Glock Gen6 pistols: developments and models of the new generation

With the GLOCK Gen6 , the manufacturer has refined its pistols around three main areas: ergonomics, consistent grip, and optics integration. A new RTF6 texture, a flat-faced trigger, a redesigned thumb rest, and the Optic Ready system are among the changes that distinguish this generation from the Gen5.

This page presents the evolutions of the GLOCK Gen6, the differences to be aware of compared to the Gen5, and the four models announced in the range: G17 Gen6, G19 Gen6, G45 Gen6, and G49 Gen6. It thus allows you to better understand each version before discovering the GLOCK semi-automatic pistols offered by Armurerie Riffaut.

Ergonomics is the primary focus of the GLOCK Gen6 's evolution. The grip shape, hand contact areas, and several controls have been redesigned to promote a more natural and consistent hold. These modifications do not replace the importance of a proper grip: depending on the shooter's hand shape, the feel can vary significantly from one model to another.

A redesigned handle to better fit the hand

The Gen6's grip features a more pronounced palm swell. This shape, called palm swell , more closely follows the natural curve of the hand to better distribute contact points. The goal is to reduce overly concentrated pressure areas and facilitate hand positioning around the frame.

The grip circumference remains customizable thanks to the interchangeable backstraps included with each model. The shooter can use the frame without a backstrap, in a Short Frame configuration, or install a Medium or Large backstrap. This modularity allows the distance to the trigger and the grip volume to be adjusted to the size of the hand.

An extended RTF6 texture on the chassis

The new RTF6 texture combines two surface patterns to achieve a balance between grip and comfort. It covers a larger area of the grip than the previous generation and extends to new contact points, including the thumb rest.

This extended coverage aims to maintain consistent support during handling and firing sequences. However, the perceived benefit will depend on the pressure applied to the grip, the shape of the hand, and the shooter's habits. Therefore, the texture should not be considered in isolation: the overall shape of the grip and the choice of backstrap also contribute to the quality of the grip.

An enlarged beaver tail to promote a high grip

At the rear of the frame, the beavertail has been enlarged. Its shape encourages the hand to be placed higher on the grip while maintaining sufficient separation from the bolt during its cycle.

A high grip brings the hand closer to the barrel axis and can help better follow the weapon's movements during the firing process. The beavertail grip also provides a larger contact area between the frame and the top of the hand, although it's impossible to predict individual comfort before trying it out.

A notched bridge to free up more space

The lower part of the trigger guard now features a more pronounced cutout. This notch allows the middle finger to be positioned higher under the trigger guard, providing support closer to the axis of the bolt.

This modification complements the work done on the palm contour and the beavertail. Together, these elements aim to make hand placement more intuitive, with a contact surface better distributed across the entire handle.

An extended, textured thumb rest

The GLOCK Gen6's thumb rest is larger and also features the RTF6 texture. It provides a more identifiable tactile marker on the side of the frame and offers an additional point of support during firing.

This textured area is designed to help the shooter regain a steady stance and aid in weapon control during recoil. Its effectiveness, however, depends on the grip technique used, particularly the positioning of the supporting hand.

A flat-face trigger for more consistent placement

Each GLOCK Gen6 comes standard with a flat-faced trigger. Its flat surface promotes more consistent finger placement and even pressure application. It also provides a different tactile reference point than the curved triggers found on previous generations.

This change primarily concerns the interface between the finger and the trigger. It should not be interpreted as a guarantee of improved accuracy or an identical trigger pull for all shooters. The Safe Action® safety system is retained on the Gen6.

Deeper and more angled cylinder head grooves

The breechblock's gripping serrations have been redesigned with a deeper, more angled shape. They offer a more pronounced contact surface when handling the breechblock, both at the front and rear.

This evolution facilitates tactile identification of grip zones and complements the changes made to the frame. The Gen6 is therefore not limited to a new grip texture: it revises several interfaces used to hold and manipulate the pistol.

The GLOCK Gen6 isn't just distinguished by its grip shape. The manufacturer has also redesigned several components used for firing, operating the slide, and mounting optics. These changes remain true to the general functionality of GLOCK pistols, but alter certain points of contact and operation.

A flat-faced trigger guard, originally fitted

The flat-faced trigger is standard equipment on the Gen6. Unlike a curved trigger, its flat surface provides the finger with a more uniform contact area. This is designed to promote consistent placement and pressure applied along a regular axis.

This design primarily provides a different tactile reference point. The feel of the trajectory and the initial release remains unique to each shooter; a flat face, therefore, does not, on its own, guarantee better accuracy. Its benefit must be assessed in conjunction with finger position, hand size, and the overall grip.

The Safe Action® system remains at the heart of its operation

Despite the change in trigger shape, the GLOCK Gen6 retains the Safe Action® system. This system relies on three automatic safeties integrated into the mechanism. They disengage sequentially during a deliberate trigger pull, then re-engage when the trigger is released.

The flat-face trigger does not eliminate the mechanical safety features associated with previous generations. However, as with any firearm, these devices never replace adherence to proper handling, transport, and storage procedures.

