The Difference Between Gen 3 & Gen 5 Glocks

Published on October 13, 2023
Duration: 18:12

This video details the key differences between Glock Gen 3 and Gen 5 pistols, focusing on the Gen 5 MOS variant. It highlights changes in MOS plate material, magazine count, slide markings, frame design (ambidextrous slide stop), internal components like the slide lock spring and safety plunger, and grip texture. Magazine followers are also noted to be orange on Gen 5 for better visibility. Barrel and guide rod interchangeability is discussed, with specific notes on the G17 Gen 5 barrel.

Quick Summary

Gen 5 Glock slides are marked 'Gen 5', while Gen 3 typically only show the model number. Gen 5 features an ambidextrous slide stop lever and a plastic MOS plate. Internally, Gen 5 uses a coil spring for the slide lock, unlike the Gen 3's leaf spring.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Glock Gen 5 MOS & Holosun SCS
  2. 01:26Gen 5 vs Gen 3: Magazine Count & Availability
  3. 02:51How to Identify Glock Generations (Slide Markings)
  4. 04:42MOS Adapter Plate Changes
  5. 07:21Frame & Control Differences (Ambi Slide Stop)
  6. 08:45Internal Component Updates (Slide Lock Spring)
  7. 10:06Magazine Follower Color & Compatibility
  8. 11:34Barrel & Guide Rod Interchangeability
  9. 13:01Striker & Grip Texture Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main external differences between Glock Gen 3 and Gen 5 pistols?

Gen 5 slides are explicitly marked 'Gen 5', unlike Gen 3. Gen 5 also features an ambidextrous slide stop lever, which is not present on Gen 3 models. The grip texture on Gen 5 is generally more aggressive.

How does the MOS system differ between Glock generations?

On Gen 5 MOS models, the optic mounting plate is typically made of plastic, whereas older versions used steel. Additionally, Glock now often includes only the #02 MOS adapter plate, requiring separate purchases for other optic footprints.

Are Glock Gen 3 and Gen 5 internal parts interchangeable?

Some parts like guide rods are interchangeable (e.g., G26). However, critical components like the striker and slide lock spring differ significantly; Gen 5 uses a coil spring while Gen 3 uses a leaf spring, making them incompatible.

What improvements does the Glock Gen 5 offer over the Gen 3?

Gen 5 improvements include an ambidextrous slide stop, a more aggressive grip texture, a coil spring for the slide lock, and a redesigned safety plunger. Magazines also feature orange followers for better visibility.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from GlockStore

View all →