I have been a long time fan of Glocks, but will ADMIT they have issues that Glock has addressed over time - Bad non-dropfree mags to Gen 3 dropfree mags, loose tolerances getting tighter, better captured recoil spring set (remember the loose coiled springs?), less supported chambers to better supported chambers on newer models, etc.
Whether we agree with the changes (I personally do not like the RTF for bare hands but someone who wears gloves will love the RTF and the 45 GAP, etc.), what's important is that we have ANOTHER gun manufacturer choice for us shooters who is trying out different innovations to IMPROVE gun choices for us.
And I think competition is good, period - and the improvements XD and M&P made over the Glocks will simply force Glock to make better pistols - What's wrong with that?
As to adjustable backstrap, it provides more grip options.
Looking at the Gen4 G22 pictures, I like the Triple-spring? setup and the adjustable backstraps: (Due to the larger captured spring set, new slide won't be interchangeable with Gen3 G22 frame)
http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2009/12/25/glock-gen4-unveiled/
"So just to summarize all the point about the Glock Gen4 ..."
* Initially Glock 17 (9mm) and Glock 22 (.40 S&W) will be available. Compact models will follow later in 2010.
* Features dual (triple I think?) recoil spring.
* Features Swappable backstraps.
* Magazine release swappable between left and right.
* Old magazines still work, but only when mag release is on left side.
* Gen4 slide is clearly marked as "Gen4".
* Retail price for G17 and G22 Gen4 is about $700 (actual prices will be lower than this).
* Glock will cease sales of the 3rd Generation and RTF models.
And if this poster is correct from thefirearmblog link, Gen5 Glocks with external hammer and inertia powered recoil management will be very interesting indeed: (I had Haarts Mercury Filled delayed recoil reducer spring set in one of my modified 1911s to improve recoil and maybe Glock is going to liquid filled recoil spring set or system similar to recoil system found in some shotguns?).
glock expert on 31 Dec 2009 at 1:54 pm link comment
Well I can tell you all this fellows. I have been working for Glock for over 26 years now and a lot the input we get off these forums is the blueprint for which we design our guns to. Don’t be to surprised when in the near future gen 5 comes out you will see some radical changes, we have incorporated some very cool stuff. Gen 5 will introduce the very first Glock with external hammer, interchangeable front and rear sights, quick release magazines, and my fav: inertia powered recoil management.
More to cum fellows, stay tuned.
GG Glock expert
http://thehighroad.org/search.php?searchid=6984851