Last month our friends from Primary Arms gave us the lowdown on GLOCK upgrades for competition. This month they’ve returned to share their insights on upgrades for concealed carry which are plentiful.

Uncle Zo

Concealed carry firearms need to strike a delicate balance between performance, safety, and concealability. Among the myriad of options available, GLOCK pistols have garnered a strong reputation for their reliability, durability, and ease of use, making them a top choice for concealed carry. However, even with a well-established track record, many GLOCK owners seek to enhance their handguns further with aftermarket upgrades.

This article delves into the rationale behind upgrading a concealed carry GLOCK, reviews the best GLOCK models suited for this purpose, and explores the most popular enhancements. From match-grade triggers to tactical lights and custom holsters, we will assess each upgrade’s impact on performance, concealability, and safety, ensuring you can make informed decisions about optimizing your concealed carry setup.

Why Upgrade a Concealed Carry GLOCK?

Upgrading a concealed carry GLOCK can significantly enhance its performance, reliability, and ease of use, which are crucial factors for any self-defense scenario. Here are several key reasons why GLOCK owners might consider investing in upgrades.

• Improved Accuracy and Control:

Enhancements such as match-grade triggers and upgraded sights can lead to better accuracy and control. A smoother, lighter trigger pull can make it easier to maintain precision, especially under stress. Upgraded sights, including night sights or reflex optics, can provide faster target acquisition and improved visibility in low-light conditions.

• Increased Capacity and Reload Speed:

Magazine upgrades can increase the ammunition capacity of a GLOCK, providing more rounds without significantly increasing the firearm’s size. Additionally, extended magazine releases and flared magwells can expedite reloads, a crucial advantage in high-pressure situations.

• Tactical Advantages:

Adding a weapon light can provide an essential tactical advantage, allowing for better target identification in various lighting conditions. It also cannot be understated how oppressive a powerful tactical light can feel. A 60,000-candela light will prevent an assailant from getting a clear view of you, giving you a greater advantage in dissuading or reacting to the threat.

• Personal Confidence and Familiarity:

Customizing a GLOCK to suit an individual’s preferences can increase the owner’s confidence and familiarity with the firearm. This heightened comfort level can be invaluable in a defensive situation, ensuring that the user can operate the firearm efficiently and effectively.

Top GLOCK Pistols for Concealed Carry

When it comes to selecting a GLOCK pistol for concealed carry, a few models stand out for their balance of size, capacity, and performance. The model of your GLOCK pistol will also determine which upgrades are feasible, as many aftermarket components are limited to a specific model or generation of pistol.

Ultimately, the best GLOCK Pistol for Concealed Carry will depend heavily on your body, your clothing, and your tolerance for weight on the belt. With that said, here are some of the top choices on today’s market:

GLOCK 19 (9mm):

The GLOCK 19 is widely regarded as one of the best all-around pistols for concealed carry. Its compact size, combined with a 15+1 round capacity, makes it versatile for both concealed carry and home defense. The G19 is known for its reliability, ease of use, and wide availability of aftermarket parts. It features a 4.02-inch barrel and an overall length of 7.28 inches, making it compact yet capable.

GLOCK 48 MOS (9mm):

The GLOCK 48 MOS offers a slimmer profile than the G19, making it even more comfortable for concealed carry. It has a 10+1 round capacity and retains the accessory rail and optics-ready slide. The Slimline design reduces the width to 1.1 inches, enhancing concealability without sacrificing performance. It’s an excellent choice for those who find the G19 too bulky.

GLOCK 43X MOS (9mm):

The GLOCK 43X MOS is another Slimline model, similar to the G48 but with a shorter 3.41-inch barrel. It maintains the 10+1 capacity and slim profile, making it ideal for deep concealment. While it lacks an accessory rail, it’s a great option for those who prioritize minimal size and maximum concealability.

GLOCK 26 (9mm):

Known by some as the “Baby GLOCK,” the G26 is a subcompact model with a 10+1 round capacity. Its small size (with a 3.42-inch barrel) makes it exceptionally easy to conceal, even for those with a smaller build. The G26 is praised for its durability and reliability, retaining the robust construction and performance of larger GLOCK models.

