After the 19X lost out to Sig’s 320 MHS in law enforcement’s bid for a new duty gun Glock came back with another option. This one is chambered in 9mm and is called Glock 45. It offers the reliability that Glock is well known for and has many features that make it perfect for both duty use and home defense. This includes ambidextrous slide release, interchangeable beavertail backstraps for different hand sizes, and compatible internal parts.
Ambidextrous Slide Release
Glock’s ambidextrous slide release is a major game-changer. It allows left-handed shooters to manipulate the lever with their trigger finger without shifting their grip. This results in faster, more efficient reloads in high-stress situations when fractions of a second matter.
The flat dimensions of the lever offer optimum ergonomics and maintain a slim weapon profile. It’s a simple, inexpensive upgrade that makes a huge difference in the feel of the gun and how it’s operated.
To activate the lever, simply insert a magazine with a little bit of force (but not enough to distort the frame). Then reach up and hit the lever with your thumb. This causes “vibrations” that set the trigger to drop the mag. The lever also releases the tension on the slide stop so it can close.
Swappable Backstraps
Glock handguns are widely used by law enforcement agencies and civilians around the country for duty carry, home defense, and competition shooting. The model 45 is a great option for those looking for reliability, high-ammo capacity, and maneuverability.
It features a G17 pistol grip and a compact Glock 19 slide, making it a hybrid design that has found a good following. The slightly shorter barrel and slide compared to Glock’s basic model 17 helps reduce muzzle flip, while the larger grip gives users greater control and ammo capacity.
The G45 has interchangeable backstraps, so you can find the one that fits your hands best. This is a great feature that other mfgs have been offering for years. The G45 also supports most standard accessories, including lights and lasers, without requiring any holster modification.
Flared Magwell
The flared magwell is one of the most noticeable changes to the Glock 45. This add-on creates a wider funnel at the base of the magazine well to help the shooter more easily insert the fresh mag. This can make reloading a lot faster, especially in high-stress situations where fractions of a second matter.
Some people think adding a magwell can reduce concealment, but the benefits far outweigh that concern. Fine motor control goes out the window during a stressful, life-threatening defensive encounter, and any competitive edge a beveled or flared magwell can afford is worth the sacrifice of a little bit of concealed carry capacity.
This particular magwell from Rival Arms is an excellent option because it’s fairly compact and doesn’t add too much bulk. However, it does require a bit of finesse when starting to install the brass piece into the backstrap and around the frame.
Sight Radius
Glocks are reliable and will do the job that you want them to do. However, it is up to the owner to train and shoot properly. Having high visibility sights, controllable trigger, and the right holster are essential.
The short barrel of the Glock 45 makes it a good option for those who prefer a smaller pistol. A shorter barrel also allows the gun to clear a duty holster faster.
The sight radius is another feature that some like. A longer sight radius can help with accuracy because it minimizes deflection from the hand movement. This is similar to how a long barrel can give more accuracy than a shorter one because it takes longer for the bullet to stabilize. This also gives a better sight picture for target practice.
Conclusion
Despite its overall height, the Glock 45 is not a heavy pistol. It is also very easy to conceal, especially with the help of a good holster like the Streamlight TLR-1. Glock’s internal safeties—trigger safety, firing pin safety and drop safe—prevent accidental discharge and allow for rapid deployment without the need to fumble for an external thumb safety. Regular inspection can preempt unexpected failures that can occur over time, such as a broken firing pin.
With the addition of Gen 5 features—Marksman’s Barrel and NDLC finish—the Glock 45 was designed with law enforcement and military in mind. But its compact size makes it a great option for civilians as well.
