Glock 19X Review: Is This Crossover Pistol Worth It?

Hey guys, let's talk about a handgun that’s been making some serious waves in the firearms community: the Glock 19X. You've probably seen it around, maybe heard some chatter, and are wondering, "Is the Glock 19X a good gun?" Well, you've come to the right place! We're going to dive deep into what makes this pistol tick, its pros, its cons, and who it might be perfect for. When Glock decided to create a pistol for the U.S. Army's Modular Handgun System trials, they essentially took their legendary Glock 17 and combined it with the popular Glock 19. The result? The Glock 19X, a full-size grip with a compact slide. This "crossover" design was a big deal, and while it didn't win the Army contract (that went to Sig Sauer's P320), Glock decided to release it to the civilian market anyway. And man, have people been talking about it! It’s got this unique look, a sort of "military tan" or "FDE" (Flat Dark Earth) finish that sets it apart from the standard black Glocks we're all so used to. But beyond the aesthetics, does the substance match the style? Let's break it down.

The Glock 19X: A Closer Look at Its Features

Alright, so what exactly makes the Glock 19X stand out from its siblings? For starters, as I mentioned, it’s a crossover pistol. This means you get the larger capacity magazine well and grip length of the Glock 17, but with the shorter, more concealable slide of the Glock 19. This is a pretty sweet combo for a lot of shooters. If you've got larger hands, that full-size grip feels much more comfortable and secure than the standard compact Glocks. Yet, the shorter slide means it’s still manageable for concealed carry compared to a full-size pistol like the G17. It’s the best of both worlds, right? Another really cool feature is the nPVD finish in Coyote color. This isn't just a coat of paint; it's a durable, corrosion-resistant finish that Glock claims is tougher than their standard Tenifer treatment. It gives the gun a really distinctive look, and it holds up well to abuse, which is exactly what you want in a workhorse pistol. The 19X also comes with Glock's Marksman Barrel (GMB), which they say offers improved accuracy out of the box compared to older Glock barrels. And let's not forget the ambidextrous slide stop lever, a welcome addition for left-handed shooters or those who simply prefer the flexibility. It also features Glock's standard Safe Action trigger system, which is known for its consistency and simplicity. For many, the trigger is "Glocky" – a bit spongy, but reliable. It comes with three 17-round magazines (which is pretty generous, considering many Glocks come with two 15-rounders) and a gun lock. A neat little extra is the Glock Night Sights that are standard on the 19X. While not the absolute best night sights on the market, they're a solid upgrade over standard polymer sights and are ready for low-light situations right away. The flared mag well also helps with quicker magazine changes, especially under pressure. All these little details add up to a pistol that feels thoughtfully designed, even if it didn't snag that military contract. It’s built for performance, reliability, and a touch of modern flair.

Performance and Handling: Does the Glock 19X Live Up to the Hype?

Now, let's get to the nitty-gritty: how does the Glock 19X actually perform? When you're out on the range, this gun just works. It's a Glock, after all, and reliability is pretty much their middle name. We're talking about a pistol that’s designed to run, no matter the conditions. Mud, dirt, water – it’s supposed to handle it all without skipping a beat. And for the most part, it absolutely does. The slightly longer grip compared to a standard G19 makes a noticeable difference in handling and recoil management. With the full-size grip, you can get a really solid, two-handed purchase, which helps absorb recoil more effectively. This means faster follow-up shots and a more comfortable shooting experience, especially during extended range sessions. The balanced weight of the pistol, due to the full-size frame and the 19-round magazine capacity, also contributes to a very manageable recoil impulse. Even with hotter defensive loads, the 19X remains surprisingly flat-shooting. The slide, being shorter like the G19, means it's quicker to cycle, but paired with the heavier, longer grip, it feels very stable. Accuracy? Well, it’s a Glock. Out of the box, with the Marksman Barrel, it’s more accurate than many give Glocks credit for. For concealed carry, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. That full-size grip, while great for shooting, makes it less concealable than a standard Glock 19. You'll likely need to wear looser clothing or opt for a good OWB holster if you plan on carrying it discreetly. However, for open carry, home defense, or duty use, it's an excellent option. The grip angle is the classic Glock angle, which some love and some find a bit awkward initially. But if you're familiar with Glocks, it's second nature. The trigger, as expected, is the Safe Action trigger. It’s safe, it’s consistent, but it's not the most refined trigger on the market. Many owners opt for aftermarket triggers to enhance the feel and reduce the pull weight. Still, for a stock firearm, it’s perfectly functional for its intended purposes, whether that’s self-defense, competition, or just general shooting.

