As a seasoned firearm enthusiast and concealed carry practitioner, I've had my fair share of experiences with various handguns. Today, I'm excited to dive deep into the world of Glock pistols, specifically the Glock 34 vs Glock 17.
Both of these iconic handguns have earned their stripes in the realm of self-defense, competition shooting, and law enforcement. In this comprehensive comparison, we'll explore the nuances of these two pistols, helping you make an informed choice based on your needs and preferences.
GLOCK 17 VS 34 SPECS
Let's open up with a quick breakdown of the main differences between Glock 34 vs Glock 17, shall we?
|
|
Glock 34 |
Glock 17 |
|
Caliber |
9x19mm (9mm Luger) |
9x19mm (9mm Luger) |
|
Action |
Striker Single-Action (SA) |
Striker Single-Action (SA) |
| Weight (empy mag) |
25.93 oz |
24.87 oz |
|
Overall Width |
1.3 inch |
1.26 inch |
|
Overall Length |
8.82 inch |
8.03 inch |
|
Barrel Length |
5.31 inch |
4.49 inch |
|
Magazine |
Double stack |
Double stack |
|
Mag Capacity |
17+1 rounds (standard mag) |
17+1 rounds (standard mag) |
| Safety | Safe Action® |
Safe Action® |
| MSRP | $679.00 |
$599.00 |
Glock 17 VS 34 - Size Chart
Source: handgunhero.com
As you can see, the Glock 34 (on the right) is quite longer than the Glock 17 (on the left), meaning it's a bit more difficult to conceal. However, it's not always all about concealment, especially when it comes to full-sized pistols, so let's continue with the main features both pistols bring to the table before we rule the final verdict.
GLOCK 34 VS. GLOCK 17: DESIGN AND FEATURES
GLOCK 34: DESIGN AND KEY FEATURES
The Glock 34 is built upon the same platform as the Glock 17 but with a few notable differences. It sports an extended barrel, measuring 5.31 inches, making it ideal for precision shooting. The longer sight radius enhances accuracy, and the adjustable rear sights allow shooters to fine-tune their point of impact. Its polymer frame, like that of the Glock 17, offers a comfortable grip and impressive durability.
The Glock 34 typically features a standard magazine capacity of 17 rounds of 9mm ammunition, providing ample firepower for both competition and self-defense scenarios. Its light recoil and smooth trigger pull make it a joy to shoot, and it's often praised for its reliability.
GLOCK 17: DESIGN AND KEY FEATURES
The Glock 17 is known for its straightforward design and battle-tested features. It comes with a standard 4.49-inch barrel and fixed sights. Like its sibling, it features a polymer frame that strikes a balance between weight and durability. The Glock 17 boasts a magazine capacity of 17 rounds, identical to that of the Glock 34, ensuring you have sufficient rounds at your disposal.
One of the Glock 17's standout features is its simplicity. It's a no-nonsense firearm that prioritizes reliability and ease of use. The trigger pull is consistent, and it has minimal recoil, making it suitable for shooters of all skill levels.
GLOCK 34 VS. GLOCK 17: PERFORMANCE AND HANDLING
GLOCK 34: PERFORMANCE REVIEW
When it comes to performance, the Glock 34 shines as a competition pistol. Its longer barrel and sight radius enhance accuracy, allowing for tight shot groups. The adjustable sights enable precise adjustments for various loads and distances, a significant advantage in competitive shooting.
The Glock 34's trigger pull is crisp, and the reset is short and tactile. These attributes aid in rapid and accurate follow-up shots. Recoil management is excellent, and the pistol returns to target effortlessly, allowing for faster split times.
In terms of handling, the Glock 34 is slightly longer and heavier than the Glock 17, which can be a drawback for concealed carry. However, these dimensions contribute to reduced felt recoil and enhanced stability during rapid fire. If your primary use is competition or home defense, the Glock 34 is a top performer.
Glock 17: PERFORMANCE REVIEW
The Glock 17, with its shorter barrel, remains an excellent performer in its own right. It offers a balanced combination of accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. While it may not have the extended sight radius of the Glock 34, it remains more than capable of hitting center mass consistently.
The Glock 17's trigger pull and reset are predictable, making it a great choice for self-defense scenarios. Recoil is manageable, and the pistol returns to target quickly. It strikes a harmonious balance between size, capacity, and performance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Handling? The Glock 17's compact dimensions make it versatile—comfortably carried for concealed carry, but it's equally at home as a duty or home defense weapon. Its reliability is legendary, making it a trusted companion for those who prioritize simplicity and effectiveness.
GLOCK 34 VS. GLOCK 17: ERGONOMICS
GLOCK 34: GRIP AND COMFORT
The Glock 34's grip offers ample space for a full, firm hold. The textured surface provides excellent traction, ensuring a secure grip even in adverse conditions. However, due to its longer slide and barrel, the Glock 34 may feel slightly front-heavy to some shooters. This characteristic can impact the balance during extended shooting sessions.
While the Glock 34 is comfortable to shoot, it may not be the first choice for concealed carry due to its extended dimensions. Carrying it discreetly may require specific holsters and clothing choices to accommodate the longer slide.
