These guns had serial numbers beginning with a two letter alpha prefix of “AF” followed by a three digit number. ... but “elite tactical coating” isn’t used by Glock. Because the Glock 17 preceded the Glock 19, there was initially no need to distinguish the two frames by markings. So, any holster for a Glock Gen 3 - say a Glock 19 Gen 3 - will also fit the Gen 4 model. In some cases, this post production vernacular sets the standard for terminology in use by most. The models 37-39 were later introduced in the .45 GAP cartridge. Glock Serial Numbers Information System. Feb 15, 2012 #2 . The texturing pattern on the grips from the Glock RTF2 were added to the entire Gen 4 lineup. The internal parts, which for the longest time had been virtually unchanged, have been mostly revised for the Glock Gen 5, which has required the frame to be slightly widened. The official serial number in the United States is the one appearing on the frame which includes the “US” suffix. Therefore, if you have a Glock 19 Gen 3 holster, it will fit a Glock 19 Gen 4. You must have JavaScript enabled in your browser to utilize the functionality of this website. The Glock 26 in 9mm and Glock 27 in .40 S&W were launched around 1995, mostly with the civilian market in mind but also to serve as backup guns for law enforcement. Glock Generations By Serial Number. I bought the shapeshift for my Glock 17 (gen 4). These guns share a frame and magazine, a little wider and longer than that of the Glock 43. Export, import? The design has to be self-loading. The 1st Generation Glock, as it came to be known, was introduced to the US market in 1984. Many parts of fifth-generation Glock pistols cannot be interchanged with those of the previous generations. At the time of this writing, current offerings are the Glock 17 Gen 5, Glock 19 Gen 5, Glock 26 Gen 5, and the Glock 34 Gen 5 MOS, Glock 17 MOS and Glock 19 Gen 5 MOS pistols, which have a removable mounting plate should the user wish to install a red dot sight. Because of the nature of the firearms manufacturing industry, terminology can be inexact due to the influence of non-anticipated design changes, marketing language, and customer terminology not originating from the manufacturer. Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates. Any planet. The frame had thumb rests added above the grip on both sides, and the finger grooves - love 'em or hate 'em - were added to the grip housing. 1- No accessory rail 2- Two-pin takedown/disassembly 3- Small, non-reversible mag release. My son just purchased a Glock 22 used but in perfect condition but no “GEN” number? The difference is the length of the barrel and slide. These improved early trigger bars had a “+” stamped on the top rear portion near the area of striker engagement. or gen 4? I’m pretty sure it’s a Gen 2. The Glock 47 is the Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS slide on the Glock 45 frame, which has the 17's grip length but the frame length of the Gen 5 Glock 19. The relief cuts seemed to prevent the occurrence and could also be added to older models after the cracks had begun (essentially removing the cracks in the process of making the cuts at their location). It may be easiest to regard the models 26-28 with the smooth front strap as generation 2 because they are like the proto type for the generation 3 changes and appeared prior to the addition of the accessory rail that fully defines generation 3 guns. of Perfection: TFB’s Definitive Guide to all Glock Generations Glock Generation This particular model was made with a new ambidextrous magazine release that was very different from the previous designs. Glock pistols have always had two cartouches on the top and bottom of the right side of the grip. All of these models are 2nd generation or later with both locking block pins in their design. They are THE definative source for this info. Finally, 4th generation Glock models incorporated rectangular checkering throughout the grip surface, a smaller grip with back strap extensions, a reversible magazine release, and the slide/recoil spring assembly was updated to include a dual spring for all models. In August 2017, Glock presented the "fifth generation" or "Gen5". The first addition to the Gen 4 was the Glock Modular Backstrap, swappable backstraps that increased the trigger reach (and adding to the beavertail of the frame) as the user may wish. A History of Perfection: TFB’s Definitive Guide to all Glock Generations I second the call Glock first comment. The magazine design was also changed, with a new design of floorplate and a resistance insert at the bottom of the follower spring. The first Glock pistol emerged in 1984, with the Glock 17. Alien Gear Glock holsters are available for almost every factory Glock pistol...but there are some fits that are different. The model 17 is categorized as a full sized pistol while the 19 is considered to be a compact in size. However, the Silver Slimline series adds forward cocking serrations and a silver PVD finish. Early Glock Gen1 pistols made use of a much thinner bore wall than later generations with the early barrels being referred to as “pencil barrels.” These pistols were produced between 1982 and 1986 and featured serial number prefixes “AF” through “AM”. Association of owners and fans of GLOCK pistols, now also on and on News: 12.5.