Rumor has it that a deadly shootout in Miami persuaded the United States police to search for a more powerful pistol in 1986. The answer was the revolutionary Glock, which had already gained immense popularity in Europe. This particular model could hold 17 bullets, instead of the standard 6, and the trigger pull used five pounds of force instead of the typical 12 pounds. Today, pistols such as the Glock 19 Gen 5 have built an impressive legacy for gun manufacturers to follow.
For those wondering how Glocks gained traction in the gun market, here are a few reasons why industry leaders strive to engineer a pistol that can rival this one-of-a-kind handgun.
The Polymer Revolution
Glocks were the first mass-produced pistols that used polymer instead of steel and traditional firearm materials. When the Austrian military ordered it in 1982, most were skeptical of the polymer's quality and reliability.
In just a few years’ time, the polymer pistol revolution took the world and the United States by storm. All sights, triggers, and magazines used in Glocks consisted of polymer clay. By 1986, every major department of United States law enforcement utilized Glocks as their pistols of choice.
Publicity Through Law Enforcement
Glocks gained fame in the U.S. gun market due to Glocks’ widespread adaptation in law enforcement agencies worldwide. From police forces to U.S. Customs and Border Protection to Special Forces, on-duty officers consistently utilized Glocks.
As Glocks became commonplace in law enforcement, this handgun took center stage in the public eye. Without any kind of mass advertisement, Glocks captured the interest of gun enthusiasts nationwide. Due to the high demand, gun dealers stocked their inventory, as aspiring handgun owners desperately fought to get their hands on the coveted Glock pistol with its unprecedented range and accuracy.
Reliability
This handgun’s unrivaled reliability and efficiency made Glocks a fan-favorite amongst consumers. During early testing phases, experts proved the original Glocks to survive a two-meter drop on the steel plate without discharging a bullet. The Austrian military, who were the first users of the pistol, wanted a durable handgun. To accommodate the Austrian military’s needs, the Glock was born.
Even after rounds and rounds of crash and firing tests, the Glock sustained almost double the standard 9mm load pressure. All these tests made headlines worldwide, which reassured potential customers that Glocks met the standard of reliability.
Since its inception, gun owners have set world records by submerging the handgun underwater, allowing it to plummet to the ocean floor, and storing the firearm in sub-zero temperatures. Despite this ocean-induced wear-and-tear, the reputation of the Glock has remained intact to this day.
Simple Design
Glocks also gained rapid popularity due to their simple design and firing mechanisms. If a gun operator needs to shoot, they can gently press the trigger to fire the gun.
With these easy-to-fire features, the Glock could outcompete most revolvers that seemed to resist firing. While this handgun prides itself on its simple design, customers similarly praise its safety mechanisms that prevent life-threatening or potentially-lethal gun accidents. Unlike other models, this state-of-the-art Glock pistol successfully minimizes the risk of accidental firearm death, granting customers much-needed peace of mind.
Variety of Models
While Glocks mostly remain unchanged since manufacturers released the first design in the 80s, customers can still enjoy variety during their shopping experience. For instance, there’s a choice of caliber for almost any gun owner.
Similarly, you can find a Glock perfectly suited for self-defense options. With a selection of ten million guns at your fingertips, customers can handpick a handgun tailored to their unique needs.
Final Thoughts on Why Glocks Are So Popular
For durability without inconveniencing bulk or weight, consider purchasing a Glock over competing handgun models. Skeptics of the Glock’s seemingly indestructible reputation can rest assured that this handgun is well-deserving of its title as the most reliable pistol in the world.
