GLOCK G22 GEN 4
Posted May 19, 2023
GLOCK G22 GEN 4: A Comprehensive Review
The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 is a high-capacity semi-automatic polymer-frame pistol designed and produced by the world renowned Austrian firearms manufacturer, GLOCK. The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 is the fourth generation of GLOCK’s 22 caliber pistol and is chambered for the .40 Smith & Wesson round. It is currently the sidearm of choice for many police departments and military organizations worldwide. Despite its popularity, the GLOCK G22 GEN 4 is far from perfect and, in this review, I will explore the good and the bad of what this pistol has to offer.
Features of the GLOCK G22 GEN 4
The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 pistol is a full-sized pistol and measures in at 8.03 inches in length with a 4.49-inch barrel and a 5.47-inch slide. There are some variations in length depending on the GLOCK model, but all models maintain the same basic dimensions. The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 tips the scales at 21.16 ounces and is constructed from a high-performance, lightweight, reinforced polymer frame that is impervious to corrosion and extremely resistant to wear and tear.
The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 utilizes a “Safe Action” trigger system, which, after the first round is fired, provides an automatic trigger reset with each subsequent round that is fired. The trigger travel is 0.5 inches and the trigger pull is 5.5 pounds. The pistol also features a reversible magazine catch to accommodate left and right handed shooters and textured gripping surfaces for improved handling.
The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 comes standard with fixed sights as well as GLOCK’s night sights if desired. The standard GLOCK G22 GEN 4 magazine holds 15 rounds, while extended capacity magazines can hold up to 33 rounds. The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 has an overall capacity of 22 rounds when using extended magazines.
Performance of the GLOCK G22 GEN 4
The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 is an exceptionally reliable weapon. Its simple construction lends itself to accurate and reliable performance in almost any environment. This quality of reliability carries over to the GLOCK G22 GEN 4’s accuracy. The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 is capable of firing off-hand with ease and accuracy that rivals that of most full-sized target pistols. While recoil and muzzle flip are relatively substantial due to the .40 frame, the pistol is easily managed and can be safely and quickly fired accurately.
The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 is an incredibly easy and safe weapon to operate. Its Safe Action trigger system makes it easy to carry with confidence as there are no external safeties to forget or fiddle with. Additionally, the pistol's short recoil setup allows for fast and easy follow-up shots, making it great for self-defense and competitive use.
Drawbacks of the GLOCK G22 GEN 4
The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 comes with some drawbacks, primarily regarding its size and weight. The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 weighs in at 21.16 ounces, which, while not the heaviest pistol in its category, is still significantly heavier than some modern pistols of the same size. Additionally, the GLOCK G22 GEN 4 is longer than some comparable service pistols and is, therefore, less concealable and less ideal for concealed carry.
The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 also has some issues with its magazine design. The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 extended capacity magazines are particularly large, making carry and concealment of such magazines cumbersome and uncomfortable. These magazines are also quite difficult to reload while in the weapon.
Conclusion
Overall, the GLOCK G22 GEN 4 is an excellent pistol. It is reliable, accurate, and easy to use, making it an ideal choice for a variety of applications. Its versatility makes it popular among military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters alike. It is certainly not a perfect pistol, however, and its size and weight will make it less ideal for concealed carry. Additionally, the magazine design is not ideal and reloading the large capacity magazines in the GLOCK G22 GEN 4 can be cumbersome. Nevertheless, the GLOCK G22 GEN 4 remains a popular choice among law enforcement, military, and civilian shooters alike due to its reliability, accuracy, and ease of use.
Pros & Cons
Pros
-Reliable: The Glock G22 GEN 4 is a reliable firearm that is trusted by a lot of law enforcement and military personnel.
-Adaptable: It is easy to customize the Glock G22 GEN 4 with aftermarket accessories such as sights and magazine extensions.
-Ergonomic: The Glock G22 GEN 4 fits naturally in most people's hands, making it easy and comfortable to use.
-Affordable: The Glock G22 GEN 4 is more affordable compared to other handgun models.
Cons
-Heavy: The Glock G22 GEN 4 is a bit heavy for some folks, making it less ideal for concealed carry.
-Not ambidextrous: The Glock G22 GEN 4 is not ambidextrous friendly, so left-handed people are disadvantaged.
-Trigger: The trigger pull on the Glock G22 GEN 4 is heavier than some people are comfortable with.
Who Should Buy
The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 handgun is a great choice for a variety of shooters, from competitive shooters to home defense enthusiasts. It is a popular option for law enforcement agencies and is safe and reliable for personal protection and target shooting.
Should Buy:
-Police officers and security personnel
-Competitive shooters
-Home defense enthusiasts
-Hunters
Should Not Buy:
-Individuals without proper firearms training or safety courses
-Anyone under the age of 21
-Anyone with a record of mental instability
-Anyone who is looking for a handgun to commit crimes
Comparisons
| Caliber | Capacity | Barrel Length |
|---|---|---|
| .40 S & W | 15+1 | 4.49" |
| .40 S & W | 13+1 | 4.02" |
| .40 S & W | 15+1 | 4.7" |
| .40 S & W | 15+1 | 4.25" |
| .45 ACP | 10+1 | 4.5" |
Features / Specs
-Caliber: .40 S&W
-Mag Capacity: 15/10 rounds
-Barrel Length: 4.49"
-Overall Length: 7.95"
-Slide Length: 7.32"
-Width: 1.18"
-Height w/Mag: 5.43"
-Weight (empty): 22.04 oz.
-Trigger Pull: 5.5 lbs
-Sights: Fixed
-Finish: Tenifer or Nitride
Popular Accessories
- Holsters
- Grip Plugs
- Magazine Extensions
- Spare Magazines
- Speedloaders
- Sights
- Laser Sights
- Light and Laser Combos
- Extended Slide Releases
- Magazine Well Inserts
- Trigger Upgrades
- Trigger Guards
- Holster Clips
- Performance Parts
- Threaded Barrels
Accuracy
The GLOCK G22 GEN 4 is highly reliable and accurate due to its precision machined barrel and updated design. Moreover, the tested and proven Safe Action trigger system provides a smooth, consistent trigger pull to enable accurate fire control and accuracy. Additionally, GLOCK has incorporated multiple safety features on this model, giving users an added layer of confidence when using it. All in all, the G22 GEN 4 is a reliable, accurate and easy to use firearm, making it a great choice for shooters of all experience levels.
