New G17, some unfamiliar changes

[gudel]

I just picked up a new GLOCK 17, LFW prefix with 7/17/07 fired casing date. I notice there's a 10 digit number on the frame next to the locking block on the left side. The serial number is on the usual places, barrel, bottom light rail and in slide. The trigger bar seem to be slightly different on the back side where it contacts the firing pin. The locking block different in appearance, something that looks like a circle is in the middle. My other GLOCKs do not have the 10digit numbering.
Is this a new designed on a recent manufacture G17?

 

[hankdatank1362]

The number corresponds to the RFID chip inside and happens to be the same number that is microstamped on the firing pin.

Hehehehe... sorry.

I couldn't help it. I really have no idea what the number is.

 

[gudel]

surely there's someone knows something around here. or not.

 

[SouthpawShootr]

I would think that you'd have better luck at Glocktalk. Tried your question there? Shoot they may already be discussing it. A few insiders (not necessarily Glock employees, but people in the know nevertheless) lurk there. One of the more reliable sources on that board, right off the top of my head, is DannyR.

 

[valor1]

It could be the space needed for the barcode.
It could be the change needed so the Glock can now be at home with lead reloads.
It could be there so that we can post it as a question in the popular gun forums.

Well, I'm not much help. I don't know the reason too. Probably a call with Glock can do the trick.