Glock 45 is the civilian version of the military-inspired 19X and law enforcement spec Glock pistols. The two are almost identical, sharing the same internals and holsters, 17-round capacity, swappable backstraps, ambi slide release, ambidextrous trigger, forward cocking serrations, flared mag wells and more. The longer grip on the 45 also offers a slight advantage in magazine changes, and in some cases, that hairs-breadth edge could mean life or death in a self-defense scenario.
Barrel Length
The barrel length of a Glock pistol directly impacts the velocity of the bullet. In general, shorter barrels produce less velocity than longer ones. However, this may not be the case with aftermarket barrels that have been modified for specific uses such as adding a compensator. It is important to confirm compatibility with the pistol model and generation before purchasing these components.
Glock recently introduced the G45, which is a new variant that they call a “Compact Crossover.” The G45 retains the compact slide and barrel length of the duty-size Glock 17, but has the grip of the smaller Glock 19. This makes it ideal for uniformed officers who want to carry their gun in plainclothes, or for concealed carry.
Like all Gen 5 models, the G45 has a hard-surface nDLC finish that is resistant to wear and corrosion, and front slide serrations for improved control. The grip has enhanced texture and a flared magazine well that helps simplify reloading in high-stress situations. It also has the ambidextrous slide release levers, an accessory rail and the Modular Beavertail Backstrap System.
Trigger Pull
Glock’s trigger goes “bang” when it’s supposed to, has three levels of safety and is extremely reliable. However, some operators want a slightly smoother or lighter trigger. Several options exist, but the most popular is the Glock Performance Trigger. This trigger uses a single, flat trigger bar that’s positioned directly above the trigger mechanism. It also reduces the distance between the trigger finger and the trigger face, making it more comfortable and improving accuracy.
It features a hard-surface nDLC finish in subdued black and front serrations for positive gripping. It’s designed to provide a consistent shooting experience and is made with OEM parts for improved reliability. It requires a break-in period of a few hundred rounds to ensure proper operation, but most users enjoy the trigger feel and responsiveness after breaking it in. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their Glock 45.
Accuracy
The G45 is a newer gun and is often referred to as a “Compact Crossover.” It has the compact slide and barrel of the G19X but the larger grip of the G17. This combination has made it a popular choice among officers for duty carry but can also be a good option for off-duty and plain-clothes detective work.
Its accuracy is excellent and has proven itself in both rapid-fire drills and a number of tactical training scenarios. Its controls are easy to manage, even when firing multiple rounds in a short period of time, and it handles the recoil impulse well.
The MOS version of the G45 has been engineered to be optics ready and features a milled slide rail and forward slide serrations, making it a great choice for law enforcement. For more information on the G45 please visit Glock’s website.
Weight
Glocks come with a variety of backstrap options to ensure optimal fit and comfort. This is important because the gun will need to be holstered with the attachments in place. The MOS version also comes drilled and tapped for the installation of optics or lights without interfering with the line of sight or ergonomics. This model is compatible with the same holsters that are available for the G17 and G19.
More Words
The Glock 45 is the second iteration of the “crossover” design that Glock pioneered with the 19X. It combines the G17 grip and slide with the Gen 5 frame for enhanced performance. Like the earlier models, it features the Glock Marksman barrel for improved accuracy. It also includes front slide serrations for better purchase during loading and malfunction clearing and a loaded-chamber indicator to confirm that there is a round in the chamber. The pistol also has the nDLC finish for corrosion resistance and is ambidextrous for ease of operation.