Glock 17 vs Glock 20: A battle of the on a regular basis and the additional, a comparability that delves into the center of what makes every firearm distinctive. Each are staples in private protection and legislation enforcement, however their variations in design and specs result in distinct benefits. This exploration unveils the refined nuances that separate these iconic handguns, main you thru an in depth comparability, from dimensions to efficiency and even upkeep.
These two pistols, the Glock 17 and Glock 20, share a typical lineage, however their meant use instances and design variations make them stand out. The 17, a workhorse of private safety, focuses on fast firing and flexibility, whereas the 20, typically seen in tactical settings, emphasizes energy and accuracy at vary. We’ll study the professionals and cons of every, exploring their strengths and weaknesses in a complete comparability.
Introduction: Glock 17 Vs Glock 20
The Glock 17 and Glock 20 are well-liked, dependable semi-automatic pistols recognized for his or her sturdiness and widespread use. Each are a part of the Glock line, designed for numerous functions, although their particular options and meant use instances differ. Understanding these nuances permits for knowledgeable selections when contemplating both firearm.The Glock 17 and Glock 20 share a typical design philosophy, emphasizing ergonomics, reliability, and affordability.
Each pistols function a polymer body, a striker-fired mechanism, and a modular design for equipment. This shared basis makes them interesting selections for each private protection and legislation enforcement.Nonetheless, their meant makes use of and bodily traits diverge. The Glock 17 is a standard-issue firearm, favored for its versatility. The Glock 20, however, is explicitly designed for bigger calibers and heavier recoil, making it a extra highly effective choice.
This distinction in design intent is mirrored of their bodily dimensions and specs.
Key Specs
This desk summarizes the important thing specs of each firearms. Evaluating these values reveals the distinct traits of every mannequin.
| Function | Glock 17 | Glock 20 | Observe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | .40 S&W | The Glock 20’s bigger caliber ends in elevated stopping energy. |
| Capability | 17 rounds | 15 rounds | Capability variations relate to journal design and cartridge measurement. |
| Size | ~7.3 inches | ~7.6 inches | Slight variations in total size on account of cartridge measurement and barrel size. |
| Weight | ~2.2 kilos (unloaded) | ~2.5 kilos (unloaded) | The Glock 20’s heavier weight corresponds to its bigger cartridge and total design. |
Dimensions and Ergonomics
The Glock 17 and Glock 20, two well-liked firearms, differ considerably regardless of sharing a typical design philosophy. Understanding their dimensional variations is essential for selecting one of the best match for particular person wants and preferences. These variations in dimensions and ergonomics influence dealing with, recoil administration, and in the end, the consumer’s expertise.
Grip Measurement and Form
The Glock 17 and Glock 20 function comparable grip shapes, however the 20’s bigger body measurement results in a noticeably totally different really feel within the hand. The Glock 20’s prolonged body gives extra floor space for a safe grip, essential for managing recoil and sustaining management, particularly throughout prolonged firing periods. This enhanced grip space is especially useful for shooters preferring a extra substantial and comfy maintain.
The Glock 17’s extra compact grip measurement, whereas much less cumbersome, continues to be efficient for shooters with smaller palms, and presents a faster and extra agile dealing with expertise.
Barrel Size and Recoil
The Glock 20’s longer barrel contributes to a special recoil expertise in comparison with the Glock 17. The elevated barrel size will increase the mass and second of inertia, which immediately impacts the felt recoil. Shooters accustomed to the Glock 17’s shorter barrel may discover the Glock 20’s recoil barely extra pronounced. The elevated mass of the barrel and total body within the Glock 20 can contribute to a smoother, extra managed recoil, nevertheless, this will depend on the person shooter’s grip and approach.
This could be a important benefit for longer vary engagements, offering a extra steady platform.
Journal Capability and Sensible Use
The Glock 20’s elevated capability journal permits for quicker reloading and extra ammunition for sustained firing, which might be essential in high-stress eventualities. In conditions demanding fast follow-up pictures, the elevated capability of the Glock 20 is a definite benefit over the Glock 17. Nonetheless, the Glock 17’s customary journal capability stays extremely practical for many self-defense functions.
This steadiness between capability and sensible use is a important consider selecting the suitable firearm for a particular software.
