Finding the Best Glock for Concealed Carry

Brands like Xerox, Jell-O, and Kleenex all achieved household status by setting the standard for an entire genre of products. Just like the Kleenex brand is synonymous with “tissue,” the GLOCK brand is synonymous with “kicking ass.”

For self-defense, you need a firearm as concealable and helpful as a pack of tissues. That means you’ll probably want a handgun — and when you think of a handgun, the first name that springs to mind is probably GLOCK.

If you’re new to concealed carry or shooting in general, GLOCK may seem like just another gun brand. However, you might be surprised to learn that GLOCK boasts a lineup of over 50 different handgun types. These cover a range of calibers from 9mm up to .45 ACP, with five generations of GLOCK pistols.

With so many available, there is undoubtedly a GLOCK handgun that will fit your defensive and carry needs right out of the box. Let’s look at why GLOCKS are great for concealed carry and the best models to use.

What Makes GLOCK Pistols Great for Concealed Carry?

Almost every handgun manufacturer has a lineup tailored to the concealed carry market. Some, like the Beretta Px4 Storm Carry, explicitly label their guns for this purpose. However, none boast the same level of street cred, real-world experience, and clout as GLOCK.

Thanks to Gaston Glock's ingenious engineering (RIP) and Karl Walter's relentless marketing in the 1980s, GLOCKs secured a place on the gun belts of 65-70 percent of US law enforcement agencies. From local police departments to the Secret Service, GLOCKs are the standard pistol not just in the United States but around the world. Law enforcement officers found the ease of use and the then-unprecedented 17-round magazine capacity of Glocks to be life-saving.

Delivering more firepower under stress is crucial in a gunfight. The GLOCK 17, with its initially unconventional polymer frame and boxy appearance, revolutionized semi-automatic pistols to provide just that. Real-world tests confirmed its reliability and accuracy, earning GLOCK the reputation for producing "perfection.”

With endorsements like these, getting a GLOCK would be a no-brainer for a citizen. A violent attacker is just as likely to go after you as he is a cop, so why not have a similar pistol on your hip to handle the encounter? In fact, the civilian version usually outshines the version used by law enforcement, as some departments require a heavier trigger pull.

So, which GLOCK pistol is right for you? Here’s a look at the best of the best GLOCK pistols out there in each caliber.

Best 9mm GLOCK Handguns

Gaston Glock chose a 9mm pistol to start his revolution in the handgun world. Simply because 9mm was and is the choice of NATO militaries and remains the most common caliber for European police forces (and the few residents of Europe who legally own a pistol).

Meanwhile, in the US, 9mm was once regarded as a “sissy” round or “Eurotrash.” No self-respecting officer would ever have a 9mm handgun on his belt, and where US cops go with handguns, citizens follow.

The GLOCK 17 changed all that. With its stunning 17 + 1 capacity, easy handling, and outstanding reliability, the GLOCK 17 took the US firearms world by storm and made 9mm the most common pistol caliber in the nation. The GLOCK 17 is regarded as “all business,” as it just runs, frills-free — basic, bad, black.

GLOCK 17 Gen4 or Gen5 MOS

The GLOCK 17 (available in Gen4 and Gen5 models) stands as a testament to its legacy. While the most commonly available GLOCK 17 in California is the Gen 3 (due to legal reasons), all generations are solid choices for concealed carry.

The GLOCK 17 started it all. Originating in 1982 as the P80 (catering to the Austrian Army) the GLOCK 17 made a profound impact with its polymer frame and distinctive black appearance. The GLOCK 17 was all business, foregoing decorative elements for reliability. Now in its fifth generation (Gen5), the G17 is the standard sidearm for law enforcement agencies and quite a few militaries around the world.

Both the Gen4 and Gen5 MOS GLOCK 17 are full-sized duty handguns, weighing just over 2 pounds loaded, with 17-round standard capacity magazines (plus one in the chamber). The ergonomic design, 4.49-inch barrel, and 5.5-pound trigger pull provide a user-friendly yet powerful platform.

The Gen5 MOS (Modular Optic System), featuring the Marksman barrel, delivers even more accuracy. Its front serrations on the slide allow the user to rack the slide more effectively by gripping up front. Per the name, the Gen 5 MOS includes Glock’s Modular Optic System, which allows the user to easily add a red-dot sight or other optics. Notably, the Gen5 MOS also gets rid of the finger grooves on the grip, which some say get in the way of a quick grip, opting instead for an improved texture overall.

Surprisingly, the GLOCK 17, despite its full size, can easily be concealed with the right holster and wardrobe combination.

GLOCK 19 Gen4 or Gen5

Often regarded as the “little brother” of the full-sized GLOCK 17, the GLOCK 19 Gen4 and Gen5 MOS are the go-to choice for both professional and civilian shooters seeking GLOCK perfection in a more compact, concealable form.

