when 20k > 30k
magsnubby- stock flush baseplates on your 27 mags? Leaving your pinky floating does make a difference in grip security. I can shoot with a two finger grip ok, but I like that 30/36 mags come with a pinky landing,
stock.
Size and shape of the 36 specifically work for me, being the only single stack slimline model. While longer, the 36 is actually a bit thinner than the 27 (moreso vs 30). Not dramatically, but enough so that together with the extra front to back length of the grip, it makes for a) remarkably different feel (i've heard it described as a "1x3" instead of a "2x4"... maybe a backhanded "block" compliment lol), and b) a FLATter package. As opposed to almost all other GLOCKS, whose frames flare out where they meet the slide, the 36 is flat and smooth all the way down the profile, aside from controls. I have a pm9, and the 36 is the most "kahr like" (in terms of shape) among all GLOCKS.
The 36 has the shortest possible height (4.76" including magazine) that still allows for three (of my) fingers on the grip (this of course can be "remedied" if needed with extensions on the 27), and obviously ymmv depending on finger thickness. Similarly, it's the only stock GLOCK providing a full grip while weighing in at under 27 ounces loaded (along with the 26 and 27 on the weight only).
It is my most accurate GLOCK. And having a slightly longer sight radius helps me line up a more honest sight picture at longer distances (= G19 sr). In my hands it gives nothing up to my 34 in rapid fire out to 15 yards, and has the "from rest" advantage beyond. Smooth handling, very controllable recoil (along with the 27 utilizes dual recoil spring assembly which really softens things up- remarkably mild for these little packages).
The 36 is arguably the most concealable GLOCK, is in fact the thinnest GLOCK, yet chambered in the fattest caliber- .45acp, and offering a full grip and 6" sight radius, weighing in at under 27 ounces loaded.
Choice was obvious for me, but as always will boil down to personal preferences. How comfortable you are with .40sw vs .45acp, balanced with how much YOU feel you are giving up with 6+1 vs 10+1, and most importantly how well the distinctly different grip shapes work for you. Even if you think of it as a toss-up, don't flip an internet poll coin to decide (btdt- people vote by what they "hear" on a given model = useless game of interweb telephone). One of these will fit/feel better than the others. At least pick up (better yet shoot) each first, along with a 30 (if it's not too fat for you, the 30 actually covers both of your trade-off concerns in 27 vs 36: capacity of the 27 you want, caliber of the 36 you prefer). But you ultimately can't go wrong with any of those three.
Essential 36 reading:
http://www.remtek.com/arms/glock/model/45/36/index.htm
http://www.galleryofguns.com/shootingtimes/Articles/DisplayArticles.asp?ID=114
Also might want to look into the GAP model 38. 8+1, 19 sized (a little thicker slide and few oz heavier), as long as you are ok with sub +p acp pressure performance, and paying just a little more for ammo. different ccw class imo, and the 39 which is 27 sized, puts you back at 6 capacity, but worth checking out if you're going to the funshow anyways:
http://mywebpages.comcast.net/petej/45gap.defend.htm
Have fun, good luck, and tell us what you decide!
