Is the Glock 20 the Best 10mm Handgun? Full Review

The G17 and G19 dominate conversations among Glock enthusiasts. These 9mm pistols typically steal the spotlight in gun circles. Yet beyond these famous models sits the often-overlooked Glock 20. This hefty 10mm handgun delivers serious power compared to its more common 9mm relatives.

Hunters and outdoor lovers keep turning to the 10mm round in growing numbers. The cartridge hits harder than 9mm ammo without sacrificing control for fast shooting. Glock matched this powerful round with their legendary durability in creating the G20.

The Glock 20 stands out among today's 10mm handgun options for good reason. Many shooters find it worthy of adding to their collection. Its design works equally well at the range or in the backcountry for hunting and defense situations.

Glock 20 Gen 4 Specifications

The Glock 20 Gen 4 comes packed with impressive specs:

• Manufacturer: Glock
• Caliber: 10mm Auto
• Capacity: 15+1 rounds
• Barrel Length: 4.61 inches
• Weight: 30.71 ounces empty, about 39.86 ounces loaded 
• Overall Length: 8.07 inches
• Width: 1.34 inches
• Height: 5.51 inches
• Trigger Pull: Around 5 pounds, 3 ounces
• Safety System: SAFE Action

Compared to other models, the G20 offers substantial ammunition capacity. For context, many 10mm 1911s weigh around 41 ounces empty yet hold only 8+1 rounds. That makes the G20 both lighter and more ammo-friendly.

The G29 serves as the G20's compact sibling with reduced dimensions for those wanting a more concealable 10mm option. But make no mistake—the full-size G20 delivers the complete 10mm experience without compromise.

A Quick History of the Glock 20

Glock introduced the G20 in 1990, adding a powerful 10mm option to their handgun lineup. This pistol has evolved through several generational updates since its debut.

Gen 3 models brought significant changes including finger grooves, thumb rests, and forward accessory rails. Engineers added a second pin (the locking block pin) to boost durability for large-caliber models like the 10mm.

The Gen 4 models appeared in 2010 with slightly less aggressive texturing but kept the finger grooves and accessory rails. New features included four interchangeable backstraps, a reversible magazine release button, and a dual recoil spring system. The updated trigger mechanism aimed to improve the shooting experience.

The reference model in this review is a Gen 4 G20. As of now, Glock hasn't released a Gen 5 version of the G20. The company has focused Gen 5 updates primarily on 9mm models. Fans of the 10mm platform keep hoping this changes soon.

Design and Build Quality

The G20 features a full-size frame built from Glock's signature polymer material. This design keeps weight manageable despite the powerful cartridge it chambers.

Gen 4 models come with swappable backstraps for different hand sizes. You can change the grip feel without permanent changes to match your exact hand shape.

A special dual spring system helps control the heavy recoil from 10mm ammo. This smartly designed feature makes shooting more comfortable and helps the pistol last longer.

The front rail lets you add lights or lasers for hunting or defense use. Left-handed shooters will appreciate the reversible magazine release, which can be switched for left-handed use. 

Durability stands out as a key feature. These pistols handle extreme conditions without missing a beat. Users report taking the G20 through Texas hunts during drought conditions, with red dirt coating every surface. Despite heavy dust infiltration, the G20 continued functioning perfectly.

The gun tolerates rain, dirt, and rough handling during outdoor adventures. This rugged construction makes it ideal for activities where lesser firearms might fail. You can drag it through mud, expose it to rain, and generally treat it roughly—and it'll keep on performing.

Range Performance and Accuracy

The G20 shoots with excellent accuracy at the range. It creates tight groups with just the iron sights. Adding a Trijicon RMR or SRO red dot makes the gun even more precise.

Good ammo helps skilled shooters achieve tight groups at 10 and 15 yards. At 25 yards, experienced shooters may achieve groups smaller than two inches, although results can vary based on skill and ammunition. . The pistol hits steel targets at 50 yards with no problem.