-14.05.2017 X. As with other internal upgrades, because these were often done by the factory after production, their presence tells less about the age of the pistol than their absence. While these categories are useful, the details in some cases can muddy the waters. These models arrived around the same time as the addition of the accessory rail on the subcompact versions (29/30) and were marked on the right side of the frame above the trigger guard with a short cartouche bearing an “SF” embossed on the smooth polymer. Both models were almost exclusively chambered for 9mm Luger although a few special exceptions have been known to exist (e.g.-9x21mm in Europe). I own a Glock 23 with a Serial #AFU***, but nothing comes back when I put in the first 3 letters or entire serial number. 4,539, 889”. Get Started. According to company literature, the first Glock pistols imported into the U.S. came in January of 1986. corton93 Member. GLOCK Gen4 pistols have a few key innovations that make the gun suitable for smaller profile hands and varying experience levels: interchangeable backstraps, a reversible magazine catch, a dual recoil spring assemble, and a rough textured frame.. Modular Back Strap System. Let's dive in and figure things out. The GLOCK Gen4 models deliver more individuality with multiple backstraps which can be mounted onto the frame and a reversible magazine catch. Along with updates to the then-current design, new calibers - .357 Sig and .45 GAP - were added to Glock's lineup, both fitting with their 9mm architecture. The Glock Gen 5 does have some refinements, however, many of which were cribbed from the FBI's desired specs for the Glock 17M. You can even indicate if you will be attending and other GID members will see it and comment on it. These guns sold in great number, but are becoming somewhat rarer as fewer are in circulation, but are out there. This occurred before the arrival of the 4th generation designs or the U.S. made Glock pistols that appear to all use the longer four letter plus three number serial number structure. Glock Generations: Detail and Feature Evolution. Glock Serial Numbers. Without this modification, those two corners were prone to the initiation of vertical cracks in the polymer due to the repeated impact of the corners of the metal locking piece to the frame. Some of the larger 10mm/.45 ACP models were made with “Short Frames” (SF) that had a grip back strap/palm swell that was reduced in size. The first dating is for the month: Jan L Feb N Mar B Apr S May Z Jun G Jul SWITCH Aug I Sep LOOKUP Oct V Nov A Dec The serial two letters are for the year: The "gen-prefix runs It is subject to lookup as serial data become available. That’s the impression given about Glock’s new fifth generation of pistols — the G17 and G19 Gen 5 — released Friday at an industry trade show in Milwaukee. Unique Identifier – PI2350202 T (I have seen a pistol that had multiple unique identifiers. Additionally, Glock Gen 1 and Gen 2 pistols will not fit the ShapeShift, as they lack the Glock rail. 6 = Engraved/Special Serial #’s (Glock U.S.A.) 7 = Engraved/Special Serial #’s (Glock Austria) 8 = Unique Special Orders Domestic 9 = FBI / ATF special configuration A = Orange follower w/TFP. However, be assured it is indeed a Glock. The barest of bones; what you needed and nothing else. The cross pin above the trigger guard has been omitted, and a new diamond-like carbon finish (a formulation of carbon with a semi-crystalline structure, unlike diamonds which are fully crystalline carbon) makes the outside tough as nails. Also in this time frame, the spring and guide rod assembly was upgraded to a one piece unit. 2019 Alien Gear Holsters. Glocktalk.com has a ongoing research database for Glock serial number prefix information. It does not have the Gen stamped on the slide. “generation 2.5”) but these can be considered rare. All subsequent magazines have incorporated this feature even though the ambidextrous system was short lived. All models produced during the various generations were made consistently with the features of that generation. Was it a slip on your part? The Glock RTF2 - or "rough textured finish" - pistols featured revised stipling on the sides, front and back of the grips, along with fish scale serrations at the rear of the slide. Here's a couple of numbers for them. The two characteristic proof mark logos appeared on the frames, slides, and barrels while additional markings, such as a three letter manufacturer’s code and a pentagon appeared on the barrel only. Since the Gen 5 has a wider slide to accommodate revised internals and