Glock 47 vs Glock 17: What's the Difference?

The Glock has been one of the most successful handguns in the U.S. The Glock 17 is one of the oldest and most reliable Glocks produced by Gaston. This semi-automatic striker-fired pistol was a highly accurate pistol and, over the years, underwent various evolutionary changes. In 2019, the Glock 47 was released for the U.S. Secret Service and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is similar in look and size to the Glock 17 but differs in many aspects. In this post, we'll compare Glock 47 vs Glock 17 so you can understand what makes each of these capable pistols unique.

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Glock 47 Vs 17 – Size and Specifications

This table compares the size and main specifications of the G 47 and 17.

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Differences in Design 

Both the G17 and 47 have some design similarities and differences. Both are full-sized with the same barrel length. They have the GLOCK Marksman Barrel (GMB) for better accuracy and widened mag-well for speed loading. Both the pistols have proven nDLC finish and front serrations.

A major difference between the guns is the slide of the Glock 47, which is cut for Modular Optics System (MOS). The MOS adapter plates of the pistol mount between the slide and optic. You can find them for many common dot optics. Additionally, the shortened dust cover of the Glock 45 compared to the Glock 17 makes it compatible with the internal parts of the Gen 5 versions of the Glock 17 and 19.

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Glock 47 Vs. Glock 17 - Modularity

The biggest difference between the Glock 47 and 17 is modularity or the availability of many interchangeable parts and upgrades. Glock 47 is fully modular because of the shortened dust cover, which means you can customize it to suit your preferences. You can replace the slide of the G47 with the G19 and get a pistol with new features.

If you want concealability, use a Glock 19 slide or barrel on the G47. Alternatively, use the slide of your Glock 47 in the Glock 45 with optics and get an optics-ready gun.

The commonality in the internal parts simplifies the assembly process and logistics, which is what many armed professionals want. This modularity is not present in the Glock 17, making the Glock 47 more versatile.

Differences in Trigger Pull

The Gen 5 Glock 17 and 47 have updated and improved triggers. They allow for a smooth break and quick reset. G17's trigger pull weight is 5.4 pounds, which is considered moderate to light. The updated design of the trigger and the light pull weight help with accurate shooting.

The Glock 47's trigger pull weighs 4 pounds 10 ounces. It is light and thus facilitates a seamless trigger action. The light trigger, with a quick reset, enhances the accuracy of the shooter.

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Recoil and Accuracy Comparison

There is no real difference in recoil impulse and accuracy of the Glock 17 and 47. Both are highly accurate because of their updated features. The Glock 17 gives perfect shots at various yards with varying loads and ammo. The improved barrel updated sight radius, and absence of finger grooves contribute to its accuracy.

Similarly, the Glock 47 is accurate at various distances because of the updated ergonomics. Even if your hands are unsteady, you can get pretty decent shots from the gun.

There is no significant difference between the recoil impulse of Glock 17 and 47. However, on close observation, the G47 is slightly snappier than the G17. This is because of its shorter recoil assembly, which is similar to that of the G19. This is not the case with the Glock 17, whose weight and size help absorb a lot of recoil impulses.

Comparison Between Ergonomics

The Glock 47 is the most ergonomic gun as it has a little bit of the G19 and G45 in its frame and the comfortable, full-size grip of the Glock 17. It has the best features of different guns in the Glock family.

The ambidextrous slide release levers are easy to manipulate. The enlarged and reversible magazine catch gives a large, rounded surface and is ideal for lefties during dynamic shooting. Moreover, the longer sight radius of the G47 contributes to enhanced precision when shooting at longer distances.

If you are used to a full-sized firearm, the Glock 17 will fit your needs. The enhanced barrel, lack of finger grooves, and a flared mag-well contribute to its ease of use. It also has a slightly tapered muzzle to assist in holstering. The weight of the firearm is well distributed, which helps in recoil absorption and comfort.

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Glock 47 Vs. Glock 17 for Concealed Carry

Both the Glock models are full-sized and designed for proactive self-defense. However, since the Glock 47 supports modularity, you can make it concealable. Swap the slides with the Glock 19 to make the gun concealable. Note that this will not reduce the pistol's weight, which will be heavier than the G19.

Swapping parts is not possible with the Glock 17. You can conceal-carry it only with a large trench coat. If you are short, disguising the pistol and comfortably carrying it can become more problematic. So, to be on the safe side, find a good outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster for your gun.

Glock 47 Vs. Glock 17 - Which One Should You Choose?

The Glock 47 is an upgraded version of the Glock 17. If you want a pistol with high capacity that can be manageably concealed, go with it. Its modularity makes it a convenient weapon, especially for those who need to switch between concealed and open carry. Essentially, a Glock 47 has everything that the Glock 17 offers except for the short recoil spring. So, it is a more practical option. However, if you already own a Glock 17, there's no need to rush for the G47.

You won't notice any differences in the shootability of these pistols. Both perform equally well and are accurate. There is also a lot of aftermarket support available to customize the pistols. Still, we will ask you to try both these models and select the one that feels comfortable and ergonomically sound. When you've made a selection, get a strong leather holster customized to it. Our collection at Wright Leather Works will serve you well.