Glock 17 vs. Glock 19: Tips for Consideration

Published on February 4, 2019
Duration: 4:27

Instructor Mike, an expert firearms instructor, details the critical compatibility differences between Glock 17 and Glock 19 magazines. He demonstrates how a Glock 17 magazine will function in a Glock 19 (though protruding), but a Glock 19 magazine will not reliably function in a Glock 17. This knowledge is vital for emergency reloads and understanding firearm system limitations.

Quick Summary

Instructor Mike explains that Glock 17 magazines are compatible with Glock 19 pistols, though they protrude. Conversely, Glock 19 magazines are generally not functionally compatible with Glock 17 pistols because they are too short to reliably feed rounds into the chamber. This distinction is vital for emergency reloading strategies.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Channel Promo
  2. 00:12Glock 17 vs. 19 Introduction
  3. 00:38Glock 19 Mag in Glock 17 Issue
  4. 02:51Glock 17 Mag in Glock 19 Solution
  5. 04:03Conclusion: Versatility and Planning

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Glock 17 magazines be used in a Glock 19?

Yes, Glock 17 magazines can be used in a Glock 19. While they will protrude from the bottom of the grip, they are sufficiently tall to allow the follower to feed rounds correctly into the chamber, enabling continued firing.

Can Glock 19 magazines be used in a Glock 17?

Generally, no. While a Glock 19 magazine will fit into a Glock 17's magwell, it is too short to reliably reach the feed ramp. This prevents the rounds from being guided properly into the chamber, making it functionally incompatible for firing.

What is the main difference between Glock 17 and Glock 19 magazines?

The primary functional difference in compatibility is size. Glock 17 magazines are longer and will work in a Glock 19, whereas Glock 19 magazines are shorter and typically will not function reliably in a Glock 17 due to insufficient height to feed rounds.

Why is Glock 17 magazine compatibility important for a Glock 19 owner?

It's crucial for emergency reloads. If you carry a Glock 19 and have access to Glock 17 magazines (perhaps from a duty belt or a partner), you can use them to continue firing, whereas the reverse scenario (G19 mag in G17) is unreliable.

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