GLOCK Introduces Generation 6: A Refined Evolution of the G17, G19, and G45

For more than forty years, Glock has built its reputation on incremental innovation rather than sweeping reinvention. Since the launch of the original G17 in 1982, each new generation has introduced subtle but meaningful updates while protecting the core reliability that made the brand dominant worldwide. That pattern continues with today's announcement of Generation 6.

The first Gen6 pistols will be the G17 Gen6, G19 Gen6, and G45 Gen6, all chambered in 9mm. They are scheduled to reach dealers on January 20, 2026, and Glock has confirmed pricing will match existing Gen5 MOS offerings.

Glock CEO Carlos Guevara described the new series as a natural next step:
"We're not chasing trends. We're moving forward thoughtfully, with the same uncompromising standards that define every Glock product."

This approach makes sense. Glock doesn’t need dramatic reinvention; instead, Gen6 focuses on addressing common ergonomic requests and improving optics capability while preserving the platform’s proven mechanical simplicity.

Key Enhancements in Generation 6

Glock intentionally avoided the modular fire-control-unit trend sweeping the pistol market. Instead, the company retained its well-tested one-piece frame and concentrated on refinements shooters will feel immediately.

Frame, Grip, and External Ergonomics

Gen6 frames now incorporate an integrated palm swell, a shape informed by extensive hand-size studies conducted across Glock’s employee population, according to reporting by TFB TV’s James Reeves.

The pistols ship with two interchangeable backstraps—2mm and 4mm—to help accommodate different hand sizes. Because the frame includes a built-in beaver tail, neither backstrap features one.

The grip texture blends elements of RTF2 and RTF4 designs, covering a larger portion of the frame to enhance traction without causing discomfort during extended carry. Glock also added a more aggressive trigger-guard undercut, enabling shooters to achieve a higher, more secure firing grip.

A new addition for this generation is the presence of ambidextrous shelves on both sides of the frame—functioning like low-profile “gas pedals” to aid recoil control. The magazine well is now flared, and the slides feature deeper, more sharply angled front serrations for improved manipulation.

Trigger System and Internal Updates

Every Gen6 pistol includes a flat-faced trigger as standard equipment. By combining this with the reworked undercut and slightly shorter reach, Glock aims to make the system more accessible to shooters with smaller hands while still maintaining the company’s Safe Action operating principle.

Gen6 models revert to a single captive recoil spring assembly, similar to early Glock generations. The barrel has also been redesigned with new chamfering and revised geometry. As a result, Gen5 and Gen6 barrels are not cross-compatible.

One important carryover remains: Gen6 pistols use existing Glock magazines, avoiding ecosystem fragmentation.

Optics-Ready by Default

With Generation 6, Glock has eliminated the MOS sub-line entirely. All Gen6 pistols ship optics-ready, accompanied by three polymer mounting plates supporting both RMR and DPP footprints.

The polymer plates act as recoil-absorbing crush washers, and they’re inexpensive for users to replace. The lingering question is whether these plates will consistently maintain zero under heavy use—something that only long-term testing will confirm.

Notably absent is any mention of the A-Cut mounting system Glock co-developed with Aimpoint for the COA series. More details may arrive during SHOT Show.

Glock Generation 6 Model Specifications

What Remains Unknown

Glock has yet to detail whether additional models—such as the G26, G34, or any .40/.45-caliber variants—will receive Gen6 upgrades. Expansion of the lineup will likely depend on market response to the initial trio.

Similarly, durability of the polymer optic plates and the long-term wear characteristics of the new grip texture remain open questions. Glock’s historical performance suggests extensive internal testing, but real-world agency use will provide the definitive answer.

The future of the A-Cut system also remains unclear.

Conclusion

Transitions between Glock generations always generate debate. Gen4 divided users when it arrived; Gen5 resolved several longstanding criticisms but removed finger grooves, upsetting some shooters who relied on them. Generation 6 appears to follow a measured approach: refine what matters and avoid unnecessary redesign.

Given Glock’s long-standing dominance in the striker-fired pistol category, the company has little incentive to take risks. Instead, with Gen6 they have chosen to improve ergonomics, expand optics readiness across the board, refine texture and handling characteristics, and finally introduce a factory flared magwell—all without compromising the reliability and operational simplicity that define the brand.

In short, Gen6 represents thoughtful evolution, not reinvention—and for many Glock owners, that is exactly what they want.