Deeper and more angled cylinder head grooves

The front and rear serrations on the breechblock feature a deeper and more angled design. This geometry increases the tactile feedback and provides a more pronounced contact surface when gripping the breechblock.

This development particularly concerns safety checks and the handling procedures necessary for the pistol's operation. Its effectiveness still depends on how the slide is gripped and the handling conditions; it does not replace the need to apply appropriate safety procedures.

Reinforced protection around the bolt stop

On the Gen6, it's not just the control that catches the eye, but the shape of the frame surrounding it. The rim around the slide stop has been enlarged to better isolate this control from the hand's contact points.

This additional relief is designed to limit unintentional activations during firing or when changing grips. It also allows for better identification of the control position by touch, while maintaining an accessible slide stop from both sides of the pistol.

A new Gen6 Optic Ready system

GLOCK Gen6 pistols with a standard frame are offered in an Optic Ready configuration. The slide features a cutout designed to accommodate an adapter plate, onto which the optic is then mounted. This design allows the use of multiple red dot sight profiles without requiring a single interface.

Each Gen6 kit includes three numbered GLOCK plates. The correct plate depends on the scope's footprint, mounting system, and the manufacturer's specified screws. Therefore, the presence of a plate in the kit does not automatically guarantee compatibility with a specific red dot sight.

Before any installation, it is essential to check the required mounting plate, the optic's dimensions, the threading, and the relevant manufacturer's instructions. If in doubt, the gunsmiths at Armurerie Riffaut can verify the compatibility of the intended configuration and the installation conditions.

The GLOCK Gen6 builds upon the improvements introduced with the Gen5, but shifts the focus to ergonomics and optics integration. The Gen5 remains a well-developed generation, recognizable by its GLOCK Marksman Barrel, nDLC finish, and controls designed for both right- and left-handed shooters. The Gen6 primarily aims to refine the feel between the pistol and the hand.

A Gen5 already largely modernized

The fifth generation had eliminated the molded finger grooves on the grip to accommodate a wider range of hand sizes. It had also adopted interchangeable backstraps, a flared magazine well, and an enlarged magazine base plate.

The Gen5 also stands out with its serrated front, nDLC finish, and GLOCK Marksman Barrel . Its ambidextrous slide stop and reversible magazine release button make it easy to adapt to the shooter's preferences. Some models are also available in a MOS configuration to accommodate optics via a compatible interface.

The Gen6 further develops the work on the handling

The Gen6 retains the principle of a grip without finger grooves, but more extensively reworks its shape and surfaces. The palm contour is more pronounced, the beavertail is enlarged, and the cutout under the trigger guard allows for a higher hand position. The thumb rest is also larger and textured.

The RTF6 texture covers more of the frame and combines two surface patterns. In addition, the flat-face trigger alters the point of contact with the finger without compromising the functionality of the Safe Action® system.

Two different approaches to optical mounting

On the Gen5, the possibility of installing a red dot sight depends on the model and its configuration, particularly MOS. The Gen6 with a standard frame directly adopts the new Optic Ready system and comes with three numbered adapter plates.

This new mounting system expands configuration possibilities, but it does not automatically make all lenses compatible. The socket, mounting plate, threads, and screws must be checked before installation.

Should you choose a GLOCK Gen5 or a Gen6?

The choice isn't simply a matter of comparing an old generation with a new one. The Gen5 retains proven features and may suit shooters who already appreciate its grip, controls, and configuration. The Gen6 is aimed more at those seeking improved ergonomics, a factory-installed flat trigger, or the new Optic Ready system.

A hands-on experience remains crucial for comparing the two generations. The size of the grip, the finger position on the trigger, access to the controls, and the scope mounting options must be examined in relation to the user's body type and intended sporting use.

The European GLOCK Gen6 range currently comprises four pistols chambered in 9mm Luger: the G17, G19, G45, and G49. They share the new Gen6 ergonomics, flat-face trigger, Safe Action® system, and Optic Ready configuration. Their main difference lies in the combination of slide length and grip size.

GLOCK 17 Gen6: the Standard format

The GLOCK 17 Gen6 features a standard frame and slide. Its full-length grip houses a magazine with a standard capacity of 17 rounds. This model is the version most closely associated with the classic G17 design.

The grip benefits from the palm contour, textured thumb rest, and RTF6 surface characteristic of this generation. The frame length also provides a large contact area for hands that find a compact format too short. However, the suitability of this size depends on the shooter's physique and their preferences at the range.

GLOCK 19 Gen6: the Compact format

The GLOCK 19 Gen6 combines a compact slide and grip. Its standard magazine has a stated capacity of 15 rounds. Its smaller proportions clearly distinguish it from the G17, while retaining the main ergonomic and technical improvements of the Gen6.

The Compact format notably alters the surface area available for the dominant hand and the overall balance of the pistol. Therefore, the choice between the G17 and G19 should not be based solely on their length: finger positioning on the grip and access to the controls are equally important.