Debuting shortly after the GLOCK 17, the G19 emerged in response to the demand for a more easily concealed GLOCK, particularly among off-duty officers, plainclothes officers, and citizens. The addition of more women to the ranks of police officers drove this requirement as well, since some simply needed a smaller gun.

Both the Gen4 and Gen5 MOS GLOCK 19 are classified as compact handguns. Both weigh just under 2 pounds when loaded (depending on ammo choice), with 15-round magazines (plus one in the chamber). Both generations also allow the user to bring an impressive amount of firepower to the fight. The barrel clocks in at around 4.09 inches, which is a little shorter, but does not affect terminal performance at the usual “fighting distance” of 7 yards or less.

Like the G17, the Gen5 MOS GLOCK 19 sports a new-generation Marksman barrel for even more accuracy and does away with the finger grooves as well. Of course, it also includes the Modular Optic System, making a red dot that much easier to mount. The key distinction of the GLOCK 19 is its superior concealability (due to its smaller size) — making it the most popular pistol in GLOCK’s entire lineup.

Variant: G19X

A newer variant of the GLOCK 19 Gen4 called the G19X is GLOCK’s first “hybrid” pistol. Colored at the factory in a flat dark earth (tan) color, the G19X has a GLOCK 17 frame, a GLOCK 19 slide, and a Marksman barrel. It’s a smaller pistol than a G17 (but not quite as small as the G19) without sacrificing capacity. The G19X is also manufactured in both the United States and Austria, reflecting GLOCK’s dedication to the American firearms landscape.

GLOCK 43

After persistent requests from the public for a subcompact single-stack 9mm pistol, GLOCK answered with the GLOCK 43. While the GLOCK 26 is GLOCK’s first subcompact pistol, its double-stack design was deemed a bit "fat" by some users. Enter the GLOCK 43 — a sleek, sizzling, subcompact 9mm pistol that stole the show.

The subcompact GLOCK 43 practically fits in the palm of your hand. With a 3.41-inch barrel and weighing in under 1.5 pounds even loaded, the GLOCK 43 offers a 6+1 or 7+1 capacity, depending on the loaded magazine.

The GLOCK 43 is perfect for situations where a compact pistol may not suffice. It’s also a great fit for shooters with smaller hands or those who find racking the slide on larger GLOCK models challenging. With a trigger pull of 5.6 pounds, the GLOCK 43 definitely behaves like the “youngest” of 9mm GLOCK pistols. It’s a little snappy, but it’s nothing a little training can’t cure. However, it’s important to recognize the limitations of any subcompact beyond close range engagements.

GLOCK 45 MOS

Astute fans will note that GLOCK names their pistols in order of release and patent date — the numbers have nothing to do with the caliber. Hence, a GLOCK 45 is actually a 9mm pistol.

Often regarded as one of the best 9mm “hybrid” pistols, the GLOCK 45 MOS is basically a GLOCK 19X, but in black, and with the full suite of Gen5 MOS enhancements. It’s even compatible with G19X holsters!

In addition to the Marksman barrel, the GLOCK 45 MOS sports the enhanced grip texture, the virtually-rust proof nDLC coating on the slide, front serrations on the slide, and the Modular Optic System. Plus, as a hybrid pistol, the GLOCK 45 MOS can accept Gen5 GLOCK 17 magazines. Representing a larger-capacity 9mm pistol in a compact package, the GLOCK 45 MOS should be on your shortest of shortlists for a 9mm GLOCK for concealed carry.

Best .40 S&W GLOCK Handguns

Born in the 1990s, the .40 Smith & Wesson (.40 S&W) caliber was a prime choice for law enforcement. Basically a shortened 10mm, the .40 S&W packed an impressive punch in a more convenient package, allowing pistol designers, including GLOCK, to simply adapt existing 9mm pistol designs for the new caliber.

In a funny twist of fate, Gaston Glock, visiting the 1990 SHOT convention, scooped up a few sample rounds of .40 S&W and immediately sent them back to Austria. GLOCK engineers quickly developed a new pistol, the GLOCK 22, chambered in .40 S&W, beating Smith & Wesson to the market by a few months. Yes, that’s right — GLOCK took a Smith & Wesson round and built a gun around it before Smith & Wesson themselves did!

While law enforcement agencies have reverted to 9mm due to advancements in projectile technology, the .40 S&W remains a formidable round with a well-established user base. Here are the best .40 S&W GLOCK models for concealed carry:

GLOCK 22 Gen4 or Gen5 MOS

The GLOCK 22 beat Smith & Wesson at their own game. It’s basically a GLOCK 17 chambered for .40 S&W that quickly proved a hit with the law enforcement community and even the FBI.