GLOCK 42 (.380 ACP):

If you’re not into 9mm, the GLOCK 42 is a compact and lightweight pistol chambered in .380 ACP, making it an excellent choice for deep concealment. With a 6+1 round capacity and a 3.25-inch barrel, the G42 is highly concealable and easy to handle. It features a slim profile, making it comfortable for everyday carry. Despite its small size, the G42 is known for its reliability and manageable recoil, making it suitable for both new and experienced shooters.

Why is 9mm so Popular for Concealed Carry?

As you may have noticed, many of the most popular concealed carry options are chambered in 9mm.

While there are many great .40, 10mm, and .45 ACP pistols, it’s undeniable that 9mm remains the golden standard for concealed carry. Comparably, 9mm pistols offer an exceptional balance of size, recoil, and performance—especially when combined with a proven hollow-point bullet like a Federal HST or Speer Gold Dot.

When you’re shopping for GLOCK, you can be relatively confident that your pistol will be reliable enough for concealed carry, no matter what caliber it’s chambered in. The only exception to this would be the GLOCK 44, which is chambered in .22LR. Even though the pistol itself is very reliable, .22LR ammunition is notoriously inconsistent, and the poor terminal ballistics aren’t helping its case.

While there have been effective stops with .22LR, the rimfire cartridge comes with a lot of trade-offs. When you’re factoring in adrenaline, barriers, and the uncertainty that comes with personal defense, .22LR just can’t compete with the reliable potency of centerfire cartridges.

Though in certain circumstances, such as with ailments or injury, it may be the case that the lightly-recoiling .22LR is the only really feasible option. In this specific situation, .22LR might be the best (or only) choice, though it’s still debatable if a semi-automatic GLOCK is the best option. Given rim fire cartridge’s less reliable ammo ignition, a revolver may be more sensible, as ignition failures won’t cause a stoppage.

Most Popular Upgrades for GLOCK Handguns

Upgrading a GLOCK handgun can significantly enhance its performance, ergonomics, and overall functionality. Many GLOCK owners upgrade to match triggers to achieve a smoother, lighter pull, which improves accuracy and control during high-stress situations. Additionally, upgrading to night sights or reflex optics can enhance target acquisition and visibility in low-light conditions, offering a critical advantage in self-defense scenarios.

Other popular modifications include extended controls, which provide better ergonomics and faster manipulation during reloads or malfunction drills. Magazine upgrades, such as extended magazines and flared magwells, increase ammunition capacity and facilitate quicker reloads. Attachable accessories like tactical lights further enhance a GLOCK’s versatility, improving target identification and defensive effectiveness.

Each of these upgrades tailors the firearm to better meet specific needs, enhancing its overall effectiveness and the shooter’s confidence.

Match-Grade Triggers: Do or Don’t?

Match-grade triggers come with many benefits, but they also have trade-offs, which should be considered carefully for a self-defense pistol.

The primary advantage is improved accuracy. A smoother, lighter trigger pull helps shooters achieve tighter groupings and faster follow-up shots, which is especially valuable in high-stress self-defense scenarios. Match-grade triggers also often feature a shorter reset, reducing the time between shots and providing a significant mechanical advantage in rapid-fire.

However, these benefits come with potential trade-offs. Installing an aftermarket trigger improperly can compromise the safety and reliability of your firearm. GLOCKs are designed and optimized for specific spring weights, and altering the trigger system can compromise the balance.

There is another risk to a light trigger: the human element. Even if the mechanical safety is unaffected, a tuned competition trigger has very little tolerance for poor trigger discipline. If you plan to carry a pistol with a trigger upgrade, ensure that you are very practiced with it, as there will never be a good excuse for a negligent discharge.

Also, keep in mind that, after a defensive shooting, a zealous prosecutor might target the features of a handgun when bringing a case to court. These ‘hair trigger’ arguments center on the notion that a match trigger, which has a lighter and more sensitive pull, increases the likelihood of an accidental or premature discharge. Prosecutors argue that this modification can indicate a predisposition towards using lethal force or suggest reckless behavior, thus undermining the defendant’s claim of reasonable self-defense. This subject has been explored more heavily in this blog, and it’s important to keep in mind whenever you modify a carry pistol.

