The GLOCK 29 Gen5 is a high-performance firearm designed for shooters who need the perfect blend of compact size and powerful caliber. Chambered in the potent 10mm Auto, this sub-compact handgun offers outstanding stopping power, making it a popular choice for self-defense, law enforcement, and even hunting enthusiasts. Built on GLOCK’s renowned Gen5 platform, the G29 represents the cutting edge of GLOCK’s engineering, offering improved ergonomics, upgraded materials, and advanced safety features.

In this guide, we will take an in-depth look at the GLOCK 29 Gen5, covering its key features, benefits, performance, and ideal use cases, as well as exploring why this sub-compact pistol is a standout in the firearms world.

One of the most significant features of the GLOCK 29 Gen5 is its sub-compact size. With a barrel length of just 3.78 inches and an overall length of 6.88 inches, the G29 is extremely easy to carry and conceal. Despite its small size, it chambers the powerful 10mm Auto round, offering firepower that far exceeds most other handguns in this size class. This combination of compact size and serious stopping power makes the G29 an excellent choice for concealed carry or as a backup weapon.

GLOCK’s Gen5 platform brings a host of new improvements over previous generations. The G29 benefits from several key Gen5 upgrades:

•nDLC Finish: The nDLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) finish applied to the slide and barrel is more resistant to corrosion and wear, making the firearm more durable in harsh environments.

•Marksman Barrel (GMB): The Gen5 GLOCK Marksman Barrel (GMB) features enhanced rifling and a smoother bore for improved accuracy.

•Flared Magazine Well: The flared mag well on the G29 Gen5 makes it easier to reload quickly under stress, a crucial feature in self-defense situations.

•Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever: The G29 now includes an ambidextrous slide stop, making it more convenient for left-handed shooters or those who prefer to operate their firearms from either side.

The 10mm Auto round is widely known for its versatility and power. Originally developed by Jeff Cooper in 1983, the 10mm Auto was intended as a high-powered cartridge that could surpass both 9mm and .45 ACP in terms of velocity and energy. Over the years, the 10mm has earned a reputation for being a highly effective caliber for self-defense, and it has also gained favor among hunters as a viable option for taking down medium-sized game. With its high muzzle velocity and deep penetration, the 10mm Auto can be used effectively in a variety of scenarios.

Despite its compact size, the GLOCK 29 Gen5 manages to offer a 10-round magazine capacity, which is impressive for a sub-compact pistol. This gives shooters ample firepower without sacrificing the portability and concealability that comes with a smaller handgun. The GLOCK 29 can also accommodate higher-capacity magazines, making it a versatile option for different applications.

Like all GLOCK pistols, the G29 Gen5 uses GLOCK’s proprietary Safe Action® system, which is designed to provide consistent trigger pulls from the first round to the last. The Safe Action system includes three automatic, independently-operating mechanical safeties: the trigger safety, firing pin safety, and drop safety. Together, these ensure that the G29 will only fire when the shooter deliberately pulls the trigger.

1. Compact Grip Design

The G29’s grip is designed with ergonomics in mind. Although the grip is small enough to accommodate the sub-compact form factor, it still provides enough surface area for a firm, secure hold. The grip incorporates Gen5’s lack of finger grooves, which some shooters find more comfortable, allowing for a more natural and flexible hold regardless of hand size. The interchangeable backstraps also allow shooters to customize the grip to better suit their preferences.

2. Recoil Management

One of the key challenges with compact firearms is managing recoil, especially when chambered in a powerful caliber like 10mm Auto. The GLOCK 29 addresses this with a dual recoil spring assembly, which helps reduce the sharpness of recoil and improves control during rapid firing. This system not only makes the gun more comfortable to shoot but also improves its durability by reducing wear on key components.

3. Ambidextrous Controls

The ambidextrous slide stop lever is a welcome feature for left-handed shooters or those who prefer to operate firearms with both hands. This makes the G29 more accessible and adaptable, allowing shooters to easily manipulate the slide from either side of the pistol. Combined with the reversible magazine catch, this makes the GLOCK 29 Gen5 one of the most user-friendly compact pistols on the market.

1. Marksman Barrel and Accuracy

The GLOCK Marksman Barrel (GMB) introduced in the Gen5 series brings a significant improvement in accuracy over previous generations. The enhanced polygonal rifling and improved crown ensure more consistent shot placement, making the G29 capable of impressive accuracy for a sub-compact handgun. This improved accuracy is particularly important when using the 10mm Auto round, which is known for its long-range potential.