Despite claims that .40 S&W is outdated, GLOCK continues to produce Gen4 and Gen5 versions of the GLOCK 22. Close in size to the GLOCK 17, the GLOCK 22 has similar ergonomics to its 9mm brethren, even down to the barrel length, grip angle, and trigger pull weight. With the Gen5 MOS, you’ll receive the Marksman barrel, the nDLC coated slide, the removal of the finger grooves, and the Modular Optic System.

Given the .40 S&W caliber's slightly larger size than 9mm, standard magazines are limited to 15 rounds, plus 1 in the chamber. Regardless, you’ll still be able to deliver an impressive amount of .40 S&W firepower downrange. Despite being slightly heavier than the GLOCK 17, with a loaded weight just over 2 pounds, the GLOCK 22 maintains a competitive edge, thanks to a more robust slide designed to handle the punch of .40 S&W.

They are full-sized duty pistols, though you can achieve concealment with a proper holster and a few changes to your wardrobe and certain positions.

GLOCK 23 Gen4 or Gen 5 MOS

If GLOCK releases a full-sized pistol in a major caliber, they’ll predictably release a compact version as well. Much like the GLOCK 19 is the compact version of the GLOCK 17, the GLOCK 23 is the compact version of the GLOCK 22.

Similar in size to the GLOCK 19, the GLOCK 23 sports the same ergonomic touches. The barrel length is a touch shorter at 4.02 inches, but your trigger pull and grip angles remain just about the same, enabling a G19 user to feel right at home. In fact, GLOCK designed the G23 to help users make a quick transition.

Magazine capacity-wise, you’ll sacrifice a little. A G23 ships with 13-round magazines, but of course one in the chamber means 14 rounds of sizzling .40 S&W on tap. Certainly nothing to sneeze at.

GLOCK 27 Gen4 or Gen5

Yes, GLOCK does make a subcompact pistol for .40 S&W. Especially in law enforcement, users requested a subcompact in this caliber without compromising on concealability or mixing up their inventory.

Similar in size to its 9mm counterpart (GLOCK 26), the GLOCK 27 maintains a double-stack design, sharing the same robust characteristics. Accommodating 10+1 standard capacity magazines means a slightly thicker profile, but it's a trade-off that ensures a compact yet capable firearm.

With a 3.4 inch barrel and clocking in at just over 1.5 pounds loaded, the GLOCK 27 is still a potent little blaster, especially paired with the .40 S&W round. The compact size might make it a bit snappy, but as with any firearm, you can overcome these drawbacks through proper training.

Best .45 ACP GLOCK Handguns

Although it’s an Austrian company, GLOCK has always been responsive to their customers, regardless of national origin. Whether they’re producing a special 9x21mm variant of the GLOCK 17 for the Italian civilian market or a .45 ACP gun for us red-blooded Americans, they come through on customer care.

This dedication to service includes a comprehensive lineup of quality .45 ACP pistols perfect for concealed carry.

GLOCK 21 Gen4 or Gen5 MOS

The beefy .45 ACP round almost demands a full-sized duty handgun. GLOCK offers the GLOCK 21 Gen4 and Gen5 MOS in this all-American caliber. Built from the ground up for higher capacity, the G21 embodies the renowned GLOCK perfection.

More than mere adaptations of the G17 for .45 ACP, both the G21 Gen4 and Gen5 MOS feature enlarged, heavier slides designed to adeptly handle the caliber. The Gen4 variant boasts a slightly weightier 6.2-pound trigger, while the Gen5 MOS offers a lighter 5.8-pound pull.

In addition, the Gen5 MOS ships with a Marksman barrel, the requisite nDLC coating, the front serrations on the slide, and the Modular Optic System. Loaded, both generations clock in at over 2 pounds, which is reasonable for any full-sized duty pistol chambered in .45 ACP.

GLOCK 30 Gen4

Yes, you can use a subcompact .45 ACP pistol in your day-to-day concealed carry needs. One of the best choices is the GLOCK 30 Gen4. Chambered in .45 ACP, this subcompact powerhouse lets you bring that power anywhere you go.

Despite its initial "chunky" appearance, designed to accommodate double-stacked .45 ACP magazines, it proves surprisingly easy to conceal. It’s also quite ergonomic, even with the controversial Gen4 finger grooves. With a heavier slide and a 3.78-inch barrel, the GLOCK 30 Gen4 is a favorite among proponents of the Lord’s caliber.

For added versatility, GLOCK includes both 10-round and 13-round magazines in the box, allowing users to choose between greater concealability or higher capacity.

NOTE: As of this writing, GLOCK has announced a Gen5 variant of the GLOCK 30, scheduled to debut at the 2024 SHOT show in January. It’ll presumably have the Gen5 enhancements, making a great pistol even better.