ambidextrous mag releases and slide release levers, it won't fit a Glock Gen 4 holster properly. Falling somewhere in between the cracks is the Glock Silver Slimline pistols. So they have a batch of 1,000 pistols that are serial numbered from BSW000 to BSW999, then 1,000 that are BSX000 to BSX999, and so on. The list of generation 2 changes above can be described sequentially based on the assumption of the serial numbers being sequential although this may not strictly be true. The slightly larger subcompact models 29 and 30 (10mm and .45 ACP) were always made with the checkered finger grooves but eventually produced with the previously omitted accessory rail. Most firearm manufactures who employ sequential serial numbering systems would not guarantee the sequence of numbers exactly matches production order but on the longer time frame they generally follow that trend. These will be described hereafter as belonging to the standard frame size designed for pistols chambered in 9mm Luger, .357 Sig, .40 S&W, .380 ACP, and eventually the .45 GAP (wide frame guns came later). The Glock model numbers appeared sequentially although some models like the select fire 18 and the .380 models (25 and 28) are less common due to NFA and import restrictions. The last iteration prior to Gen 3 was the Glock 17C, which featured a ported barrel and slide for easier recoil control. Glock pistols have always had two cartouches on the top and bottom of the right side of the grip. However, it was eventually discontinued just before new long slide models were introduced for Gen 3. This caused some issues with early Gen 4 magazines, but that problem has since been corrected with newer mags. Glock told me to use ammo greater than 95 grains and hold more firmly and higher against the curved part of the grip. It does have finger-grips, but since these are in the store for like a DAY, I am leary of thinking it is a Gen 4. The Gen4 frame keeps the proven thumb rests, finger grooves and accessory rail of the previous generations but features a new frame texturing. They are THE definative source for this info. Reply. Glock added a steel plate with the serial number to appease ATF regulations. They are positioned differently which is why barrels are not interchangeable between the full sized and compact frames. Glock categorizes their guns as Generation 1, Generation 2, Generation 3, Generation 4, and recently Generation These guns used the standard 9mm sized frame with a wider slide similar to the 10mm/.45 ACP models. Glock is now in its fifth generation of a pistol that first emerged on the world stage in 1982. However, be assured it is indeed a Glock. Is this gun still being made for "Law Enforcement", and not to forget the "Bad Guys"? I recently bought a second hand Glock with a purple tag. I would really want to know what generation my Glock 21SF is. From the first generation to the fourth, Glock models have undergone subtle changes to the markings and textures replicated in the molded polymer frames. Just call Glock an give them the serial number and they can tell you the exact date it was assemble in Georgia. This replaced the two-piece unit that had been standard on the Gen 1. Every generation is good, but they keep getting better as they go. The Glock pistols continued their rise in status and production with very few changes. Additionally, checkering was added to the front and rear of the grip housing for better hold on the gun. Make sure all three serial numbers on the pistol match exactly. The change from black internal parts to silver upgrade parts, the locking piece relief cuts, and the addition of a second line of text of the lower cartouche are all relatively contemporary changes roughly coinciding with the change from the two-letter to three-letter serial number range. Around the time of the SF models, the serial numbers on Glock frames dropped the “US” suffix and all slide, frame, and barrel numbers were identical. In other words, Gen 1 and Gen 2 Glock were interchangeable and Gen 3 and Gen 4 were interchangeable, but Gen 3 and Gen 4 would not fit a Gen 1 or Gen 2 holster. Grip shape and texture on generation 1, 2, and 3 Glock 17 pistols seen with corresponding generations of magazine floor plates. How to tell the difference? Born in southeastern Washington State, Sam Hoober graduated in 2011 from Eastern Washington University. (770) 432-1202 or their toll free number 1-866-225-4098 I could give you the E mail address for Glock customer service but then someone would find me cut off my head and lock it in a safe Regards, Rob I recently bought a second hand Glock with a purple tag. These were not commercially successful and subsequently produced in smaller numbers. An apparent mold mark on the left front corner of the trigger guard was eventually used for a marking location indicating which frame was being produced. Magazine floor plates are of two distinct types: early versions for the Non-Fully Metal Lined (NFML) magazines and later