Shooters often connect with targets at 100 yards using this pistol. Red dot sights make these longer shots much easier to achieve. Few handguns can match this kind of long-range performance.

The 10mm recoil harder than a 9mm but you'll adapt quickly. Its dual recoil spring design helps keep the muzzle from jumping too high. Most people get comfortable with the recoil after a few range sessions.

Massad Ayoob's one-handed shooting stance works great with the G20. This fact shows how the pistol fits different shooting styles and techniques.

Ammo Compatibility and Functionality

The G20 handles an impressive variety of 10mm ammunition. It feeds everything from lightweight frangible loads to heavy hunting rounds without issues.

Tested ammunition includes:

• Inceptor Preferred Defense 10mm 90-grain ARX frangibles
• Hornady 10mm 180-grain XTP
• CorBon 10mm 155-grain DPX
• Remington Hog Hammer 10mm 155-grain Barnes XPB
• Federal Personal Defense 10mm 200-grain HST JHP

This broad compatibility makes the G20 suitable for various applications, from target shooting to hunting and defense.

The gun functions smoothly even with infrequent cleaning. This speaks to its forgiving nature and robust design. After years of use, some users report needing to replace a slide stop that began locking open randomly—a minor maintenance issue considering the extensive use.

In real-world hunting situations, the G20 has proven effective against feral hogs, coyotes, and deer. The 10mm cartridge delivers sufficient energy for ethical harvests at appropriate distances.

Ergonomics and Handling

The G20's full-size frame fits medium to large hands comfortably. The grip accommodates all fingers without dangling pinkies—a common issue with compact pistols.

Adding a Hogue HandALL Grip Sleeve enhances comfort for many users. This simple accessory improves grip without permanent modifications.

The trigger reach measures 2.85 inches, suitable for average hand sizes. The controls sit within easy reach for most shooters without requiring grip adjustments.

The thumb-forward grip style works best with this pistol according to experienced users. This stance improves recoil management and control.

For shooters with smaller hands, the double-stack design might prove challenging. The grip thickness exceeds that of single-stack options like 1911s. The interchangeable backstraps help address this issue but can't completely solve it for every user.

Customization and Upgrades

The G20 accepts numerous aftermarket enhancements. This customization potential lets owners tailor the pistol to specific needs.

Red dot optics mount using adapter plates or custom slide milling. Users report success with several options:

• Burris FastFire
• Trijicon RMR
• Trijicon SRO

The stock trigger feels typical for factory Glocks—functional but not exceptional. Aftermarket triggers like the Overwatch Precision TAC Trigger offer improvements. This flat-faced, drop-in trigger reduces pre-travel and grit for a better shooting experience.

Other popular upgrades include:

• Extended slide stops
• Enhanced sights
• Weapon lights (like the Streamlight TLR-7)
• Magazine extensions

The extensive Glock aftermarket ensures nearly any desired modification has available options. This ecosystem represents a significant advantage over less popular handgun models.

Hunting and Defensive Use Cases

For handgun hunting, the G20 truly shines. The 10mm cartridge delivers adequate energy for medium game at reasonable distances. Its 15+1 capacity proves advantageous when facing multiple targets like feral hogs.

The G20 beats magnum revolvers with quicker follow-up shots and more ammo. This advantage matters when you face several animals at once. It also makes a huge difference when you need that fast second shot.

For protection against bears, the 10mm hits hard yet remains easy to control. Bears move at speeds between 30-45 MPH, outrunning any person. Quick, accurate follow-up shots can save your life. The G20 lets you shoot again faster than heavy-recoiling magnum revolvers.

The full-size G20 feels too big for most people's everyday carry needs. For a smaller option, try the G29 compact 10mm Glock instead. It offers the same stopping power in a smaller package, though with fewer rounds and a shorter barrel.