Dimensional Comparability
| Attribute | Glock 17 | Glock 20 | Variations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size (inches) | 7.5 – 7.7 | 8.5 – 8.7 | Depending on particular mannequin and producer |
| Width (inches) | 1.2 – 1.3 | 1.3 – 1.4 | Variations primarily based on the particular mannequin and producer |
| Top (inches) | 5.2 – 5.4 | 5.5 – 5.7 | Slight variations can happen primarily based on manufacturing tolerances. |
| Weight (lbs) | 2.5 – 2.8 | 3.0 – 3.3 | Variations primarily based on particular mannequin and producer; equipment might alter weight. |
The desk gives a common comparability of dimensions. Particular measurements might fluctuate barely relying on the producer, particular mannequin, and any potential modifications. These variations spotlight the trade-offs between dealing with traits and sensible use.
Efficiency and Dealing with
The Glock 17 and Glock 20, each famend for his or her reliability and ease, exhibit distinct efficiency traits. Understanding these variations is essential for choosing the proper pistol for a given software. Whereas each are wonderful firearms, their particular strengths and weaknesses in dealing with and efficiency come into play when contemplating private wants and tactical necessities.
Recoil Traits
The Glock 20’s bigger body and heavier barrel contribute to a noticeably totally different recoil expertise in comparison with the Glock 17. Skilled shooters will typically really feel a extra pronounced however managed recoil impulse. The elevated mass of the 20’s elements reduces the felt recoil and muzzle rise compared to the 17. This enhanced dealing with attribute permits for quicker follow-up pictures, and for some, extra snug prolonged firing periods.
The 17, with its lighter body and barrel, will really feel lighter and snappier in recoil.
Affect of Barrel Size on Accuracy and Bullet Drop
The Glock 20’s longer barrel contributes to a extra steady platform for correct capturing. This interprets to raised accuracy at longer ranges on account of much less bullet drop. This attribute permits for extra exact pictures at prolonged distances. The Glock 17’s shorter barrel ends in barely higher bullet drop over distance, which should be accounted for when capturing at longer ranges.
Skilled shooters typically compensate for this distinction with correct aiming strategies and consideration of vary.
Firing Mechanisms and Set off Pull Weights, Glock 17 vs glock 20
Each pistols function an identical double-action/single-action (DA/SA) firing mechanism. The set off pull weight for each fashions is mostly constant and might be tuned to non-public choice. The Glock 20’s barely heavier set off pull weight could also be most popular by some shooters as a result of elevated stability it presents. The 17’s lighter pull weight, however, can permit for quicker capturing, however with a slight tradeoff within the felt recoil.
Finally, private choice performs a big position within the collection of the specified set off weight.
Efficiency Comparability Desk
| Function | Glock 17 | Glock 20 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Size (inches) | 4.6 | 5.3 | Longer barrel permits for extra steady capturing at longer ranges. |
| General Size (inches) | 7.3 | 8.1 | Longer total size corresponds with the longer barrel. |
| Weight (lbs) | 2.5 | 3.1 | Elevated weight of the Glock 20 ends in totally different recoil expertise. |
| Set off Pull (lbs) | 5.5-6.5 | 5.5-6.5 | Usually constant set off pull weight between the 2 fashions. |
| Capability | 17 Rounds | 17 Rounds | Similar journal capability for each fashions. |
Sensible Functions and Use Circumstances
Selecting between the Glock 17 and the Glock 20 typically comes all the way down to the particular wants and circumstances of the consumer. Each are famend for reliability and accuracy, however their distinct traits dictate splendid functions. Understanding these variations can result in a extra knowledgeable choice.
Frequent Sensible Functions
The Glock 17’s compact measurement and better capability journal make it a flexible alternative for a wide selection of eventualities. Its manageable dimensions and available magazines make it a sensible choice for on a regular basis carry, hid carry, and private protection. The Glock 20, with its bigger body and longer barrel, excels in conditions demanding higher stopping energy and accuracy at longer ranges.
Goal Taking pictures
The Glock 17’s shorter barrel and lighter weight make it extra maneuverable and simpler to manage, splendid for rapid-fire drills and fast goal acquisition. Its larger capability journal can be advantageous for prolonged capturing periods. The Glock 20, however, is favored for its enhanced accuracy at longer distances, providing a extra steady platform for exact pictures.
Its longer barrel helps to stabilize the projectile and supply a extra constant level of influence at prolonged ranges.
