When it comes to selecting the ideal firearm for concealed carry, striking a delicate balance between firepower and concealability is paramount.
In this regard, the Glock 17 has emerged as a standout option, offering a compelling combination of versatility, reliability, and user-friendly features.
The Glock 17, introduced by the renowned Austrian firearms manufacturer Glock GmbH, has gained immense popularity since its inception in the 1980s.
Originally designed for military and law enforcement use, the Glock 17 quickly found its way into the hands of civilian gun enthusiasts and concealed carriers worldwide, thanks to its exceptional performance and innovative design.
Discover the suitability of the Glock 17 for concealed carry and learn effective techniques for carrying a Glock 17 concealed.
Glock 17
Since its introduction in 1982, the Glock 17 has consistently maintained its position as one of the most well-balanced full-size pistols available in the market.
Height: 5.47" with a standard-capacity magazine inserted
Weight: 24.87 oz. (1.56 lbs.) with a standard capacity magazine inserted
Is Glock 17 Too Big For Concealed Carry?
Determining whether the Glock 17 is too large for concealed carry is subjective and relies on various factors. Personal preferences, body size, and clothing choices all play a role in this decision.
Although the Glock 17 is classified as a full-size pistol, many individuals successfully conceal it with the right combination of holsters and clothing options. These individuals appreciate the Glock 17 for its capacity, reliability, and ergonomic design.
However, it’s important to consider that the size and weight of the Glock 17 might pose challenges for those with smaller body frames or those who prioritize maximum concealability. Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual comfort, concealment goals, and the use of suitable holsters and clothing.
Glock 17 Accessories For Concealed Carry
Concealed Carry Holster For Glock 17
Finding a holster that can effectively conceal a full-sized pistol while ensuring comfort can prove to be quite challenging. The biggest issue in concealing the Glock 17 is the pistol’s grip ‘printing’ through our clothing.
Incognito Concealment
The Incognito T3 holster is highly regarded for its exceptional design, making it an outstanding choice for concealed carrying a full-sized gun such as the Glock 17. This inside-the-waistband holster excels in providing both maximum concealability and long-lasting comfort, making it suitable for all-day wear.
The T3 holster comes standard with a reliable 1.5 or 1.75-inch polymer belt clip, offering secure attachment to your belt or waistband. However, for those seeking a little better concealment the option to switch to the Discreet Carry Concepts Discreet Clip is available. This upgrade provides a lower profile, increased stability, and improved durability.
Moreover, the T3 holster can be further enhanced with an appendix modwing. This attachment promotes not only additional comfort but also enhances the concealability of the firearm. By aiding in the distribution of weight and reducing printing, the appendix modwing ensures a smoother and more discrete carry experience for the Glock 17.
Tenicor Velo
The Tenicor VELO holster enhances your ability to comfortably carry a firearm every day, even when wearing tailored or athletic-fit clothing. Its slim design significantly reduces the gun’s visibility.
Placing the gun in front of the hip eliminates any bulges on the sides that even the best inside the waistband holsters cannot effectively conceal. This is achieved by the belt running across the raised trigger bar, creating a camming action that rotates the gun’s grip securely into the body.
To further enhance concealment, the muzzle wedge with multiple angles raises the muzzle away from the lower abdomen, aligning the tang with the body. This wedge is also angled at 25 degrees, allowing it to rest flush against the body and complementing the rotation facilitated by the trigger bar wedge.
The outcome is a hidden firearm that can be carried comfortably and discreetly.
Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite
There are several reasons why a Sidecar-style holster is highly regarded. It offers exceptional comfort and concealability, while also providing the convenience of integrating a spare magazine into its design.
However, one common concern with these holsters is that they can be somewhat uncomfortable for individuals who are on the “huskier side." The rigidity of the design can sometimes dig into the body, causing discomfort, especially for those carrying a few extra pounds.
Likewise, for those with a very skinny physique, the lack of flexibility in the holster’s construction may result in printing issues or discomfort caused by the holster pressing against the pelvic bones without any give.
Wouldn’t it be ideal if the holster could conform more effectively to your body, reducing printing and increasing comfort?
