Glock 19 vs Glock 19X: Which One is Better?
| Feature | Glock 19 | Glock 19X |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches | 4.02 inches |
| Capacity | 15+1 (standard), 17+1 or 19+1 (with extension) | 17+1 (standard), 19+1 (with extension) |
| Size | Compact | Compact |
| Weight | 21.16 oz (empty) | 22.05 oz (empty) |
| Sights | Fixed, adjustable, or night sights | Night sights |
| Trigger | 5.5 lbs | 5.5 lbs |
| Price (MSRP) | $599 | $749 |
| Overall Rating | 4.8 out of 5 stars | 4.7 ot of 5 stars |
| Performance | Accurate and reliable | Accurate and reliable |
| Ease of Use | Easy to shoot and handle | Easy to shoot and handle |
| Concealability | Easy to conceal with proper holster | Slightly more challenging to conceal |
| Recommended Use | Concealed carry, personal defense, law enforcement | Personal defense, law enforcement, military |
Alright, you're eyeing two of Glock's finest: the workhorse Glock 19 and its beefier cousin, the Glock 19X. They look alike, sure, but they handle differently, and that's the rub. Both boast that rock-solid Safe Action System. But you're here because you want to know which one truly fits your hands, your needs. I've spent a lot of time with both, from dusty range days to figuring out the carry rotation, so let's get down to brass tacks.
Choosing between the Glock 19 and the Glock 19X isn't just about specs. It's personal. Many folks I talk to get hung up on the G19's legendary concealed carry comfort versus the 19X's full, satisfying grip. Is it a perfect crossover pistol, or a compromise? We're about to dissect these hybrid designs.
Glock 19 vs. Glock 19X: The Core Question
Deep down, these are both Glocks. Reliable 9mm striker-fired machines ready for duty use. The argument isn't whether they're "good guns." They are. It's about which one's personality clicks with yours. Are you all about that deep concealment for your EDC? Or does a grip that fills your whole hand for better shootability sound like music to your ears? That's the meat of it.
The Glock 19X, remember, was Glock’s bid for the U.S. Army's Modular Handgun System (MHS). That military DNA is baked in. The G19, particularly the Gen5, is the refined version of what's become a global icon for law enforcement and armed citizens. Knowing where they come from helps understand why they are the way they are.
We'll pick them apart, piece by piece. Grip, slide, the whole shebang. By the end, you'll have a gut feeling. You'll know which one deserves that spot in your favorite carry holster.
First Impressions: Unboxing the G19 and G19X
Cracking open a new Glock case, there's a certain smell, a certain feel. The Glock 19 Gen5 and Glock 19X arrive in the usual Glock hard case, but right away, you spot the differences. The 19X box, often in that distinct coyote tan, just feels a bit more... intentional.
Paperwork, cleaning rod, the usual suspects are there. But the OEM magazines tell a story. The G19X often comes with those beefier 17+2-round magazines. It’s a subtle nod to its design.
What's in the Box for the G19?
The Glock 19 Gen5 usually packs three 15-round magazines. Some states get the 10-rounders, a shame. You get the interchangeable backstraps too. Standard factory sights are polymer. If you're lucky, you snag one with factory Glock night sights.
What's in the Box for the G19X?
The Glock 19X typically includes one 17-round flush-fit magazine. Plus, two 19-round extended magazines. Right off the bat, it's set up for serious business. You get the backstraps and, crucially, those steel Glock night sights. The coyote tan case matches the pistol, a nice touch.
Understanding the Lineage: Where Did They Come From?
To really get these two, you gotta know their family tree. One's the evolution of an everyday hero. The other was forged in the fires of a military contract. This backstory, the G17MHS connection for the 19X, it matters. It dictates how they feel in your hand.
The G19's Legacy as a Compact Staple
The Glock 19. Man, since '88 it’s been the standard. A true compact pistol. It nailed that balance: compact dimensions, good 15-round capacity. The Gen5 brought the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB). No more finger grooves, thank goodness. And a proper ambidextrous slide stop lever. Solid.
