The world of firearms is vast and varied, offering a multitude of choices for both personal defense and recreational shooting. Among the most recognizable and reliable handguns on the market, the Glock series holds a special place. Known for their simplicity, durability, and consistent performance, Glocks have become ubiquitous among law enforcement, military personnel, and civilians alike. Within the Glock family, two models stand out as popular choices: the Glock 20 and the Glock 17. Deciding between these two can be a challenge, as both offer distinct advantages and cater to different needs. This article dives deep into a detailed comparison of the Glock 20 and Glock 17, exploring their calibers, sizes, capacities, performance characteristics, intended uses, and price points. Ultimately, the goal is to provide readers with the comprehensive knowledge needed to make an informed decision about which Glock is the perfect fit.
Power at Your Fingertips: Caliber and Ballistic Capabilities
One of the most fundamental distinctions between the Glock 20 and Glock 17 lies in their chosen cartridge. The Glock 17 is chambered in the ubiquitous 9x19mm Parabellum, often referred to as 9mm Luger. This round has achieved legendary status due to its widespread adoption, easily obtainable ammunition, and a good balance of power, controllability, and affordability. The 9mm’s relatively low recoil makes it a favorite among shooters of all experience levels, allowing for quicker follow-up shots and greater accuracy.
In contrast, the Glock 20 chambers the potent 10mm Auto cartridge. This round packs significantly more energy compared to the 9mm, resulting in greater stopping power and a more substantial impact on target. The 10mm Auto is renowned for its effectiveness in self-defense scenarios against larger threats and even for hunting medium-sized game. This additional power comes at a cost, however. The 10mm cartridge generates considerably more recoil than the 9mm, which can affect a shooter’s ability to maintain control, especially during rapid fire.
Considering the difference in cartridge, it’s important to understand the ballistic performance implications. The 9mm delivers reliable stopping power that’s effective for self-defense and range shooting. The 10mm, on the other hand, offers increased penetration and a flatter trajectory, making it a viable option for hunting and situations where greater barrier penetration is necessary. The 9mm’s popularity has translated to an incredibly wide variety of available ammunition types, from practice rounds to sophisticated self-defense loads. The 10mm, while not as widely available, still enjoys a healthy selection of specialized ammunition, catering to different applications and preferences. The choice of caliber comes down to prioritizing stopping power and performance or maximizing ammunition availability and comfortable shooting.
Perfecting the Fit: Size, Form, and Dimensions
Both the Glock 20 and Glock 17 are built upon the same foundation: the full-size Glock frame. This means that both handguns share similar dimensions, making them both easy to handle and shoot. This contributes to the Glock 17 and 20’s widespread appeal, delivering a comfortable grip and excellent balance.
The Glock 17 has a length that allows for good control and easy handling, with an ideal height, width, and weight. This makes it a suitable choice for a wide range of shooters, from beginners to experienced professionals. The Glock 17’s design strikes an excellent balance between concealability and comfortable shooting.
The Glock 20, while also sharing a full-size frame, has a slightly increased footprint due to the larger 10mm cartridge it houses. This includes an overall increase in length, height, width, and a marginal increase in weight compared to the Glock 17. However, the differences in size are not drastic. The grip and overall ergonomics remain familiar, allowing for a comfortable and effective shooting experience.
The difference in size is especially relevant for individuals who plan to carry their handgun concealed. The Glock 17, with its slightly smaller dimensions and lighter weight, might be more comfortable for concealed carry. For those prioritizing power over absolute concealability, the Glock 20 can still be carried effectively with the right holster and clothing choices. Overall, the Glock 20 and 17 are similar, both fitting well in the hands of most shooters, and a few millimeters here or there may not make a huge difference in your decision.
Storing More: Magazine Capacity and Ammunition Management
The magazine capacity is another significant factor to consider when evaluating the Glock 20 and Glock 17. The Glock 17 comes standard with a high-capacity magazine. These magazines contribute to its popularity for both self-defense and competition shooting scenarios, where rapid and sustained firing is crucial. The availability of extended magazines for the Glock 17 further enhances its firepower, allowing shooters to carry a larger number of rounds.
The Glock 20, on the other hand, is standard with a magazine that holds a slightly lower capacity than the Glock 17. This difference is because the 10mm Auto cartridge is larger than the 9mm. Although the capacity is lower, the Glock 20 still provides a reasonable number of rounds for self-defense situations. Similar to the Glock 17, extended magazines are available for the Glock 20, enabling shooters to increase their ammunition supply.
The choice between the two comes down to balancing the availability of additional firepower and the preference for a lighter firearm. While the Glock 17 typically holds more rounds in its standard configuration, the Glock 20 still offers a considerable number of shots, even with its slightly lower capacity. The option to utilize extended magazines in either model further enhances the firepower of either handgun. The price and availability of magazines are a factor to consider as well, as they impact the overall ownership experience.
Same Foundations, Distinct Personalities: Features and Design Variations
Despite their core similarities, the Glock 20 and Glock 17 have some differences in features and design elements. Both pistols share the same core features that define the Glock brand. These include the Safe Action system, a built-in safety mechanism that makes the pistol ready to fire by simply pulling the trigger. The polymer frame provides lightweight durability, along with the familiar Glock sights.
The primary difference between the two lies in their slide thickness and internal components. The slide on the Glock 20 is slightly wider and more robust to accommodate the larger 10mm Auto cartridge. This construction contributes to the handgun’s durability and its ability to withstand the increased forces generated by the 10mm round. Inside, the Glock 20’s internal components, such as the recoil spring assembly, are specifically designed to handle the 10mm’s greater recoil.
Aftermarket accessories and modifications are readily available for both the Glock 20 and Glock 17. This allows shooters to customize their handguns to meet their specific needs and preferences. From upgraded sights and trigger systems to extended magazine releases and grip modifications, a wide array of aftermarket components can be added to either model. This allows owners to personalize their pistols for improved accuracy, ergonomics, or aesthetics.
On the Range: Performance, Handling, and the Shooting Experience
The shooting experience with the Glock 17 is typically marked by its user-friendly nature. The 9mm Luger round’s lower recoil allows for greater control and a faster follow-up shot, making it a great choice for target practice and competitive shooting. Its smooth trigger pull and ergonomic design contribute to a comfortable and accurate shooting experience, even for extended periods.
The Glock 20, on the other hand, presents a different shooting experience. The higher recoil generated by the 10mm Auto cartridge means it’s more challenging to control. While experienced shooters can manage the recoil with ease, new shooters might find that it requires more focus and practice. The Glock 20’s heavier frame contributes to absorbing some of the recoil, making it easier to handle.
Accuracy potential is similar in both handguns, but the 10mm’s greater velocity can offer some advantages in certain circumstances. This makes the Glock 20 a viable option for longer-range shooting, where the flatter trajectory of the 10mm can be beneficial. Mastering the Glock 20 requires more practice to refine shooting skills and build the muscle memory needed for proper recoil control.
Where Will It Serve You? Intended Use and Application
The intended use of the Glock 17 has a broad appeal. Its reliability, accuracy, and capacity make it a popular choice for self-defense, home defense, and law enforcement applications. The 9mm Luger is widely recognized for its effective performance, making the Glock 17 a trusted tool for both civilian and professional users. The Glock 17’s widespread adoption by law enforcement agencies speaks volumes about its dependability and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
The Glock 20 is best suited for applications where greater stopping power is desired. It is a popular option for hunting medium-sized game, offering the energy to take down animals at a moderate range. Many people who live in areas with dangerous predators, such as bears or big cats, choose the Glock 20 as a powerful self-defense option. Its robust performance makes it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable handgun for protection during their adventures.
The Bottom Line: Price and Market Availability
In general, both the Glock 17 and Glock 20 have similar price points, making them an affordable option. Glock’s popularity means that they are easy to find at most gun retailers. However, factors such as market demand, location, and condition can influence prices. Used Glocks are also common, and generally cost less than new models. It is recommended to check with multiple gun shops or online retailers to compare prices and find the best deals.
The availability of ammunition is another key factor. The 9mm Luger rounds are far more accessible and can usually be found at most sporting goods stores. The 10mm Auto, while still available, is less common and may be more expensive. It is important to factor in the price and availability of ammunition when considering the overall cost of ownership of the Glock 20 and Glock 17.
Weighing the Options: Pros and Cons in a Glance
When comparing the Glock 20 and Glock 17, it’s helpful to consider their respective strengths and weaknesses in a simplified manner.
The Glock 17 has the following advantages:
- Lower recoil, making it easier to control.
- Higher magazine capacity.
- More readily available and affordable ammunition.
- Wide selection of aftermarket accessories.
However, the Glock 17 has the following potential drawbacks:
- Slightly less stopping power than the 10mm.
The Glock 20 provides the following benefits:
- Greater stopping power due to the more powerful 10mm Auto round.
- More suitable for hunting and protection against larger threats.
- Can be effective at longer ranges.
However, the Glock 20’s disadvantages include:
- Higher recoil, which takes practice to control.
- Higher ammunition cost and sometimes limited availability.
Final Thoughts and the Best Fit For You
Making the right decision between the Glock 20 and Glock 17 involves carefully evaluating your personal needs and priorities. The Glock 17 shines as a versatile choice for self-defense, home defense, and recreational shooting. The lower recoil and high capacity make it a pleasure to shoot, and the abundance of available ammunition provides convenience and affordability. For those looking for a reliable, easy-to-handle handgun, the Glock 17 is the perfect choice.
The Glock 20, however, is ideal for those who prioritize stopping power and the ability to defend against larger threats. This is best for hunting medium-sized game or when greater energy is required for self-defense. Although the higher recoil may present a challenge for some, the added power provides an added measure of security.
Ultimately, the choice between the Glock 20 and Glock 17 hinges on individual preferences and shooting applications. Consider your specific needs, including your level of experience, the anticipated uses of the handgun, and the environment where you will be using it. It’s highly recommended that you try both models at a range to experience the feel and shooting performance firsthand. By doing so, you can make an educated decision and select the Glock that best suits your individual requirements.
Remember to comply with all local laws and regulations regarding firearm ownership and use. Always prioritize safe gun handling practices and seek proper training before operating any firearm.
