The Glock G20 Gen 5. Just the name conjures images of robust reliability and hard-hitting stopping power. But is the hype justified? This in-depth review will explore the features, performance, and overall user experience of this popular .45 ACP pistol, helping you decide if it's the right firearm for you.
What Makes the Glock G20 Gen 5 Stand Out?
The G20 Gen 5 represents Glock's commitment to continuous improvement. It builds upon the established reputation of the G20 platform while incorporating several key enhancements:
Enhanced Features:
- Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever: A welcome addition for both right and left-handed shooters, offering increased control and ease of use.
- Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB): This barrel boasts improved accuracy thanks to its enhanced rifling and tighter tolerances. This contributes significantly to improved shot grouping and overall precision.
- Improved Trigger: The Gen 5 trigger offers a slightly lighter, crisper pull compared to previous generations, enhancing both accuracy and shot control.
- No Finger Grooves: The absence of finger grooves allows for a more customizable grip, accommodating a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles. This can significantly improve comfort and control during extended shooting sessions.
- NDLC Finish: The nDLC (nitride) finish enhances durability, corrosion resistance, and reduces friction, contributing to smoother operation and extended service life.
- Beveled Magazine Well: The improved magazine well makes reloading faster and smoother, a crucial advantage in dynamic shooting situations.
Performance and Handling: Real-World Impressions
The Glock G20 Gen 5 shines in several key areas:
Reliability:
Glock's reputation for reliability precedes it, and the Gen 5 lives up to the expectation. This pistol is famously known for its ability to function flawlessly under even the harshest conditions, making it a popular choice for self-defense and law enforcement. Countless rounds fired during testing demonstrated its consistent performance and minimal malfunctions.
Accuracy:
The GMB contributes significantly to the G20 Gen 5's impressive accuracy. While the .45 ACP cartridge itself is not known for its inherent accuracy compared to smaller calibers, the Gen 5 mitigates this limitation. Target shooting tests consistently resulted in tight groups, surpassing many expectations for a full-sized .45 ACP handgun.
Recoil Management:
The .45 ACP is known for its significant recoil. While the G20 Gen 5 doesn't completely eliminate this, its weight and design contribute to manageable recoil, making it suitable for both experienced and newer shooters. The addition of a heavier slide or aftermarket recoil mitigation systems can further reduce felt recoil for enhanced comfort and control.
Ergonomics:
The removal of finger grooves is a significant ergonomic improvement. It provides greater versatility for shooters with different hand sizes and preferences, improving overall comfort and control. The absence of finger grooves allows for a more natural grip, leading to better accuracy and reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
Who is the Glock G20 Gen 5 For?
The Glock G20 Gen 5 is a versatile handgun with a broad appeal. It is well-suited for:
- Concealed Carry (with caveats): While not ideal for deep concealment due to its size, the G20 Gen 5 can be carried by individuals with larger builds.
- Home Defense: Its stopping power and reliability make it a formidable home defense weapon.
- Law Enforcement: Its reliability and performance have established it as a trusted firearm within law enforcement agencies.
- Experienced Shooters: The G20 Gen 5's accuracy and handling characteristics will appeal to experienced shooters seeking a powerful and dependable sidearm.
- Target Shooting: The enhanced accuracy provided by the GMB makes it a suitable firearm for target practice and competition shooting.
Conclusion: A Powerful and Reliable Choice
The Glock G20 Gen 5 is a significant improvement over previous generations. Its enhanced features, reliability, and accuracy combine to create a powerful and versatile handgun. While the .45 ACP round comes with significant recoil, the G20 Gen 5 mitigates this effectively. If you're looking for a robust, reliable, and accurate .45 ACP pistol, the Glock G20 Gen 5 is certainly worth serious consideration. However, remember to always practice safe gun handling and consult local laws before purchasing any firearm.
