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Glock G21 Gen4

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.

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