When Was the Glock 17 Gen 5 Released? Complete Guide & Training Tips

Glock 17 Gen 5 Release Date

The Glock 17 Gen 5 was officially released on August 30, 2017, marking a significant evolution in this iconic pistol’s history. Glock simultaneously launched two fifth-generation models in August 2017: the Glock 17 and Glock 19, both chambered in 9×19mm Parabellum.

The Gen 5’s development originated from U.S. Federal Law Enforcement agencies’ requirements for a new service pistol, aimed at meeting the stringent demands of law enforcement. Compared to Gen 4, the Gen 5 features over 20 design improvements, making it one of the most significant upgrades in Glock’s history.

💡 Want to learn more about Glock’s generational evolution? See: Complete Glock Generations Overview

Key Features and Improvements of Gen 5

1. Removal of Finger Grooves

The most noticeable visual change in Gen 5 is the removal of finger grooves from the grip. This modification allows the grip to accommodate a wider variety of hand sizes, addressing what was probably the most criticized feature of Gen 4 pistols. Regardless of hand size, shooters can find a comfortable grip.

2. Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB)

Gen 5 introduces the all-new Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB), featuring:

  • Enhanced rifling design: Improves shooting accuracy
  • New crown design: Better ballistic stability
  • nDLC coating: Enhanced durability and corrosion resistance

This improvement significantly enhances Gen 5’s accuracy performance, particularly noticeable at medium to long distances.

3. nDLC Surface Treatment

Gen 5 features an nDLC (non-crystalline diamond carbon) coating, compared to previous generations’ surface treatment:

  • Greater wear resistance
  • Improved corrosion resistance
  • More durable appearance

4. Ambidextrous Slide Stop

Gen 5 features slide stops on both sides of the slide, making it truly ambidextrous. This improvement is considered one of Gen 5’s most important upgrades because it:

  • Makes operation more convenient for left-handed shooters
  • Speeds up chambering after magazine changes
  • Enhances tactical flexibility

5. Improved Trigger System

Gen 5’s trigger system has been optimized:

  • Trigger pull weight reduced by approximately 7%
  • Smoother trigger travel
  • Clearer reset point
  • Overall more fluid feel

These improvements allow shooters to control each shot more precisely.

6. Flared Magazine Well

Gen 5 features a flared magazine well design that:

  • Speeds up magazine changes
  • Reduces reload errors
  • Improves operational efficiency under pressure

This design is particularly helpful for competitive shooting and tactical training.

7. Dimensional and Rail Specification Adjustments

Gen 5 has minor dimensional adjustments:

  • Width: Gen 4 is 1.26 inches, Gen 5 is 1.34 inches
  • Rail specification: Adopts standard 1913 Picatinny rail
  • Easier to mount various tactical accessories

Gen 5 vs Gen 4: Which Should You Choose?

Gen 5 Advantages

✅ More accurate GMB barrel ✅ No finger grooves grip fits more hand sizes ✅ Ambidextrous design ✅ Smoother trigger ✅ More durable nDLC coating ✅ Flared magazine well improves reload speed

Reasons Gen 4 Is Still Worth Considering

✅ Lower price (around $600 vs Gen 5’s $650-730) ✅ Replaceable backstrap system ✅ If finger grooves fit your hand, grip feel might be better ✅ More common accessories and parts

Recommendations

  • If budget allows and you want the latest technology: Choose Gen 5
  • If you value cost-effectiveness: Gen 4 is still an excellent choice
  • Left-handed shooters: Strongly recommend Gen 5

Airsoft Glock 17 Gen 5 Versions

Officially Licensed Versions

Several Umarex officially licensed Glock 17 Gen 5 airsoft versions are available:

VFC/Elite Force Airsoft Version (6mm BBs)

Specifications:

  • Magazine capacity: 14-23 rounds (depending on model)
  • Muzzle velocity: Approximately 335 FPS (0.20g BBs)
  • Power: CO2 or green gas
  • Features: Half blowback or full blowback system

Advantages:

  • Officially licensed, highly authentic appearance
  • Polymer grip + metal slide
  • Ambidextrous slide stop (same as real firearm)
  • Same disassembly method as real firearm

Umarex BB Gun Version (4.5mm Steel BBs)

Specifications:

  • Magazine capacity: 18 rounds
  • Muzzle velocity: Approximately 370 FPS
  • Power: CO2
  • Features: Full metal magazine, full blowback

Usage: Suitable for backyard shooting practice and basic training

Purchase Recommendations

  1. Training purposes: Choose 6mm airsoft version for more realistic recoil simulation
  2. Budget considerations: CO2 versions have stable power but higher cartridge costs
  3. Competition training: Choose full blowback version for operation feel closer to real firearms

Advantages of Training Gen 5 with AirsoftShotTimer

How Gen 5 Design Enhances Training Effectiveness

Gen 5’s multiple improvements make it ideal for training:

1. Ambidextrous Design

Both hands can easily operate the slide stop, allowing practice of:

  • Left-right hand switching
  • Weak hand operation training
  • Multi-angle tactical movements

2. Flared Magazine Well

When training reloads with AirsoftShotTimer:

  • More accurate reload time recording
  • Reduced error rate
  • Faster training progress

Training Target Times:

