The Glock 20 Gen 5 has quickly become a favorite among both seasoned shooters and newcomers to the 10mm platform. This review dives deep into its features, performance, and overall suitability for various applications, offering a comprehensive assessment for potential buyers. We'll explore its strengths and weaknesses, helping you determine if the Glock 20 Gen 5 is the right 10mm handgun for you.
What Makes the Glock 20 Gen 5 Stand Out?
The Glock 20 Gen 5 builds upon the already reliable reputation of its predecessors, incorporating several key improvements. These enhancements contribute to a more refined shooting experience and enhanced performance.
Enhanced Features of the Gen 5:
- Improved Trigger: The Gen 5 boasts a significantly improved trigger pull, offering a cleaner break and more consistent performance compared to previous generations. This enhancement contributes to improved accuracy and overall shootability.
- Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever: Catering to both right-handed and left-handed shooters, the ambidextrous slide stop lever is a welcome addition, enhancing versatility and ease of use.
- Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB): The Glock Marksman Barrel is a key feature, enhancing accuracy by improving the bullet's trajectory. This contributes to tighter groupings at longer ranges.
- No Finger Grooves: The removal of finger grooves on the Gen 5 frame allows for a more customizable grip, accommodating a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles. This contributes to a more comfortable and secure grip for many users.
- nDLC Finish: The nDLC (nitride) finish offers enhanced durability and corrosion resistance, protecting the firearm against wear and tear, extending its lifespan.
Performance and Handling: Real-World Experience
The Glock 20 Gen 5 delivers a powerful and reliable performance. Its 10mm Auto cartridge delivers substantial stopping power, making it suitable for hunting, self-defense, and competitive shooting. The larger frame of the Glock 20 provides a comfortable and stable platform even for the recoil of the 10mm.
Advantages:
- Stopping Power: The 10mm cartridge delivers impressive stopping power, significantly exceeding that of the 9mm and .40 S&W cartridges.
- Accuracy: The GMB contributes to a noticeable improvement in accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
- Reliability: Glock handguns are known for their reliability, and the Gen 5 maintains this high standard, delivering consistent performance even under stressful conditions.
- Ergonomics: The lack of finger grooves and the ambidextrous slide stop lever contribute to improved ergonomics, making the pistol comfortable and easy to handle for a wider range of shooters.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Recoil: The 10mm cartridge's significant recoil might be challenging for some shooters, particularly those with less experience or smaller hand sizes.
- Size and Weight: The Glock 20 is a larger and heavier pistol compared to other Glock models, making it less suitable for concealed carry for some individuals.
- Cost of Ammunition: 10mm ammunition can be more expensive than 9mm or .40 S&W ammunition.
Who is the Glock 20 Gen 5 For?
The Glock 20 Gen 5 is a versatile handgun well-suited to several user types:
- Hunters: Its significant stopping power makes it ideal for hunting medium-sized game.
- Home Defenders: The powerful 10mm cartridge provides a strong deterrent for self-defense.
- Competitive Shooters: The improved accuracy and handling make it a competitive choice in certain shooting disciplines.
- Experienced Shooters: Its recoil might be less ideal for inexperienced shooters.
Conclusion: A Powerful and Refined Choice
The Glock 20 Gen 5 is a significant improvement over previous generations, offering enhanced features and performance. Its powerful 10mm cartridge, improved trigger, and refined ergonomics make it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and reliable handgun. While the recoil and size might not be ideal for everyone, its strengths significantly outweigh its limitations for many shooters. Consider your shooting experience, intended use, and personal preferences before making a purchase. This review should provide a strong foundation for your decision-making process.
