
Glock · Pistol
Glock G21 Gen4
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · .45 ACP · introduced 2012
Also known as G21 Gen4, Glock 21 Gen 4
About the Glock G21 Gen4
The Glock G21 Gen4 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in .45 ACP, produced by Glock Ges.m.b.H. since 2012. 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 745g (26.3 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 Glock 21 was Glock's answer to the eternal question: can a polymer pistol handle the .45 ACP? When it debuted in 1991, .45 ACP devotees were skeptical that a 'plastic' gun could reliably handle the big-bore cartridge that John Moses Browning's 1911 had made legendary. The G21 proved them wrong with typical Glock reliability, and the Gen4's modular backstrap finally tamed the one legitimate criticism -- that the large-frame grip was too thick for average-sized hands.
Glock G21 Gen4 specifications
General
- Type
- Pistol
- Action
- Short recoil (semi-automatic)
- Firing mechanism
- Striker-fired
- Trigger
- Safe action
- Trigger pull
- 2.9 kg (6.3 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
- 34 mm (1.3 in)
- Weight (empty)
- 0.74 kg (1.64 lb)
- Weight (loaded)
- 1.10 kg (2.43 lb)
- Sight radius
- 172 mm (6.8 in)
Barrel
- Rifling twist
- 1:16 in (400 mm)
- Rifling
- Right hand
- Grooves
- 6
Materials
- Barrel
- Steel
- Receiver / frame
- Polymer
- Slide
- Steel
- Finish
- tenifer
Performance
- Muzzle velocity (typical)
- 260 m/s (853 fps)
- Muzzle energy (typical)
- 477 J (352 ft·lb)
- Effective range
- 50 m
History
- Introduced
- 2012
- Production status
- In production
- Country of origin
- AT
- Designer
- Gaston Glock
Features
- Polymer frame
- Safe action trigger
- Polygonal rifling
- Accessory rail
- Modular backstrap system
- Dual recoil spring
- Rough textured frame
- Reversible mag release
Safety
- Trigger safety
- Firing pin safety
- Drop safety
The Glock 21 was originally introduced in 1991 alongside the G20 (10mm), both sharing the same large frame. The Gen4 variant arrived in 2012. Weight without magazine is 745g (26.28 oz), with loaded magazine approximately 1100g (38.80 oz). Magazine capacity is 13 rounds, which is notably higher than most .45 ACP pistols. The G21 uses the same frame as the G20 but with a different barrel and magazine to accommodate the shorter, wider .45 ACP cartridge. Rifling twist is 1:15.75 inches (400mm) optimized for the .45 ACP.
This is a variant of the Glock 21.
Similar models

Glock 17
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum

Glock 17 Gen5
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum
Glock 17C
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum

Glock 18
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum
Glock 18C
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum

Glock 19 Gen5
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum
Glock 19C
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum

Glock 19X
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum