Discontinued Glock 19X: What Happened, Legacy, and Alternatives

The Glock 19X has sparked confusion among gun owners about whether it's still available. The Glock 19X was not technically discontinued but rather evolved into the Glock 45, with production of the original tan-colored model ending while its design lives on in the black-finished successor. This change has left many wondering what happened to the pistol that combined a Glock 19 slide with a Glock 17 frame.

The 19X started as Glock's entry for the U.S. Army's Modular Handgun System competition. When Glock didn't win the contract, they released a commercial version with a distinctive Coyote Tan finish. The pistol gained a following for its crossover design that offered better grip length while maintaining a compact slide.

Understanding what happened to the 19X helps buyers decide between finding one on the secondary market or choosing the Glock 45. The story involves production decisions, design improvements, and shifting market demands that shaped Glock's product lineup.

Key Takeaways

• The Glock 19X was transformed into the Glock 45 with design improvements and a black finish instead of being completely discontinued

• The 19X remains available on the secondary market and may gain value as a collectible due to its limited production run

• The Glock 45 offers the same frame and slide combination with better magazine compatibility and streamlined manufacturing

The Discontinuation of the Glock 19X

Glock stopped manufacturing the 19X, though the timeline and reasons involve production shifts rather than a complete product failure. The Glock 19X was not officially discontinued in the traditional sense but evolved into the Glock 45 with key manufacturing changes.

Timeline and Official Status

The Glock 19X launched in 2017 as a commercial version of Glock's entry for the U.S. Army's Modular Handgun System competition. When Glock lost that contract, the company continued selling the 19X to civilians and law enforcement.

By 2020, reports emerged that U.S. production of the Glock 19X had ceased, at least temporarily. The Georgia manufacturing facility stopped making new units for the retail market. However, the Austrian factory continued limited production.

As of late 2021, Glock confirmed that existing inventory was all that remained available. No new production was scheduled for the retail market at that time. The company never issued a formal discontinuation announcement, which created confusion about the pistol's actual status.

Key Reasons for Discontinuation

The 19X became redundant after Glock introduced the Glock 45. Both pistols share the same dimensions, combining a Glock 19 slide with a Glock 17 frame.

The main differences between models include:

• Finish: 19X features Coyote Tan; Glock 45 uses standard black

• Magazine well: Glock 45 removed the front lip for better compatibility

• Production efficiency: Single color scheme reduced manufacturing complexity

The Glock 45 addressed user complaints about magazine compatibility with older Glock generations. The streamlined black finish also proved more practical for various applications than the distinctive tan color.

Production and Distribution Changes

Glock shifted its focus to the Glock 45 as the permanent law enforcement and commercial variant. Manufacturing a single crossover model in black simplified inventory management and reduced production costs.

The Georgia facility reallocated resources away from the 19X. Retailers could only sell remaining stock once U.S. production stopped. The Austrian manufacturer maintained limited runs but not enough to meet previous demand levels.

Buyers can still find Glock 19X pistols on the secondary market through used gun dealers and private sales. The limited production run and unique Coyote Tan finish have made well-maintained examples increasingly sought after by collectors.

Comparing the Glock 19X to Other Glock Models

The Glock 19X stands out among Glock models as a crossover design that blends features from different pistol sizes. Understanding how it compares to the standard Glock 19, full-size Glock 17, and refined Glock 45 helps buyers make informed decisions about which model fits their needs.

Glock 19X vs Glock 19 and Glock 17

The Glock 19X combines a compact Glock 19 slide with a full-size Glock 17 frame. This creates a unique configuration that offers better control than the standard compact model.

The Glock 19 typically retails for around $500, while the 19X often exceeds $600. The price difference reflects the Coyote Tan finish and additional features like the integrated lanyard loop.

Key Differences:

• Frame Size: 19X uses full-size Glock 17 frame vs. compact Glock 19 frame

• Barrel Length: 19X has 4.02-inch barrel matching the Glock 19 slide

• Grip: Longer grip on 19X provides better control and handling

• Color: 19X comes in Coyote Tan while Glock 19 features standard black finish

The longer grip of the 19X makes concealed carry slightly more challenging than the Glock 19. However, shooters gain improved recoil management and more comfortable two-handed shooting positions.