The G19X's MHS Submission Roots
The Glock 19X was Glock's shot at the Army's MHS deal. SIG won, but we got the 19X out of it. It’s that "crossover" idea. You get the shorter Glock 19 slide. But it’s slapped on a full-size Glock 17 frame. The idea? G17 control, G19 versatility.
Tale of the Tape: Comparing Key Specifications
Put 'em side by side, and the G19X's height is obvious. That G17 frame doesn't lie. These numbers – overall length, height, weight unloaded – they aren't just for show. They dictate how it carries, how it shoots. Here’s the tale of the tape:
| Feature | Glock 19 Gen5 | Glock 19X |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9x19mm | 9x19mm |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches (102 mm barrel) | 4.02 inches (102 mm barrel) |
| Overall Length | Approx. 7.28 in (185 mm length) | Approx. 7.44 in (191 mm length) |
| Slide Length | Approx. 6.85 inches | Approx. 6.85 inches |
| Height | Approx. 5.04 in (130 mm height) | Approx. 5.47 in (140 mm height) |
| Width | Approx. 1.26 - 1.34 inches (30 mm width) | Approx. 1.30 inches (30 mm width) |
| Weight (unloaded) | Approx. 21.34 oz (595 grams) | Approx. 22.05 oz |
| Standard Capacity | 15 rounds | 17 rounds (also 19-round mags incl.) |
| Sights (Std.) | Polymer (GNS/AmeriGlo optional) | Steel Night Sights |
| Slide Finish | nDLC finish (Black) | nPVD finish (Coyote) |
| Frame | G19 size, no finger grooves | G17 size, no finger grooves, lanyard loop |
| Accessory Rail | Yes | Yes |
The G19X is taller, a bit heavier empty. But those standard magazine capacity numbers and factory tritium sights are tempting. And yeah, both have that handy accessory rail.
The Grip Showdown: G19's Compact vs. G19X's Full-Size
This is where you really feel it. The Glock 19 Gen5 keeps that classic compact grip. The Glock 19X? That’s a full-on Glock 17 grip. It changes everything: handling, concealability, that crucial hand fit. My buddy Jake, who's got catcher's mitts for hands, he won't even touch a G19. He went straight for the 19X.
No finger grooves on either is a win. I never liked those. The Gen5 grip texture, that rough texture frame, feels great on both. Good for shooters with large hands or shooters with small hands, surprisingly.
G19 Grip: Concealment Focused
The Glock 19's grip, it's built for hiding. Shorter means less printing under your shirt. That's why it's a concealed carry king. If your hands are average like mine, it's just about right. Though sometimes, yeah, the pinky dangles a bit.
G19X Grip: Control and Capacity
That Glock 19X grip – the G17 frame – it’s a handful in the best way. More real estate means a firmer grip. And that helps with recoil, especially when you're running drills fast. Plus, it houses those 17-round magazines. Makes sense.
Lanyard Loop - A G19X Specialty
Then there's that lanyard loop on the 19X. Army thing. Most of us civvies? Probably never use it. It's removable (lanyard loop removal is easy), but it’s part of its character. Just watch out, it can sometimes snag on aftermarket mag extensions.
Slide Story: Compact Length, Different Features
Both rock that G19 slide length. Same 4.02-inch barrel. But the details matter. The G19 Gen5 FS, for instance, has those front and rear slide serrations. The 19X? Usually no front slide serrations, which some guys prefer for a smoother draw. That 19X was also Glock's first-ever factory colored slide – pretty cool.
That Gen5 bevel on the front? Helps with holstering, I guess. Both have the Safe Action System, naturally. The reciprocating mass feels about the same, as you'd expect.
G19 Slide: Evolution and Serrations
The Glock 19 Gen5 slide wears that tough black nDLC finish. Newer ones usually have forward serrations. I like 'em for press checks. Early Gen5s sometimes skipped these, which was a bit annoying.
G19X Slide: nPVD Coating and Sights
You can spot that Glock 19X slide a mile away. That coyote tan nPVD (physical vapor deposition) coating is distinctive. Supposed to be super tough. And those standard steel night sights? That’s a real upgrade over the usual plastic.
