Integrating the full-size frame of the G17 and the low-profile slide of the popular G19, the G45 is a hybrid Glock model that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and ease of use. It’s a reliable handgun that seems to be garnering a great deal of momentum among Glock owners.
Despite what the name might suggest, the Glock 45 isn’t a .45-caliber variant of the previously mentioned models. It’s yet another striker-fired 9mm semi-automatic pistol.
So, apart from the difference in frame size, how is the G45 different from the time-tested G19? Does it have a longer barrel? A longer sight radius or a shorter slide, maybe? Most importantly, which one should you pick if you’re in the market for a new pistol?
All of these questions will be answered in this Glock 45 vs. Glock 19 comparison post, so stick around!
Table of Contents
Glock 45 vs. Glock 19: Specifications
Glock 19:
- Ammo: 9x19mm Parabellum (9mm Luger)
- Magazine Capacity: 15
- Length: 7.36 inches
- Width: 1.18 inches
- Height: 4.99 inches
- Barrel Length: 4.01 inches
- Barrel Height: 1.26 inches
- Weight (No Mag): 21.1 ounces
- Weight (Loaded): 29.6 ounces
- Sight Radius: 6.02 inches
- Trigger Pull: 5.5 pounds
- Trigger Distance: 2.80 inches
- Rifling: Hexagonal
- Magazine Options: 10, 17, and 33
Glock 45:
- Ammo: 9x19mm Parabellum (9mm Luger)
- Magazine Capacity: 17
- Length: 7.44 inches
- Width: 1.34 inches
- Height: 5.47 inches
- Barrel Length: 4.01 inches
- Barrel Height: 1.26 inches
- Weight (No Mag): 21.7 ounces
- Weight (Loaded): 30.34 ounces
- Sight Radius: 6.02 inches
- Trigger Pull: 5.84 pounds (26 N)
- Trigger Distance: 2.76 inches
- Rifling: Hexagonal
- Magazine Options: 19, 24, 31, and 33
Glock 45 vs. Glock 19: Breakdown
The Glock 45 and Glock 19 have a lot in common, from the same slide design and barrel length to the same caliber. This can make it hard for the average gun enthusiast to choose between the two.
The following breakdown compares the two guns in terms of factors like size, capacity, muzzle flip, stopping power, and more so that it’s easier for you to pinpoint the perfect gun for your needs.
Size and Weight
The G19 is smaller than the G45, but not by much. The G45 measures 7.44 inches in overall length, whereas the G19 measures around 7.36 inches. The difference in width and height is also pretty trivial.
The G19 is also lighter than the G45, which can be viewed as a pro or a con. More weight equates to better recoil management, and less weight equates to easier handling and a more comfortable carry.
Now, even though the difference in size and weight between the two weapons isn’t all that significant, we’d have to say that the G19 is the better option when it comes to concealability. Don’t get us wrong; the G45 is very concealable, but as far as the numbers indicate, the Glock 19 is a tiny bit better.
Compared to other pistols within their class, the G19 and G45 come across as slimmer, more compact, and more lightweight. This can be attributed to their use of a polymer frame.
Polymer frames—the ones designed by Glock, at least—are lighter than metal frames without compromising on durability.
Standard Magazine Capacity
The G45 is slightly larger than the G19, so it can accommodate more 9mm rounds than its competitor. While the G19 has a flush fit capacity of 15 rounds, the G45 can handle 17 rounds.
Both handguns can be extended up to 33 rounds, but it’s worth noting that the Glock 45 has more extended magazine options than the Glock 19.
Keep in mind that more commodious magazines tend to be harder to conceal because of their size. So, if your priority is an effective concealed carry (internal link), you don’t want to go all out by getting a 33-round mag.
Another thing that’s worth noting is that it’s easy to find magazine pouches for either one of these semi-automatic handguns. Getting high-quality magazine pouches is important if you’ll be carrying spare magazines on the regular.
As far as the magazine release function, it’s easier to release the magazine with a single hand on the Glock 19 due to its smaller size. On the larger Glock 45, you may need to use both hands.
With enough practice, you may be able to release the Glock 45’s magazine with one hand. This is especially possible if you have larger hands that can reach the release button without much strain.
Grip and Handling
Both guns exhibit excellent handling and ease of use. The Glock 45 has a larger, full-sized grip and more aggressive texturing than the Glock 19, which makes it super easy to handle. What’s more, the G45 features a Modular Back Strap that enables you to adjust the feel of the grip for maximum comfort.
The Glock 19 also feels great and is easy to handle, despite its smaller grip and frame. The G19’s grip has finger grooves that make it easier to hold onto the gun even under extreme weather conditions.
Both pistols feature Glock’s rough-texturing technology, known as Rough Textured Frame (RTF). This technology ensures a firm and comfortable grip whether your hand is excessively sweaty during hot summer days or frigidly cold during cold winter nights.