Pros and Cons of the Glock 20

Pros:

• Outstanding durability in harsh conditions
• Excellent magazine capacity (15+1)
• Extensive customization options
• Powerful 10mm cartridge
• Good accuracy, especially with optics
• Manageable recoil for the caliber
• Reasonable price compared to other 10mm options

Cons:

• Too large for concealed carry for most people
• Stock trigger feels stiff and gritty
• Grip size challenges shooters with smaller hands
• Heavier than 9mm options
• 10mm ammunition costs more than 9mm

By the Numbers (Rating Section)

Functionality: 5/5

The G20 runs without issues. It feeds various ammunition types and keeps functioning even when dirty. After years of use, many guns need only minor parts replacement—impressive considering the rough treatment these pistols often endure.

Ergonomics: 4/5

Solid for most users but not perfect for everyone. The double-stack design makes the grip thick. The interchangeable backstraps help but don't solve every fit issue. Controls remain accessible and intuitive.

Accuracy: 5/5

Especially with optics, the G20 delivers exceptional accuracy. Even with iron sights, it groups well at defensive and hunting distances. The platform proves capable of impressive precision beyond typical handgun ranges.

Customization: 5/5

Nearly endless possibilities exist for personalizing the G20. From triggers to sights to grips, the aftermarket support enables complete tailoring to individual preferences.

Value: 5/5

Compared to other 10mm handguns, the G20 offers excellent value. It costs substantially less than most 10mm 1911s yet delivers comparable or better performance with higher capacity.

Final Verdict: Is the Glock 20 the Best 10mm Handgun?

The Glock 20 stands out as a top choice for most 10mm handgun buyers. It packs power, high capacity, and accuracy into a tough yet affordable package.

Is it objectively the "best" 10mm? That depends on your specific needs. For hunting, woods carry, or bear defense, it makes a strong case as the top option. The G20 balances power with practicality better than most alternatives.

For those valuing classic aesthetics or single-stack ergonomics, a 1911 in 10mm might feel more satisfying. But for pure function—especially in demanding conditions—the G20 stands at or near the top of 10mm handguns.

The G20 serves as an excellent entry point into 10mm shooting. It forgives mistakes, handles abuse, and performs consistently. Anyone interested in this powerful cartridge should seriously consider Glock's version as the best all-around option available today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can the Glock 20 handle hot 10mm loads?

The G20 handles full-power 10mm ammo with no problems. Some 10mm pistols only work with mild loads, but the Glock 20 was built from the start to manage the full pressure of this strong cartridge.

2. How does the Glock 20 compare to the Glock 29?

Both pistols use the same 10mm cartridge, but the G29 has a smaller frame and shorter barrel. The G20 holds 15+1 rounds in standard magazines compared to the G29's 10+1 capacity. Recoil feels more manageable in the larger G20, but it's harder to hide under clothing.

3. Is the Glock 20 good for bear defense?

The G20 works great for bear protection. The 10mm round delivers strong energy and deep penetration with the right ammo. Its 15-round capacity lets you fire follow-up shots quickly if needed—crucial when facing an attacking bear.

4. What red dot sights work best on the Glock 20?

Top red dot options include the Trijicon RMR, Trijicon SRO, and Holosun 507C. These mount using adapter plates or custom slide cuts. Many shooters like the Trijicon SRO best for its wider viewing window and sharp dot.

5. Can I hunt with a Glock 20?

Yes, the G20 works well as a hunting handgun for medium-sized game. The 10mm cartridge provides enough power for ethical deer and hog hunting at reasonable distances. Having 15 rounds proves very helpful when hunting feral hogs that often travel in groups.

6. Does the Glock 20 work well for left-handed shooters?

The Gen 4 G20 comes with a reversible magazine release you can switch for left-handed use. However, the slide stop lever remains optimized for right-handed shooters unless aftermarket ambidextrous upgrades are installed. Lefties can use the pistol effectively but might find ambidextrous upgrades helpful.