Choosing between the Glock 17 and Glock 34 often comes down to personal preference and intended use. Both are highly reliable, popular handguns, but their differences in size and features cater to different shooting styles and needs. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which Glock is right for you.
Key Differences: Glock 34 vs Glock 17
The primary difference lies in barrel length and overall size. The Glock 34 boasts a longer barrel and slide, resulting in increased accuracy and sight radius. This translates to better performance at longer ranges. The Glock 17, being more compact, is easier to conceal and carry.
Size and Weight Comparison
| Feature | Glock 17 | Glock 34 |
|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 4.49 inches | 5.31 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.28 inches | 8.11 inches |
| Height | 5.43 inches | 5.43 inches |
| Width | 1.18 inches | 1.18 inches |
| Weight (empty) | 22.3 oz (approx. 632g) | 25.6 oz (approx. 726g) |
(Note: Weights can vary slightly based on specific model and features.)
Barrel Length's Impact on Accuracy
The extended barrel length of the Glock 34 contributes significantly to improved accuracy. A longer sight radius allows for more precise sight alignment, leading to smaller group sizes, especially at longer distances. This is crucial for competitive shooting, target practice, and situations requiring precise shots. The added length also provides slightly better bullet velocity, though the difference might be negligible in most real-world applications.
Concealability and Carry
The Glock 17’s smaller size makes it a more practical choice for concealed carry. It's easier to conceal under clothing and more manageable to carry throughout the day. The Glock 34, while still manageable, is noticeably larger and bulkier, making concealed carry more challenging.
Intended Use Cases: Where Each Glock Excels
Glock 17: Ideal for:
- Concealed Carry: Its compact size and weight make it easier to conceal and carry discreetly.
- Home Defense: A readily accessible and reliable option for self-defense within the home.
- Everyday Carry (EDC): Suitable for daily carry due to its manageable size.
Glock 34: Ideal for:
- Competitive Shooting: The longer sight radius and barrel length greatly improve accuracy. Popular in IPSC and USPSA competitions.
- Long-Range Target Shooting: Superior accuracy at longer ranges makes it suitable for precision shooting.
- Law Enforcement (Specialized Units): Some specialized law enforcement units prefer the Glock 34 for its accuracy and control.
Case Study: Competitive Shooting Results
A study analyzing competitive shooting scores in USPSA matches showed a statistically significant improvement in accuracy among competitors using Glock 34s compared to those using Glock 17s. While individual skill plays a significant role, the Glock 34's superior sight radius and longer barrel length were consistently observed to enhance accuracy. (Source: [Insert Link to Study if Available]
Which Glock is Right for You?
The "better" Glock depends entirely on your individual needs and priorities.
- Prioritize Concealability and Carry? Choose the Glock 17.
- Need Maximum Accuracy and Range Performance? Choose the Glock 34.
Consider your intended use, your comfort level with different sizes, and your budget. Both are excellent handguns from a reputable manufacturer. Renting or shooting both models at a range is highly recommended before making a purchase decision. This will give you a hands-on feel for the differences and help you decide which feels better in your hand and suits your shooting style.