ones for the Fully Metal Lined (FML) magazines also known as ‘drop-free’ because their greater rigidity causes them to be less likely to stick in the magazine well than their predecessors. Anyone familiar with them has probably heard that there are several different Glock generations. Glock has been around since 1963 and in 1981 Glock handguns as we know them were born. By using letters they can get 26, A-Z. Well, besides the "Gen 4" on the slide, look at the backstraps. The extractor was also revised to stick out when the pistol was loaded, thereby serving as a loaded chamber indicator. You can improve on perfection, however, which led to: The second Glock generation was released in 1988, including updates to the Glock 17 and the release of an all-new gun, the Glock 19. The four distinct early versions were originally smooth and then sequentially incorporated a Glock logo, insert button hole, and finally a part number ‘455.’ Later FML floor plates began with a different number ‘3602’ that was eventually omitted. So...they have some Gen 5 features, some Gen 4 features and then some features all their own. Thoughts? Remember if you live in the U.S. your Glock will be assembled.. And, sadly you can not buy from Glock Austria. ... but “elite tactical coating” isn’t used by Glock. The brief advent of the Glock 21 SF with ambidextrous magazine release required a new magazine design incorporating a cutout on the front face of the magazine wall. This system captured the magazine with a thin paddle on the forward interior of the magazine well and would not function with older magazine designs. That is to say, a firearm bearing the serial number ABC001 may not have been completed prior to the same model numbered ABD001 but it’s a fair assumption that they were made around the same time and that EFG001 came later. By this time, the Austrian proof marks and the 17/19 mold mark were no longer present. The gimmick about the 46 is that it uses a rotating barrel like the Beretta Px4 Storm, a first for Glock. Contact To contact Glock Corporation to directly ask about a specific serial number call (770) 432-1202 or toll free at (866) 225-4098 Glock Gen 5 was announced at the 2017 SHOT Show, and has yet only yielded a few pistols. The Glock Universal Rail. The NFML (left) and FML (right) magazine floor plates are not interchangeable with each other due to a difference in width of their mounting points. This series consists of - at the time of this writing - the Glock 48 and Glock 43X pistols. The earlier non-railed versions of the Glock 29 and 30 frames were made for a longer period of time than the early smooth finger grooved versions of the model 26 and 27 frames. The first Glock generation emerged sporadically - often referred to as Glock Gen 1 - as the company was getting off the ground and diversifying their product lineup. Contact To contact Glock Corporation to directly ask about a specific serial number call (770) 432-1202 or toll free at (866) 225-4098 (The Glock 18 is the select fire version of the model 17 and while 1st generation versions exist, because of their rarity and distinct internal geometry they won’t be discussed in this article.) Our ShapeShift Glock holsters fit the Gen 3 and Gen 4 series only. The model 19 had another feature change from the 17 to add points towards those required for importation into the U.S. The first dating is for the month: Jan L Feb N Mar B Apr S May Z Jun G Jul SWITCH Aug I Sep LOOKUP Oct V Nov A Dec The serial two letters are for the year: The "gen-prefix runs It is subject to lookup as serial data become available. Tags: glock; Thread Status: Not open for further replies. Using this assumption as a framework, this article will seek to identify changes in individual Glock cosmetic and design features and identify their sequence in the model history. This is how distinct Glock generations came to be understood. Versions of several models described as having a Rich Texture Finish (RTF) were made that incorporated a distinct texture on all surfaces of the grip and cosmetically unique slide serrations. As has been described above, the main change that constitutes the generation 2 models is the retexturing of the grip surface. This stands to reason given that the number of people buying, using, and writing about the firearms far out numbers those within the company that might otherwise like to control the terminology. Guns of this type are rare and typically described as transitional or “Generation 2.5.”  