GLOCK G21 SF GEN 3
Posted May 19, 2023
Glock G21 SF Gen 3 – An In-Depth Review
If you are looking for a versatile handgun that is reliable, dependable, and accurate, the Glock G21 SF Gen 3 might be the perfect firearm for you. This third generation of the G21 series offers improved ergonomics and additional features that make it an extremely popular choice among competitive shooters, hunters, law enforcement, and personal protection users. This review will discuss the various features of the G21 SF Gen 3, including its design, operation, construction, accuracy, performance, and magazine capacity.
Design
The Glock G21 SF Gen 3 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered for the .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) cartridge, and is part of Glock’s “Large Frame pistol” product line. The SF designation stands for “short frame” and refers to the abbreviated pistol grip size, which has been shortened down to a size more suitable for shooters with smaller or average-sized hands. The G21 SF Gen 3 features a polymer frame and steel slide, with other notable design features including an installed Picatinny rail for mounting accessories; fixed Glock sights; and an enlarged slide stop lever.
Operation
The G21 SF Gen 3 operates on a short-recoil, locked-breech system, and functions similar to other Glock models. All models feature a “Safe Action” system, which consists of three independent, integrated safety systems that operate when the trigger is disengaged; these systems include an automatic firing pin safety, a trigger safety, and a drop safety. The Safe Action system ensures that if the Glock G21 SF Gen 3 is dropped or mishandled, the gun will not accidentally discharge. Furthermore, the G21 SF Gen 3 does not include any external manual safeties; all safety systems must be disengaged only when the trigger is pulled.
Construction
The Glock G21 SF Gen 3 is constructed mainly of a one-piece reinforced polymer frame, with the slide and barrel being made from steel. The frame is molded with an ergonomic design and features finger grooves, gripping checkering on the back of the grip, and texturing along the pistol’s spine for increased recoil control. Additionally, the grip features a “beavertail” hump, allowing the shooter to get a higher grip on the firearm for improved recoil control.
The G21 SF Gen 3 features a 4.60-inch long barrel that is constructed from lightweight, corrosion-resistant stainless steel. The barrel is also fluted to create channels that counteract the force of recoil while shooting and help reduce muzzle flip. The slide is constructed from lightweight, corrosion-resistant stainless steel and features front and rear serrations for a secure grip when chambering a round or clearing a misfire. The slide features a nitride finish to reduce surface friction and increase durability.
Accuracy and Performance
The Glock G21 SF Gen 3 is an incredibly accurate pistol, with many shooters reporting that they can hit small targets at distances of up to 75 yards with the gun. The gun offers reliable performance under a variety of conditions, and many shooters have reported that the gun functions without any malfunctions or failures. Additionally, the G21 SF Gen 3 features a modular backstrap, which allows the shooter to customize the pistol’s grip size, as well as the trigger reach and trigger travel.
Magazine Capacity
The G21 SF Gen 3 includes two 13-round factory magazines, each constructed from corrosion-resistant stainless steel. Additionally, the G21 SF Gen 3 magazines are compatible with other Glock pistol models.
Overall Review
The Glock G21 SF Gen 3 is an excellent choice of firearm for anyone looking for a reliable and accurate handgun for hunting, competitive shooting, or personal protection. The gun features a lightweight, polymer frame and a corrosion-resistant stainless steel slide, with additional features such as improved ergonomics, a large magazine capacity, and an enlarged slide stop lever. The gun is incredibly accurate, and many users have reported that they can hit small targets at distances of up to 75 yards with the gun. The G21 SF Gen 3 offers reliable performance under a variety of conditions, and is compatible with other Glock pistols.
Overall, the Glock G21 SF Gen 3 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and accurate handgun. The gun is easy to use, and the improved ergonomics make it comfortable to shoot. The gun also offers a high degree of accuracy, and is capable of hitting small targets at distances of up to 75 yards. The G21 SF Gen 3 also includes a large magazine capacity and is compatible with other Glock pistol models. The gun is reliable, dependable, and a great choice for anyone looking for a quality firearm.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Large capacity of 13 rounds
- Multiple safeties that are completely automated
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
- Striker fired build
- Easy to use and maintain
Cons:
- High recoil due to its heavy slide
- Not as much customization as other Glock models
- No accessory rail
- Basic sights can be uncomfortable for some shooters
Who Should Buy
The GLOCK G21SF GEN 3 pistol is intended for experienced shooters and law enforcement and military personnel who may need a full-size combat pistol. This pistol is probably not the best choice for beginning shooters or those with limited self-defense experience. The G21SF GEN 3 pistol is also not well suited for concealed carry.
Comparisons
| GLOCK G21 SF GEN 3 | FNX-45 Tactical | H&K USP 45 | SPRINGFIELD XD45 MOD2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Striker Fired | Double Action/Single Action | Double Action/ Single Action | Striker Fired |
| .45 ACP | .45 ACP | .45ACP | .45ACP |
| 4.6in | 5.3in | 4.4in | 4in |
| 26.5oz | 27.5oz | 31.7oz | 28oz |
| 10+1 | 15+1 | 15+1 | 13+1 |
| 5.5in | 6.4in | 5.2in | 5.75in |
| 1.27in | 1.58in | 1.26in | 1.2in |
Features / Specs
-Caliber: .45 ACP
-Barrel Length: 4.6”
-Overall Length: 8.03”
-Height: 5.47”
-Width: 1.27”
-Sight Radius: 6.02”
-Weight (empty): 24.12 oz
-Trigger Pull: 5.5 lbs
-Magazine Capacity: 13+1 Rounds
-Magazines Included: 2
Popular Accessories
- Magazine Extension
- Laser Sight
- Extended Magazine Release
- Magazine Catch
- Trigger Upgrade Kit
- Extended Slide Stop
- Barrel Porting
- Optics Mount
- High-Capacity Magazines
- Night Sights
Accuracy
The GLOCK G21 SF GEN 3 is a highly accurate handgun. It features precision machined barrel and chamber, adjustable sights, and an optimized grip angle for improved accuracy, as well as the unique GLOCK Marksman Barrel and GLOCK Elite trigger for repeatability and quality with each shot. It has also been tested to have high accuracy at different distances, with the ability to maintain a 1.5” group at 25 yards. It is a reliable pistol for shooting in both competition and personal defense applications, and will certainly live up to any challenge thrown its way.