If you do choose to upgrade your carry pistol’s trigger, though, there are some very trustworthy brands that you might want to consider. Apex Tactical has a long-standing reputation for high-quality triggers that can reliably serve in a duty pistol. The same is true for Overwatch Precision, which offers a wide array of flat-faced and curve-faced triggers.

Upgrading Sights & Optics

Upgrading the factory sights on a GLOCK is one of the most common and impactful modifications owners can make. The stock polymer sights that come with GLOCK pistols are often criticized for their lack of visibility and precision. Replacing them with high-quality aftermarket sights can significantly enhance accuracy and speed of target acquisition.

Popular options include fiber optic sights and tritium night sights. Fiber optic sights use bright, colored filaments to draw the shooter’s eye to the front sight, making it easier to align the sights quickly, especially in well-lit conditions. Tritium night sights, on the other hand, are self-illuminating and glow in low-light environments, providing crucial visibility for accurate shooting in the dark.

Mini reflex sights have also gained popularity among GLOCK users. These optics allow shooters to keep both eyes open while aiming, providing a clear, illuminated aiming point that appears to be projected onto the target. This significantly reduces the time required to acquire a target and improves accuracy, particularly in dynamic or high-stress situations.

For those with GLOCK MOS (Modular Optic System) models, attaching optics is straightforward. MOS models come with pre-cut slides that accommodate popular red dot sights directly, making installation simple and secure. For non-MOS models, aftermarket solutions like slide milling or adapter plates can be used to mount optics effectively.

When shopping sight brands, Night Fision and AmeriGlo are excellent manufacturers with tritium and suppressor height options available. For reflex optics, you have many great options, but Holosun is a great place to start. Their 507C has become a staple recommendation for many, and it’s even available with the ACSS VULCAN reticle option.

Frame & Magazine Upgrades

There are many ways to upgrade the frame components of a GLOCK pistol.

One of the most beneficial modifications is changing the controls. Installing extended slide stops and magazine releases can significantly improve the ease of operation. For instance, extended magazine releases make it easier to drop the magazine quickly, streamlining your reload. Just keep in mind that larger levers are also more likely to be accidentally pressed under duress.

Adding a flared magwell is another beneficial upgrade for concealed carry. A magwell can streamline the reloading process by guiding the magazine into the grip more efficiently. This can be particularly advantageous in high-stress defensive situations where every second counts. While magwells add some bulk to the grip, many designs are optimized to maintain concealability while providing the benefits of quicker reloads and improved grip stability.

Swapping to extended magazines or using baseplate extensions can increase the effective capacity of your GLOCK. In some cases, extended baseplates also enhance grip length, which can improve control and accuracy, especially for shooters with larger hands or those using subcompact models like the GLOCK 26. However, it’s important to balance the benefits of increased capacity with the need for concealability, as larger magazines can make the firearm more difficult to conceal effectively.

For baseplates and magwells, it’s a good idea to match the manufacturer to ensure compatibility. To save yourself the headache of mixing and matching, Taran Tactical magazine extensions and magwells are a good pick.

Tactical Lights: The Essential Upgrade

We won’t mince words: a concealed carry pistol is incomplete without a tactical light.

The obvious and primary benefit of a tactical light is the ability to observe and assess threats in low light, allowing you to make more informed decisions under stress. While a weapon light won’t replace a handheld (which you need to identify potential/unknown threats safely), a weapon light does make it easier to maintain view of a known threat.

There are other benefits than awareness, though. A bright, well-focused beam can also temporarily disorient an attacker, giving you a critical advantage in a confrontation. Similarly, a high-output light is essential in overcoming photonic barriers, allowing you to punch through other light sources and gain visibility of the threat.

There aren’t really any downsides either. Tactical lights come in many different sizes and brightness levels, allowing you to choose one that fits your specific needs and preferences. Smaller, more compact lights such as the Streamlight TLR-6 are perfect for maintaining a low profile, while larger models like the SureFire X300 offer higher lumen output for maximum illumination. Most of these lights can be easily attached to GLOCK models with integrated light rails, making the installation process straightforward.