Glock 19X vs. Other Handguns: Where Does It Fit?

So, you're asking, "Is the Glock 19X a good gun?" The answer really depends on what you're looking for. Let's compare it to some other popular options. Compared to a standard Glock 19, the 19X offers a longer grip and higher magazine capacity (17+1 vs 15+1), making it potentially more comfortable for shooters with larger hands and providing more rounds on tap. However, the standard G19 is generally easier to conceal due to its shorter grip. If concealability is your absolute top priority, the standard G19 might be a better fit. If you want a bit more grip and capacity but still want something reasonably compact, the 19X shines. Now, let's consider the Glock 17. The 17 is Glock's full-size duty pistol. The 19X essentially takes the G17's grip and combines it with the G19's slide. So, the 19X is shorter in the barrel and slide than a G17, making it a bit quicker to bring to bear and potentially easier to maneuver in tight spaces, while retaining the G17's grip comfort and capacity. If you're deciding between a 19X and a G17, think about whether you prioritize a slightly shorter barrel or the classic full-size length. What about non-Glock options? The market is flooded with fantastic pistols. Competitors like the Sig Sauer P320 (which actually won the military contract), the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus, or even polymer-framed wonders from CZ and Walther offer different ergonomics, trigger feels, and features. The P320, for example, is modular and also saw military service. S&W's M&P line offers a strong alternative with its own set of fans. The 19X really sits in a unique niche. It’s not the smallest, it’s not the largest, but it offers a very effective blend of features. For someone who likes the Glock platform but wants a bit more grip and capacity than a G19, but finds a G17 a bit too long for their preference or carry style, the 19X is a compelling choice. It’s also a great option for home defense or as a duty weapon where maximum concealability isn't the primary concern. Its reliability is unquestionable, and the unique finish makes it a bit of a standout. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and intended use. The 19X doesn't try to be something it's not; it’s a rugged, reliable pistol that offers a practical compromise for many users.

Pros and Cons: The Final Verdict on the Glock 19X

Alright guys, let's wrap this up by looking at the hard facts: the pros and cons of the Glock 19X. This will help you decide if this pistol is the right fit for your needs.

Pros:

• Reliability: This is Glock, guys. It’s built to run under harsh conditions. You can count on it to function when you need it most. This is arguably its biggest selling point.
• Ergonomics (for some): The full-size grip offers a comfortable and secure hold for shooters with larger hands. Combined with the 19-round capacity, it feels very substantial and confidence-inspiring.
• Balanced Handling: The combination of the compact slide and full-size grip provides a very manageable recoil impulse. It shoots flatter than many expect, leading to quicker follow-up shots.
• Increased Capacity: Coming standard with three 17-round magazines is a huge plus. You get more rounds on tap right out of the box compared to many other pistols in its class.
• Durable Finish: The nPVD Coyote color finish is not only aesthetically pleasing to many but is also very tough and resistant to corrosion and wear.
• Ambidextrous Slide Stop: A nice touch that adds versatility for all shooters.
• Glock Night Sights: Decent factory night sights are included, saving you an immediate upgrade cost.

Cons:

• Concealability: That longer, full-size grip makes it more difficult to conceal for concealed carry compared to a standard Glock 19 or other smaller pistols. You'll likely need specific holsters and clothing choices.
• Trigger: Like most stock Glocks, the Safe Action trigger is functional but not the most refined. Many shooters prefer an aftermarket upgrade for a crisper feel.
• Grip Angle: While familiar to Glock users, the angle can be polarizing for new shooters or those accustomed to other pistol designs.
• Aesthetics (for some): While the Coyote color is popular, some prefer the classic black finish and may find the tan color less appealing or too distinctive.
• Price: The 19X often retails slightly higher than a standard Glock 19 or 17, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

So, is the Glock 19X a good gun? For the right person, absolutely. If you're looking for a highly reliable, durable, and accurate pistol with a comfortable grip and good capacity, and you don't mind that it's a bit harder to conceal than a standard compact, then the 19X is a fantastic choice. It excels as a home defense weapon, a duty pistol, or a range toy. For concealed carry, it requires a bit more planning and commitment to concealment. It’s a solid pistol that takes the proven Glock formula and offers a compelling blend of features for those who want something just a little different. Give it a try if you get the chance – you might be surprised by how much you like it!