Glock mags, like the handguns themselves, are largely polymer. This makes them strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant.
As a result of the popularity of the namesake, Glock mags are also in high demand. But are they cross-compatible?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Let’s take a closer look.
General Notes on Compatibility
If you’re considering the cross-compatibility of Glock magazines by model, there are a few things you need to take into account:
- Are the two mags in the same caliber? Obviously, a .45 mag will not work with 9mm rounds.
- Are the two mags of the same capacity? A longer mag may still fit into a mag chute with some of it hanging out the bottom, but you won’t be able to get a shorter-stack mag to seat in a longer mag chute.
- Is the mag a single stack or a double stack? Obviously a single stack mag will not work in a double stack mag chute, and vice versa. The G43 and G19 are both chambered in 9mm, for instance, but as the former is a single-stack model and the latter a double-stack, the two cannot exchange magazines.
By Glock Generation
As a general rule, Glock mags for the same model handgun are backwards-compatible across generations, with a few exceptions. For instance, a Gen 4 G19 mag should work with a Gen 2 G19, and so on and so forth.
The big issue with this is with Gen 5 Glock pistols, which have a few different features from previous generations. They have notches on both sides for reversible mag releases as well as raised feed lips and extended base plates. So, if you have a Gen 5, you’ll need a Gen 5 mag for it.
Otherwise, say you have a Gen 1 Glock pistol; you should be able to use Gen 1, 2, 3, and 4 mags (for the same handgun) with it.
Are Any Glock Mags Cross Compatible Across Models?
There actually are some Glock pistols that can share magazines. One of the most popularly requested has to do with the G17 and the G19.
Both are 9mm handguns that feed from double-stack 9mm magazines. The standard G17 has a capacity of 17 rounds and the G19 a standard capacity of 15.
Therefore, standard mags for the G19 are shorter than those for the G17. As a result, you can use some G17 mags in G19 pistols, but not the other way around.
That is, of course, assuming the generations are compatible. As stated, there have been some cross-compatibility issues with Generation 5 Glock pistols.
Are There Aftermarket Glock Mags?
The popularity of Glock pistols has spawned many aftermarket magazines by necessity. Some of these are extended magazines and drum magazines. There are many; some will work more reliably than others, but some may be of true quality. Really it can be hit or miss, so proceed with caution. If it’s the compatibility of these aftermarket mags you are concerned with, read the product descriptions carefully so you know what you are buying first. The real trial of reliability will come at the range.
Where Can I Get Glock Mags Online?
If you’re looking for some spare Glock mags for your range bag, get them online at Bucking Horse Outpost. Bucking Horse Outpost offers decent prices on a wide range of shooting accessories (and ammo, by the way), including Glock magazines.
They also offer bundles, so you can stock up on a few spare mags without breaking the bank. Check out their website today and bookmark them; they’re frequently running deals and specials, including police trade-ins.
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