Though some people may find the Glock 19 more appealing in this category due to its smaller frame, we’d highly recommend giving the Glock 45 a shot as well before making a decision.
Stopping Power and Recoil
Seeing as both Glock use 9mm ammo, they both have the same stopping power. The great thing about 9mm rounds is that they travel flatter and farther than higher calibers, which makes them faster and more accurate.
Another great thing about 9mm rounds is that they have much recoil (muzzle flip). However, as we mentioned earlier, more weight equates to better kickback management. So, the Glock 45 will have less recoil than the smaller and lighter Glock 19.
Both Glock pistols feature excellent ergonomics that help absorb the shock of a fired round. So, whichever one you choose, you should find the kickback totally manageable as long as your technique is solid (internal link).
Trigger Design
The trigger on both pistols is made of metal to ensure durability. And even though both handguns have the same trigger mechanism, the Glock 19 has a slightly lighter pull than the Glock 45, making it easier to shoot.
Nonetheless, both pistols have a short pull design compared to other alternatives in their class, so you shouldn’t have any problem shooting either one of them.
All you need to do in order to ensure accurate shooting is to place two fingers on the grip, and just offset your trigger finger to the side before pulling the trigger.
Slide Design
Both Glocks have the same slide design; same length, width, and stop release mechanism. The thing about the lock and release mechanism is that it’s not ambidextrous, which means it’s compatible only with right-handed shooters. If you’re left-handed, you may have a hard time adjusting to it.
Both guns feature rear and front slide serrations to ensure an easier grip. Though, due to its larger overall size, the Glock 45’s slide is easier to grip and lock.
Safety Features
Both pistols feature the Safe Action System. This system helps ensure a consistent pull for the trigger. Whether it’s the first round or the very last round in the magazine, the pull will feel the same.
This revolutionary system relies on independent mechanical safeties that disengage when you pull the trigger and automatically re-engage as soon as you release the trigger.
In addition to eliminating the need for manual engagement and disengagement, this system helps make the Glock drop-safe. We’d say the Glock 19 and Glock 45 are equal in this category.
Concealed Carry
Since the Glock 19 is smaller and lighter, it would be the better choice for concealed carrying. The Glock 45 is easily concealable as well, but since it has a larger grip than the Glock 19, you’ll need an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster to conceal it properly.
If you’re not fond of IWB holsters, you can pair either one of these Glocks with an ankle holster without any problems. If you’re going for an outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster or a shoulder holster, the Glock 19 is the better choice.
Aesthetics
Smaller handguns are usually more aesthetically pleasing. Granted, some people do prefer larger pistols, but the vast majority prefer a low-profile pistol that they can carry around with ease. This automatically places the Glock 19 ahead of the Glock 45.
Generally speaking, if you have small to medium-size hands, the Glock 19 will probably appeal to you the most. If you have large hands and you prefer a hefty handgun, the Glock 45 will suit you well.
Factory Sights
The Glock 19 comes equipped with low-profile sights both at the front and the rear. The Glock 45, on the other hand, features a high-profile sight at the front and low-profile sights at the rear.
Both pistols have a similar sighting plane, so the difference in the front sight’s profile is all that you need to consider based on your personal preference.
Overall Reliability
When it comes to reliability, Glocks are second to none. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a Glock pistol that malfunctions or jams often. Glocks are very well-built and designed to withstand the toughest of conditions.
That being said, you shouldn’t neglect your Glock, regardless of the model. Without regular maintenance, any gun is bound to malfunction. We can’t stress this enough; take care of your firearm and it will take care of you!
Aftermarket Options
There’s no shortage of aftermarket parts and accessories for both pistols. You’ll find everything you need, from target sights and threaded barrels to lasers, extended mags, and flashlights.
The thing that sets the Glock 19 apart is that it’s compatible with more holster types than the Glock 45, thanks to its compact size. On the other hand, the thing that sets the Glock 45 apart is that it has more room for accessories than the Glock 19 since it’s larger.
Glock 19 vs. Glock 45: In Conclusion
To conclude, we can’t say that one of these Glocks is better than the other. They both have their strengths and weaknesses, and it all boils down to personal preference in the end.
So, in order to determine which Glock is right for you, you have to consider the key differences in this comparison, which are size and capacity.
If you prefer a smaller gun or if you want one that’s easier to conceal, the Glock 19 is your go-to. If you want the Glock with the higher standard magazine capacity, the Glock 45 is the way to go.
factors, the Glock 19 and Glock 45 are almost exact matches. They have the same slide design, trigger mechanism, caliber, sighting plane, and safeties. They’re basically non-identical twins, where one is larger and has a higher capacity than the other.
As far as dependability and durability, come on; we’re talking about Glocks here! These things are built like an absolute tank and are guaranteed to stand the test of time.
Lastly, there’s a myriad of aftermarket options and accessories for both weapons, so you’ll be able to customize either one of them to your liking without any problems.