Glock · Pistol
Glock G34 Gen4
Short recoil (semi-automatic) · 9x19mm Parabellum · introduced 2012
Also known as G34 Gen4, Glock 34 Gen4
About the Glock G34 Gen4
The Glock G34 Gen4 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, 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 17-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 5.3-inch barrel maximizes accuracy potential and ballistic performance, making this an excellent choice for target shooting, competition, or field use. Weighing 650g (22.9 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 G34 Gen4 was the workhorse of USPSA Production division during the early-to-mid 2010s. Its modular backstrap system meant competitors could finally customize their grip without aftermarket modifications, while the dual recoil spring provided a noticeably softer shooting experience in long match stages. When Glock moved to the Gen5 MOS-only configuration, many competition shooters held onto their Gen4s, appreciating the slightly different recoil impulse of the dual-spring system.
Glock G34 Gen4 specifications
General
- Type
- Pistol
- Action
- Short recoil (semi-automatic)
- Firing mechanism
- Striker-fired
- Trigger
- Safe action
- Trigger pull
- 2.4 kg (5.4 lb)
- Calibres
- 9x19mm Parabellum
- Magazine capacity
- 17 rounds
- Magazine
- Detachable box magazine
Dimensions
- Barrel length
- 135 mm (5.3 in)
- Overall length
- 222 mm (8.7 in)
- Height
- 139 mm (5.5 in)
- Width
- 33 mm (1.3 in)
- Weight (empty)
- 0.65 kg (1.43 lb)
- Weight (loaded)
- 0.96 kg (2.13 lb)
- Sight radius
- 191 mm (7.5 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)
- 375 m/s (1230 fps)
- Muzzle energy (typical)
- 519 J (383 ft·lb)
- Effective range
- 50 m
History
- Introduced
- 2012
- Production status
- Discontinued
- Country of origin
- AT
- Designer
- Gaston Glock
Features
- Extended slide
- Extended sight radius
- Competition trigger
- Accessory rail
- Hexagonal rifling
- Interchangeable backstraps
- Dual recoil spring
- Reversible mag release
- Rough textured frame
Safety
- Trigger safety
- Firing pin safety
- Drop safety
The Gen4 G34 was the last generation offered without an optics cut. When the Gen5 G34 launched, it was available exclusively in MOS configuration, making the Gen4 the final 'iron sights only' factory G34. The modular backstrap system was a significant ergonomic upgrade, allowing shooters to customize grip circumference with small, medium, and large inserts plus beavertail options. The dual recoil spring assembly softened recoil impulse compared to the Gen3's single spring, contributing to faster follow-up shots in competition.
This is a variant of the Glock G34.
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