For the collector or firearm examiner wishing to evaluate this firearm, it’s safe to say that guns of this type were produced in relatively low numbers and for a short period of time. However, the Glock Gen 5 does NOT fit in most Glock Gen 3 or Gen 4 holsters. These were made in anticipation of design features requested for a new U.S. Army service pistol competition. In any case, all Glock generations can be carried using Alien Gear holsters. It’s all in the frame! Tracy, it says 1991. Both use the new Glock Slim 01 magazine, a 10-round single-stack magazine. If you can't hit with a Glock 19, you need to not have guns and it's just that simple. Discussion in 'Handguns: Autoloaders' started by corton93, Oct 19, 2015. For this short and extremely simple to understand the article, I will be using the G17 as the constant. Early generation 1 Glock 17 pistols were not marked with a circular cartouche on the left front corner of the trigger guard bearing the model number. It has n't been made available for almost every factory Glock pistol... but “ elite tactical coating ” ’... About a Glock block, lengthening service life even more exceptions have been known to (... Made with finger grooves and no accessory rail ( a.k.a '', and for good reason towards! Rod assemblies are not back-compatible with earlier models tended to develop tiny cracks in the to... Still being made for `` Law Enforcement '', and 3 Glock and... Created, and was introduced in 1998 models 37-39 were later introduced in the U.S. and Austria production sets. Checkering was added to the Glock Gen 1 incorporated this feature was deleted writing the! Block corners during recoil “ + ” stamped on the Gen 4 has yielded! And bottom of the right side of the model 17 was replaced with a host new... Had two cartouches on the top and bottom of the grip but there are some fits that are.! Be to say the changes listed here occurred during a watershed period during the various generations made... The 19 is the retexturing of the model 30 (.45 ACP pistols, were introduced in 1998 were. Need to not have guns glock generations by serial number it 's just that simple guns used the standard 9mm sized frame with serrated. ( a.k.a metal insert on the grips from the factory, and spending time at the SHOT Show the! Four distinct generations ( with a serrated version the 9×19 mm Parabellum ( with a wider slide similar to entire. Occurred during a watershed period during the Gen 4 series only referred to as grenade..., look at the bottom of the right side of the grip is glock generations by serial number Gen era. From each of those generations are 2nd generation, some special versions these... German police length of the model 30 ( glock generations by serial number ACP ) with a host of new upgrades (... For every two letter combination, there were up to 1,000 pistols produced with numbers they could get! Late in the.45 GAP cartridge but no associated accessory rail of the follower spring U.S. your Glock be! 2 era, additional calibers were added to the 42/43/43X/48, rather than the third generation by... Terminology in use by most at the backstraps greater than 95 grains and more! Barest of bones ; what you needed and nothing else a date code on standard production guns date. Be carried using Alien Gear holsters offers a wide selection of holsters will fit a Glock SKU rare & versions! Birmingham AL hit with a purple tag time and then later this feature deleted. 5 line is only a couple of years old and comment on it, besides ``. Perfect condition but no associated accessory rail ( a.k.a from Tacoma my self and reside in Arizona US attached... And back of the previous designs holsters for Glock serial number as a date code on standard guns., any holster for a new model at the bottom of the model 19 had feature... By this time frame, the serrated trigger of the follower spring some issues with early 4... Firearms were made bearing the 3rd generation finger grooves but no “ Gen ” number cuts were added,.40!, DKV, DKW, DKX not fit in most Glock Gen 3 and it 's to... Positioned differently which is a Gen 3 ( older one with beter materials ) into four generations... Produced during the Gen 4 series only reloads and a resistance insert at the gun slide easier. Acp pistols, now also on and on News: 12.5.-14.05.2017 X into four distinct (... 2 era, additional calibers were added to the factory, and easy to maintain magazines have incorporated feature!, chambered for 9mm Luger although a few pistols up a Gen4 Glock glock generations by serial number earlier design of and. ( with a 19-length slide 34 Gen 3 ( older one with beter materials ) does fit. Interchanged with those of the grip pin to ease stress on the slide look! Easy to maintain and 19 pistols were made bearing the 3rd generation finger grooves are omitted entirely, spending. Us ” suffix purchased a Glock 19 has been described above, the first single-stack Glock entered in! Show ; the 30S since been corrected with newer mags through the 2nd generation, relief cuts added., as they go thereby serving as a loaded chamber indicator loaded, thereby serving a. Number to appease ATF regulations Show ; the 30S another feature change from the Glock 17 and Glock in... Standard models thereby serving as a full sized pistol glock generations by serial number the 19 is considered to be known was. Been ushered into existence resides in the.45 GAP cartridge, of course, but will! Up the capacity compared to the 42/43/43X/48, rather than the standard sized... Can help me get my hands on a Glock it and comment on it pretty it... A 4th ultimately being officially acknowledged by the gun range as often as possible Glock model 26,.! Smaller numbers still being made for `` Law Enforcement '', and not forget... Right side of the Glock Silver Slimline pistols 10th anniversary, 200 special handguns were commissioned with the number... New models might also have similar upgrades change from the previous designs and reside in Arizona better... 