GLOCK 17: GRIP AND COMFORT
The Glock 17's grip design is renowned for its simplicity and functionality. Its ergonomic contours fit well in most hands, and the textured surface offers a secure hold. Shooters with varying hand sizes often find the Glock 17's grip comfortable, and it accommodates extended magazines for those who desire increased capacity.
The Glock 17's balanced weight distribution contributes to its comfortable handling. It's a pistol that can be carried comfortably for concealed carry while still providing a substantial magazine capacity. This versatility in both grip comfort and concealability is one of its standout features.
GLOCK 34 VS. GLOCK 17: MODULARITY AND CUSTOMIZATION
G 34: MODULARITY AND CUSTOMIZATION OPTIONS
Glock pistols, in general, are known for their modularity and customization options, and the Glock 34 is no exception. It features the same accessory rail as the Glock 17, allowing for the attachment of lights, lasers, or other accessories. The market offers a plethora of aftermarket parts and upgrades, including extended slide releases, trigger upgrades, and custom slide milling.
This modularity allows shooters to tailor their Glock 34 to their specific needs, whether it's for competition, duty use, or home defense. It's a canvas waiting for you to paint your preferences.
GLOCK 17: MODULARITY AND CUSTOMIZATION OPTIONS
The Glock 17 shares the same modularity and customization options as its sibling, the Glock 34. The accessory rail permits the attachment of various accessories to enhance its capabilities. Whether you prefer a tactical light for home defense or a red dot sight for improved accuracy, the Glock 17 can accommodate your choices.
Aftermarket support for the Glock 17 is extensive, with a wide range of parts and upgrades available. This allows you to fine-tune your pistol to meet your specific requirements, whether you're a competitive shooter, a law enforcement officer, or a responsible civilian.
GLOCK 34 VS 17: PRO AND CONS
Glock 34: Advantages and disadvantages
Here's the main advantages of the Glock 34:
- Excellent accuracy for competitive shooting.
- Adjustable sights for precise targeting.
- Light recoil for rapid follow-up shots.
- Ample customization options.
- Identical magazine compatibility with Glock 17.
But as nothing is perfect, here's also some disadvantages of Glock 34:
- Less concealable due to extended dimensions.
- May feel front-heavy to some shooters.
- Limited suitability for everyday carry.
GLOCK 17: ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES
Now let's take a look at advantages of Glock 17:
- Versatile size for concealed carry, duty, or home defense.
- Balanced weight distribution for comfortable handling.
- Proven reliability and simplicity.
- Compatibility with Glock 34 magazines for added capacity.
- Extensive aftermarket support.
There are also some disadvantages of Glock 17 that need to be discussed, though:
- Slightly reduced accuracy compared to the Glock 34.
- Fixed sights with less adjustment capability.
- Limited magazine capacity for competitive shooting.
GLOCK 34 VS. GLOCK 17: REAL-WORLD CONSIDERATIONS
GLOCK 34: PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
When considering the practical applications of the Glock 34, it's clear that it's tailored for competitive shooting and specific law enforcement roles. Its extended barrel and adjustable sights are optimized for precision and target-focused shooting. If you're a dedicated competitive shooter or a law enforcement officer looking for a duty pistol with enhanced accuracy, the Glock 34 should be on your shortlist.
However, for everyday carry or concealed carry purposes, the Glock 34 may present challenges due to its extended dimensions. Concealing a pistol with an 8.82-inch length can be cumbersome, and it may limit your holster options. Additionally, the front-heavy feel of the Glock 34 can affect comfort during extended carry.
GLOCK 17: PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
The Glock 17's practical applications are broad and diverse, making it a versatile choice for various scenarios. Its compact size, relative to the Glock 34, makes it well-suited for concealed carry. With the right holster and clothing choices, you can comfortably carry the Glock 17 throughout the day.
For law enforcement officers, the Glock 17's reliability and capacity are significant advantages. It's a pistol you can trust in high-stress situations, and its compatibility with Glock 34 magazines allows for increased capacity when needed.
In home defense scenarios, the Glock 17 shines. Its ease of use, dependable operation, and compatibility with various accessories make it a top choice for those looking to safeguard their homes and loved ones.
GLOCK 34 VS. GLOCK 17: FINAL THOUGHTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The Glock 34 is a precision tool designed for competitive shooting and specialized law enforcement roles. Its extended barrel, adjustable sights, and superb accuracy make it a standout choice in these domains. However, its suitability for concealed carry is limited due to its extended dimensions.
On the other hand, the Glock 17 is the quintessential do-it-all pistol. Its versatility shines in concealed carry, duty use, and home defense scenarios. Its reputation for reliability, ease of use, and compatibility with a wide range of accessories make it an excellent choice for shooters of all backgrounds.
Ultimately, the choice between the Glock 34 and Glock 17 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If precision shooting or a specialized law enforcement role is your focus, the Glock 34 is an excellent investment. For those seeking an all-purpose handgun that excels in various real-world scenarios, the Glock 17 is the way to go.
Remember to consider your intended use, holster options, and personal comfort when making your decision. Whichever Glock model you choose, you can trust the excellent quality of Craft Holsters’ Glock 17 holster or Glock 34 holster—as well as the Glock legacy itself—for top-shelf reliability and performance.