
Glock · Pistol
Glock G19
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum · introduced 1988
Also known as G19, Glock Compact, Glock 19
About the Glock G19
The Glock G19 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, produced by Glock Ges.m.b.H. since 1988. This Austrian-manufactured firearm reflects the engineering traditions and quality standards of its country of origin, designed to meet the demands of both civilian and professional users in a competitive global marketplace. Featuring a 15-round magazine capacity, this pistol offers generous firepower for duty use and home defense. The striker-fired action provides a consistent trigger pull for every shot, simplifying training and reducing the manual of arms - a design philosophy that has become the dominant paradigm in modern defensive handguns. The 4.0-inch barrel provides an excellent balance between sight radius and portability, making it equally suitable for duty carry and recreational shooting. At 595g (21.0 oz) unloaded, this lightweight firearm is optimized for comfortable all-day carry without creating undue fatigue or printing concerns. The polymer frame construction reduces weight while providing a textured, ergonomic grip surface designed for secure handling in all conditions. This firearm represents its manufacturer's commitment to delivering a well-engineered, reliable product that serves the needs of discerning shooters seeking quality, accuracy, and dependable performance from a proven platform.
The Glock 19 is often called the 'Goldilocks gun' -- not too big, not too small, just right. When U.S. Special Operations Command needed a standardized compact pistol, they chose the G19 over every other option. The FBI's 2016 adoption of the Glock 19M triggered a cascade of federal agency switches. Its ubiquity is so complete that in the firearms world, 'compact 9mm' is essentially synonymous with 'Glock 19.'
Glock G19 specifications
General
- Type
- Pistol
- Action
- Short recoil (semi-automatic)
- Firing mechanism
- Striker-fired
- Trigger
- Safe action
- Trigger pull
- 2.5 kg (5.6 lb)
- Calibres
- 9x19mm Parabellum
- Magazine capacity
- 15 rounds
- Magazine
- Detachable box magazine
Dimensions
- Barrel length
- 102 mm (4.0 in)
- Overall length
- 185 mm (7.3 in)
- Height
- 128 mm (5.0 in)
- Width
- 30 mm (1.2 in)
- Weight (empty)
- 0.59 kg (1.31 lb)
- Weight (loaded)
- 0.85 kg (1.87 lb)
- Sight radius
- 153 mm (6.0 in)
Barrel
- Rifling twist
- 1:10 in (250 mm)
- Rifling
- Right hand
- Grooves
- 6
Materials
- Barrel
- Steel
- Receiver / frame
- Polymer
- Slide
- Steel
- Finish
- tenifer
Performance
- Muzzle velocity (typical)
- 360 m/s (1181 fps)
- Muzzle energy (typical)
- 481 J (355 ft·lb)
- Effective range
- 50 m
History
- Introduced
- 1988
- Production status
- In production
- Country of origin
- AT
- Designer
- Gaston Glock
Features
- Compact frame
- Accessory rail
- Reversible mag release
- Interchangeable backstraps
- Dual recoil spring
Safety
- Trigger safety
- Firing pin safety
- Drop safety
The Glock 19 was first introduced in 1988 as a compact variant of the Glock 17, primarily for military and law enforcement use. It has gone through five generations (Gen1 through Gen5), each adding incremental improvements. The current Gen5 model features the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB), nDLC finish, and ambidextrous controls. Standard magazine capacity is 15 rounds, with compatibility with Glock 17 magazines (17, 19, 24, and 33-round options). The Glock 19X is a crossover variant combining the G19 slide with the G17 frame. The Glock 19M was developed under the FBI contract with specific modifications. An estimated 65% of U.S. law enforcement agencies use Glock pistols, with the G19 being the most popular compact model.
Glock G19 variants
Glock G19 Gen4
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum

Glock G19 Gen5
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum

Glock G19 Gen6
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum

Glock G19 V
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum
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