Glock 19X vs Glock 45

The Glock 45 essentially refined the 19X design with practical improvements. Both pistols share identical dimensions and the same crossover concept of pairing a compact slide with a full-size frame.

The main differences between these models involve finish and magazine well design. The Glock 45 comes in standard black instead of Coyote Tan, making it more versatile for different users and applications.

Critical Distinctions:

• Finish: Glock 45 uses black vs. 19X Coyote Tan

• Magazine Well: Glock 45 removed the front lip for smoother insertion

• Compatibility: Glock 45 works better with older generation magazines

• Production: Glock 45 remains in current production

The Glock 45 addressed magazine compatibility concerns that some 19X users experienced. This makes magazine changes more reliable across different Glock magazine generations.

Magazine Capacity and Unique Features

Both the Glock 19X and similar models accept Glock 17 magazines with standard 17-round capacity. They also work with Glock 19 magazines holding 15 rounds, though these won't fill the entire magazine well.

The 19X includes factory-installed night sights and an ambidextrous slide stop lever. These features come standard rather than as aftermarket additions. The pistol also has a lanyard loop molded into the bottom of the grip.

The marksman barrel in the 19X provides enhanced accuracy compared to standard Glock barrels. This improvement helps shooters achieve tighter groups at typical defensive distances. The full-size grip gives shooters more surface area for better weapon control during rapid fire.

Market Impact and Consumer Response

The Glock 19X created a unique market position that continues to influence firearm sales and collector behavior. The handgun generated strong interest despite conflicting reports about production status and consumer demand.

Collector Interest and Secondary Market

The Glock 19X has become increasingly sought after on the secondary market. Its distinctive Coyote Tan finish and limited production status contribute to its appeal among collectors. Well-maintained examples command premium prices compared to their original retail value.

The pistol's connection to the military's Modular Handgun System competition adds historical significance. Collectors value this background story, which distinguishes the 19X from other Glock models. Many owners who purchased the handgun during its production run choose to keep their firearms rather than sell them.

Gun stores that sell used firearms and online marketplaces regularly feature the 19X. Availability varies by region and condition. The crossover design combining a compact slide with a full-size frame remains attractive to buyers who missed the original release window.

Demand and Sales Trends

Reports about lack of demand causing the discontinuation conflict with market evidence. The handgun sold well during its production period, prompting Glock to refine the concept rather than abandon it entirely.

The Glock 19X generated sufficient interest to justify the development of the Glock 45. This successor model maintains the same dimensions and functionality while addressing specific user concerns. The transition from Coyote Tan to black finish expanded the potential customer base.

Current market trends show sustained interest in crossover pistols. The 19X proved this design concept worked for civilian shooters, law enforcement, and competitive shooters. Sales data indicates the category continues growing, validating Glock's decision to evolve the platform rather than eliminate it.

Legacy and Future of the Glock 19X

The Glock 19X left a lasting mark on pistol design despite its transition to the Glock 45. Owners can still find support and parts for their pistols through Glock's continued commitment to discontinued models.

The 19X's Influence on Future Glock Pistols

The Glock 19X introduced the crossover concept that combined a compact slide with a full-size frame. This design proved the market wanted pistols that balanced concealability with improved control and capacity. The Glock 19X was built for the U.S. Army after Glock's entry in the Modular Handgun System competition, though the company didn't win the contract.

The success of this crossover design led directly to the Glock 45. This model kept the same frame and slide combination but added improvements like better magazine compatibility. Glock also introduced refinements based on user feedback from the 19X.

The 19X's Coyote Tan finish became iconic among gun owners. While Glock moved away from this color for production efficiency, the design philosophy continued. The crossover concept now influences how manufacturers think about pistol versatility and user needs.

Support and Aftermarket Considerations

Glock has indicated that owners of discontinued models will continue to receive support. This includes magazines, spare parts, and service for the 19X. Owners don't need to worry about their pistols becoming unsupported.

The aftermarket for the Glock 19X remains strong. Most parts designed for the 19X also fit the Glock 45 due to their identical dimensions. This means holsters, sights, triggers, and other accessories stay widely available.