Self-Protection
In self-defense eventualities, the Glock 17’s manageable measurement and concealability make it a preferred alternative for on a regular basis carry. Its larger capability could be a important benefit in close-quarters confrontations. The Glock 20, whereas much less concealable on account of its bigger body, gives higher stopping energy with its longer barrel and heavier bullet weight, which might be essential for efficient self-defense at probably higher distances.
Legislation Enforcement Use
Each fashions are regularly utilized by legislation enforcement companies, typically relying on particular division wants and tactical conditions. The Glock 17’s smaller measurement and better capability are regularly most popular for patrol work, the place fast response and maneuverability are important. The Glock 20’s elevated stopping energy and accuracy are sometimes sought in conditions demanding longer-range engagement or when a bigger caliber is deemed vital.
Use Case Comparability Desk
| Use Case | Glock 17 | Glock 20 | Most popular Selection Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goal Taking pictures | Glorious for rapid-fire drills and close-range targets. | Superior for accuracy and consistency at prolonged ranges. | Select primarily based on desired vary and kind of goal engagement. |
| Self-Protection | Ultimate for hid carry and close-quarters fight. | Gives higher stopping energy and accuracy at intermediate ranges. | Choose primarily based on anticipated distance and desired influence. |
| Legislation Enforcement | Appropriate for patrol and close-quarters conditions. | Helpful for conditions requiring prolonged vary engagement or larger stopping energy. | Depending on the particular wants and working procedures of the legislation enforcement company. |
Upkeep and Reliability
Holding your Glock 17 or 20 in tip-top form is not rocket science, however it does require a little bit of care and a spotlight. Correct upkeep is essential to making sure dependable efficiency and longevity. This part dives into the frequent maintenance procedures and the essential issue of elements compatibility between these well-liked pistols. We’ll additionally have a look at the real-world reliability and sturdiness these fashions boast, primarily based on consumer suggestions.
Frequent Upkeep Procedures
Correct upkeep is essential for a firearm’s longevity and reliability. Common cleansing, lubrication, and inspection stop malfunctions and keep peak efficiency. Ignoring these steps can result in untimely put on, potential malfunctions, and even security hazards.
- Cleansing: Common cleansing is important to take away fouling, which might result in malfunctions and untimely put on. Disassemble the firearm in accordance with the producer’s directions. Use a cleansing equipment designed for firearms, and acceptable solvents to take away carbon and different contaminants. Completely dry all elements earlier than reassembly.
- Lubrication: Making use of the correct amount of lubrication to transferring elements ensures easy operation and reduces friction. Observe the producer’s suggestions on the categories and portions of lubricant to make use of. Guarantee lubrication is not extreme, which might entice dust and dirt. Pay shut consideration to the slide rails, barrel, and firing mechanism.
- Inspection: Common inspections are important for figuring out any potential issues earlier than they escalate. Test for any harm to the body, slide, or inner elements. Guarantee all elements are functioning appropriately and search for any indicators of damage or tear. This can be a essential a part of preventative upkeep.
Elements Compatibility
Glock pistols are recognized for his or her modular design and excessive stage of elements interchangeability. This makes upkeep and repairs simpler and cheaper. The Glock 17 and Glock 20 share a good portion of their elements, making elements compatibility fairly excessive. Nonetheless, variations exist in sure key areas.
- Important Compatibility: Many elements, just like the body, set off, and journal, are interchangeable between the Glock 17 and 20, simplifying upkeep and restore. This shared compatibility reduces prices and time spent on repairs.
- Key Variations: The Glock 20’s bigger capability journal and heavier slide are distinct. Whereas most elements are suitable, some particular elements, just like the slide and barrel, might need minor variations to account for the totally different dimensions.
Reliability and Sturdiness
Consumer critiques and studies persistently reward the reliability and sturdiness of each the Glock 17 and 20. These pistols have a popularity for being sturdy and reliable. Their modular design and high-quality supplies contribute to their long-term efficiency.
- Consumer Stories: Glock customers typically report constant efficiency and dependable operation over time. This can be a testomony to the meticulous design and high-quality supplies employed in these firearms. This reliability has been persistently validated by customers.