GLOCK 45 Gen6: A Compact slide on a Standard grip

The GLOCK 45 Gen6 belongs to the Compact Crossover family. It combines a compact slide with a standard-sized frame and grip. Its standard magazine has a stated capacity of 17 rounds.

This combination retains the gripping surface of a larger format while adopting the shorter upper section of the G19. The G45 thus differs from the G17 in its slide and from the G19 in the length of its grip. It is aimed at the shooter who seeks precisely this balance between the two formats.

GLOCK 49 Gen6: A Standard Slide on a Compact Grip

The GLOCK 49 Gen6 takes the opposite approach to the G45. This Standard Crossover model combines a standard-sized, long slide with a compact frame. It thus retains a shorter grip while adopting an upper receiver similar to the G17.

This design clearly differentiates the G49 from the G19, which has a shorter slide, and from the G17, which has a longer grip. The choice of the G49 will depend, in particular, on the shooter's preference for a compact grip combined with a longer iron sight line.

Optic Ready or Aimpoint COA versions

GLOCK offers these four models in a Gen6 Optic Ready version without a red dot sight installed. This configuration comes with three adapter plates designed for different compatible optic footprints.

The G17, G19, G45, and G49 Gen6 are also available in a COA version. In this configuration, the Aimpoint COA sight is pre-installed using the A-CUT direct interface. This mount does not utilize the three plates of the Gen6 Optic Ready system; it relies on a specific slide cutout.

This list corresponds to the range announced by GLOCK in Europe. It does not mean that every model, version, or optical configuration is permanently available at Armurerie Riffaut. Availability should be verified before any trip or planned purchase.

The GLOCK Gen6 allows you to adapt two important elements to your desired physique and configuration: the grip volume and the mounting of a red dot sight. Interchangeable backstraps modify the grip circumference, while the three included Optic Ready plates provide access to several optic mounting points.

Three handle configurations: SF, M and L

Each Gen6 model comes with two interchangeable backstraps. Without an added backstrap, the pistol is in Short Frame, or SF , configuration. This position offers the smallest grip circumference of the three options.

The Medium (M ) and Large (L ) backstraps progressively increase the rear volume of the grip. This alters how the palm fills the curve, as well as the perceived distance to the trigger pull. Each backstrap is secured to the frame by a pin.

The choice doesn't depend solely on overall hand size. Finger length, index finger position on the trigger, and access to the magazine release button must also be considered. A grip that's too large can make accessing the controls difficult, while one that's too short can reduce the quality of your grip.

The comparison of SF, M, and L configurations must therefore be carried out while handling a firearm that has been made safe. The gunsmiths at Armurerie Riffaut can assist in this selection based on the shooter's physique and sporting activity.

Three plates for multiple optical impressions

The Gen6 Optic Ready system relies on a cutout in the cylinder head and three numbered adapter plates. After inserting the plate corresponding to the chosen recess, the optic is secured using the appropriate screws.

• Plate 02: intended for certain optics using the imprints associated with Trijicon, Holosun, with the exception of the 509, and Ameriglo.
• Plate 03: intended for the impression associated with C-More.
• Plate 04: intended for certain optics using impressions associated with Leupold and Eotech.

These compatibility codes do not guarantee that a lens is compatible based solely on its brand. The exact model, its footprint, the thread type, the screw length, and the manufacturer's instructions must be verified before installation.

A different system from the A-CUT interface

The three-plate Gen6 Optic Ready system should not be confused with the GLOCK Gen6 COA configuration. On the latter, the Aimpoint COA sight is factory-mounted directly into a slide equipped with the A-CUT interface, without an adapter plate.

The choice between these two solutions therefore depends on the optical project. The Optic Ready version offers a choice of several compatible lens mounts, while the COA version is a specific assembly installed at the factory. Before any installation, it is essential to verify the compatibility of the optics and to comply with the manufacturer's mounting and tightening instructions.

Choosing a GLOCK pistol depends as much on its size as on the feel it provides in the hand. Between a Standard or Compact grip, a longer or shorter slide, and the various optic mounting options, two models of the same generation can meet different preferences.

A proper grip allows you to compare finger placement, access to controls, trigger pull distance, and the pistol's overall balance. At Armurerie Riffaut in Orbec, the gunsmiths can help you assess these criteria based on your body type, experience, and level of involvement in sport shooting.

You can now discover the GLOCK semi-automatic pistols featured on the Riffaut Armory website. As models and availability may change, it is recommended to contact the team before visiting to check the availability of a Gen6 model or a specific optical configuration.

The GLOCK pistols in question are category B weapons. Their acquisition and possession are subject to authorization and compliance with current French regulations.

In the standard configurations shown on this page, GLOCK Gen6 semi-automatic pistols are handguns classified in category B 1° as defined in article R. 311-2 of the Internal Security Code.

In France, their acquisition and possession are subject to valid administrative authorization and compliance with the conditions applicable to the practice of sport shooting. A shooting license alone does not allow the acquisition of a category B firearm.

The formalities and exact classification must be verified before purchase, particularly according to the weapon's configuration and feeding system. The gunsmiths at Armurerie Riffaut can inform each shooter about the necessary documentation and applicable regulations.