Barrel Breakdown: Similar Length, Different Finishes?
Both these pistols come with the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB). Fancy name, but it does seem to shoot. They talk about enhanced polygonal style rifling (or hexagonal rifling) and an improved target crown. All for better, match-grade accurate shooting. Barrel length is the same 4.02 inches.
The G19 Gen5 barrel gets the black nDLC finish. The G19X barrel? Matches the slide with that coyote nPVD finish. The GMB also means tighter chamber specifications. I've heard guys claim consistent 2-inch groups at 25 yards. I'm not quite there, but it's a tighter shooting gun than my old Gen3, for sure.
Capacity Matters: Magazines and Reloads
This is a big one: magazine compatibility and how many rounds you're carrying. It all comes down to grip size. That G17 frame on the Glock 19X means more lead on tap. Even the magazine toe or baseplate lip can play a role in how they feel and function.
G19 Standard Capacity
Your standard Glock 19 Gen5 comes with 15-round magazines. But it'll happily eat G17 mags or those big extended magazines with a magazine extension. The orange follower on Gen5 mags is a nice touch. Easier to see what's what.
G19X Standard and Extended Magazines
The Glock 19X arrives ready to party. One 17-round magazine, and two 19-round magazines. That's a good amount of firepower right out of the box. Those 19-rounders are just 17+2-round magazines, but hey, extra rounds are extra rounds.
Magazine Compatibility Nuances
Heads up on the Glock 19X: that little lip at the front of the magwell means some of the newest Gen 5 magazine issue baseplates won't seat. The ones with the extended front lip, specifically. Older mags, or the ones it comes with? No problem. The G19 Gen5 has that nice flared magwell, takes pretty much any G19 mag you throw at it.
Feel in the Hand: Ergonomics and Handling Compared
Ergonomics, man, it's so personal. But the Glock 19 Gen5 and Glock 19X definitely feel different. No finger grooves is a universal win, far as I'm concerned. Let's your hand find its natural spot. The grip circumference is the main story here.
That Gen5 grip texture, the rough texture frame, is the same on both. Good and grippy without tearing up your hands or clothes. It really helps with the overall balance and feel in hand.
G19: Balance and Concealability
The Glock 19 Gen5 just feels… right. Balanced. For my average-sized hands, the grip is enough for good control, but still small enough to hide well for concealed carry. That slight flared magwell on the Gen5 frame? Makes reloads a bit smoother when you're rushing.
G19X: Fuller Grip, Recoil Management
Slide your hand onto that Glock 19X's G17 grip. It’s a different world. If you've got big hands or just like a wide hands-filling grip, this is it. All your fingers get a home. And yeah, that helps with recoil management, no doubt. But that bigger grip is what makes it tougher to conceal.
Range Performance: How Do They Shoot?
Take 'em to the range, and both the Glock 19 Gen5 and Glock 19X sing. They're Glocks. They run. Both have that Glock Marksman Barrel, so practical accuracy is there. The real difference in shootability often comes down to how that grip manages recoil and muzzle flip for you, especially during rapid firing.
I’ve fed these things all sorts of ammo. Cheap stuff, fancy stuff. They just eat it. The enhanced Safe Action trigger is consistent, though the trigger pull weight and feel can vary slightly pistol to pistol, even within the same model. That's Glocks for ya.
G19 Accuracy and Recoil
The Glock 19 Gen5 is a sweet shooter. Recoil is perfectly manageable for quick follow-up shots. You can get back on target fast. For defensive work, the accuracy from its GMB is more than enough. It's a gun that just works, makes you feel confident.
G19X Accuracy and Recoil – Does the Bigger Grip Help?
That bigger G17 grip on the Glock 19X? It gives you a feeling of better control and balance. For me, it does seem to offer improved recoil control. Follow-up shots feel a bit quicker, more planted. That more substantial grip helps tame the recoil impulse. It’s a seriously tighter shooting gun with that setup.