Upkeep Frequency Desk
| Upkeep Process | Glock 17 Frequency | Glock 20 Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleansing | After each 100 rounds | After each 100 rounds | Ensures optimum efficiency and reduces put on |
| Lubrication | Each 250 rounds | Each 250 rounds | Maintains easy operation and prevents friction |
| Inspection | Month-to-month or after each 500 rounds | Month-to-month or after each 500 rounds | Early detection of points prevents main issues |
Equipment and Modifications
Past the manufacturing facility specs, a world of customization awaits Glock 17 and 20 house owners. Equipment can dramatically improve efficiency, personalize aesthetics, and enhance dealing with, making these pistols much more efficient instruments. This exploration dives into the aftermarket universe, inspecting essential upgrades and their influence.
Accessible Equipment and Modifications
A wealth of aftermarket equipment cater to totally different wants and preferences. These vary from easy grip enhancements to extra advanced upgrades like enhanced sights. Understanding the choices permits house owners to tailor their firearms to particular person capturing types and preferences.
Aftermarket Sights
Upgrading sights is a typical modification for enhancing accuracy and goal acquisition. Totally different types cater to varied capturing circumstances and preferences. These enhancements typically contain improved sight alignment and faster goal acquisition, bettering total capturing efficiency.
Grip Enhancements
Grip enhancements are essential for a safe and comfy maintain. Modified grips can enhance management, scale back slippage, and tailor the match to particular person hand sizes. This results in extra constant and managed capturing, even below stress.
Different Equipment
Past sights and grips, different equipment akin to laser sights, mild attachments, and prolonged magazines supply further capabilities and enhancements. These modifications can drastically alter the pistol’s performance, making it extra versatile in numerous capturing eventualities.
Frequent Upgrades and Potential Enhancements
Frequent upgrades, like totally different grip panels and set off elements, can supply a tangible distinction in really feel and efficiency. A well-chosen improve can result in extra managed capturing, faster reactions, and enhanced accuracy.
Desk of Accessible Equipment
| Firearm Mannequin | Model | Accent Kind | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glock 17 | EOTech | Pink Dot Sight | Gives exact aiming with quick goal acquisition. |
| Glock 17 | Hogue | Grip Panels | Gives enhanced grip texture and luxury. |
| Glock 20 | Trijicon | Night time Sights | Gives improved visibility in low-light circumstances. |
| Glock 20 | Magpul | Prolonged Magazines | Will increase the capability of the firearm for sustained fireplace. |
| Each | Numerous | Set off Upgrades | Gives a extra responsive and constant set off pull. |
Security Issues
Protected firearm dealing with is paramount. Understanding and persistently making use of secure practices is essential for stopping accidents and making certain the well-being of your self and people round you. This part delves into the important procedures for dealing with and storing each the Glock 17 and Glock 20, emphasizing the significance of every step.
Protected Dealing with Procedures
Correct dealing with is the cornerstone of firearm security. A proactive strategy to secure dealing with minimizes the danger of unintended discharges. Each interplay with a firearm ought to be approached with respect and unwavering consideration to element.
- All the time deal with each firearm as if it have been loaded. This basic rule is non-negotiable. By no means assume a firearm is unloaded, no matter the way it was final dealt with or saved.
- Level the muzzle in a secure route. This implies directing the firearm’s muzzle away from any particular person or object that might be harmed by the projectile.
- Hold your finger off the set off till prepared to fireside. This can be a important security precaution to forestall unintentional discharges.
- Make sure the firearm is unloaded earlier than cleansing or performing upkeep. This prevents the potential for an unintentional discharge throughout these actions.
- Retailer firearms securely and in designated areas to forestall unauthorized entry. This is applicable equally to storage in your house, a secure, or throughout transport.
Correct Storage and Transport Methods
Safe storage and accountable transport are important elements of firearm security. Each strategies require cautious planning and implementation to keep away from accidents.
- Retailer firearms in a locked container or secure. Use a mixture lock or different safety measure to forestall unauthorized entry.
- Use a safe case for transporting firearms. This case ought to be constructed of a cloth that can stand up to potential impacts and forestall the firearm from shifting throughout the case throughout transport.
- All the time maintain the firearm unloaded and unloaded ammunition separate from the firearm throughout transport. This precaution minimizes the danger of unintentional discharges and prevents the potential for the ammunition being accessed and used improperly.
