[deadduck357]

I know the Gen4 is not new here but its new to me.

Glock sent me their latest evolution of the G17 (Generation 4) for T&E review.
http://lead-slinger.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Glock17Gen4-1.jpg

http://lead-slinger.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Glock17Gen4-5.jpg
External differences are apparent in comparison to the previous generations. The new rough textured frame (RTF) and enlarged magazine release are most obvious while the short frame (SF) now offers interchangeable backstraps.

Pistol specs:
Manufacturer: Glock Inc.
Model: G17 Gen4
Caliber: 9x19mm Para
Capacity: 17 + 1 rounds
Weight: 24.9 oz. (w/mag.)
Length: 7.875 in.
Height: 5.4375 in. (w/mag.)
Width: 1.243 in.
Barrel: 4.487 in.
Twist: 9.84 in. RH (mfr)
Rifling: 6 Hexagonal
Trigger pull: 5 lbs. 2.5 oz

reversible magazine release
http://lead-slinger.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Glock17Gen4-7.jpg

Rough texture frame
http://lead-slinger.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Glock17Gen4-10.jpg

Modular backstraps are easily installed
http://lead-slinger.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Glock17Gen4-14.jpg

Another evolution is the dual recoil spring assembly. The two springs are to increase the life span of the assembly while supposedly reducing felt recoil.
http://lead-slinger.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Glock17Gen4-24.jpg

[deadduck357]

Range report:
http://lead-slinger.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Glock17Gen4-32.jpg

Velocity results:
Winchester 9mm 115 gr. FMJ…………….1110 fps
Black Hills 9mm 115 gr. JHP EXP…………1206 fps
Double Tap 9mm +P 115 gr. JHP…………1373 fps
Winchester PDX1 9mm +P 124 gr. JHP…..1199 fps

5 round groups were fired from a bench at 25 yards.

Winchester FMJ
http://lead-slinger.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Glock17Gen4-36.jpg

Black Hills EXP
http://lead-slinger.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Glock17Gen4-37.jpg

Double Tap +P
http://lead-slinger.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Glock17Gen4-38.jpg

Winchester PDX1
http://lead-slinger.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Glock17Gen4-39.jpg
Note: Targets’ Bullseye – 2″ dia.; outer – 8″ dia.

Admittedly, I am and have been a Glock enthusiast for many years and found nothing wrong with the previous variant. I am accustom to and like the 3rd generation grip but the new rough texture surface has more bite without gouging and the adaptable modular backstrap is an improvement. There are many different hand sizes, so why not offer a multiple sized grip. I preferred the standard (small) grip which is integral to the frame. The medium (M) backstrap will give you the previous G17, 22, 31 generation size grip whereas the large (L) will feel more like a G20 or 21. During the range test my hold was secure and the pistol didn’t shift under recoil. The reversible enlarged mag release is an improvement, it was easily manipulated and mags dropped free. As for the dual recoil spring assembly and the claim of reduced felt recoil, I didn’t bring my 3rd generation G17 to the range for a side-by-side comparison but I couldn’t tell a difference. The new spring assembly appears to be better built and more stout. Through 167 rounds the pistol experience no malfunctions. Good accuracy is what I have come to expect from Glock and this handgun didn’t disappoint. I am very pleased with the evolution of the G17.

for full review - Lead-Slinger.com (http://lead-slinger.com/glock-17-gen4-9x19mm)

[JTQ]

Thanks for the review.

I'm not a Glock guy, but have handled the various generations of G17's. It seems to me as if the grip of the Gen4 has the corners more rounded than on the previous generations. Do you have the same observation?

[deadduck357]

I'm not really sure, other than the reduced grip and the new grip surface the feel is about the same, the finger grooves may have been reduced also.

[dprice3844444]

grooved or smooth trigger?

[deadduck357]

grooved or smooth trigger?

Smooth

[otasan56]

Did your Gen4 G17 throw brass in your face?

[deadduck357]

No, it threw them at 4 or 5 o'clock and about 4-5 feet away.

[danweasel]

So I gather that the dual spring setup did not noticably affect felt recoil?

[deadduck357]

Noticeably: no , but I didn't take my 3rd generation with me to the range and I should have for a side-by-side comparo. The claim does make sense though, the dual spring assembly resembles a shock absorber and not a spring rapped around a rod.

[danweasel]

Yeah, I really like the idea and it makes total sense. I'm actually very interested in a Gen 4 Glock, but it's pretty much just a wish at this point.