2. Consistent Trigger Pull

The G29 Gen5 features a smooth, consistent trigger pull, which helps improve accuracy and control. The trigger break is crisp, and the reset is short, allowing for faster follow-up shots. Combined with the manageable recoil of the 10mm Auto round, the G29 delivers excellent overall performance, even for shooters who may be new to the caliber.

3. Versatility in Ammunition

One of the advantages of the 10mm Auto cartridge is its versatility. Depending on the load, the 10mm Auto can be used for a wide range of applications, from self-defense to hunting. The GLOCK 29 Gen5 can handle everything from lighter practice rounds to heavy hunting loads, giving shooters the flexibility to adapt their firearm to different situations.

1. Concealed Carry

For those looking for a powerful concealed carry option, the GLOCK 29 Gen5 is hard to beat. Its compact size makes it easy to conceal, while the 10mm Auto round provides the firepower needed to stop a threat effectively. The G29’s 10-round capacity also gives it an advantage over many other sub-compact pistols, which often sacrifice magazine capacity for size.

2. Hunting and Outdoors

The 10mm Auto is a popular choice among hunters and outdoors enthusiasts, and the GLOCK 29 Gen5 is well-suited for these applications. Its compact size makes it easy to carry as a backup weapon while hiking or camping, and its powerful 10mm Auto chambering makes it effective for taking down medium-sized game. In bear country or other areas where large predators are a concern, the G29’s stopping power can be a life-saving asset.

3. Law Enforcement and Tactical Use

The GLOCK 29 Gen5 is also a viable option for law enforcement officers who need a powerful, compact sidearm. Its small size makes it ideal for undercover or plainclothes officers, while the 10mm Auto round ensures it has the stopping power needed for high-risk situations. The G29’s ambidextrous controls, durable construction, and easy-to-use features make it a reliable choice for tactical use.

1. GLOCK 20 vs. GLOCK 29

The GLOCK 20 is the full-sized 10mm Auto offering from GLOCK, while the GLOCK 29 is the sub-compact version. The main difference between the two models is size and capacity. The GLOCK 20 offers a larger magazine capacity (15 rounds) and a longer barrel (4.61 inches), making it a better option for those who prioritize capacity and long-range accuracy. However, the GLOCK 29’s smaller size makes it easier to carry and conceal, making it a more versatile choice for those who need a more compact firearm.

2. GLOCK 29 Gen4 vs. GLOCK 29 Gen5

The Gen5 version of the GLOCK 29 brings several key improvements over the Gen4 model. The nDLC finish on the Gen5 is more durable than the Tenifer finish on the Gen4, and the Gen5’s Marksman Barrel offers better accuracy. The ambidextrous slide stop lever and flared magazine well are also new features on the Gen5 that improve the firearm’s usability. However, both models are reliable and effective, so the choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and budget.

1. Aftermarket Sights

While the GLOCK 29 Gen5 comes with standard fixed sights, many shooters prefer to upgrade to aftermarket options for improved accuracy and target acquisition. Popular choices include night sights, fiber optic sights, and red dot optics. These upgrades can make a significant difference in low-light conditions or for those who prefer a more precise sight picture.

2. Extended Magazines

For those who want to increase their firepower, extended magazines are available for the GLOCK 29. GLOCK offers higher-capacity magazines that can hold up to 15 rounds, which can be useful for range practice or situations where extra capacity is needed. These magazines are interchangeable with the GLOCK 20, further increasing the versatility of the G29.

3. Tactical Accessories

The GLOCK 29 Gen5 can be fitted with a range of tactical accessories, including weapon lights, lasers, and custom grips. The GLOCK accessory rail allows shooters to attach these accessories easily, enhancing the firearm’s usability in tactical or low-light situations.

Is the GLOCK 29 Gen5 Right for You?

The GLOCK 29 Gen5 is a remarkable firearm that combines the power of the 10mm Auto with the convenience of a sub-compact form factor. Whether you’re looking for a powerful concealed carry option, a reliable backup weapon for hunting, or a tactical sidearm for law enforcement, the G29 delivers. Its Gen5 improvements, including the Marksman Barrel, nDLC finish, and ambidextrous controls, make it one of the best options in the sub-compact 10mm category.

While the GLOCK 29 is not for everyone—its 10mm chambering can be too powerful for some shooters—it excels in situations where stopping power and compact size are critical. If you’re in the market for a handgun that can handle tough environments, deliver serious firepower, and remain easy to carry, the GLOCK 29 Gen5 is definitely worth considering.