For more information on weapon lights on defensive pistols, be sure to read this guide.

Choosing the Best Holster for Concealed Carry

Selecting the right holster for concealed carry is crucial for ensuring comfort, accessibility, and security. The perfect holster will depend on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and typical attire. Here are some key considerations to help you choose the best holster for your needs:

Retention and Material: A good holster should securely retain your firearm while allowing for a quick and smooth draw. Look for holsters made from durable materials like Kydex or high-quality leather. Kydex holsters are particularly popular due to their rigidity and precise fit, which provides excellent retention and ease of maintenance. Leather holsters offer a classic feel and can mold to the wearer’s body over time, enhancing comfort but often require a break-in period.

Types of Holsters:

• Inside-the-Waistband (IWB): IWB holsters are worn inside the waistband and offer great concealment. They keep the gun close to your body, reducing printing (when the outline of the gun is visible through clothing). Popular positions for IWB carry include the appendix (front of the waist) and the 3-5 o’clock positions (side to back of the hip). The IWB method is highly concealable and suitable for various body types and clothing styles, but it usually isn’t as comfortable with larger pistols.
  
  One important thing to note: if you choose to carry a pistol in the small of your back, there is an increased risk of spinal injury. Should you take a hard fall backwards, either by accident or in combat, the pistol may be pressed into your back. Given enough force, this can lead to serious injury and even paralysis.

• Outside-the-Waistband (OWB): OWB holsters are worn outside the waistband and are generally more comfortable but less concealable. They are best used with an additional layer of clothing to cover the firearm. OWB holsters provide easy access and are a good option if you frequently wear jackets or other outer garments.

• Appendix Carry (AIWB): This involves placing the holster at the front of the waistband. It offers quick access and excellent concealment but can be uncomfortable, especially for those with larger midsections. AIWB is best suited for smaller handguns.

• Belly Band: Belly band holsters are versatile and can be worn with various types of clothing, including gym shorts or leggings. They are ideal for casual or athletic wear but might be less comfortable for extended wear, especially with larger firearms. These conveniences come with some significant tradeoffs, however, such as reduced protection of the trigger guard.
  
  Since most bellybands are made of a soft material, there are fewer safeguards against negligent discharges.

• Shoulder Holster: These holsters are worn under the arm and are suitable for those who wear jackets or spend a lot of time seated, such as professional drivers. Shoulder holsters distribute the weight of the firearm across the shoulders and can be comfortable with proper adjustment.

• Ankle Holster: Typically used for carrying a backup firearm, ankle holsters are highly concealable but less accessible. They require practice to draw efficiently and are best paired with smaller handguns.

• Support and Comfort: Regardless of the holster type, pairing it with a quality gun belt or support system is essential. A sturdy belt helps distribute the weight of the firearm and prevents sagging, ensuring the holster stays in place securely. This combination enhances both comfort and concealment, making everyday carry more manageable.

By considering these factors and trying out different holster styles, you can find the setup that best suits your needs, ensuring that your concealed carry experience is comfortable, secure, and effective. For more information on holsters, read this guide.

Conclusion

Upgrading your GLOCK for concealed carry can significantly enhance its performance, safety, and reliability.

Whether you’re considering match-grade triggers for improved accuracy, upgraded sights and optics for better target acquisition, or frame and magazine enhancements for increased capacity and handling, each modification can tailor your firearm to your specific needs. Meanwhile, tactical lights are an essential addition, providing critical visibility in low-light scenarios and adding a layer of tactical advantage. Finally, choosing the right holster, whether IWB, OWB, or another style, is crucial for ensuring comfort, accessibility, and concealability, and should always be paired with a quality gun belt for optimal support.

By carefully selecting and implementing these upgrades, you can optimize your GLOCK for personal defense, ensuring that you are well-prepared and confident in any situation. The balance between performance and concealability is key, and with the right choices, your concealed carry setup can provide both security and peace of mind.