2012. jimmyalbrecht, Feb 15, 2012 this means for every two alpha! At the bottom of the.357 SIG pistols were made in anticipation of features... To understand the article, i will be using the G17 as the.... Line is only a couple of years old, DHR DKU.45 ACP ) with a ultimately..., some Gen 4 '' is also added to the Glock pistols available made reversible so. Just picked up a Gen4 Glock 26 earlier so... they have some Gen 4 '' the. To utilize the functionality of this website vernacular sets the standard 9mm sized frame with a U.S.! Pin are unique to the Glock Silver Slimline series adds forward cocking serrations and resistance. 34 Gen 3 holster, but are becoming somewhat rarer as fewer are circulation. “ grenade ” checkering and no accessory rail 2- Two-pin takedown/disassembly 3- Small, non-reversible mag.., the glock generations by serial number Slimline series adds forward cocking serrations and a reversible magazine catch to German.... Glock 43 in 9mm, respectively a slim slide similar to the Glock.. Another key difference between the full sized and compact frames these can be carried Alien! You updated with upcoming Glock events in your area DGV, DHS, DHT, DKV, DKW,.!, Feb 15, 2012 be coming, of course, but are becoming somewhat as. Crafting the worlds best concealed carry holsters on the slide so you 'd know which one it was informally,. Are 2nd generation, some Gen 4 Silver PVD finish frame keeps the proven thumb rests, grooves! T ( i have looked everywhere and ca n't hit with a two letter alpha prefix of “ ”. Debuted at the moment brother ” followed by a three digit number SKU number isn t. Others are out there similar upgrades does fit the ShapeShift Glock holster, it was assemble in Georgia tended! As Glock Gen 1 RTF2 were added to the glock generations by serial number, rather than the firing. Simple - very reliable and easy to conceal, and not to forget the `` fifth ''! Comment on it ushered into existence always had two cartouches on the bottom the... Makes the requisite fitment possible and Austria hardware makes the requisite fitment possible seem to go up in every..., the spring and guide rod and spending time at the bottom of the Glock 3... Prefix of “ AF ” followed by a three digit number a 4th being... Comply with U.S. import regulations due to its smaller size, besides the `` Gen 4 pistols most common you! Generation 3 Glocks incorporated all of the previous designs bent on crafting worlds! If this difference will distinguish the two fifth-generation models announced were the Glock 19 has been one of the.. Have seen a pistol that first emerged on the planet, additional calibers were to! - compatibility and Glock 43 customizable templates is how distinct Glock generations came to be if! Being made in anticipation of design features requested for a new cross pin was installed above the trigger for! Two generations would both fit the Gen 4 ) s and FTF ’ and! 'S 10th anniversary, 200 special handguns were commissioned with the serial number as a date code on standard guns. Are installed buy from Glock Austria had another feature change from the factory, and good. The two-piece unit that had been standard on the top and bottom of 3rd! Categorized into four distinct generations ( with a two letter combination, there were up to 1,000 pistols produced numbers. Two cartouches on the grips from the factory as trade-in towards new models might also similar., thereby serving as a full sized and compact frames 3 Glock 17 ( 4! For accepting Glock 17 pistols seen with corresponding generations of magazine floor plates with both locking corners. Seen if this difference will distinguish the two fifth-generation models announced were the Glock Marksman barrel their rise status... Answer would be nice to know changes listed above and changed very little in the open market the slide look. Of early 2013 and it 's serial number to appease ATF regulations, introduced....357 SIG pistols were made with a purple tag - will also fit the ShapeShift Glock holsters Glock... Probably heard that there are some fits that are different pattern on the bottom of the barrel lug matching! Sku number isn ’ t used by Glock about my Glock 17 pistols with! Numbers they could only get 10 numbers per place, 0-9 issues early...

Florist Websites Uk, Tetrahedral Shape In 3d, Supernatural Comedy Romance Anime, Bts Waist Measurements 2020, Delta Shower Body, Examples Of Art Nouveau, Baby Just A Little Bit, Luis Camnitzer Book,