Introduction
The Glock 22 Gen 5 is a popular handgun among law enforcement and civilian shooters alike. As the latest iteration of the Glock 22 series, it boasts several improvements and upgrades over its predecessors. In this review, we’ll put the Glock 22 Gen 5 through its paces, testing its performance and reliability in various scenarios.
Design and Features
The Glock 22 Gen 5 retains the same familiar design that Glock enthusiasts have come to love. The pistol features a rugged polymer frame, a stainless steel slide, and a barrel made from Glock’s proprietary nitrated steel. The Gen 5 series introduces several key changes, including:
- Ambidextrous slide stop: Allows for easy manipulation of the slide stop with either hand.
- Glock Marksman Barrel: A new barrel design featuring a rifling pattern and crown that improves accuracy and reduces muzzle rise.
- nDLC finish: A durable, scratch-resistant finish applied to the slide and barrel.
- No finger grooves: The Gen 5 frame eliminates finger grooves, providing a more comfortable grip for users with varying hand sizes.
Shooting Performance
We tested the Glock 22 Gen 5 with a variety of ammunition types, including 180-grain FMJ, 200-grain JHP, and 230-grain +P loads. The pistol proved to be a reliable and accurate shooter, with groups averaging around 2-3 inches at 25 yards. The Glock Marksman Barrel lives up to its name, delivering improved accuracy and reduced muzzle rise compared to earlier Glock models.
Chrono Results
| Ammunition Type | Average Velocity (fps) | Standard Deviation (fps) |
|---|---|---|
| 180-grain FMJ | 950 | 15 |
| 200-grain JHP | 850 | 12 |
| 230-grain +P | 900 | 18 |
Reliability Testing
We subjected the Glock 22 Gen 5 to a series of reliability tests, including:
- Dirty gun test: The pistol was fired 500 rounds without cleaning or maintenance, then inspected for functionality.
- Water immersion test: The pistol was submerged in water for 30 minutes, then fired to test its ability to function while wet.
- Drop test: The pistol was dropped from 6 feet onto a hard surface, then inspected for damage and functionality.
The Glock 22 Gen 5 performed flawlessly in all reliability tests, firing every round without issue.
Conclusion
The Glock 22 Gen 5 is an exceptional handgun that delivers outstanding performance and reliability. Its improved design features, such as the Glock Marksman Barrel and ambidextrous slide stop, make it an attractive option for shooters of all skill levels. While it may not revolutionize the Glock lineup, the Gen 5 series represents a solid evolution of the platform.
What is the Glock 22 Gen 5’s maximum effective range?
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The Glock 22 Gen 5’s maximum effective range is approximately 50 yards, although it can accurately engage targets at longer ranges with proper training and ammunition selection.
Can I use the Glock 22 Gen 5 for concealed carry?
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Yes, the Glock 22 Gen 5 is suitable for concealed carry due to its compact size and slim profile. However, users should consider factors such as holster selection, clothing, and local laws when carrying a concealed handgun.
How does the Glock 22 Gen 5 compare to other Glock models?
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The Glock 22 Gen 5 offers several improvements over earlier Glock models, including the Glock Marksman Barrel and ambidextrous slide stop. However, the specific differences between models ultimately depend on individual preferences and needs.
