Hi everyone! I’m looking for input on choosing between the Glock 17 and Glock 19. For home defense purposes, is there really much difference between the two, aside from grip size and personal preference?
Both can work fine for home defense. The 19 is more compact, which makes it great for everyday carry. The 17 is larger, so it has less recoil.
The Glock 17 gives you a couple more rounds in the mag, which could be a plus for home defense. I’d go with the 17 for this specific use.
Glock 18 
Just kidding! Either one works, but if it’s staying at home, maybe go with the 17 since it’s bigger.
Wilder said:
Glock 18
Just kidding! Either one works, but if it’s staying at home, maybe go with the 17 since it’s bigger.
I actually have the 18.
The G17 has an advantage in capacity with 2 extra rounds, and it’s easier to control thanks to the slightly longer barrel and a bit more weight.
If it’s only for home defense and you’re keeping it at home (and yes, hopefully training regularly with it!), the 17 is solid. And if you’re adding a light, it’ll handle that weight nicely too.
If you think you might also want to carry, though, the G19 gives you more options. It’s a good balance between size and performance.
For home defense, I’d pick the 17.
I use my 19 as my daily carry; it goes from holster to nightstand and back. I also use both the 19 and the 34 (close to a 17) in competitions. I’ve got an M&P Pro Core too, but don’t use it much. The 2-round difference with the 19 isn’t a big deal for me.
There’s really no difference besides size.
If you think you might want to get into concealed carry, you’ll probably want to go with the 19. Otherwise, you might end up needing to buy another pistol.
Consider the Glock 34—it has a longer barrel (5.3 inches), a greater sight radius than the 19 or 17, and is popular in some SWAT units and for competition shooting. Recoil is also a bit less noticeable.
Longer grips, like the 17, can give you more control, especially if you’ve practiced your grip. That said, the Glock grip shape doesn’t work as well for smaller hands. You might like the M&P 2.0 or CZ P10F, which have more rounded grips.
@Lyle
I run a Shadow Systems pistol because I like the flexibility of using any Glock mag.
But yeah, the M&P is super comfortable and easy to shoot, plus they have a durable finish.