaller size and soft recoil will be less intimidating than a 9mm.

At the range, we ran the crisp-triggered G42 fast and were happy to see it cut through our paper targets, obviously. The recoil was minimal compared to 9mm, which aided us in repeat shots on target, so much so that we were able to maintain tighter groupings.

For the most subcompact of the subcompacts that Glock has to offer, the G42 definitely made a lasting impression on us as one of the most reliable concealed carry/self defense backups on the market today.

Foreseeable Drawbacks: Glock makes reliable premium firearms that call for a premium price, even the smallest Glock to ever Glock, the G42, is going to be competitively priced compared to other handguns. But you do get what you pay for.

The 42’s meager 6+1 mag size did leave us wanting. You’ll likely want to upgrade to 10 round mags.

Also, .380 ACP is more expensive round than 9mm, a smaller gun chambered in a more boutique caliber may not be worth the price of admission for some shooters. Some triggermen claim that the G42 fails to feed ammo into the chamber, but this instance is rare and usually due to user error.

Bottom Line: This is the smallest of Glocks, which makes it ideal for personal carry. Women looking for a firearm should consider this as an excellent option.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Caliber: .380 ACPBarrel Length: 3.25 inchesOverall Length: 5.94 inchesHeight; 4.13 inchesWidth: 0.98 inchesWeight: 13.76 ounces (unloaded)

BEST MIDSIZE GLOCK: G19 Gen 5

Why we recommend it: The compact package of the Glock 19 offers a versatile and concealable alternative to the full-size G17, without sacrificing firepower and performance.

Many government agencies, including the Navy Seals, have found this midsize pistol to be more suitable as a duty firearm because of its versatility, ease of handling, and capacity given its scaled down proportions. Likewise, the Glock 19 maintains its preferred status among civilians as a concealed carry option compared to the added bulk of the G17 because it presents a more comfortable carry experience over extended periods, while retaining the immediate stopping power of its predecessor.

From the standpoint of felt recoil impulse, the two handguns are practically identical in both operation and overall accuracy. We say that because—while the Glock 19’s naturally smaller frame sports a shorter grip and slide—the difference in sight radius between the 17 and the 19 was negligible when measuring shot accuracy during our shooting trials.

We ran this G19 through our battery of field tests in both fast and more measured shooting scenarios, including one hand wields. The Glock 19 delivered every time, as we were able to hit our targets at various distances. The 19’s uniform grip and lighter overall hold allowed us to score closer groupings, faster trigger pulls, and better accuracy.

One of the more stand out aspects, for us, is that most Glocks accept an assortment of 9mm mag sizes of varying lengths. As you might have guessed, we took full advantage of this feature with a few 33-round magazine dumps at the range for a rapid fire feeding test—we plugged them into the compact G19 and went to work, shredding a few targets in the process—it was a damn good time!

We saw zero feeding issues and no jamming of any kind, the G19 flawlessly ate through our ammo loads quickly and efficiently. Of course, the extended mags do mess with the 19’s ergonomics a bit where weight management is concerned, but in terms of its operation, this snappy, midsize shooter never missed a beat. The only downside is we ran out of bullets.

Foreseeable Drawbacks: The smaller grip on the G19 may not work for some concealed carriers with larger hands. If you fall into that category, you’re better off going with the Glock 19X because it pairs the G19’s shorter slide and barrel length with the full-size grip of the 17—problem solved!

SPECIFICATIONS:

Caliber: 9mm (Luger 9×19)Barrel Length: 4.02 inchesOverall Length: 7.28 inchesHeight; 5.04 inchesWidth: 1.34 inchesWeight: 23.63 ounces (unloaded)

BEST .40 S&W GLOCK: G22 Gen 5

First developed as a service weapon for government agencies, the Glock 22 Gen 5 continues that legacy with improved ergonomics and firepower, all chambered in a .40 caliber package.

Why we recommend it: In response to the FBI’s request for a new pistol chambered in the heavier .40 S&W cartridge, Glock HQ answered the call and rolled out their full-sized 15+1 mag enabled G22 model in 1990. With its initial adoption, this specialized Glock .40 caliber handgun became standard issue as a duty sidearm among both U.S. government agents and law enforcement.

While the G17 maintained a foothold in the Western markets since its inception in 1982, it was the G22 that cemented Glock as a household name among American gun owners. So much so, in fact, that Glock’s striker-fired design significantly influenced American gun manufacturing and its culture moving forward, as polymer suddenly became a less boutique commodity among gun manufacturers and a more cost effective mainstay.

Okay, History lesson over. So how does the 22 shoot?

Surprisingly well, in fact. We put this rough and tumble workhorse Glock to the test on our outdoor range and were able to pepper our steel-plate targets consistently from 25 yards. The generous grip size afforded us greater control and a more comfortable hold overall, which greatly aided in faster follow up shots.

Trust us when we tell you that this .40 caliber round is all business and when it hits, it hits HARD!

We heard stories of the Glock 22’s substantial recoil and muzzle rise, but that really wasn’t our experience. For one, the recoil was sharper than a 9mm, sure, but it was manageable due to Gen 5’s recalibrated dual spring system, which greatly mitigated the kickback during our shots on target.

As expected, this heavier Glock 22 performed well in rapid fire scenarios, as we put mag after mag through it and saw no instances of malfunction. All in all, we had a great time putting the G22 through its paces, it’s accurate, reliable, and an absolute beast in terms of stopping power. As far as we’re concerned, when it comes to .40 caliber, the Glock 22 is still the standard.

