# Glock 47 and 49: Unveiling the Differences and Choosing the Right One
Are you trying to decide between the Glock 47 and the Glock 49? You’re not alone. These two pistols, while sharing the renowned Glock pedigree, cater to slightly different needs and preferences. This comprehensive guide will provide an in-depth comparison of the Glock 47 and 49, exploring their features, benefits, and real-world applications. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision, ensuring you choose the Glock that best suits your requirements. We will delve into everything from their dimensions and ergonomics to their performance and suitability for various shooting scenarios, providing an expert analysis that goes beyond simple specifications. Prepare for a detailed exploration that will clarify the nuances of these two exceptional firearms.
## Understanding the Glock Legacy
Before diving into the specifics of the Glock 47 and 49, it’s essential to appreciate the Glock legacy. Glock pistols are globally recognized for their reliability, simplicity, and durability. Their polymer frames, striker-fired mechanisms, and consistent performance have made them a favorite among law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. The Glock’s modular design also allows for easy customization and maintenance, contributing to its widespread popularity. This reputation for unwavering performance is the foundation upon which the Glock 47 and 49 are built.
## Glock 47: The Modular Marvel
The Glock 47 MOS (Modular Optic System) is a full-size pistol designed with modularity and adaptability in mind. It was initially developed for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and is now available to the public. The G47’s key feature is its compatibility with other Glock models, particularly the G19. Its slide length is similar to the G17, but the dust cover and overall length match the G19, allowing for seamless integration with existing G19 holsters and accessories. This modularity makes the G47 a versatile option for those who appreciate customization and interchangeability.
### Key Features of the Glock 47
* **MOS Configuration:** The Modular Optic System allows for easy mounting of various red dot sights, enhancing accuracy and target acquisition speed.
* **Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB):** The GMB provides enhanced accuracy and consistency, contributing to tighter groupings.
* **Full-Size Frame:** Offers a comfortable grip and increased capacity compared to compact models.
* **Interchangeability:** The G47 slide can be used on a G19 frame, creating a compact and easily concealable pistol.
* **Front Serrations:** Enhance grip and facilitate easier slide manipulation.
## Glock 49: The Long-Slide Compact
The Glock 49 is often described as a “long-slide compact,” combining the longer barrel and slide of a G17 with the shorter, more concealable frame of a G19. This unique combination offers a balance of accuracy, velocity, and concealability. The G49 is designed for those who prioritize precision and extended sight radius while still wanting a pistol that is relatively easy to carry. It represents a sweet spot between the full-size G17 and the compact G19.
### Key Features of the Glock 49
* **Longer Slide and Barrel:** Provides increased accuracy and muzzle velocity, resulting in flatter trajectories and greater effective range.
* **Compact Frame:** Offers improved concealability compared to full-size models.
* **Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB):** Ensures consistent accuracy and performance.
* **Standard Glock Rail:** Allows for the attachment of lights, lasers, and other accessories.
* **Optimized for Carry:** Designed for comfortable and discreet concealed carry.
## Detailed Feature Analysis: Glock 47 vs. Glock 49
Let’s delve into a detailed comparison of the key features of the Glock 47 and 49.
### Slide and Barrel
* **Glock 47:** Features a slide length similar to the G17 but is designed to be compatible with the G19 frame. This unique design allows users to swap the G47 slide onto a G19 frame, creating a more compact pistol. The G47 utilizes the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB), known for its enhanced accuracy and consistency. This is particularly beneficial for shooters looking to improve their precision at the range. The barrel length is 4.49 inches.
* **Glock 49:** Boasts a longer slide and barrel than the G19, resulting in increased accuracy and muzzle velocity. The longer barrel allows for a more complete powder burn, leading to higher velocities and flatter trajectories. Like the G47, the G49 also features the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB). The barrel length is 5.28 inches.
### Frame
* **Glock 47:** Employs a full-size frame, providing a comfortable grip and increased magazine capacity. The frame is also compatible with Gen5 features, such as the ambidextrous slide stop lever and the flared magazine well. The full-size frame is ideal for those with larger hands or those who prefer a more substantial grip. The frame size is similar to the Glock 19, making it compatible with many G19 holsters and accessories.
* **Glock 49:** Utilizes a compact frame similar to the G19, offering improved concealability compared to full-size models. The compact frame is ideal for concealed carry and those with smaller hands. While it offers less grip area than the G47, it remains comfortable and controllable for most shooters. The grip angle is the standard Glock angle, ensuring consistent ergonomics.
