First Week With the Glock Gen 6 G17: A Hands-On Review

When Glock announces a new generation, expectations are always cautious. The brand is known for reliability first, refinement second, and dramatic change never. After a full week with the Glock Gen 6 G17, it’s clear this isn’t a reinvention—but it is one of the most deliberate and thoughtful evolutions Glock has released in years.

What’s new with the Glock Gen 6 pistols?

The Glock Gen 6 focuses on ergonomic refinement, updated aesthetics, and subtle mechanical changes rather than radical redesign. The goal appears to be improving shooter comfort and modern usability while preserving Glock’s core reliability.

First impressions: Does the Glock Gen 6 feel different?

Yes—immediately. The Gen 6 still looks like a Glock, but it finally feels modern in hand.

Grip shape and texture

The most noticeable change is the grip geometry. Earlier generations were often criticized for feeling blocky. The Gen 6 grip feels more natural, filling the hand without forcing it into position. Shooters with small, medium, and large hands should all notice improved comfort.

• Longer Beavertail
• Improved texture that adds control without being abrasive
• Enhanced support-hand ledge for recoil management

Overall fit and finish

The finish is clean and uniform, and the pistol looks more refined than previous generations. Glock hasn’t abandoned its utilitarian roots—but it finally looks intentional rather than dated.

Trigger and controls: what changed on the Gen 6?

Operationally, the Gen 6 remains familiar to long-time Glock users, with a few noteworthy updates.

Flat-faced trigger

The flat-faced trigger is both a visual and functional update designed to encourage a consistent trigger press. Out of the box, our sample showed:

• A noticeable amount of mush in the pull
• A later-than-expected break
• A positive, predictable reset

This is typical of new Glock triggers and often improves with round count. Aftermarket trigger options will almost certainly follow quickly.

Ambidextrous controls

Ambi controls remain standard. The magazine release is easy to reach, while the slide stop can still be unintentionally ridden by shooters with larger hands—a long-standing Glock characteristic.

Why did Glock change the recoil spring on Gen 6?

One of the more debated decisions is Glock’s return to a single captured recoil spring, similar to Gen 3 pistols. Shooters accustomed to Gen 4 and Gen 5 may see this as a step backward, but in practice:

• Recoil impulse feels slightly closer to Gen 3
• Reliability remains consistent
• Most shooters won’t notice a meaningful downside

Is the Glock Gen 6 MOS system better?

The updated optics mounting system is one of the most promising changes. Installation is straightforward, plates are easy to work with, and the new recessed polymer plates appear designed to address earlier MOS durability concerns.

Long-term durability remains to be proven, but early impressions are positive and suggest Glock is listening to user feedback.

How does the Glock Gen 6 G17 shoot?

Simply put—it shoots like a Glock.

Accuracy and recoil

If blindfolded, most shooters would struggle to identify the Gen 6 based on recoil or accuracy alone. Differences are subtle and primarily tied to:

• Trigger feel
• Recoil impulse from the recoil spring change
• Improved control from the revised grip

Control during rapid fire

This is where the Gen 6 stands out. The grip texture and support-hand ledge make fast follow-up shots easier and more consistent, especially during rapid strings.

Will the Glock Gen 6 have good aftermarket support?

Absolutely. Aftermarket support has always been Glock’s strongest advantage, and the Gen 6 is no exception.

• Trigger upgrades
• Slide cuts and optic enhancements
• Grip texture modifications
• Holsters, lights, and accessories

This platform is built to be customized, and the industry will respond quickly.

Final verdict: Is the Glock Gen 6 worth it?

The Glock Gen 6 G17 is a successful evolution. It respects Glock’s identity while finally addressing modern ergonomic and aesthetic expectations.

• Reliable foundation
• Improved grip and control
• Modernized optics support
• Massive aftermarket potential

We wouldn’t hesitate to buy one. At Glock’s typical price point, adding a Gen 6—especially in a carry-friendly size like the G19—feels like an easy decision.

Ready to carry with confidence? Find your Glock Gen 6 holster and build a setup that actually works.