Glock makes over 50 pistol models across seven calibers, four frame sizes, multiple generations, and Standard vs MOS (optic-ready) configurations. If you’re choosing your first Glock — or your fifth — this guide maps every current model to its intended use case so you can order with confidence.
Glock Frame Sizes Explained
Glock organizes pistols into four frame sizes: Full-Size (G17, G22, G31), Compact (G19, G23, G32), Subcompact (G26, G27, G33), and Slimline (G43, G43X, G48). Each size step down reduces grip height, overall length, and capacity — trading capacity for concealability.
- Full-Size: Home defense, duty, open carry, range — maximum capacity and longest sight radius
- Compact: The universal choice — large enough to shoot well, small enough to carry with a cover garment
- Subcompact: Deep concealment, backup gun — small grip that limits capacity but maximizes concealability
- Slimline: Single-stack-width frame for the slimmest possible profile while retaining a full-length grip
Current 9mm Glock Models
| Model | Size | Barrel | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G17 Gen 5 | Full | 4.49″ | 17+1 | Home defense, duty, range |
| G19 Gen 5 | Compact | 4.02″ | 15+1 | Everything — the universal Glock |
| G26 Gen 5 | Subcompact | 3.43″ | 10+1 | Deep concealment, backup |
| G43X | Slimline | 3.41″ | 10+1 | Slim AIWB carry |
| G48 | Slimline | 4.17″ | 10+1 | Slim carry with optic |
| G34 Gen 5 | Competition | 5.31″ | 17+1 | USPSA, IDPA competition |
| G45 Gen 5 | Crossover | 4.02″ | 17+1 | Full-grip compact — best of both |
| G47 Gen 5 | Full MOS | 4.49″ | 17+1 | Optic-ready service pistol |
Which Generation Should You Buy?
Gen 5 is the current generation for the G17, G19, G26, G34, G45, and G47. Gen 5 improvements: no finger grooves, flared mag well, better trigger, ambidextrous slide stop (G17/G19), Glock Marksman Barrel. Always buy Gen 5 if available for your model.
Gen 4 is still available for models not yet updated to Gen 5 (G20, G21, G30 etc.) and is excellent — dual recoil spring, interchangeable backstraps. Gen 3 is the classic — still fully reliable, but lacks Gen 4/5 refinements.
MOS vs. Standard
MOS (Modular Optic System) models have a factory-milled slide with a mounting plate system compatible with common red-dot footprints (Trijicon RMR, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, Holosun 507C, Shield RMSc, etc.). If you plan to run a red-dot optic — now or in the future — buy the MOS version. The price premium is $50–$80 and saves you $150+ in aftermarket milling costs later.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular Glock?
The Glock 19 is the bestselling Glock model and one of the bestselling pistols in the world. Its balance of compact size and 15-round capacity makes it the most versatile option in the lineup.
What Glock do police use?
The Glock 17 and Glock 19 are the most common law enforcement sidearms in the United States and globally. The Glock 22 (.40 S&W) was the dominant police pistol through the 2000s; most agencies have since transitioned to 9mm variants.
Are all Glock magazines cross-compatible?
Within each caliber family, larger magazines fit in smaller guns (G17 mags in G19, G19 mags in G26) but not vice versa flush. Slimline magazines (G43/43X/48) are not compatible with standard-frame Glocks.