- Transport firearms in a fashion that ensures they can’t be discharged unintentionally. By no means carry a loaded firearm in a car with out the firearm being securely fixed and safely saved in a devoted compartment.
Position of Security Options
Security options are designed to mitigate the danger of unintentional discharges. They act as an important layer of safety when used appropriately.
- Set off locks stop unauthorized firing. They’re a necessary safety function that may deter accidents and unauthorized use.
- Handbook safeties stop the firearm from firing except manually overridden. They supply an extra stage of management and safety throughout dealing with.
- Journal releases assist to forestall unintentional discharge by securing the journal and stopping unintentional firing.
- Lively measures akin to set off locks and handbook safeties contribute to firearm security by stopping unintentional firing. Correct utilization is important.
Important Security Procedures and Practices
The next desk summarizes important security procedures and practices for dealing with and storing each the Glock 17 and Glock 20. Adhering to those procedures is paramount.
| Security Process | Description | Glock 17 Specifics | Glock 20 Specifics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deal with Each Firearm as Loaded | All the time assume the firearm is loaded, no matter its precise standing. | Similar to Glock 20. | Similar to Glock 17. |
| Level the Muzzle Away | Direct the muzzle away from individuals and objects. | Similar to Glock 20. | Similar to Glock 17. |
| Finger Off the Set off | Hold finger off the set off till prepared to fireside. | Similar to Glock 20. | Similar to Glock 17. |
| Unload Earlier than Cleansing | Unload the firearm earlier than any upkeep or cleansing. | Similar to Glock 20. | Similar to Glock 17. |
Goal Comparability (Taking pictures)
The Glock 17 and Glock 20, each famend for his or her reliability and ergonomics, exhibit distinct efficiency traits in the case of accuracy. Understanding these variations is essential for shooters selecting the best firearm for his or her wants and talent stage. This part delves into the accuracy and precision of every mannequin at various ranges, contemplating barrel size and bullet flight.
Accuracy and Precision at Numerous Ranges
The accuracy and precision of a firearm are considerably influenced by components like barrel size, ammunition kind, shooter talent, and environmental circumstances. The Glock 17, with its shorter barrel, typically delivers higher close-range accuracy than the Glock 20, which encompasses a longer barrel. Nonetheless, at prolonged ranges, the longer barrel of the Glock 20 can supply a slight benefit as a result of lowered impact of bullet drop.
Bullet Drop Traits and Trajectory
Bullet drop, the downward deviation of a projectile because it travels by the air, is a important facet of accuracy. The Glock 17, on account of its shorter barrel and lighter projectile, will exhibit a extra pronounced bullet drop over distance in comparison with the Glock 20. Contemplate a situation the place a shooter goals at a goal 100 yards away; the Glock 17 would require extra exact changes for bullet drop compensation than the Glock 20.
Affect of Barrel Size on Bullet Flight
Barrel size performs a big position in bullet stabilization. An extended barrel, just like the one discovered within the Glock 20, permits for a extra managed and steady trajectory, which leads to a flatter trajectory over longer ranges. Conversely, the shorter barrel of the Glock 17 will trigger the projectile to lose stability extra rapidly, leading to extra pronounced bullet drop.
Taking pictures Eventualities Requiring Excessive Accuracy
Accuracy is paramount in numerous capturing eventualities. Competitions like precision capturing occasions, looking, and self-defense conditions demand constant accuracy and exact shot placement. Contemplate a marksman trying to hit a small goal at 200 yards. The Glock 20’s longer barrel would probably supply a slight benefit by way of precision, permitting for extra constant hits on the right track.
Accuracy Check Outcomes
The next desk gives a comparative overview of accuracy take a look at outcomes for each fashions at totally different ranges. Observe that these outcomes are illustrative and will fluctuate relying on the particular ammunition used, environmental circumstances, and the shooter’s talent.
| Vary (yards) | Glock 17 Accuracy (MOA) | Glock 20 Accuracy (MOA) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | 0.5 – 1.0 | 0.7 – 1.5 | Shut vary accuracy is comparable |
| 50 | 1.0 – 1.5 | 1.0 – 1.2 | Glock 20 exhibits slight benefit |
| 100 | 1.5 – 2.0 | 1.2 – 1.5 | Glock 20 maintains edge |
| 200 | 2.5 – 3.0 | 2.0 – 2.5 | Glock 20 exhibits a noticeable enchancment |
