Reliability of glocks

When it comes to reliability, the Gen 4 and Gen 5 are neck and neck. They both live up the Glock reputation for consistent delivery of shots, time after time after time. 

The only difference between the two is a slightly faster reload on the Gen 5, thanks to the flared magwell that provides more space for loading the gun. Consider the Gen 5 if you need to load quickly or are attempting to improve your shooting speed. 

Sights of glock

The Gen 4 comes with basic but serviceable polymer sights. These serve you well if you primarily use your Glock to shoot during the day. You can also purchase the Gen 4 and upgrade the sights if you want something different. 

The Gen 5 may be a preferable choice, however, if you engage in regular night shooting with your Glock. This model comes with Amerigloo Glock Spartan Operator Night Sights, making it easier to find your target in the dark. 

Laser

Neither the Gen 4 nor the Gen 5 come with a laser, but you can mount a laser to both of these handguns. Just make sure you purchase a laser that is compatible with the type of Glock you purchase, since the two generations take different lasers. 

Looks

At nearly the same shape, size, and weight, the Gen 4 and 5 look much the same. However, there are slight differences that may affect your approach when deciding which to purchase. 

The biggest aesthetic difference is the finish. The Gen 4 boasts a Melonite coating, while the Gen 5 boasts a new Diamond Like Coating (nDLC). Both are durable, weather-proof finishes (with the nDLC boasting a hardness similar to diamond) that allow you to take your gun anywhere and use it hard without affecting its appearance. 

Other aesthetic differences between the two generations include the removal of the finger grooves on the Gen 5 to create a smoother look, and a rounded nose on the Gen 5. Ultimately, the aesthetics come down to your personal preference, and the extent to which fingerprints and grime on your gun bother you. 

Safety of glock

Both Glock 19 generations boast superior safety, with three passive safeties that make it almost impossible to discharge the gun accidentally. The trigger safety requires the simultaneous depression of the trigger and trigger safety, making it almost impossible to discharge the gun if it is dropped. Additional safeties include a firing pin safety and drop safety. Each of these safeties releases as the trigger is pulled back and re-engages automatically when the trigger is released for secure, but smooth and easy, firing. 

In addition to the safeties, the Gen 5 also possesses an extended floor plate that clearly indicates when the gun is empty. The reduction of pins from 3 and 2 also makes it less likely that the gun will work improperly, since there are fewer moving parts in the gun. 

Concealability 

The Glock 19 Gen 4 and 5 are both supremely concealable. Small and trim, they fit easily into both OWB and IWB holsters and are lightweight enough to carry all day. Just be aware that at about half an ounce heavier, the Gen 5 may feel slightly different when carried for long periods of time. 

Ammo

The primary consideration when it comes to ammo for your Gen 4 or 5 is the length of the magazine for the Gen 5. Thanks to the extended floor plate, the Gen 5 magazines are slightly longer than traditional Glock magazines, which makes them incompatible with the Glock 19X. 

If you want all of your ammo to be interchangeable with all Glock guns, then the Gen 4 has an advantage here. However, if total ammo compatibility is not important to you, then you can purchase either generation without worrying too much about the ammo they take.