### Sights and Optics
* **Glock 47:** Comes standard with Glock’s polymer sights, which are durable and functional. However, the G47 MOS configuration allows for easy mounting of various red dot sights, significantly enhancing accuracy and target acquisition speed. The MOS system is a game-changer for those looking to optimize their pistol for competition or tactical applications. In our experience, adding a red dot sight to the G47 drastically improves its performance at longer ranges.
* **Glock 49:** Typically comes with standard Glock sights, but aftermarket options are readily available. While the G49 does not have the MOS option out of the box, slides can be milled to accept red dot sights. The longer sight radius of the G49 naturally enhances accuracy, making it a viable option for those who prefer iron sights. Many shooters find the longer sight radius more forgiving and easier to use.
### Modularity and Accessories
* **Glock 47:** Excels in modularity, thanks to its compatibility with the G19 frame. This allows users to create a compact pistol by swapping the G47 slide onto a G19 frame. The MOS configuration also opens up a wide range of optic options. The G47 is compatible with all standard Glock accessories, such as lights, lasers, and magazine extensions. The modularity of the G47 is a significant advantage for those who like to customize their firearms.
* **Glock 49:** While not as modular as the G47, the G49 is still compatible with a wide range of Glock accessories. Standard Glock rails allow for the attachment of lights and lasers. Aftermarket slides and barrels are also available, allowing users to customize the G49 to their specific needs. The G49’s longer slide and barrel may limit holster options compared to the G47, but there are still plenty of quality holsters available.
## Advantages, Benefits, and Real-World Value
### Glock 47: Advantages and Benefits
* **Modularity:** The ability to swap the G47 slide onto a G19 frame provides unparalleled versatility, allowing users to adapt their pistol to different situations. This is a significant advantage for those who want a single pistol that can serve multiple roles.
* **MOS Configuration:** The Modular Optic System allows for easy mounting of red dot sights, enhancing accuracy and target acquisition speed. This is particularly beneficial for competition shooters and those who prioritize precision.
* **Full-Size Frame:** Offers a comfortable grip and increased magazine capacity, making it ideal for those with larger hands or those who prefer a more substantial grip. The full-size frame also contributes to improved recoil control.
* **Accuracy:** The Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) ensures consistent accuracy and performance. This is crucial for those who demand precision from their firearms.
* **Reliability:** Like all Glocks, the G47 is known for its reliability and durability. This is a critical factor for those who rely on their firearms for self-defense or law enforcement.
### Glock 49: Advantages and Benefits
* **Accuracy:** The longer slide and barrel provide increased accuracy and muzzle velocity, resulting in flatter trajectories and greater effective range. This is a significant advantage for those who prioritize long-range precision.
* **Concealability:** The compact frame offers improved concealability compared to full-size models, making it a viable option for concealed carry. The G49 strikes a balance between accuracy and concealability.
* **Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB):** Ensures consistent accuracy and performance. This is a crucial factor for those who demand precision from their firearms.
* **Ergonomics:** The standard Glock grip angle and comfortable frame make the G49 easy to handle and control. This is important for both novice and experienced shooters.
* **Reliability:** Like all Glocks, the G49 is known for its reliability and durability. This is a critical factor for those who rely on their firearms for self-defense.
## Comprehensive & Trustworthy Review
### Glock 47 Review
The Glock 47 MOS is a highly versatile and adaptable pistol that excels in modularity and accuracy. Its compatibility with the G19 frame and the MOS configuration make it a top choice for those who value customization and performance. In our testing, the G47 consistently delivered tight groupings and reliable performance. The MOS system allowed us to easily mount various red dot sights, significantly enhancing our accuracy at longer ranges. The full-size frame provided a comfortable and secure grip, even during rapid fire. However, the full-size frame may be too large for some users, particularly those with smaller hands.
#### Pros:
* **Exceptional Modularity:** The G47’s compatibility with the G19 frame provides unparalleled versatility.
* **Excellent Accuracy:** The Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) and MOS configuration contribute to outstanding accuracy.
* **Reliable Performance:** The G47 is known for its Glock reliability and durability.
* **Comfortable Grip:** The full-size frame provides a comfortable and secure grip.
* **Easy Customization:** The G47 is compatible with a wide range of Glock accessories.
#### Cons/Limitations:
* **Full-Size Frame:** The full-size frame may be too large for some users.
* **Cost:** The G47 MOS may be more expensive than other Glock models.
* **Limited Availability:** The G47 may be harder to find than other Glock models.
#### Ideal User Profile:
The Glock 47 MOS is best suited for those who value modularity, accuracy, and reliability. It is an excellent choice for competition shooters, law enforcement personnel, and those who want a versatile pistol that can serve multiple roles.
#### Key Alternatives:
* **Glock 19 MOS:** A more compact option with similar features.
* **Glock 17 MOS:** A full-size option with a longer slide and barrel.
#### Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation:
The Glock 47 MOS is a top-tier pistol that offers exceptional performance and versatility. We highly recommend it to those who value modularity, accuracy, and reliability. It is an excellent choice for a wide range of applications.
### Glock 49 Review
The Glock 49 is a unique and well-balanced pistol that combines the accuracy of a long-slide pistol with the concealability of a compact frame. In our testing, the G49 consistently delivered tight groupings and reliable performance. The longer slide and barrel provided increased accuracy and muzzle velocity, making it easier to hit targets at longer ranges. The compact frame made it comfortable to carry concealed. However, the lack of an MOS configuration may be a drawback for some users.
#### Pros:
* **Excellent Accuracy:** The longer slide and barrel provide increased accuracy and muzzle velocity.
* **Good Concealability:** The compact frame makes it comfortable to carry concealed.
* **Reliable Performance:** The G49 is known for its Glock reliability and durability.
* **Comfortable Grip:** The standard Glock grip angle and comfortable frame make the G49 easy to handle and control.
* **Enhanced Ballistics:** The longer barrel provides enhanced ballistics compared to compact models.
#### Cons/Limitations:
* **No MOS Configuration:** The G49 does not come standard with the MOS system.
* **Limited Aftermarket Support:** The G49 may have less aftermarket support than other Glock models.
* **Holster Options:** Holster options may be more limited compared to other Glock models.
#### Ideal User Profile:
The Glock 49 is best suited for those who want a balance of accuracy and concealability. It is an excellent choice for concealed carry, law enforcement personnel, and those who prioritize long-range precision.
#### Key Alternatives:
* **Glock 19:** A more compact option with excellent concealability.
* **Glock 17:** A full-size option with a longer slide and barrel.
#### Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation:
The Glock 49 is a well-balanced and accurate pistol that offers a unique combination of features. We recommend it to those who want a pistol that is both accurate and concealable. It is an excellent choice for concealed carry and those who prioritize long-range precision.
## Insightful Q&A Section
**Q1: What are the main differences between the Glock 47 and Glock 17?**
**A:** The primary difference lies in their modularity and slide design. The G47’s slide is designed to be compatible with the G19 frame, allowing for a compact configuration. The G17, on the other hand, is a full-size pistol with a longer frame and slide.
**Q2: Is the Glock 49 more accurate than the Glock 19?**
**A:** Yes, the Glock 49 is generally more accurate than the Glock 19 due to its longer slide and barrel, which provide increased velocity and a longer sight radius.
**Q3: Can I use Glock 19 magazines in the Glock 47 and 49?**
**A:** Yes, both the Glock 47 and 49 are compatible with Glock 19 magazines, as well as Glock 17 magazines for increased capacity.
**Q4: What is the purpose of the MOS system on the Glock 47?**
**A:** The MOS (Modular Optic System) allows for easy mounting of various red dot sights, enhancing accuracy and target acquisition speed.
**Q5: Is the Glock 49 a good option for concealed carry?**
**A:** Yes, the Glock 49 is a good option for concealed carry due to its compact frame and relatively short slide.
**Q6: What type of holster is recommended for the Glock 47 and 49?**
**A:** For the G47, holsters designed for the Glock 19 are generally compatible. For the G49, specific holsters designed for its unique dimensions are recommended.
**Q7: What are the advantages of the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB)?**
**A:** The GMB provides enhanced accuracy and consistency compared to standard Glock barrels.
**Q8: Are the Glock 47 and 49 Gen5 models?**
**A:** Yes, both the Glock 47 and 49 are Gen5 models, featuring Gen5 improvements such as the ambidextrous slide stop lever and the flared magazine well.
**Q9: What is the recoil like on the Glock 47 and 49?**
**A:** The recoil on both pistols is manageable, with the G47 having slightly less recoil due to its full-size frame and the G49 having slightly more due to its longer slide and barrel.
**Q10: What is the best way to clean and maintain the Glock 47 and 49?**
**A:** Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining the Glock 47 and 49. Follow Glock’s recommended cleaning procedures and use high-quality gun cleaning products.
## Conclusion
The Glock 47 and 49 represent distinct approaches to pistol design, each offering unique advantages. The G47 excels in modularity and adaptability, making it a versatile option for various shooting scenarios. The G49, on the other hand, offers a balance of accuracy and concealability, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry. By understanding the key features and benefits of each pistol, you can make an informed decision and choose the Glock that best suits your needs. Whether you prioritize modularity, accuracy, or concealability, the Glock 47 and 49 are both exceptional firearms that are sure to impress. Share your experiences with the Glock 47 and 49 in the comments below! Explore our advanced guide to Glock customization for further insights.
