Glock is, without a doubt, one of the best manufacturers of semi automatic handguns in the world, and the Glock 34 is a testament to that.

Designed in 1998, this model has been in production for more than two decades, and it’s high time to take a closer look at it to see just how good it really is.

Specifications

History

Glock 34, also known as Glock 34 Competition, was designed in 1998 as competition to the Glock 17L (hence the name). The idea was to create a slightly smaller version of the 17L, one which could be used in competitive shooting.

It’s safe to say that the result was a success – the 34 Competition remains popular to this day, not only in sports, but in practical use with SWAT teams.

First Thoughts

If you ever handled the 17L model, the first thing you’ll notice is the shorter barrel, but not that much of a difference in weight. Even though it’s less than an ounce lighter, Glock 34 is still a fairly heavy gun at 33.33 ounces.

Another thing you’ll notice is the distance between the sights and the adjustable rear sight. Both the increased distance between the sights and the ability to move the rear sight laterally and in height allow for better aiming.

Lastly, the Glock 34 has a really nice grip with ribs at the front for your fingers, which has at this point become a standard for most Glock handguns.

Features 

The features found in this gun make the Glock 34 Gen 3 a safe, reliable, and an incredibly accurate gun.

Safe Action System

This gun utilizes the Safe Action system, invented and incorporated by Glock, which makes it safe to drop (although we don’t recommend that) and use at temperatures between -40° to 122° Fahrenheit.

The system is based on three mechanical safeties that each operate independently, but automatically in succession.

This makes the Glock 34 a very safe gun to shoot, perhaps ideal for beginners.

Accuracy – Barrel Length and Sights

Although it’s shorter than the 17L model by almost an inch, the Glock 34 Gen 3 is still a big gun with a long barrel, so accuracy is granted if you’re a good shot. This gun was designed with competitive shooting in mind, so the barrel is as long as it can be while still remaining within the norm.

This maximizes the distance between sights (ensuring accurate aiming) and the distance the round travels before it leaves the barrel (ensuring that the round hits the exact point you were aiming at).

Reliability

Glocks are widely regarded for their durability, and the 3rd generation Glock 34 is no different. You can count on it to fire well at the range and to not let you down in a self-defense scenario (although we hope it doesn’t come to that).

Verdict – Is the Glock 34 Gen 3 Worth It?

This is a large gun, so it’s not a concealed carry option, but it’s a great gun to bring down the range or keep in the glove compartment just in case you need it.

The Glock 34 is a great investment – you’re getting a reliable gun, accurate at long ranges, with a large magazine, and its only real flaw being that some people find it heavy.

Additional Read: Semi-Automatic Shotgun Advantages & Disadvantages