Sights & Optics: Stock vs. Upgrade Potential
Factory weapon sights on Glocks... well, they're a starting point. The Glock 19X definitely has the edge out of the box. But let's be real, the aftermarket for Glock sights and optics is massive. You can get awesome Glock tritium sights or even slap on some Meprolight sights if that's your jam.
G19 Factory Sights
Your typical Glock 19 Gen5 comes with those plastic polymer sights. They work. But many of us swap 'em out pretty quick. You can find G19s with factory Glock night sights, usually tritium sights, which is a good step up.
G19X Factory Night Sights
This is a big plus for the Glock 19X: it ships with Glock steel night sights. Durable, bright in low light. That saves you a good chunk of change and hassle right there. Makes it ready for action, day or night.
Red Dot Sight Mounting Options
Want to run a pistol red dot? The Glock 19 Gen5 MOS is your friend. That Modular Optic System (MOS) makes it easy with adapter plates. The standard G19X? Not optics ready from the factory, though the G19X MOS variant is out there now. The G19 Gen5 FS models with forward serrations are common, but that doesn't mean MOS.
Concealed Carry Comfort: The Deciding Factor for Many
If you're looking for a concealed carry (CCW) piece, this is where the rubber meets the road. Comfort and how well it hides for EDC are king. And here, the G19's shorter grip usually wins out by minimizing that dreaded printing.
G19: The Proven CCW Choice
There's a reason the Glock 19 is a CCW icon. That compact grip just disappears better. It hits that sweet spot between capacity and concealability. Toss it in a good quality IWB holster, and for most folks, it's golden. Even for appendix carry (AIWB), it’s a solid choice.
G19X: Can it Be Comfortably Concealed?
Trying to hide the Glock 19X? It’s doable, but it's more of a challenge. That full G17 extended grip is the culprit. It wants to print. If you're a bigger guy or wear looser clothes, maybe. But for everyday deep concealment, the G19 has it beat.
Holster Availability and Choices
Good news: Glocks are popular. So finding a reliable handgun holster for either the Glock 19 Gen5 or Glock 19X isn't hard. But holster compatibility isn't always a given. The G19 is generally more adaptable to various holsters simply due to its history.
Holsters for the Glock 19
For the Glock 19, the world is your oyster. Kydex, leather, IWB, OWB... you name it, it exists. Most Gen 4 holsters will work for a Gen 5, but always double-check the holster fit. No reason to skimp here.
Holster Considerations for the Glock 19X
Since the Glock 19X has that G19 slide, you might think any G19 holster works. Not always. The G19X may not fit in G19 holster if it's super snug around the frame. That G17-length grip is the main thing. Many holster makers now specifically list G19X compatibility. Best to verify holster compatibility before you buy.
Durability and Reliability: Glock's Reputation on the Line
Let's be honest, Glocks are known for durability and reliability. The Glock 19 Gen5 and Glock 19X are no different. These things are battle-tested. They're built to take a beating and keep on ticking. The G19X even has those maritime spring cups, a nod to its military aspirations. Parts like those virtually never need to be replaced.
Those Gen5 internal upgrades? They're in both, designed for the long haul. The nDLC finish on the G19 and the nPVD finish on the 19X? Both are tough as nails. These guns will likely outlast you.
Aftermarket Support and Customization
If you like to tinker, Glocks are your playground. The aftermarket support is insane. Both the G19 and G19X benefit, though the G19 has a bit of a head start. You can change everything from trigger connectors to slides. Check out some gun range accessories too.
G19: A Universe of Upgrades
The Glock 19, especially older Gens, has an aftermarket that's just bonkers. Sights, barrels, triggers, magwells... if you can dream it, someone makes it. The Gen5 is catching up fast with customization options.
G19X: Growing Support, Some Limitations
The Glock 19X uses a lot of Gen5 parts, so many accessories fit. But G17-specific frame parts are what you need for its grip. And if you're trying to color-match that coyote tan? Good luck. The lack of a standard MOS can also be a pain for optics.
The "Coyote" Factor: Aesthetics and Finish
Looks aren't everything, but they ain't nothing either. The color options are the first thing you notice. That coyote tan or FDE (Flat Dark Earth) on the G19X is a statement. It's practical for desert environments, maybe helps with camouflage effectiveness or even heat absorption. Or maybe it just looks cool.
