Glock 19 vs. Glock 48: Ultimate Concealed Carry Showdown – Which One Wins? #1549
In this episode of Gun Stock Reviews, Yamil Sued takes a comprehensive look at two of the most widely praised handguns for concealed carry: the Glock 19 and the Glock 48. While both pistols belong to Glock’s renowned lineup, they cater to different preferences and needs in the concealed carry world. Here’s an expanded comparison based on key factors:
1. Size and Concealability
- Glock 19: The Glock 19 is a compact, but slightly bulkier, double-stack handgun. It has a wider grip, which accommodates more rounds (15+1 capacity). Its dimensions make it more challenging for some people to conceal, especially in warmer climates or when wearing lighter clothing.
- Glock 48: The Glock 48 is part of the Slimline series, offering a slimmer profile and single-stack magazine (10+1 capacity). Its thinner frame makes it easier to conceal, particularly for those who prioritize comfort in an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster.
2. Capacity
- Glock 19: The double-stack magazine gives the Glock 19 a distinct advantage in capacity, holding 15 rounds in the standard magazine. This can be a crucial factor for those who want more rounds in a self-defense situation.
- Glock 48: The single-stack design limits the Glock 48 to 10 rounds, which is less than the Glock 19, but it is still a respectable capacity for everyday concealed carry. Aftermarket magazine options (such as Shield Arms magazines) can increase the Glock 48’s capacity to 15 rounds without adding much bulk.
3. Comfort and Grip
- Glock 19: Due to its thicker grip, the Glock 19 feels more substantial in hand. Shooters with larger hands tend to find it more comfortable to hold and shoot.
- Glock 48: The Glock 48’s slim grip is better suited for people with smaller hands or those who prefer a more discreet and lightweight carry. The thinner design may be less comfortable for extended shooting sessions for those with larger hands.
4. Shooting Performance
- Glock 19: The Glock 19 is known for its solid, well-balanced shooting performance. The added weight and slightly longer barrel (4.02 inches) help with recoil management, making it a reliable option for both beginners and experienced shooters.
- Glock 48: The Glock 48 has a longer barrel (4.17 inches) than the Glock 19, which enhances accuracy and reduces felt recoil. Despite its lighter weight, the slim frame contributes to less muzzle flip, making it a surprisingly manageable gun for a single-stack pistol.
5. Versatility and Modularity
- Glock 19: Being one of the most popular handguns in the world, the Glock 19 benefits from a wide range of aftermarket support, including sights, triggers, and holsters. It’s a very versatile option for users who enjoy customizing their firearms.
- Glock 48: The Glock 48, while newer, is still gaining aftermarket support. However, it doesn’t quite match the level of customization available for the Glock 19. It’s slightly more limited in terms of accessory compatibility, though the MOS version of the Glock 48 allows for optic mounting.
6. Carry Comfort and Weight
- Glock 19: Weighing about 23.65 oz unloaded, the Glock 19 is heavier, and that weight can be noticeable when carrying it all day, especially for those who prefer appendix carry. However, many shooters appreciate the added weight for control when shooting.
- Glock 48: At 20.74 oz unloaded, the Glock 48 is lighter and easier to carry over extended periods, making it a great choice for daily concealed carry, particularly for people who prioritize comfort and minimal printing under clothing.
7. Price
- Glock 19 and Glock 48 are priced relatively similarly, though the Glock 48 may be slightly more affordable depending on the specific model and region. The real cost difference comes with accessories and aftermarket upgrades.
Conclusion: Which One Wins?
- Glock 19: If you prioritize capacity, versatility, and a gun with a track record for being a well-rounded, do-it-all firearm, the Glock 19 wins. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of extra bulk and weight in exchange for greater magazine capacity and customization options.
- Glock 48: On the other hand, if concealability, carry comfort, and slim design are your top priorities, the Glock 48 stands out as the winner. Its single-stack frame makes it ideal for users who want a lighter, more concealable gun without sacrificing much in performance.
Ultimately, the decision between the Glock 19 and Glock 48 comes down to personal preference, body type, and how you plan to carry.