GLOCKs in Other Calibers

To be clear, there are certainly GLOCKs chambered for other rounds that aren’t mentioned here. The GLOCK 31 in .357 SIG, the 10mm GLOCK 20, and the .380 ACP GLOCK 42 are all great options in their respective calibers. However, various factors tend to make them unsuitable for concealed carry.

In the case of the GLOCK 31, the .357 SIG is expensive, making frequent training a burden. TheGLOCK 20 is actually quite large and the ammunition rather expensive as well. Unfortunately, the GLOCK 42 does suffer from being chambered in .380 ACP. Most instructors consider .380 an unsuitable round for self-defense, especially considering 9mm is effective for even the most novice shooter.

Customizing and Upgrading Your GLOCK

GLOCKs are famous for being modular and easy to service and upgrade. Most consist of no more than 40 parts, half that of most competitors.

This means trigger upgrades, sight upgrades, and red-dot upgrades are a snap. With the MOS variants of some Gen5 pistols, putting on a red-dot sight takes less than 10 minutes. Out of the box, a GLOCK will be a reliable shooter and constant companion in your concealed carry life. But you’ll definitely get bitten by the “bug” and want to upgrade your GLOCK handgun to really make it your own.

NOTE: With certain upgrades like red dot sights, the dimensions of your GLOCK will change, making printing (i.e. your gun being noticeable through clothing) more of a problem.

Some upgrades you might consider are:

• Upgrading Your GLOCK Trigger - Whether it’s something with a lighter pull, or different ergonomics (i.e. a flat-faced trigger), aftermarket triggers for GLOCK handguns are abundant. Manufacturers like CMC, Apex, Lone Wolf, and more offer drop-in trigger replacements, some of which can be done on your own. A trigger upgrade will often smooth things out a little, allowing you to concentrate more on the fundamentals of sight picture, recoil management, and target acquisition.

• Upgrade the Ergonomics - The original GLOCK design is quite ergonomic, but there’s always room for improvement. Recent models use a Modular Backstrap System, where the end user can change out grip panels of varying sizes for enhanced grip. A professional gunsmith can also alter your grip with a process called stippling, which burns a new grip texture onto your GLOCK.

• Optics And Sight Upgrades - The usual upgrade path for GLOCK sights is to mount a pair of dedicated night sights. Available from companies like Trijicon, Ameriglo, or Meprolight, night sights usually have a bit of luminescent material like tritium. This enables rapid sight picture acquisition even in the dark. Find a gunsmith to do this installation, as the process requires a dedicated tool that often costs more than the sights themselves.
• Red Dots - On any modern pistol, you used to need a gunsmith to mill out a chunk of the slide for a red dot. GLOCK responded with their Modular Optic System (MOS) on some Gen5 pistols, which provides a pre-cut slide. You merely pop off a cover plate, place your favorite red-dot sight on the slide, zero it in, and have a truly accurate concealed carry GLOCK. With an older GLOCK, you can still either get the slide milled out, or purchase an adapter plate to mount your red-dot where the rear sight would normally go.

• Extended Magazine Capacities for GLOCK - Nowadays you’ll find a whole universe of magazines for your GLOCK handgun, both from GLOCK and third-party manufacturers. Companies like Magpul make 21-round magazines for the GLOCK 17, which only stick out a little, and give you an extra few rounds of 9mm on tap. You can also find extended baseplates for GLOCK magazines. You simply pop off the existing base plate on a factory GLOCK magazine and slide in the extended baseplate. You’ve just boosted your magazine capacity with little effort and cost.

• Holster Choices for GLOCK - You cannot reliably carry your GLOCK as a concealed carry handgun without a proper holster and gun belt. Just choose a holster made specifically for your model of GLOCK. For example, a holster for a GLOCK 19 Gen5 should say so on its packaging. A “generic” holster will not provide proper retention. The holster should also be made of Kydex and conform to the contours of your GLOCK pistol, enhancing retention and concealment. Popular GLOCK holster makers include Safariland, Bravo Concealment, G-Code, and C&G. You can also get a classic leather holster for your GLOCK pistol from DeSantis or Bianchi, as long as it’s shaped to your gun.
• Gun Belt Choices - A proper gun belt for your GLOCK is essential. A normal dress belt is not reinforced and can’t tolerate the extra weight of a firearm and spare magazines over time. You’ll find sturdy, reinforced gun belts from 5.11, Magpul, and G-Code. Magpul even makes “dressy” versions of their belts if you aren’t comfortable wearing a belt that screams “gun belt”.

Final Thoughts

There’s no question about it. GLOCK pistols are simply the most popular in the world, and the benchmark for all other semi-automatic handguns. No other firearm has quite the cultural cachet. GLOCKs are namechecked in film, TV, video games, hip hop, and beyond.

So it’s little wonder that GLOCK pistols are the best choice for concealed carry. Professional users around the world swear by this humble Austrian invention for its reliability and simplicity. If it works for them, it’ll work for you.

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