Glock 19 and 26 are the two most sought-after pistols from Glock. However, since both have impressive features, finding a suitable one is hard for many. A comprehensive Glock 19 vs Glock 26 comparison will help you determine which of them aligns with your needs. The purpose of our comparison here is not to tell you which pistol is better. Both models are reliable, accurate, and boast excellent performance. Through this article, you can decide which gun will fit well with your preference for concealability, capacity, comfort, and shooting situation.
An Overview of the Glock 19
The semi-automatic striker-fired Glock 19 is one of the most dependable sidearms created by the Austrian manufacturer Glock. Chambered in a 9 mm luger, G19 has versatile use cases. It is an ideal firearm for military professionals, civilians, and competition shooters.
Glock 19 Gen 5 is the latest in the lineup of G19 firearms, introduced in 2017. It does not have any finger grooves, allowing you to tailor the grip through different backstraps. It has a modular frame, which is corrosion-resistant, and a modified rifling and barrel crown. This imparts more precision to the gun.
An Overview of the Glock 26
Glock 26 is a small-framed revolver chambered in 9mm luger. The subcompact pistol is also called Baby Glock because of its reduced size and weight and ability to fit discreetly in the user's pocket.
Like the Glock 19, it has polygonal rifling and enhanced rifling and barrel crown, making it precise and accurate. It is without finger grooves and an ambidextrous slide, so the user can handle it comfortably.
Glock 19 vs Glock 26 - Size and Weight Comparison
The biggest difference between G19 and G26 is seen in their size and weight. G19 is noticeably larger than G26 and weighs more. G19 IS 7.26 inches long, 4.99 inches tall, and 1.18 inches wide. In contrast, G26 is 6.4 inches in length, 4.17 inches tall, and 1.30 inches thick. The differences in sizes are most visible when you compare the two pistols, keeping them facing up and back-to-back. Right away, it becomes clear that the smaller G26 is more suitable for concealed carry, and G19 is more for those who don't have any concerns about carrying a pistol openly. Also, the subcompact G26 weighs 19.72 ounces, while the G19 weighs 23.6 ounces with magazines.
| Specs | Glock 19 | Glock 26 |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger | 9mm Luger |
| Length | 7.26 inches | 6.4 inches |
| Height | 4.99 | 4.17 inches |
| Width/Thickness | 1.18 | 1.30 inches |
| Weight | 23.6 | 19.72 |
| Trigger Pull | 28 N | 28 N |
| Barrel | 4.02 inches | 3.43 inches |
Differences in Magazine Capacity
The Glock 19 factory magazine has a capacity of 15 rounds, while that of the G26 is 10 rounds. This is a direct result of variations in size. Gen 4 G26 has a pinky extender version, making the total capacity 11 rounds. When you load the extended magazine, the grip height changes. G26's grip height increases after installing the extended magazine, almost at par with G19's.
G19, whether single or double-stack, comes with the advantage of magazine compatibility. It means that you can install the gun's magazine in G26 and, in turn, increase G26's capacity. You can even use the Glock 17 or Glock 32's magazines in G19 and gain the advantage of capacity. Besides, G19 is compatible with drums.
G19 Vs. G26 - Grip and Hold
The Glock 26 offers a robust two-finger hold as it is equipped with a Flex magazine. Thus, you can manipulate the gun and be sure of accurate shots regardless of the hand you use. If you want to increase the grip, you need to install an extended magazine.
Overall, the grip of the G26 is ideal for small to medium hands. But if it prevents you from acquiring a nice, solid hold, a high-capacity magazine will fix this issue. However, it makes the G26 a thick gun with a short barrel.
The Glock 19 has a three-finger grip, which is long enough for a variety of shooters to hold the gun comfortably. The grip will stick out or protrude a bit if you use a flush magazine. Due to the difference in grip and the resultant hold, many shooters and military professionals keep the G26 as a backup weapon and the G19 as their primary pistol for combat.
Differences in Accuracy & Recoil Between Glock 19 and Glock 26
Bigger guns offer more accuracy, as are G19 and G26. Glock 19 Gen 5 is a highly accurate gun. Besides a larger grip, two features contribute to increasing its accuracy: the new Marksman barrel and the flat front strap of the grip. The new barrel rifling profile of the gun also doubles accuracy at longer ranges of 4" groups at 50 yards.
Another notable factor influencing accuracy is the greater weight. It makes the recoil of the pistol more manageable, which positively affects accuracy. G19 also has a longer sight radius than G26. It minimizes sight deflection and facilitates better alignment with the target.
Glock 26's accuracy is not bad. If you know how to grip it in a way that provides a secure hold and select the right ammunition, it's easy to experience remarkable accuracy. Glock integrated G26 with a recoil spring feature to enhance accuracy by decreasing muzzle flip. However, if you are used to the softer-shooting G19, you will feel the muzzle flip and the recoil with G26.
Nevertheless, the gun absorbs considerable recoil for its compact size. Also, by installing an extended 12+1 magazine, shooters can experience increased accuracy.
Glock 19 vs 26 - Trigger and Safety Controls
Trigger and safety features on both the Glock models are quite similar. Both come with the Glock's patented Safe Action trigger system. There is a split trigger with three passive mechanical safeties in the gun. These safeties disengage one by one as the trigger is pulled. When you release the trigger the safeties are re-engaged.
The trigger pull weight of G19 and G26 is 6.3 lbs. But G19 has a trigger distance of 2.80 inches, while G26 measures at 2.83 inches. Both the models offer consistent trigger pull from the first to the last rounds.
Differences in Sights and Optics
There are no significant differences between the original Glock sights that come with the two pistols. The models sport Glock U-dot sights. They have duck-tailed rear sights with a front screw. The Modular Optic System (MOS) configuration on the pistols enables you to find sights specific to your needs and mount them on your chosen pistol. G19 has a Picatinny rail slot. So, you can attach lasers and lights. This feature is absent in G26.
In G26, the slide has a MOS configuration. This allows you to mount a reflex sight on its slide. You don't need a separate slide or a mounting system. G19 has many adapter plates. This lets you mount several subcompact electronic sights to the rear of the slide of the gun.
Price Variations Between G19 and G26
There's little difference between the two Glocks in terms of price. Both are on the pricier side but worth the investment. The average cost of G19 is $500, while G26's is slightly above $500. The difference is minute and does not make G26 way more expensive than G19. Also, it is never wise to decide between the two pistols based on price. Consider the various features and then invest in an appropriate model.
The Bottom Line on Glock 19 Vs. Glock 26
Based on the differences in the features discussed above, the Glock 19 scores at many points over G26. It has a higher capacity, more magazine compatibility, recoil management, and a longer sight radius. However, this doesn't make G26 a poor choice at all. It scores over G19 in terms of concealability and IWB-carry weapon. People with small hands can grip the G26 easily and may find it to be more comfortable than the G19. It offers the ideal blend of portability and performance. Ultimately, you should test out both the guns yourself and find the one that feels the best for your needs.
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