Announced by TALO Distributors in November 2023, the G49 has received mixed reactions. Not because of any doubts about its quality — after all, it’s a Glock — but rather because people wonder why Glock released a G49.
It’s labeled as a new model, yet it’s essentially a hybrid of two other models that have been around for ages. So, what makes the G49 stand out, and is it worth adding to your collection? Let’s find out.
What exactly is the Glock 49?
The Glock 49 is a “crossover” gun, meaning it incorporates elements from different firearms — often blending features of full-size and compact models.
Glock is not new to what they call “crossover” guns. In fact, some of their most recent models are nothing other than crossovers — or at least a hybrid version of their other guns.
Take, for example, the Glock 45, which is a crossover model that combines the G17 grip with the G19 slide, offering a shorter slide and barrel while maintaining the longer grip for 17-round magazines. It’s essentially an improved version of the Glock 19X, which has a grip that prevents the use of standard Gen-5 magazines.
Now, the new G49 flips this concept. Instead of a longer grip and shorter slide, the G49 features a longer slide with a shorter grip. Essentially, you’re getting a G19 frame paired with a G17 slide. While a G17 slide can fit on a G19 frame, it exposes the recoil spring due to the length difference. Glock solved this by recessing the G19’s recoil spring and guide rod into the extended slide.
It’s a weird mix-match combo of parts, but I like it.
Even though it’s the length of a G17, this new hybrid is more G19 than G17. The frame is a standard G19 so I won’t get into any details about that. The changes with the G49 are all in the slide. I’ve already mentioned that the recoil spring and guide rod are from the G19. The barrel, of course, is from the G17, which is the main feature of this model. Glock used a design similar to the G48 to keep the shorter G19 recoil spring and guide rod.
Normally, the frame would extend enough to cover the end of the recoil spring, but with the shorter G19 frame, Glock extended the slide slightly to accommodate this. So the extended slide is really the only “hybrid” element here. It adds about half an inch to the gun, which may not sound like much, but on a firearm, even a small difference can matter. The concept of a longer barrel on a compact grip is gaining popularity — and I appreciate it as well.
What purpose does it serve?
People are always looking for something different. I used to carry the G17 on duty in uniform, and for plain clothes duty, I switched to the Glock 19. Recently, my agency adopted the G45, which offers a shorter barrel while keeping the longer magwell. For duty use, having a higher-capacity magazine makes sense, and the shorter barrel means a more comfortable holster fit, especially when sitting in a car for long periods.
It’s not likely the G49 will be used as a duty gun, so what is it for?
It seems to cater to those people who prefer a full-size slide and barrel on a compact grip. My first handgun like this was the Walther PDP with a 5-inch barrel on a compact frame and grip. After carrying it and shooting at the range, it started to grow on me. I have medium size hands so a compact grip like the G19 is perfect for me. Whether you carry IWB or OWB, a shorter grip helps with concealment.
Some may not like the longer barrel for IWB carry, but others don’t mind it. A longer barrel spreads the sights apart, which improves accuracy and slightly helps with recoil. Personally, I also like the look of a longer slide on a compact grip.
Everyone has their preferences — people like different sizes and shapes of guns. I have some large “battle” guns, which are great for duty or range training, but the compact grip just feels more comfortable for me.
Holstering the G49
One of the best things about buying a crossover gun is the range of holster options available. Since the G49 has the same slide length as a G17, any holster that fits a G17 will work. I already have the Safariland 7360 RDS which accommodates both a light and optic, and the Safariland 6005, designed specifically for a tactical light. These are larger, duty-style holsters, perfect for more rugged use.
If you’re looking for something more classic, Bianchi offers the Shadow II, a pancake-style holster with a thumb snap. For IWB carry, their Professional Inside the Waistband leather holster is a solid option. Bianchi also makes shoulder holsters, and I’ve carried I’ve carried my G49 in one multiple times. The shorter grip helps conceal it better than the G17. I’m used to carrying the G19 in a shoulder holster and I couldn’t tell any difference switching to the G49.
My Take on the Glock 49
You’ll see some debate about the G49 on various forums. Some people like it and others don’t see the point and think Glock has run out of ideas.
Here’s my take: why not have another option? If Glock wants to produce different combinations of barrel and grip lengths, I say go for it. It may not appeal to everyone, but it gives more choices to those searching for the right fit.
I’ve mentioned how much I like my Walther PDP, and other companies are doing similar full-size/compact combos because people appreciate options. I’m all for Glock offering a variety of platforms. Would I like to see a completely new design from Glock? Sure. But that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t continue tweaking their already popular models.
The Glock 49 may not be for everyone, but after carrying it around, I’ve grown to like it. For me, the compact grip combined with a full-length slide is a perfect combo. Glock doesn’t have the G49 listed on the website (at the time of this writing) so I’m not sure what’s going on with that.
Orignally, TALO Distributors was the only distributor of the G49, and they mentioned on their website that the G49 would be produced on a limited basis. No one appears to have a clue as to what that means, but for now, it can still be found at some retail stores.
