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Glock G21 Gen5 MOS

Glock · Pistol

Glock G21 Gen5 MOS

Short recoil (semi-automatic) · .45 ACP · introduced 2023

Also known as G21 Gen5 MOS, Glock 21 Gen 5 MOS

About the Glock G21 Gen5 MOS

The Glock G21 Gen5 MOS is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in .45 ACP, produced by Glock Ges.m.b.H. since 2023. 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 13-round magazine capacity, this pistol offers adequate firepower for defensive carry. 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 4.6-inch barrel provides an excellent balance between sight radius and portability, making it equally suitable for duty carry and recreational shooting. Weighing 735g (25.9 oz) empty, this firearm strikes a practical balance between manageable carry weight and sufficient mass to moderate felt recoil during shooting. 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 .45 ACP has been the quintessential American fighting cartridge since 1911, and the Glock 21 Gen5 MOS represents the latest chapter in a long rivalry between polymer-framed striker-fired pistols and the venerable 1911 platform. While 1911 purists may scoff at a plastic .45, the G21 offers nearly double the magazine capacity (13+1 vs. 7+1 or 8+1) at roughly half the weight. The Gen5 MOS variant adds optics capability that most 1911s still lack from the factory, continuing to push the boundaries of what a .45 ACP service pistol can be.

Glock G21 Gen5 MOS specifications

General

Type
Pistol
Action
Short recoil (semi-automatic)
Firing mechanism
Striker-fired
Trigger
Safe action
Trigger pull
2.7 kg (5.8 lb)
Calibres
.45 ACP
Magazine capacity
13 rounds
Magazine
Detachable box magazine

Dimensions

Barrel length
117 mm (4.6 in)
Overall length
205 mm (8.1 in)
Height
140 mm (5.5 in)
Width
35 mm (1.4 in)
Weight (empty)
0.73 kg (1.62 lb)
Weight (loaded)
1.09 kg (2.41 lb)
Sight radius
176 mm (6.9 in)

Barrel

Rifling twist
1:16 in (400 mm)
Rifling
Right hand
Grooves
6

Materials

Barrel
Steel
Receiver / frame
Polymer
Slide
Steel
Finish
nDLC

Performance

Muzzle velocity (typical)
260 m/s (853 fps)
Muzzle energy (typical)
477 J (352 ft·lb)
Effective range
50 m

History

Introduced
2023
Production status
In production
Country of origin
AT
Designer
Gaston Glock

Features

  • Optics ready
  • Modular optic system
  • Polymer frame
  • Safe action trigger
  • Polygonal rifling
  • Accessory rail
  • Ambidextrous slide stop
  • Reversible mag release
  • Flared mag well
  • Marksman barrel
  • Rough textured frame
  • No finger grooves
  • Front slide serrations
  • Modular backstrap system

Safety

  • Trigger safety
  • Firing pin safety
  • Drop safety

The G21 Gen5 MOS arrived in 2023, matching the Gen5 MOS treatment given to the G20 (10mm) the same year. Weight without magazine is 735g (25.93 oz), making it slightly lighter than the Gen4 at 745g. The width increases to 35mm (1.38 inches) due to the MOS slide cut compared to 34mm on the Gen4. Sight radius with the MOS configuration is 176mm compared to 172mm on the Gen4. The nDLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) finish replaces the Tenifer finish of earlier generations, offering superior hardness and corrosion resistance.

This is a variant of the Glock 21.

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