The Glock 20, chambered in the potent .10mm Auto cartridge, has always been a favorite among those seeking a powerful handgun for self-defense, hunting, or competitive shooting. The Gen 5 iteration refines this already formidable platform, incorporating several improvements that enhance both performance and ergonomics. This in-depth review will delve into the key features and user experiences surrounding the Glock 20 Gen 5.
What Makes the Glock 20 Gen 5 Stand Out?
The Gen 5 Glock 20 builds upon its predecessors with several key upgrades, making it a compelling choice for serious shooters:
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Improved Ergonomics: The most noticeable change is the removal of the finger grooves. This allows for a more customizable grip, accommodating a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles. Many users find this a significant improvement in comfort and control.
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Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever: The ambidextrous slide stop lever caters to both right and left-handed shooters, offering increased versatility and convenience. This simple addition greatly enhances usability.
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Marksman Barrel: The Gen 5 Glock 20 features a Glock Marksman barrel, known for its improved accuracy and consistency. This translates to tighter groups and increased performance at the range or in self-defense situations.
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Glock's Enhanced Features: The Gen 5 retains Glock's signature reliability, simple operation, and durable construction. The polymer frame is lightweight yet robust, while the internal workings are renowned for their simplicity and ease of maintenance.
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.10mm Power: Let's not forget the core strength of the Glock 20: its powerful .10mm Auto cartridge. This round delivers substantial stopping power, making it a formidable choice for self-defense and hunting applications.
User Experiences and Common Feedback
Online forums and reviews paint a consistent picture of the Gen 5 Glock 20:
Positive Feedback:
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Improved Shootability: Many users praise the improved ergonomics and the lack of finger grooves, reporting increased comfort and control during extended shooting sessions.
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Enhanced Accuracy: The Marksman barrel consistently receives positive comments regarding its contribution to improved accuracy.
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Reliable Performance: As expected from Glock, the Gen 5 maintains a high level of reliability, with few reports of malfunctions.
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Increased Versatility: The ambidextrous slide stop lever is a welcome addition for both right and left-handed shooters, increasing its versatility significantly.
Areas for Potential Improvement:
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Recoil: The .10mm round is powerful, and some users may find the recoil more substantial than with smaller calibers. This is, however, inherent to the cartridge itself and not a fault of the Gen 5 design.
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Cost: The Glock 20 Gen 5, like other Glock models, is relatively expensive compared to some competitors.
Who Should Consider the Glock 20 Gen 5?
The Glock 20 Gen 5 is an ideal choice for:
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Serious Self-Defense Users: The .10mm round offers superior stopping power.
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Experienced Shooters: The powerful recoil might be challenging for novice shooters.
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Hunters: Its powerful cartridge makes it suitable for hunting smaller game.
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Competitive Shooters: The improved accuracy and ergonomics can give a competitive edge.
Conclusion: A Powerful Upgrade
The Glock 20 Gen 5 represents a significant refinement of an already capable handgun. The improvements in ergonomics and accuracy, combined with the inherent power of the .10mm cartridge, make it a strong contender in its class. While the recoil and cost may be considerations, the overall performance and reliability make the Gen 5 Glock 20 a worthy addition to any serious shooter's arsenal. Potential buyers should carefully consider their experience level and shooting needs before making a purchase.