G19's Traditional Black
The Glock 19 Gen5? It's usually rocking that classic Glock black finish. That nDLC finish is all business. Understated, professional. Hard to go wrong with black.
G19X's Distinctive Coyote Tan
The Glock 19X, though. That factory coyote tan color, frame and slide with its nPVD coating. That was an Army requirement. It gives it a definite military vibe. Some guys love it, some don't. It's a look.
Price Point: What's the Damage?
Money talks. The Glock 19X usually has a slightly higher MSRP than a bog-standard Glock 19 Gen5. But, and this is a big but, the G19X comes with those steel night sights and three mags. That adds up if you buy them separately. So the price difference might not be as big as it seems.
If you snag a basic G19 Gen5 and then upgrade the sights and buy extra mags, you could easily spend what a G19X costs. So the G19X can actually be a decent value if those features are on your list. The street price comparison often makes the G19 Gen5 look like the more affordable option, especially when you find various deals. It definitely has a good balance between price and performance and its typical low price point boosts accessibility.
Who is the Glock 19 For?
After all this, who should grab the Glock 19 Gen5?
- You if concealed carry is life. Seriously, it hides.
- Folks with small to average hands. It just fits.
- If you love endless aftermarket support and holster choices.
- For a do-it-all gun: EDC, home defense, range fun.
- If you want that Glock 19 MOS for a red dot, it's ready.
- Often a great pick for first-time buyers; it's popular for a reason.
Who is the Glock 19X For?
And the Glock 19X? This one might be calling your name if:
- You've got bigger mitts or just crave that fuller grip. Think larger framed men or those with big hands.
- More bullets out of the box (17 and 19 rounds) sounds good.
- Factory steel night sights are a must.
- That unique coyote tan finish and its MHS story appeal to you.
- Open carry, home defense, or just a sweet range use gun where printing isn't a worry.
- Maybe you're connected to the U.S. Army and Air Force and dig the history.
Final Verdict: Which Glock Takes the Crown for You?
Look, there's no magic answer here. No "better" gun. Both the Glock 19 Gen5 and Glock 19X are stone-cold reliable, accurate, and tough as nails Glock firearms. You gotta make an informed decision based on what you need. This whole in-depth comparison, this ultimate comparison, is to arm you with info to choose the perfect Glock.
If you live and breathe concealed carry, the Glock 19 Gen5 is probably your huckleberry. That shorter grip makes a real difference. It truly strikes a perfect balance, the "Goldilocks gun" for many.
Got bigger hands? Want that locked-in feel and extra rounds? Don't care as much about hiding it? The Glock 19X is a beast. It combines the best features of two platforms, making it an ideal pistol for all conditions. It just feels... authoritative.
Q&A: Glock 19 vs. Glock 19X
Q1: Is the Glock 19X worth it? If you value the night sights, extra mags, and that full grip from the get-go, yeah, the G19X is often worth the slightly higher price. Do the math versus upgrading a G19 yourself.
Q2: Which one should I buy for home defense, G19 or G19X? For home defense? Both are solid. That G19X grip and capacity might give you an edge in confidence. Slap a good tactical light on that accessory rail either way.
Q3: Can Glock 19X magazines be used in a Glock 19 Gen5? Yup. The G19X mags (17 and 19-rounders) will run fine in a G19 Gen5. They'll just stick out the bottom. But remember that Gen 5 magazine issue with the G19X frame – some new G19 Gen5 mag baseplates won't fit the 19X.
Q4: What are the main differences between Glock 19X and Glock 45? Ah, the Glock 45 vs Glock 19X question. Think of the G45 as a black G19X, but with all the standard Gen5 goodies: flared magwell, front serrations, and no mag compatibility quirks. Some call the G45 the "perfected" 19X.
Q5: Does the Glock 19X have an external safety? Nope. Just like most Glocks, the G19X relies on the internal Safe Action System with its three safety functionalities. No manual external safety to fumble with. They disengage as you pull the trigger. That’s the Glock way.
