Glock 45 is a law enforcement-oriented pistol. It boasts a range of features that help law enforcement officers excel in their duties. These include ambidextrous slide release, forward cocking serrations, interchangeable backstraps for different sized hands and compatible internal parts common to other Glock models of similar size. It also has a flared mag well that helps officers execute faster magazine changes without having to fumble or juggle with the base plate.
The Frame
The Glock 45, also known as the Compact Crossover pistol, is the latest addition to the Glock lineup. A hybrid of the duty-size Glock 17 and the compact Glock 19, this model has quickly gained a substantial following among law enforcement agencies and civilians alike.
Featuring front slide serrations, 3-dot white fixed sights and a capacity of 17 rounds, this Glock is built around Gen 5 internals and is optics-ready. It uses a Glock Marksman Barrel with enhanced polygonal rifling and a smaller crown for superior accuracy straight out of the box.
The Glock 45 also features other Gen 5 enhancements such as a smoother trigger, improved frame texture, ambidextrous slide lock and magazine release, reversible mag catch and more. It’s an extremely versatile gun that can be modified with plenty of upgrades including a red dot sight or extended slide and mag releases.
The Slide
Glocks are world famous for their reliability. They can churn through hundreds of rounds without a single hiccup or malfunction. This is a testament to the company’s dedication to one thing and doing it well.
The G45 is a great choice for military or law enforcement personnel that need to carry a full-size duty pistol in non-permissive environments or plain clothes operations. It is a hybrid of the compact Glock 19X and the duty-size Glock 17.
The slide features Glock’s hard-surface nDLC finish in non-reflective black and front serrations for positive traction. It is also optics ready, a feature that is important for a duty gun. The ambidextrous controls, enhanced trigger and reversible magazine catch round out the package. Those who prefer a shorter barrel might like the G45’s slightly shorter overall length versus the Glock 19. The shorter barrel does make it easier to control in a holster but does not compromise the sight radius or velocity.
The Trigger
The Glock 45 is the newest member of the Gen 5 family. It features the proven, superior Glock hard-surface finish nDLC in non-reflective black and front serrations for enhanced gripping in stressful situations. It also features the polygonal barrel design for improved accuracy, a loaded chamber indicator and an accessory rail.
The 45 has a larger grip for law enforcement officers, and a flush-fitting 17-round magazine. The longer grip can be more comfortable for those with larger hands and may also be useful for shooting gloves.
Both pistols feature front cocking serrations, an ambidextrous slide release latch and reversible magazine catch, and the same legendary Glock reliability. But they come with a pair of lousy sights that require a trip to an aftermarket gunsmith for first-rate night sights.
The Magazines
When it comes to a Glock, you’re in luck as the factory magazine is just about as reliable as the pistol itself. They’ve got a reputation for being tough enough to outlast cockroaches and Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones.
During the range session we fired over 100 rounds without any hiccups. The gun chewed through a variety of hollow point and ball ammunition from several different manufacturers.
From the bench at 25 yards, the G45 produced excellent five-shot groups with Hornady’s and Federal ammunition. It’s also a good offhand shooter at 10 yards where most officer-involved shootings take place, according to LEOKA statistics. The pistol features a polygonal barrel, reversible slide stop lever on both sides, interchangeable backstraps and front serrations and a new nDLC surface coating.
The Bottom Lines
The Glock 45 is essentially a Glock 19 with a shorter barrel. It clears a duty holster quicker, offers the same mag capacity and the controls are identical.
In fact, some law enforcement officers prefer a shorter barrel because it reduces muzzle flip and provides better control of the gun. Ultimately, though, it’s up to the individual officer.
Like all Gen 5 pistols, the Glock 45 MOS has a hard-surface nDLC finish in subdued black. It also has front serrations on the slide and the Modular Backstrap System that allows for a custom fit, as well as an ambidextrous magazine catch. The Glock 45 is perfect for duty carry or home defense. Rent one at Eagle Gun Range today! Andy Rutledge is a design professional and competitive shooter who trains at Eagle Gun Range a few times a week to improve his defensive shooting skills.