In the world of striker-fired pistols, Glock is king—and two of its biggest contenders for your holster or range bag are the Glock 17 and Glock 19. Whether you're new to handguns or looking to expand your arsenal, this is one matchup that deserves your attention.
From home defense to duty use to everyday carry, both pistols have earned legendary status. But which one fits your mission? Let’s break it down and settle the score.
Quick Specs Side-by-Side
| Feature | Glock 17 | Glock 19 |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 17+1 | 15+1 |
| Barrel Length | 4.49” | 4.02” |
| Overall Length | 8.03” | 7.36” |
| Height | 5.47” | 5.04” |
| Weight (unloaded) | 22.05 oz | 21.16 oz |
| Rail | Yes | Yes |
| MOS Option | Yes | Yes |
Glock 17: The Original Full-Size Workhorse
The G17 was Glock’s firstborn, and it’s still rocking stages, duty belts, and nightstands across America. Its 17+1 round capacity, full-size frame, and long sight radius make it a top-tier choice for home defense, open carry, and range performance.
Why Choose the Glock 17?
Maximum control with longer grip
Full-size sight radius = tighter groups
More rail space for lights and lasers
Proven duty weapon for military & LE
Best For:
Duty use, range days, and home defense
Shooters with larger hands
Tactical builds and accessories
Buy Glock 17 at Moriarti Armaments →
Glock 19: Compact Size, Full-Size Firepower
The Glock 19 is the most popular Glock model ever—and for good reason. It blends the firepower of a full-size with the versatility of a compact, making it a go-to for EDC, concealed carry, and everything in between.
Why Choose the Glock 19?
Concealable without sacrificing performance
Accepts Glock 17 mags (and more)
Same great trigger and reliability in a tighter package
Ideal for modular builds, including MOS and RMR setups
Best For:
Concealed carry and EDC
Versatile do-it-all sidearm
First-time buyers looking for balance
Buy Glock 19 at Moriarti Armaments →
The Verdict: Glock 17 vs Glock 19
If capacity and control are your top priorities—and concealment isn’t a concern—go with the Glock 17. But if you want something that can handle the range and hide under a hoodie, the Glock 19 delivers the perfect middle ground.
And let’s be honest: you can’t go wrong with either. It just comes down to how and where you plan to carry.
Glock Pro Tip:
Both models are MOS compatible, meaning you can mount red dots for faster target acquisition. Pair that with suppressor height sights and a WML (weapon-mounted light), and you’ve got a serious defensive setup.
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