Glock 19X Vs Glock 19: Size Comparison
Hey guys! Ever wondered if the Glock 19X is actually bigger than the Glock 19? Well, you're not alone! It's a question that pops up quite a bit in the gun community. Let's dive deep into a detailed size comparison of these two popular handguns. Understanding the dimensions and differences can really help you decide which one is the right fit for you, whether you're thinking about concealed carry, home defense, or just a fun day at the range. So, let’s get started and break down everything you need to know about the sizes of the Glock 19X and Glock 19.
Overview of the Glock 19
The Glock 19, often called the compact Glock, is one of the most popular handguns in the world. Its fame comes from its versatile size, making it suitable for a variety of roles. The Glock 19 is chambered in 9mm and strikes a sweet spot between being compact enough for concealed carry and large enough to handle comfortably for most shooters. Its dimensions are carefully designed to balance concealability and shootability. The standard magazine capacity is 15 rounds, providing ample firepower for most situations. The Glock 19 features a polymer frame, which makes it lightweight and durable. The slide is made of hardened steel, ensuring reliability and longevity. Over the years, Glock has released several generations of the Glock 19, each with incremental improvements to ergonomics, trigger feel, and overall performance. The Gen5, the latest iteration, includes features like the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) for enhanced accuracy and an ambidextrous slide stop lever for improved usability. Because of its balanced design and proven reliability, the Glock 19 is a favorite among law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or new to firearms, the Glock 19 offers a blend of performance, reliability, and ease of use that is hard to beat. Its widespread adoption and extensive aftermarket support further solidify its place as a top choice for anyone looking for a dependable and versatile handgun.
Overview of the Glock 19X
The Glock 19X is a bit of a hybrid in the Glock lineup, combining the full-size frame of the Glock 17 with the compact slide of the Glock 19. This design was initially developed for the Modular Handgun System (MHS) competition for the U.S. Army. Although Glock didn't win the contract, they decided to release the 19X to the commercial market, and it quickly gained popularity. One of the standout features of the Glock 19X is its coyote tan finish, which sets it apart aesthetically from other Glocks. The 19X also includes a lanyard loop, a feature not commonly found on other Glock models. The full-size frame allows for a higher magazine capacity, typically 17 rounds, providing users with additional rounds compared to the standard Glock 19. The longer grip can also be advantageous for shooters with larger hands, offering a more secure and comfortable hold. Like other Glock pistols, the 19X is chambered in 9mm and features a polymer frame and a hardened steel slide. The Glock 19X retains the same reliable and simple operating system that Glock is known for. It also includes features like the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) for improved accuracy. While the 19X shares many similarities with other Glock models, its unique combination of a full-size frame and compact slide makes it a distinctive option. It's particularly appealing to those who prefer a longer grip for better control and higher magazine capacity, while still maintaining a relatively shorter slide for easier concealment. For many shooters, the Glock 19X offers a great balance of size, capacity, and ergonomics.
Detailed Size Comparison
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and compare the sizes of the Glock 19X and Glock 19. Knowing the exact dimensions will help you understand the subtle differences and how they might impact your shooting experience. We'll break it down by length, height, width, and barrel length to give you a comprehensive overview.
Overall Length
The overall length of the Glock 19 is approximately 7.28 inches (185 mm). This measurement is from the tip of the muzzle to the back of the slide. The Glock 19's compact size is one of the reasons it's so popular for concealed carry. On the other hand, the Glock 19X has an overall length of about 7.44 inches (189 mm). While the difference might seem minimal, that extra 0.16 inches can affect how the gun feels in your hand and how easy it is to conceal. The slightly longer length of the 19X is primarily due to the extended frame, which we'll discuss in more detail below.
Height
When it comes to height, the Glock 19 measures around 5.04 inches (128 mm). This measurement is taken from the bottom of the magazine to the top of the slide. The height is a critical factor for concealability, as it determines how much the gun will print through clothing. The Glock 19X, however, stands taller at approximately 5.47 inches (139 mm). This difference is more noticeable than the length difference. The taller height of the 19X is due to its full-size Glock 17 frame, which provides more room for the magazine and a more substantial grip. This added height can make the 19X a bit more challenging to conceal, especially for those with smaller frames or when wearing tighter clothing. The taller grip can offer a more secure and comfortable hold, particularly for shooters with larger hands.
Width
For width, both the Glock 19 and Glock 19X are nearly identical, measuring about 1.34 inches (34 mm). This measurement refers to the widest part of the gun, typically the slide or the grip. The similar width means that neither gun has a significant advantage in terms of concealability or comfort when carrying inside the waistband (IWB). The consistent width also ensures that most holsters designed for one model will likely fit the other, although it's always best to test the fit to be sure. The width of a handgun is important for maintaining a slim profile, which is crucial for both concealed carry and comfortable handling.
