Glock 45 and Glock 19 are popular pistols, and they are noted for their accuracy and reliability in self-defense. The G19. which is older than the G45, is a refined and more compact version of its predecessor, the G17. The G45 is a sophisticated take on the G19 and has dimensions that make it exceptionally useful. It is a version that shows GLOCK's desire to keep evolving its pistols and fulfill the needs of modern users. Keep reading as we describe what sets these two compact carry guns apart.
Similarities Between Glock 45 and Glock 19
The size and design of both the Glocks share various similarities. The modular guns are similar in the following aspects:
- Caliber - (9x19mm Luger)
- Barrel length - The Glock 19 and 45 have the same barrel length (4.02 inches)
- Slide - Tenifer-coated ordinance-grade steel slide
- Rear cocking serrations for better grip
- Glock Gen 5 grip without the finger grooves
- Trigger - Safe Action System (No manual safety)
- Ability to install the flat-faced GLOCK Performance Trigger
- GLOCK Marksman Barrel (GMB)
- Quickly reversible magazine catch
- Ambidextrous slide-stop lever
- High visibility orange magazine followers
- Lipped polymer baseplates that make extraction and handling easier
Differences in Size and Weight
G19 and G45 are almost the same in size and design. The G45 is a Compact Crossover pistol because its dimensions are similar to both the sizable Glock 17 and the compact Glock 19. It has the slide length of the G19 and the grip length of the G17. The longer grip length makes the G45 taller than the Glock 19. This makes a substantial difference in ergonomics and handling.
The variation in weight is minimal. The Glock 19 is less than an ounce lighter than the G45. Its smaller dimensions also make it ideal for concealed carry.
| Specs | Glock 45 | Glock 19 |
|---|---|---|
| Length (in inches) | 7.44 | 7.36 |
| Height (in inches) | 5.47 | 4.99 |
| Width (in inches) | 1.34 | 1.26 |
| Weight (in oz) | 24.98 | 23.65 |
| Capacity | 17, 19, 24, 31, 33 (+1) | 17, 19, 24, 31, 33 (+1) |
| MOS version | Available | Available |
| Price | $568 | $637 |
Glock 45 Vs 19 - Grip Length
The most notable difference between G45 and 19 is the grip length. The Glock 45 has a longer grip than the G19. It bears a lot of similarity with Glock 17. The Glock 19's grip is shorter and compact. This difference has an effect on the contact surface area.
The G45 has more contact surface area than the Glock 19. You can get both your hands there and easily handle the recoil of the shorter slide of the Glock 45. The muzzle flip is also easier to handle in the G45 than in the G19 due to the difference in grip length.
Differences in Magwell
Glock 45 comes with a flared mag well for faster reloading. It is not present on the regular Glock 19, and you will need to rely on the aftermarket Magwell compatible with the pistol. The larger opening of the flared mag-well in G45 allows you to funnel the magazine into it quickly during stressful situations where every second matters. This feature also contributes to the ergonomics of the gun.
Comparison of Sights
Glock 45 and Glock 19 are equipped with standard plastic sights of GLOCK. This can differ depending on the model at your local gun store. You can find them with 3-dot steel sights, Tritium night sights, or optical sights. It is important to let go of the plastic sights on your Glock as they are not strong and prone to breaking.
Both the pistols have the MOS version available. Modular Optic System configuration simplifies the mounting of popular optical or reflex sights, which improves the accuracy at different ranges. They enable faster target transition and sight acquisition of the target.
Glock 45 Vs. 19 - Capacity
The Glock 45 has a standard capacity of 17 rounds, more than the 15-round capacity of the Glock 19. Also, the Glock 45 is compatible with 19 to 33-round 9mm Luger magazines. However, it is possible to increase the capacity of your Glock via an extended magazine.
Note that doing so will extend the length of the gun's grip. You can also use a base pad to add five extra rounds in 9mm and four rounds in 40 Caliber to the magazine. The largest capacity of the Glock 19 using these tools is 33 rounds, similar to the G45.
Differences in Recoil
Recoil management is easier in the Glock 45 due to the longer grip length. You can keep a firmer grasp, which minimizes muzzle rise. The ergonomics of the gun make it ideal for shooters with large hands to manage recoil pretty well. The slightly longer grip of the Glock 45 also affects weight distribution. It distributes the weight in a more stable way than the Glock 19 and so helps manage recoil.
If it's the first time you are using the Glock 19, you will not experience much recoil. The mid-size pistol absorbs recoil better than smaller Glocks. Its low bore axis and polymer frame also minimize recoil. If you wish to decrease the recoil further, use light loads, like 115-grain bullets or slower bullets.
Differences in Accuracy
Both the G45 and 19 have proven to be pretty accurate at 25 yards. You can notice some slight variations at longer distances, between 50 and 100 yards. There is a 1/4-inch difference in the length of the slide between the Glock 45 and 19. The G45's slide is slightly shorter than the G19. However, this does not impact the length of sight radius and barrel.
The sight radius of both the Glock is more than 6-inches. It is enough to see the target precisely. The full-sized grip further enhances the G45's accuracy. If you have a Glock 19, you can customize its sights and ensure proper alignment with them for high accuracy.
Glock 45 Vs. 19 for Concealed Carry
The G45 is heavier and longer than the Glock 19. This makes concealing it more difficult than the Glock 19. The G19 is good for CCW and home defense. Its Glock 19 is another important contributor to concealment. If you are tall and have large hands, the Glock 45 will suit you better. Just make sure that you don't wear tight clothing.
With the right holster customized to the ergonomic design of the G45, concealing the gun and using it effectively is possible. Appendix carry (AIWB) or strong-side IWB holsters are good options for concealment. If your Glock 45 has a tactical light or a laser sight, buy a holster designed to fit the specific combination of your Glock and device.
Final Verdict
The Glock 45 and 19 are high-quality self-defense pistols. The Glock 45 is a modern version of the Glock 19, with better ergonomics, particularly the longer grip length. Its higher capacity also adds to its popularity. However, if you wish for a customizable CCW weapon, the Glock 19 will be ideal. It has been in the market more than the G45 and so has a lot of aftermarket support. If you haven't used any of these guns before, try out Glock 45 first. Except for the size and grip length, it is almost similar to the G19. As always, make sure to use a suitable holster tailored for your gun for the best carry experience.
Leave a comment (all fields required)