Well, the good news is that Tier 1 Concealed offers a solution to these concerns.
The holster has been divided into two separate sections: the part that holds the pistol and the portion that accommodates the magazine. These two sections are connected using a bungee cord.
An additional advantage is the inclusion of a Claw attachment. This feature effectively applies pressure to the gun’s grip, pushing it inward towards your body. By doing so, it significantly reduces printing. To see how this works with a Glock 17, check out our article on How To Conceal Carry a Full Size Pistol.
This innovative design serves two primary purposes. First, it allows the holster to adapt to the contours of your body, ensuring a customized fit and enhanced comfort. Second, it enhances concealability, making the firearm less noticeable and facilitating discreet carry.
Glock 17 Night Sights
One of the initial modifications I make to nearly every handgun I buy is upgrading the sights. Currently, my Glock 17 is equipped with XS Big Dots. These sights have tritium inserts in both the front and rear, enabling effective targeting in low-light conditions.
The XS Big Dots are great for close engagements (15 yards or less). All you do is "dot the I" and pull the trigger. Wherever you place the large front sight dot is where your round will impact, providing you have a proper grip and trigger control. Slack…Sights…Squeeze.
XS Big Dot Tritium Sights
Glock 17 Match Barrel
It’s important to remember that simply switching to a match barrel will not compensate for poor shooting habits.
A match barrel can significantly enhance the accuracy of a shooter who has already mastered the fundamental skills. The Wilson Combat match barrel can be easily installed without requiring any additional modifications.
Wilson Combat Match Barrel for the Glock 17
The match-grade Glock barrels by Wilson Combat have gained a reputation for their exceptional quality and precision. These barrels are meticulously crafted by machining aircraft-grade stainless steel blanks, which are then heat-treated to R/C 40 for enhanced durability.
Stringent manufacturing standards are upheld, with tolerances kept at an impressively precise level of less than .0005" (that’s a one-half thousandth of an inch!).
To deliver outstanding accuracy, great attention is paid to ensuring a flawlessly smooth chamber that aligns perfectly with the bore. During their barrel testing, Wilson Combat consistently achieves remarkable test groups measuring just 1/2" at a distance of 25 yards!
Glock Magazine Extension
Traditional extended base pads typically feature a square or rectangular shape, characterized by flat or slightly angled surfaces on all sides and a flat bottom section. Unfortunately, these designs lack ergonomic considerations, failing to offer adequate surface contact and feedback to the shooter during the reloading process.
In contrast, the Grip Force EBP introduces an advanced ergonomic design that effectively addresses the shortcomings of conventional extended base pads.
The development of the Grip Force EBP involved a meticulous examination of how the human hand functions throughout the entire reload sequence. This included studying how the hand indexes the base pad and magazine in its pouch, how it securely grips the base pad and magazine body when removing the magazine, how it aligns the magazine with the magazine well, and how it performs when inserting, seating, and locking the magazine into the pistol.
The result is a Grip Force EBP specifically engineered to harmonize with the natural movements of the hand. This innovative design optimizes the speed and efficiency of the reloading process, enhancing overall performance.
the Glock 17 has proven itself as a highly capable firearm for concealed carry, striking the perfect balance between power and concealability. Its compact yet comfortable design, generous magazine capacity, and unwavering reliability make it an excellent choice for individuals looking to prioritize personal protection without compromising on ease of concealment.
Throughout this article, we have explored the key features that contribute to the Glock 17’s reputation as an ideal concealed carry option. From its origins as a military and law enforcement sidearm to its widespread adoption by civilian gun owners, the Glock 17 has consistently demonstrated its ability to deliver consistent performance in a variety of scenarios.
In the end, the Glock 17 stands as a testament to Glock’s commitment to innovation and practicality. Its proven track record, combined with its user-friendly features and formidable performance, solidify its position as a top contender in the realm of concealed carry firearms.
Choose the Glock 17 with confidence, and carry with the assurance that you have a reliable and effective tool at your side, ready to defend yourself and your loved ones when it matters most.
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