The Visual Differences Between All Generations of Glock 19

Here’s a summary of the main differences and characteristics between the generations of the Glock 19:

Generation 1 (Gen 1)

  • Introduced: 1988
  • Key Features: No accessory rail, no finger grooves, standard magazine release.
  • Finish: Blued finish.

Generation 2 (Gen 2)

  • Introduced: Early 1990s
  • Key Features: Textured grips, no accessory rail, standard magazine release.
  • Finish: Blued finish.

Generation 3 (Gen 3)

  • Introduced: Late 1990s
  • Key Features: Universal Glock rail (for accessories), finger grooves, standard magazine release.
  • Finish: Available in both blued and Tenifer finish.

Generation 4 (Gen 4)

  • Introduced: 2010
  • Key Features: Interchangeable backstraps, dual recoil spring, enlarged magazine release, flared magwell.
  • Finish: Tenifer finish with a black oxide coating.

Generation 5 (Gen 5)

  • Introduced: 2017
  • Key Features: Ambidextrous slide stop, flared magwell, nDLC finish, no finger grooves, improved barrel and internals.
  • Finish: nDLC (Nitron Durable Coating).

Each generation brought improvements in ergonomics, functionality, and customization options.