Foreseeable Drawbacks: While Glock 22 mirrors the G17 in size, it may be too much gun for some shooters; what’s more, it’s ill equipped for concealed carry. If that’s you, check out the Glock 42 chambered in .45 ACP or go with the more compact .40 caliber G23. If the recoil of the G22 stock spring system offers too much kick, try the Recoil Reduction System by DPM to lessen the felt recoil.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Caliber: .40 S&WBarrel Length: 4.49 inchesOverall Length: 7.95 inchesHeight; 5.47 inchesWidth: 1.34 inchesWeight: 25.26 ounces (unloaded)

The History of Glock

When it comes to Glock’s storied history, generational distinctions matter. We will briefly break down the subtle differences in Glock’s manufacturing across its 5 generations.

Gen 1: (1982-1987) Invented by engineer and businessman Gaston Glock in 1982, the G17 was the first of many. These other models were also created during this time.

• Glock 17 (9x19mm)
• Glock 17L (9x19mm)
• Glock 19 (9x19mm)
• Glock 22 (.40 S&W)
• Glock 23 (.40 S&W)
• Glock 17C (9x19mm, compensated)
• Glock 19C (9x19mm, compensated

Key Features: The classic Glock look featured a smooth straight grip sans the finger grooves of latter models, and a reversible mag release.

Gen 2: (1988-1997) These models were released during the second generation All Gen1 models were continued to be produced.

• Glock 20 (10mm Auto)
• Glock 21 (.45 ACP)
• Glock 22C (.40 S&W, compensated)
• Glock 23C (.40 S&W, compensated)

Key Features: Glock added checkering to the grip’s finish to ensure a firmer hold and finger grooves for a more ergonomic feel. Glock also introduced a new Tenifer finish to combat corrosion buildup.

Gen 3: (1998-2009) These models were released during the third generation. All models from the previous generations were continued.

• Glock 29 (10mm Auto)
• Glock 30 (.45 ACP)
• Glock 31 (.357 SIG)
• Glock 32 (.357 SIG)
• Glock 33 (.357 SIG)
• Glock 36 (.45 ACP)

Key Features: With Gen 3, Glock added an accessory picatinny rail to mount lights, lasers and other furniture/accessories. The Gen 3 mag release is made accessible to left-handed marksmen. The grip was further improved with more aggressive stippling to ensure a more precise hold.

Gen 4: (2010-2016) These are the new models introduced during Glock’s fourth generation of products. All previous generations continue to be produced.

• All models from Gen3 continued
• Glock 30S (.45 ACP)
• Glock 40 (10mm Auto, long slide)
• Glock 41 (.45 ACP, long slide)

Key Features: Gen 4 introduced interchangeable backstraps to ensure that they can customize the grip to suit their hands, The reversible mag release received an upgrade, making them larger and easy to reach. Dual Spring Recoil was also introduced, shoring up durability and mitigating felt recoil.

Gen 5: (2017-Present) Here are the new models that emerged from the fifth and most current generation. Gen 3 models are still in wide circulation, but generations before have largely become collectors items. Most of the Glock catalog received a Gen 5 redesign including the G17, G19, G26, G34

• All models from Gen4 continued
• Glock 42 (.380 ACP)
• Glock 43 (9x19mm)
• Glock 43X (9x19mm)
• Glock 45 (9x19mm, compact crossover)
• Glock 47 (9x19mm, full-size crossover)
• Glock 17P (AirSoft Practice Gun)

Key Features: Gen 5 features flared magwells for easier reloading. Finger grooves have been removed in favor of a more universal grip texture. An ambidextrous slide stop is introduced to make Glocks more accessible to left-handed shooters. The Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) is rolled out for Gen 5 to ensure shot accuracy.

Calibers

Selecting the right pistol cartridge is crucial. The 9mm round stands out for its balanced attributes: manageable recoil, higher capacity mags, and affordability, making it a versatile caliber that’s ideal for a range of applications from concealed carry to home defense.

On the other hand, the .45 ACP offers significant stopping power, albeit with more pronounced recoil. This specialized caliber is favored by individuals who prioritize the impact of larger rounds and favored by law enforcement for its penetrative muscle.

While the .380 ACP cartridges will, more than likely, deter an attacker, they have less mass and thus, less stopping power. This ammo-load is viable for defensive purposes, but use it as a practice round at the range or as a “last resort” backup to your favorite concealed carry 9mm.

If you’re hunting, especially in bear country, the 10mm is your best bet against any large woodland or mountain predators—accept no substitutes.

Safe Action System

In lieu of a traditional slide or decocking safety, the proprietary Glock Safe Action trigger system offers a lighter feel and crisper trigger pull, while maintaining its three-way safety protocols between the independent mechanisms embedded in the trigger, the firing pin, and the drop safety in the rear of the firearm.

These passive safety mechanisms are customary to Glocks and prevent accidental jostling and drop discharges. In a transactional sequence, of sorts, each passive safety disengages as the trigger travels rearward, readying the gun to fire. This innovative safety technology ensures that your Glock’s specialized trigger will remain reliable; hence, if actuated, the trigger will only fire if and when you intend it to fire.

Whatever model Glock, whether it’s jostled in a holster, or if it hits the ground outright, it will not fire on its own. The trigger must be intentionally pulled by the user to initiate the firing sequence, disengage the safeties, and thus cause a discharge.

Concealed Carry

Remember, if you’re seriously looking at CCW as an option, practice at the range, get your CPL, and practice some more. When you are carrying a concealed weapon, make sure it remains out of sight and concealed. Be sure to follow all applicable laws and know them to the letter, so you don’t find yourself before a judge looking at a lengthy prison sentence.

Final Thoughts on the Best Glocks

There you have it, our picks for the best Glocks of 2024.

Be safe out there.

What’s your favorite Glock? Is there a model you think we should have covered? Tell us about it in the comments.