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Stephanie Kimmell
Incremental changes between GLOCK generations has been standard procedure over the last 40 years, but if Gen 6 is any indication, that era is officially over. Now, with the launch of the Gen 6—featuring the G17, G19, and G45—GLOCK has updated their pistols with significant ergonomic and functional changes to meet modern shooters’ needs.
I was among the first at GLOCK headquarters to get trigger time on all three new models. From the morning slide show introducing us to the new Gen 6 pistols, to the spectacular evening reception, GLOCK rolled out the red carpet for us.
Of course, the real ‘meat’ of the day was range time with all three models. Initial reaction from the floor was unanimous: this Gen6 is the GLOCK we’ve been waiting for.
The Sixth Generation: Engineered for the User
The central theme of the Gen 6 is ergonomics. GLOCK engineers meticulously analyzed and measured hands of all shapes and sizes to build a platform optimized for usability and comfort.
Enhanced Ergonomics and Grip Performance
The most significant changes are in the frame, where GLOCK abandoned the “box” feel for key ergonomic advancements that create an intuitive, high-performance grip:
- Contoured Frame: The frame now includes a subtle palm swell and an undercut trigger guard which allows for a higher grip support and eliminates the dreaded “Glock Knuckle.” The reduced distance from the frame to the trigger makes the trigger easier to reach for a wider variety of users.
- RTF6 Grip Texture: This specially developed texture combines two patterns into one perfect blend of performance and comfort. The area of grip texture has been expanded, including a new thumb rest and extended coverage to ensure maximum grip purchase in any situation.
- Higher Control: The enlarged beavertail (integrated directly into the frame) encourages a higher grip while ensuring the slide can cycle freely, a critical element for recoil management (and no more slide bite). The textured and extended thumb rest provides increased control during firing.
- Slide Manipulation: The slide serrations are angled deeper into the slide, increasing tactile engagement and making slide manipulations more confident and secure.
My personal favorite of the trio was the G19 Gen 6. Its size and balance, combined with the effective RTF6 grip texture, locked the gun into my palm in a way previous generations simply did not achieve.
The Technical Core: System Refinements
The true measure of the Gen 6 is its functional evolution, delivering performance previously only achievable through the aftermarket.
The flat-faced trigger design comes standard on all Gen 6 pistols. This feature, long a staple of custom builds, ensures more consistent finger placement and trigger pull (rated at 5.5 lbs / 26 N), while maintaining the fundamental Safe Action® System for uncompromising safety and reliability.
The Refined Optic Ready System (ORS)
The new Optic Ready System (ORS) replaces the legacy MOS, engineered for adaptability and superior durability:
- Deep Seating: The new system allows the optic to sit deeper into the slide for a desirable lower height over bore axis.
- Durability and Shock Absorption: Standard frame Gen 6 pistols come with three optic plates. These polymer plates are designed to compress upon mounting, creating a friction fit that acts as a shock absorber to protect the optic from the harsh forces of the slide cycle.
- Direct Mount: Optics are screwed directly into the slide, minimizing points of failure associated with plate stacking.
Internal Simplicity and Durability
In the classroom demonstration (which felt reminiscent of the GLOCK Armorer’s Course), we noted several key internal simplifications and confirmations:
- Recoil System: GLOCK has reverted the 9mm line to a single captive recoil spring assembly, mirroring the simpler structure of the Gen 1–3 models. This streamlining is asserted to be entirely sufficient for 9mm performance.
- Slide Integrity: The slide assembly has been slightly updated (including a shortened EDP channel/extractor).
- Barrel Compatibility: Gen6 barrel geometry has changed slightly, meaning previous generation barrels will not be compatible. The initial Gen 6 models will not be available with factory threaded barrels, but they are confirmed to be coming later.
Final Takeaway: Logistics and Availability
The Gen 6 represents GLOCK’s decision to embrace the performance market without sacrificing reliability. As I experienced firsthand during the impressive manufacturing floor tour, the company’s commitment to state-of-the-art production is uncompromising.
GLOCK confirmed that the new G17 Gen 6, G45 Gen 6, and G19 Gen 6 will be on shelves starting January 20th, 2026, with an MSRP of $745 USD. Furthermore, due to collaboration with industry leaders, duty and carry holsters are available immediately, ensuring zero logistical delay.
The Gen 6 is more than an update; it is a Purpose-Driven Design engineered with the user in mind, cementing GLOCK’s dominance into the next generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
For the sake of quick simplicity, here are the answers to key questions about logistics and compatibility.
When are the Gen 6 models available?
The initial models (G17, G19, G45) are scheduled to be available on store shelves starting January 20, 2026.
Does the Gen 6 come with a threaded barrel?
No, the initial launch models do not include threaded barrels. GLOCK has confirmed that official threaded Gen 6 barrels will be released at a later date. Gen 5 threaded barrels will not be compatible.
Is the Gen 6 compatible with old magazines?
Yes, the Gen 6 pistols maintain magazine compatibility with all standard double-stack 9mm magazines (Gen 3, Gen 4, Gen 5).
Is the new ORS system MOS-compatible?
No. The new Optics Ready System (ORS) replaces the previous MOS plate system. It uses a lower deck height, with the optic mounting directly to the slide, using polymer plates for shock absorption.
Stephanie Kimmell
The post GLOCK® Gen 6: The Evolution of Excellence appeared first on SilencerCo.
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