The Glock 17 Isn’t For You

Published on October 19, 2025
Duration: 28:16

This review details a 5,000-round assessment of the Glock 17 Gen 5, focusing on its durability and performance. The instructor highlights specific testing parameters, including ammunition types, cleaning intervals, and training sessions. Key findings include minor cosmetic wear on the barrel and slide, but no abnormal internal wear. A significant issue arose from sand contamination, causing trigger reset failure, which self-corrected after cleaning. The review compares the Glock 17 Gen 5 to other pistols like the Glock 19X and Sig M17, ultimately suggesting the 19X might be a preferred alternative for some users due to its handling and reciprocation speed, despite the 17's accuracy advantages at distance.

Quick Summary

After 5,000 rounds, the Glock 17 Gen 5 showed minor cosmetic wear but no abnormal internal damage. A significant issue involved sand contamination causing trigger reset failure, which self-corrected after cleaning. While accurate at distance, the Glock 19X is often preferred for its handling and faster return to target.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Testing Parameters
  2. 01:40Ammunition and Magazines Used
  3. 02:23Cleaning Schedule and Lubrication
  4. 02:53Testing Procedures & Sessions
  5. 04:25Modifications to the Glock 17 Gen 5
  6. 05:39Internal Parts Wear Inspection
  7. 07:38The Inadvertent Sand Test Failure
  8. 10:00Trigger Reset Issue and Self-Correction
  9. 12:04Ongoing Trigger Pull Issues
  10. 14:13Comparison: Glock 17 Gen 5 vs. Sig M17 vs. Glock 19X
  11. 15:55Accuracy at Distance & Marksman Barrel
  12. 17:49Hollowpoint Performance
  13. 17:56Magazine Drop Issues
  14. 19:55Recommendation & Final Thoughts
  15. 21:05Where the Glock 17 Gen 5 Shines (Production Division)
  16. 22:16Regrets and Alternatives
  17. 23:14Overall Rating and Favorite Pistols
  18. 24:52Accuracy Demonstration (Headbox Drill)

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main issues encountered during the 5,000-round review of the Glock 17 Gen 5?

The primary issue was a trigger reset failure around 1400 rounds, caused by sand contamination from ejected magazines. Additionally, early in testing, magazines did not always drop free, requiring a firm pull. Intermittently, heavy trigger pulls occur every few magazines.

How did the Glock 17 Gen 5 perform in terms of accuracy?

The Glock 17 Gen 5 demonstrated excellent accuracy at 25 meters, consistently printing rounds within the headbox during drills. The instructor noted its accuracy surpassed that of older Glock Gen 3 models, allowing for more precise shot calling.

How does the Glock 17 Gen 5 compare to the Glock 19X?

While the Glock 17 Gen 5 excels in accuracy at distance, the Glock 19X is often preferred for its faster reciprocation, balanced feel, and quicker return to target, making it a more versatile choice for competition and general use.

What modifications were made to the Glock 17 Gen 5 for this review?

The Glock 17 Gen 5 had Trijicon HD sights and Talon grips installed. A Surefire X300 weapon light was also mounted. All other internal components remained stock.

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