Glock 17 - What to look for

[marb4]

I'm in the mood for a new 9mm and am considering crossing over to the dark side and buying a Glock 17. I currently have a Beretta 92FS so the Glock seems to me like the opposite end of the 9mm spectrum (particularlly in terms of design). I'm looking at some other options as well but for some odd reason am being drawn to the glock like a moth to a flame. My son is so ashamed of me. Anyway, any Glock guys out there that can give me some of your experiences? I'm leaning towards new but would also consider used. Anything in particular to look for in a used Glock?

 

[HiCap1]

Look at a Springfield XD or XDm before you jump. The grip angle is more 1911-like, and you may prefer it. Either brand is excellent and TOTALLY reliable.

HiCap

 

[jem375]

Glocks are ok, have 2 of them, G17 and G20, but also take a look at a CZ PO1 if you can find one to pick up. As far as what to look for, just buy a used one if you see one, no problem with used Glocks or any other make for that reason.

 

[voyager4520]

If you get a Gen4, check to see if the hole inside the slide for the guide rod has a recess for the spring to seat into. Also the base of the guide rod should have either 02 or 021 on it. The 02 guide rod is for slides that have the recess, the 021 guide rod is for slides that don't have the recess. The first production Gen4 G17's used the same guide rod as the .40SW model and the springs on that guide rod proved to be too heavy for 9mm. The original .40SW guide rod will have either no numbers at all on it or it'll have 01 on it.

As seen in this picture: http://www.plaatjesupload.nl/bekijk/2011/01/21/1295591379-860.jpg

Unless the Gen4 grip fits you better than Gen3, I'd get a Gen3.

 

[Strahley]

Why is your son ashamed that you want to purchase a quality handgun that'll last forever and will be there for you no questions asked if you ever need it to save your life?

 

[Big_John1961]

Take a look at a Beretta PX4 Storm as well. They're a nice alternative to the Glock in the world of Polymer framed pistols.

 

[marb4]

Because he's a teenage boy and probably has too much of his dad in him. I'm sure he'll be more than happy to shoot it when I have one.

 

[md7]

marb4,

I have two Gen 3 Glocks. A 17 and a 23. They are ugly as homemade sin, but dang if they aren't boringly reliable. I also like the way they fit my hand, and like the overall simplicity of the design. Point, shoot, reload, repeat. No external safties, no decocker, no hammer. It's just so simple.

It's also a bonus that they have little to no "soul" , if you can use that term. I don't care if they get scuffed, scratched, wet, dry, or any other thing you can imagine. All I care about with my Glocks is that they work when/if I need them to.

But that's just me. YMMV.

As for what to look for, I suggest Gen 3 Glocks. This isn't to slight the new Gen 4, I just mean that I know about Gen 3 and know little about Gen 4.

 

[Unistat]

I carry a G23 everyday and I have never regretted buying it. It's everything I want in a carry gun. Lightweight, reliable, and point-click-bang simple.

That said, I know that they are not the most ergonomic pistol for everyone. My cousin is very happy with his XDm 9mm (20 rounds!)

Edit: I agree with MD7's post 100% The part about a "soul" is another thing I like about Glocks, I don't worry about it getting too trashed.

 

[stonecutter2]

I like my 19 gen4 - smaller version of the 17 but doesn't feel like it.

The gen4 changes made the 19 feel better in my hand. I did a gen3 vs gen4 comparison at the shop while buying, I liked gen4 a lot better.

Mine has been totally reliable. The only thing I did do was change the trigger/trigger bar from the serrated to a gen3 smooth trigger face style.

 

[TexAg]

If buying a used Glock I would be wary of any previous owner additions. IMO nothing needs to be changed on a Glock and if someone else did it and you don't know the exact history, it could compromise it's reliability. You could certainly change whatever you want, but I'm just recommending buying a stock Glock.