how to tell the difference between new gen 3 and new gen 4?

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[ARCHIVED THREAD] - how to tell the difference between new gen 3 and new gen 4?

Posted: 1/19/2015 9:46:36 AM EDT

I'm specifically shopping for a Glock 19 but maybe the answer is applicable across models?

When searching in the interweb, many vendors don't provide what gen it is [which I think is stupid, but what do I know?] so is there a way using serial numbers, other numbering systems or visually to discern a gen 3 from a gen 4?

Thanks,

Posted: 1/19/2015 10:32:06 AM EDT

[#1]

One way is the number of magazines included. If it comes with 3 its gen 4, comes with 2 its gen 3.

Posted: 1/19/2015 10:43:56 AM EDT

[#2]

Well aside from the slide being stamped "Gen 4", Gen 3 has a smooth trigger face, Gen 4 has ridges.

Posted: 1/19/2015 11:06:54 AM EDT

[#3]

Quote History

Quoted:

. . . Gen 3 has a smooth trigger face, Gen 4 has ridges.

View Quote

That depends more on the particular model than the generation.

Visually, the Gen 4 has the additional backstraps, a much more aggressive frame texture, and the magazine release button is much larger.

Gen 3:

Gen 4:

Posted: 1/19/2015 11:50:20 AM EDT

[#4]

The removable backstraps are one of the ways to visually tell. Probably the easiest way is to actually call the vendor and just ask if you are not sure. Most places are very helpful.

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[ARCHIVED THREAD] - how to tell the difference between new gen 3 and new gen 4?

Handguns » Glock

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