  • Beginner: 3.0-3.5 seconds
  • Intermediate: 2.5-3.0 seconds
  • Advanced: 2.0-2.5 seconds
  • Competition: 1.5-2.0 seconds

3. Improved Trigger System

Lighter trigger pull makes training more efficient:

  • Reduces hand fatigue during trigger control training
  • Easier to master smooth firing technique
  • Improves consistency in rapid fire

Gen 5-Specific Training Drills

Ambidextrous Training

Utilize Gen 5’s ambidextrous features for specialized training:

Training Procedure:

  1. Fire 5 rounds with dominant hand
  2. Quick hand switch
  3. Fire 5 rounds with non-dominant hand
  4. Record total time and hit rate

Using AirsoftShotTimer:

  • Set random delay start signal
  • Record complete process time
  • Compare dominant vs non-dominant hand performance

Target Times (10 rounds total):

  • Beginner: 15-20 seconds
  • Intermediate: 12-15 seconds
  • Advanced: 10-12 seconds

Quick Chambering Training

Take full advantage of Gen 5’s improved slide stop:

Training Setup:

  1. Remove magazine (empty chamber)
  2. Upon signal, insert magazine
  3. Chamber using slide stop (don’t rack slide)
  4. Engage target

Recording Points:

  • Smoothness of chambering action
  • Time from magazine insertion to firing
  • Proficiency with left and right side stops

Training Plan Recommendations

Weeks 1-2: Familiarize with Gen 5 Features

Focus:

  • Get used to no finger groove grip
  • Practice ambidextrous slide stop
  • Adapt to trigger feel
  • Basic draw and shooting

Training Frequency:

  • 2-3 times per week
  • 30 minutes per session

Weeks 3-6: Basic Skills Reinforcement

Focus:

  • Draw speed training
  • Reload training (utilizing flared magazine well)
  • Multiple target transitions
  • Basic movement shooting

Training Frequency:

  • 3-4 times per week
  • 45 minutes per session

Weeks 7-12: Advanced Skills Development

Focus:

  • Ambidextrous training
  • Shooting under pressure
  • Cover utilization
  • Complex scenario simulation

Training Frequency:

  • 4-5 times per week
  • 60 minutes per session

Week 13+: Competition-Level Training

Focus:

  • IPSC / IDPA competition drills
  • Speed and accuracy balance
  • Real-world scenario simulation
  • Personal weakness reinforcement

💡 For more training techniques, see: Glock 17 Training Guide: Improve Your Shooting Skills with AirsoftShotTimer

Why Gen 5 Pairs Well with AirsoftShotTimer

1. Authentic Operational Experience

Airsoft Gen 5 highly replicates real firearms:

  • Same grip angle
  • Same trigger feel
  • Same control configuration
  • Training data directly applicable to real firearms

2. Cost Effectiveness

Training with airsoft versions:

  • BB costs far lower than real ammunition
  • Can train at home or private locations
  • Not restricted by range operating hours
  • Allows high-frequency practice

3. Safety

Training in safe environments:

  • Reduces training risks
  • Can practice dynamic movements like draws
  • Suitable for beginners to build foundations

4. Data-Driven Training

AirsoftShotTimer provides:

  • Precise time recording
  • Progress tracking
  • Objective performance evaluation
  • Training plan optimization basis

Practical Training Data Reference

Draw-to-Fire Time Standards (Gen 5)

Level Target Time Notes
Beginner 2.5-3.0 sec Focus on correct technique
Intermediate 1.5-2.0 sec Begin pursuing speed
Advanced 1.0-1.5 sec Balance speed and accuracy
Competition <1.0 sec Professional level

Bill Drill (Gen 5-Specific Standards)

Leverage Gen 5’s improved trigger and accuracy:

Setup:

  • Distance: 7 yards
  • Shooting: 6 consecutive shots
  • Requirement: All in A-zone

Time Standards:

  • Beginner: Within 5.0 seconds
  • Intermediate: Within 4.0 seconds
  • Advanced: Within 3.0 seconds
  • Competition: Within 2.5 seconds

Reload + Continue Shooting

Take full advantage of Gen 5’s flared magazine well:

Procedure:

  1. Shoot until magazine empty
  2. Quick reload
  3. Chamber using slide stop
  4. Continue shooting

Target Times (complete process):

  • Beginner: 3.5-4.0 seconds
  • Intermediate: 2.5-3.0 seconds
  • Advanced: 2.0-2.5 seconds
  • Competition: 1.5-2.0 seconds

Conclusion

Since its release in August 2017, the Glock 17 Gen 5 has proven to be one of the most successful upgrades in Glock’s history. Whether you’re law enforcement, a competitive shooter, or an airsoft enthusiast, Gen 5’s multiple improvements deliver substantial performance enhancements.

Paired with AirsoftShotTimer for systematic training, you can:

✅ Fully leverage Gen 5’s design advantages ✅ Build quantifiable training data ✅ Achieve high-quality training at lower costs ✅ Track and continuously improve shooting skills

Whether you choose real firearms or airsoft versions, the Glock 17 Gen 5 is a worthwhile investment. Start using AirsoftShotTimer to record your training data and witness your continuous improvement!

Begin your Gen 5 training journey and let the data speak!

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