Glock presented the new Glock Gen6 generation of pistols to a specialist audience. The guiding concept “The generation engineered for you” sets the direction: The Gen6 contains changes that are based on feedback from customers worldwide. Militär Aktuell therefore took a close look. We accepted the invitation to Glock’s US plant in Smyrna (Georgia) to receive theoretical and practical training on the new generation of pistols.
When international business partners, professional gun users and representatives of the trade press, including Militär Aktuell, come to the tranquil town of Smyrna near Atlanta, Georgia, then something important must have happened. Glock not only offered a select audience a factory tour (-> We have already visited the Glock plant in Deutsch-Wagram). We also witnessed the ceremonial presentation of the new Glock Gen6 pistol generation. Of course, the new models were later taken to the Glock range.
Modification
Glock has given the Gen6 pistols a few modifications: improved ergonomics with numerous changes, a flat faced trigger design and an Optic Ready system.
In terms of ergonomics, the most visible changes have been made: the serrations on the closure have been worked in deeper and provide a “sharp”, non-slip feel. The Gen6 also comes with a new grip structure. RTF6 is the best of both worlds: The RTF2 pattern, considered by many to be too aggressive, has been combined with the commanding RTF4 for the RTF6. Another striking feature is the extended beavertail, which is now part of the grip itself. It is designed to ensure a secure and repeatable grip even under stress and adverse conditions – for example in wet conditions and when wearing gloves.
Perhaps not immediately recognizable visually, but immediately noticeable when gripping: with the Gen6 pistols, Glock pistols are now available ex works with a curved grip (palm swell). A thumb rest on both sides is also new. The change below the slide stop lever is also small but significant. The raised section, which is designed to prevent accidental manipulation of the lever, is now significantly stronger. The undercut on the trigger guard is also an efficient and ergonomic improvement. At the same time, the grip circumference has been reduced – even shorter index fingers can now reach the trigger more easily.
The Gen6 pistols have an improved trigger design. The trigger is now flat and has noticeable edges, which promotes a consistent and repeatable trigger pull.
There are two structural changes: the aforementioned Optic Ready system and a new extractor module. The developers at Glock aimed to reduce the height of the Red Dot mount. This is achieved with the Optic Ready System by means of a polymer adapter plate, which allows the red dot sight to be mounted firmly and directly to the slide by means of compression. Three different plates for different red dots are supplied. The new extractor module saves space and makes the system slimmer.
By the way, if you’re worried about compatibility with holsters, we were told during the technical introduction to the Gen6 that the new models should fit into standard Gen5 holsters. Most of the individual parts are also interchangeable with the Gen5, and all Glock magazines should also fit into the Gen6 pistols. However, the barrels of the Gen6 are not compatible with earlier models.
Motivation
The fundamental goal of Glock, as we hear in the presentations, is still to create safe and reliable tactical pistols. Fundamentals such as the Safe Action System have remained unchanged through all generations – simply because they have proven themselves. The Glock also passes the important drop test from as many as 13 different angles, far beyond existing standards, we learn in conversation with the Glock developers. Glock wants to retain the trust of government customers in any case by testing hard. There are reports of a Glock 19 Gen6 that was subjected to 40,000 rounds in the USA and Austria in order to test different types of ammunition. This is no exception.
One of the basic motivations for implementing certain modifications in the new Gen6 pistol models, as we learn in the presentations, was the feedback from the users themselves. In addition, those pistols that were sent to the US factory for testing due to malfunctions were analyzed in detail, with the result that malfunctions occurred when aftermarket products were installed in the Glock pistols. If these were replaced with original parts, the pistols worked again. The improvements in the Gen6 models are “from a single source” – ideally matched to each other.
Gen6 models
There is no Glock pistol generation without a Glock 17. It was and remains the pistol model that defines the Glock company – this is emphasized by the employees during our visit to Glock USA. Accordingly, there is also a G17 for the Gen6 pistol line, as well as a G45 and G19. There will also be a new Glock 49 for the international market. The G49 Gen6 in caliber 9×19 has the barrel length of the G17 (114 millimeters), with a height (from rear sight to magazine base) of 128 millimeters – a size that corresponds to the subcompact and slimline models G43X and G48. The magazine will hold 15 rounds.
On the Glock range
We were allowed to try out the G17, G19 and G45 models in Gen6 with various red dots. Do the new Glock models feel completely new? You’ll have to decide for yourself. From our editorial point of view: All the ergonomic modifications mentioned above were found to be helpful. If you have been shooting various Glock pistols for a long time, the new palm swell and the RTF structure of the Gen6 are definitely noticeable – but in a positive sense. Fast firing sequences are easier with this one “tine”. The increased grip, which is caused by the undercut, has a noticeably positive effect. The strong thumb rest still seems unusual if you pay attention to it. It does not interfere at all, but provides a defined and natural index point.
The red dots were relatively low and also make it easier for shooters who are trained on steel sights to start shooting with the bright red (or green) sights. That, too: successful. The trigger has a solid pressure point. The angular shape is also a definite advantage. If you take a closer look, you will notice that the gun is calmer. Everything is straighter and more focused.
Overall, the Gen6 models appear to us to be harmoniously tuned and modified Glock pistols that do not overtax, but create confidence because everything is perfectly coordinated. Advanced shooters and even beginners can benefit from the improvements. If the Gen6 becomes the new standard for Glock pistols, then the bar in Deutsch-Wagram and Smyrna will be set at a whole new level.
The Gen6 Glock models are expected to be delivered at the end of the year and are scheduled for release from January 20, 2026.
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