Barrel Length
The barrel length of the Glock 19 is approximately 4.02 inches (102 mm). This length is a good balance between accuracy and compactness, making the Glock 19 a versatile choice for various applications. The Glock 19X shares the same barrel length of 4.02 inches (102 mm). This means that both guns will offer similar ballistic performance and accuracy. The consistent barrel length also contributes to the similar sight radius, which is the distance between the front and rear sights. A longer sight radius generally improves accuracy, but in this case, both guns have the same sight radius, so there's no advantage for either model. The barrel length is a key factor in determining the overall size and performance of a handgun, and in this aspect, the Glock 19 and 19X are evenly matched.
Ergonomics and Handling
When considering the Glock 19X versus the Glock 19, ergonomics and handling play a huge role in which one feels better in your hand. The Glock 19 is known for its compact frame, making it a comfortable fit for a wide range of hand sizes. Its shorter grip length can be particularly advantageous for those with smaller hands, allowing for a more secure and complete grip. The Glock 19's balance and weight distribution contribute to its pointability, making it easy to aim and control. Many shooters find that the Glock 19 sits naturally in their hand, requiring minimal adjustment to acquire a proper sight picture. The Gen5 versions of the Glock 19 include features like a smoother trigger pull and an ambidextrous slide stop lever, further enhancing its ergonomics and ease of use. The finger grooves have also been removed in the Gen5 models, which accommodates a broader range of hand sizes and preferences. Overall, the Glock 19's ergonomic design makes it a user-friendly option for both novice and experienced shooters.
The Glock 19X, on the other hand, features a full-size Glock 17 frame combined with the Glock 19 slide. This hybrid design results in a longer grip, which can be more comfortable for shooters with larger hands. The extended grip provides more surface area to hold onto, offering better control and stability, especially during rapid fire. Some shooters find that the longer grip helps to reduce muzzle flip and recoil, making it easier to stay on target. However, the larger frame of the Glock 19X can be a disadvantage for those with smaller hands, as it may be more difficult to reach the trigger and other controls comfortably. The Glock 19X also includes a lanyard loop, which can be useful for those who want to secure the gun to their person, although this feature is not essential for most shooters. Despite the longer grip, the Glock 19X maintains a similar balance and pointability to other Glock models, thanks to its shared slide and barrel length with the Glock 19. Ultimately, the choice between the Glock 19 and Glock 19X comes down to personal preference and hand size. If you have smaller hands, the Glock 19 may be a better fit, while those with larger hands may find the Glock 19X more comfortable and controllable.
Concealability
Concealability is a critical factor for many gun owners, especially those who plan to carry their firearm on a daily basis. The Glock 19 has long been a favorite for concealed carry due to its compact size and balanced dimensions. Its shorter grip and overall length make it easier to conceal under clothing without printing, which is when the outline of the gun is visible through your clothes. The Glock 19's versatility allows it to be carried in a variety of positions, including inside the waistband (IWB), outside the waistband (OWB), and appendix carry. Its manageable size ensures that it doesn't feel too bulky or uncomfortable, even during extended periods of wear. The Glock 19's widespread popularity also means that there are countless holster options available, making it easy to find a comfortable and secure carrying solution. Whether you're wearing jeans and a t-shirt or more formal attire, the Glock 19 can be effectively concealed without compromising comfort or accessibility.
The Glock 19X, with its full-size Glock 17 frame, presents a bit more of a challenge when it comes to concealability. The longer grip can be more difficult to hide, especially for those with smaller frames or when wearing tighter clothing. The added height of the grip can cause the gun to print more easily, which can be a concern for those who prioritize discreet carry. While the Glock 19X can still be concealed, it may require more careful consideration of clothing choices and holster selection. IWB carry is still a viable option, but it may be more comfortable for those with larger builds who can accommodate the longer grip. OWB carry may be more challenging, as the longer grip can be more exposed. Despite these challenges, the Glock 19X remains a popular choice for many shooters who prioritize grip comfort and magazine capacity over ultimate concealability. Ultimately, the choice between the Glock 19 and Glock 19X depends on your individual needs and preferences, as well as your body type and clothing style.
Conclusion
So, is the Glock 19X bigger than the Glock 19? Yes, it is, but only slightly. The key difference lies in the grip length, with the 19X using a full-size Glock 17 frame. This makes the 19X taller and slightly longer overall compared to the more compact Glock 19. While the width and barrel length are the same, the ergonomic differences and concealability aspects can be significant factors in your decision. If you prioritize a longer grip and higher magazine capacity and don't mind a bit more size, the Glock 19X might be the way to go. However, if you're looking for maximum concealability and a more compact feel, the Glock 19 remains an excellent choice. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to handle and, if possible, shoot both models to see which one fits your hand and shooting style best. Happy shooting, guys!
