Glock Models for Concealed Carry: Detailed Look at the Glock 19, 45, 47, and 48

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When considering Glock models for concealed carry, it’s essential to look at factors like size, weight, ammunition capacity, sight radius, and overall comfort. Let’s compare four popular Glock models: the Glock 19, Glock 45, Glock 47, and Glock 48, focusing on their advantages and disadvantages for concealed carry.

1. Glock 19

Specifications:

  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Capacity: 15+1 rounds
  • Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
  • Overall Length: 7.36 inches
  • Weight: 23.63 oz (unloaded)
  • Sight Radius: 6.02 inches

Pros:

  • Versatility: The Glock 19 is often considered the perfect size for concealed carry and general use. Its compact frame allows it to be carried comfortably while still offering the full capacity of 15 rounds.
  • Aftermarket Support: One of the most popular models, meaning a wide variety of aftermarket parts and accessories are available.
  • Balanced Accuracy: The 4.02-inch barrel offers a good balance between accuracy and portability.

Cons:

  • Not the Smallest: While compact, it’s not the smallest option, which might be a consideration for those needing deep concealment or with smaller body frames.

Ideal For: A great all-around option for those who want to balance capacity, concealability, and performance.

2. Glock 45

Specifications:

  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Capacity: 17+1 rounds
  • Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
  • Overall Length: 7.44 inches
  • Weight: 24.98 oz (unloaded)
  • Sight Radius: 6.14 inches

Pros:

  • Full-Size Grip: This model features a full-size frame (like the Glock 17) with a compact slide length. This provides excellent control for shooters with larger hands while retaining a shorter overall length for easier concealment.
  • Ammo Capacity: The 17+1 capacity offers more rounds than the Glock 19, making it appealing for those who want extra ammo in a concealed carry situation.
  • MOS Option: Like the Glock 19, it also comes in a MOS (Modular Optic System) version for mounting red dots, enhancing sight acquisition speed.

Cons:

  • Grip Length: The full-size grip, while offering more control, makes concealment a bit more challenging compared to the Glock 19.

Ideal For: Shooters who prioritize comfort in grip and high capacity, but still want a gun that is manageable for concealed carry with the right setup.

3. Glock 47

Specifications:

  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Capacity: 17+1 rounds
  • Barrel Length: 4.49 inches
  • Overall Length: 7.95 inches
  • Weight: 25.93 oz (unloaded)
  • Sight Radius: 6.46 inches

Pros:

  • Interchangeability: The Glock 47 offers parts compatibility with the Glock 19, allowing shooters to swap the slide between the two models, offering more modularity for different carry needs.
  • Slightly Longer Sight Radius: The longer sight radius (6.46 inches) makes this model more accurate at longer distances compared to the Glock 19 or Glock 45.
  • MOS Optics: Like the Glock 19 and 45, it’s available in an MOS version for mounting optics.

Cons:

  • Larger Frame: The Glock 47’s frame is nearly identical to the Glock 17, meaning it’s harder to conceal for most users compared to the Glock 19 or Glock 48.
  • Heavier: Heavier than the Glock 19, which can be noticeable when carrying for long periods.

Ideal For: Shooters who want a larger platform with increased accuracy and modularity but are comfortable managing a larger firearm for concealed carry.

4. Glock 48

Specifications:

  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Capacity: 10+1 rounds
  • Barrel Length: 4.17 inches
  • Overall Length: 7.28 inches
  • Weight: 20.74 oz (unloaded)
  • Sight Radius: 5.98 inches

Pros:

  • Slimline Design: One of Glock’s most compact 9mm handguns with a single-stack design, making it incredibly thin and easy to conceal, especially for those with smaller frames.
  • Lighter Weight: At just 20.74 oz, the Glock 48 is significantly lighter than the Glock 19 or 45, making it easier to carry for extended periods.
  • Comfortable Grip: The longer grip compared to other single-stack models ensures shooters still have good control while keeping the gun narrow for concealment.

Cons:

  • Lower Capacity: With only 10+1 rounds, the capacity is much lower compared to the double-stack models like the Glock 19 or 45. However, aftermarket magazines (like Shield Arms) can increase capacity to 15 rounds.
  • Less Versatile: While it excels in concealment, the Glock 48 may not be as versatile for other uses like home defense due to its reduced capacity.

Ideal For: Those who prioritize concealability and comfort in a slimline frame over capacity but still want a 9mm Glock.

Overall Summary

  • Glock 19: Best for overall versatility. It’s a jack-of-all-trades, combining capacity and concealability.
  • Glock 45: Ideal for shooters wanting a full grip and higher ammo capacity while still being somewhat concealable.
  • Glock 47: Suitable for those looking for maximum modularity and accuracy, although it’s bulkier for concealed carry.
  • Glock 48: Perfect for deep concealment and lightweight carry, but with lower capacity.

In conclusion, choosing the right Glock for concealed carry depends on your personal priorities, including size, capacity, and comfort. The Glock 19 strikes an excellent balance between capacity and concealability, making it a versatile option for most users. The Glock 45 offers a full-size grip with higher ammo capacity, ideal for those who prefer more control and don’t mind a slightly larger frame. The Glock 47 provides increased accuracy and modularity but sacrifices some ease of concealment. Finally, the Glock 48 is the top choice for those who prioritize lightweight and slim design, even at the cost of reduced capacity.

Each model has its unique strengths, and the best choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, body type, and comfort with carrying larger or smaller firearms. Whether you prioritize concealment, ammo capacity, or shooting precision, Glock offers a variety of models to suit your concealed carry preferences.

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