The Glock 30 and Glock 19 are two of the most popular handguns in the world, known for their reliability, durability, and versatility. Both pistols are designed by the Austrian company Glock Ges.m.b.H and have gained a significant following among law enforcement, military, and civilian shooters. In this article, we will delve into the differences and similarities between the Glock 30 and Glock 19, exploring their design, features, and performance to help you decide which one is best suited for your needs.
Key Points
- The Glock 30 is a compact.45 ACP pistol, while the Glock 19 is a compact 9x19mm Parabellum pistol.
- The Glock 30 has a larger frame and heavier recoil compared to the Glock 19.
- The Glock 19 has a higher magazine capacity and is more suitable for concealed carry.
- Both pistols have a similar trigger pull and reset, but the Glock 30 has a slightly heavier trigger.
- The Glock 30 is more expensive than the Glock 19, but both pistols are known for their reliability and durability.
Design and Features

The Glock 30 is a compact.45 ACP pistol that features a larger frame and slide compared to the Glock 19. The Glock 30 has a overall length of 6.97 inches, a height of 4.99 inches, and a width of 1.18 inches. The pistol weighs approximately 26.48 ounces unloaded and has a magazine capacity of 10 rounds. The Glock 30 also features a Picatinny rail for mounting accessories and a reversible magazine catch.
In contrast, the Glock 19 is a compact 9x19mm Parabellum pistol that features a smaller frame and slide. The Glock 19 has an overall length of 7.28 inches, a height of 4.99 inches, and a width of 1.18 inches. The pistol weighs approximately 23.65 ounces unloaded and has a magazine capacity of 15 rounds. The Glock 19 also features a Picatinny rail and a reversible magazine catch, but it has a slightly shorter barrel length compared to the Glock 30.
Performance and Recoil
The Glock 30 and Glock 19 have different recoil characteristics due to their different calibers and frame sizes. The Glock 30 has a more pronounced recoil compared to the Glock 19, which can be attributed to the larger.45 ACP cartridge. However, the Glock 30’s recoil is still manageable and can be controlled with proper shooting technique.
The Glock 19, on the other hand, has a milder recoil compared to the Glock 30. The 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge is smaller and lighter than the.45 ACP, resulting in less recoil and muzzle rise. This makes the Glock 19 more suitable for shooters who are sensitive to recoil or have smaller hands.
Model | Caliber | Magazine Capacity | Weight (unloaded) | Length |
---|---|---|---|---|
Glock 30 | .45 ACP | 10 rounds | 26.48 oz | 6.97 in |
Glock 19 | 9x19mm Parabellum | 15 rounds | 23.65 oz | 7.28 in |

Concealed Carry and Practicality

The Glock 19 is generally considered more suitable for concealed carry due to its smaller frame and lighter weight. The pistol is easier to conceal and can be carried comfortably in a variety of holsters and positions. The Glock 19’s higher magazine capacity also makes it a more practical choice for self-defense, as it allows for more rounds to be carried without the need for reloads.
The Glock 30, while still a compact pistol, is slightly larger and heavier than the Glock 19. This makes it more difficult to conceal, especially for those with smaller hands or tighter clothing. However, the Glock 30's larger frame and.45 ACP cartridge make it a more effective stopping power option, which may be a priority for some shooters.
Trigger and Ergonomics
Both the Glock 30 and Glock 19 feature a similar trigger pull and reset, with a trigger pull weight of approximately 5.5 pounds. The trigger is known for its distinctive “reset” feel, which allows for quick and accurate follow-up shots. The pistols also feature a reversible magazine catch and an ambidextrous slide stop, making them suitable for both left- and right-handed shooters.
The Glock 30's larger frame and.45 ACP cartridge result in a slightly heavier trigger pull compared to the Glock 19. However, the difference is minimal, and both pistols have a smooth and consistent trigger pull.
Which pistol is more suitable for concealed carry?
+The Glock 19 is generally considered more suitable for concealed carry due to its smaller frame and lighter weight.
Which pistol has more stopping power?
+The Glock 30 has more stopping power due to its.45 ACP cartridge, but the Glock 19's 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge is still effective for self-defense.
Which pistol is more expensive?
+The Glock 30 is generally more expensive than the Glock 19, but prices can vary depending on the location and retailer.
In conclusion, the Glock 30 and Glock 19 are both excellent pistols that cater to different needs and preferences. The Glock 30 offers more stopping power and a larger frame, while the Glock 19 provides a more compact and manageable design with a higher magazine capacity. Ultimately, the choice between the two pistols depends on your specific requirements and priorities as a shooter. By considering the design, features, performance, and practicality of both pistols, you can make an informed decision and choose the one that best suits your needs. Meta description: “Glock 30 vs Glock 19: A comprehensive comparison of the two popular pistols, including design, features, performance, and practicality.”