Recently, Glock announced it would be discontinuing most of its Gen 3, 4, and 5 pistol models, replacing them with a new “V” series. Now that the V series pistols are available, we can get a look at what’s different and what has carried over.
Why the Change?
The shift to the V series seems to be a response to legal pressures. Glock is currently facing several lawsuits from various states and cities, which have pushed the company to modify its design.
The changes are subtle but sufficient enough to sidestep lawsuits, allowing Glock to continue selling firearms in restrictive states. Rather than allowing their products to be forced off the shelves, Glock made minor adjustments that don’t affect the gun’s core function.
Glock V vs. Gen 5: What’s the Same?
At first glance, the V model looks almost identical to the Gen 5. It has a “V” on the slide, but other than that, the external cosmetics are the same. The grip, texture, controls, and overall handling are unchanged.
This also means that existing holsters, lights, and lasers for Gen 5 models should fit the V series without issue.
One disappointment for many is that the first V series pistols are not being offered with an MOS cut, meaning you can’t mount an optic straight out of the box. The good news is that the slide can still be custom-milled to fit an optic.
Glock V vs. Gen 5: What’s Different?
The most significant changes are internal, specifically within the slide.
Slide Internals: The V series slide features added ramps on either side of the firing pin channel. These are not present on the Gen 5 and are intended to block the area where a switch’s disconnector would engage. To accommodate this change, the firing pin (striker) lug on the V series is thinner and the channel it sits in is narrower.
Backplate: The slide cover plate has a slightly different shape and notch design and is slightly smaller compared to the Gen 5 (this might make some of the aftermarket triggers incompatible). The disassembly process remains the same.
Frame and Trigger Housing: Glock reinforced the rear of the trigger housing by adding a small metal ledge to the “nub”. Previously, this small plastic piece could be cut off with a simple knife, but now it’s reinforced with metal, requiring a cutting wheel to remove.
Beyond that, many parts remain the same. The trigger bar, connector, and ejector all carry the same part numbers as the Gen 5. The core of the gun remains unchanged.
Interestingly, Glock V still uses a cruciform trigger bar, meaning it still can’t be sold in California. So the changes were more likely an attempt to protect Glock from lawsuits in other states rather than to enter the California market.
How Does It Shoot?
The short answer: it shoots like a Glock.
In early tests, it cycles reliably with various types of ammo, from standard FMJ rounds to hotter self-defense loads. The shooting experience is comfortable and familiar.
This is because the V model is fundamentally the same gun with minimal internal changes that are focused on making the pistols harder to convert to full-auto. The core mechanics that have made Glocks famous for their dependability are all still there. And the trigger feels like a standard Gen 5 Glock, not the rumored performance trigger.
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