Glock pistols are very popular handguns. There’s no way around that. Their ease of use, legendary reliability and lightweight polymer frames have firmly entrenched them in the minds of shooters all around the country as extremely reliable and versatile handguns.
But if you’re going to build one and are looking for a lower parts kit for a Glock 17 or 19, and you’re trying to make a decision about which one is better for you, here are a few things you should know.
G17 vs. G19: Specs and Differences
At first glance, both the G17 and G19 are very similar handguns. They both feature nearly indistinguishable aesthetics and are chambered in the 9x19mm cartridge, so in terms of firepower, there’s basically no difference.
Dimensions are pretty similar, too. The width and slide width of both guns are identical, at 1” and 1.26”, respectively.
The G17 is slightly larger and heavier than the G19. The G17 has a barrel length of 4.49”, a slide length of 7.32”, and an overall length of 8.03”. It is 5.47” high loaded with a standard mag, and weighs 32.28oz with a loaded mag.
The G19 is billed as a compact handgun and is subsequently smaller. The G19 has a barrel length of 4.02”, a slide length of 6.85”, and an overall length of 7.36”. It is 5.04” high with a loaded standard mag and weighs 30.16oz.
Other features, like the Glock Safe Action trigger and compatibility with many shooting accessories, are the same for both pistols, so the main difference comes down to size and weight.
G17 vs. G19: Concealability
Both the G17 and G19 handguns have fairly small footprints, but the nod simply has to go to the G19. It’s a smaller, lighter handgun.
The width of both guns is the same, but the smaller height and length of the G19 will make it slightly easier to conceal in more areas on your frame.
G17 vs. G19: Capacity
Here’s a simple mnemonic device for you: If you have a G17 with a standard mag, it can hold 17 rounds in the mag and 1 in the chamber (17+1) for a total capacity of 18 rounds. The G17 can hold 17 in the mag.
This does not hold true for the G19, which comes with a standard mag that can only hold 15 rounds of the same ammo, with 1 in the chamber for a total capacity of 16 rounds.
So if you’re concerned about capacity, the G17 is the handgun you should choose.
Looking for a Lower Parts Kit for a Glock 17 or 19?
Generally speaking, if you’re looking for a full-size handgun that offers extra capacity, the G17 is your gun, whereas if you’re concerned about concealability, the smaller dimensions of the G19 are superior.
Either way, if you’re looking for a high-quality lower parts kit for a Glock 17 or 19 to complete your own build or make repairs, MCS Gearup has you covered.
Visit their website, MCSGearup.com, for Glock lower parts for Glock-style handguns and contact them at [email protected] or at 239-848-6757.