Shooters looking for a Glock 19X can find them on the secondary market through gun stores and private sales. The pistol's limited production run and unique finish may increase its value over time. The 19X maintains a dedicated following among collectors and shooters who appreciate its distinctive appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Glock 19X remains available through secondary markets despite changes in production, and the Glock 45 serves as its direct successor with key improvements to magazine compatibility and finish options.

Why was production of the Glock 19X stopped?

The Glock 19X wasn't technically discontinued but was reworked and rebranded as the Glock 45. Glock made this change to address user concerns and improve production efficiency while keeping the core design features that made the 19X popular.

The main reason for the change involved improving magazine compatibility. The Glock 45 removed the front lip on the magazine well, which allowed smoother magazine insertion and better compatibility with older Glock magazine generations.

Production was also streamlined by switching from the Coyote Tan finish to standard black. Manufacturing a single color across multiple models reduces inventory management complexity and lowers production costs.

The 19X was originally developed as Glock's entry in the Modular Handgun System competition for the U.S. Army. While SIG Sauer won the contract with the P320, Glock recognized civilian market potential and released a commercial version.

What alternatives to the Glock 19X are currently available in the market?

The Glock 45 serves as the direct replacement for the 19X. It features the same dimensions and core characteristics but comes in black finish instead of Coyote Tan.

The Glock 45 maintains the crossover design concept with a Glock 19 slide paired with a Glock 17 frame. This combination provides compact slide length with full-size frame ergonomics and grip length.

Other Glock models offer similar features for those seeking alternatives. The standard Glock 19 provides a more compact overall package with a shorter grip. The Glock 17 offers full-size dimensions throughout.

The Glock 45 MOS variant adds mounting cuts for red dot optics. This version maintains all the features of the standard Glock 45 while accommodating modern optic preferences.

Where can I find a Glock 19X if it has been discontinued?

Glock 19X pistols can often be found on the secondary market through gun stores that sell used firearms or online marketplaces. Local gun shops frequently have used models in stock or can help locate one through their networks.

Online firearm auction sites and classified listings feature 19X models regularly. These platforms connect buyers with private sellers and dealers across the country who have inventory.

Gun shows provide another opportunity to find discontinued models. Vendors at these events often carry harder-to-find firearms and can source specific models if they don't have them on hand.

With some research, it's not difficult to order a new one or find a used one either in person or online. Some retailers may still have new old stock available from their existing inventory.

How does the discontinuation of the Glock 19X affect its value as a collector's item?

The 19X's limited production run and unique Coyote Tan finish contribute to its collectibility. Well-maintained examples may increase in value over time as they become harder to find.

The distinctive color scheme sets the 19X apart from other Glock models. This visual uniqueness appeals to collectors who value special editions and limited releases.

Current market prices for used 19X models often match or exceed original retail prices. Demand remains strong among buyers who specifically want the Coyote Tan variant rather than the black Glock 45.

Condition plays a major role in collectible value. Models with original packaging, documentation, and minimal wear command higher prices than heavily used examples.

What are the main differences between the Glock 19X and its successors?

The primary differences between the 19X and Glock 45 are the finish color and magazine well design. The 19X features Coyote Tan while the Glock 45 comes in black.

The Glock 45 removed the front lip on the magazine well that was present on the 19X. This change improved magazine compatibility with older generation Glock magazines that had slight design variations.

Both models share identical dimensions including frame length, slide length, and overall height. They handle the same way and provide the same ergonomics to the shooter.

Magazine capacity remains the same between the two models. Both accept Glock 17 magazines for full capacity and Glock 19 magazines though they won't fill the entire magazine well.

Most aftermarket parts designed for the 19X fit the Glock 45 due to their nearly identical specifications. Holsters, sights, and internal components are generally interchangeable between the models.

How does the Glock 19X compare with other models in the Glock V Series?

The Glock 19X uses a crossover design that combines features from two different size classes. It pairs the compact Glock 19 slide with the full-size Glock 17 frame for a unique configuration.

The standard Glock 19 offers a more compact overall package with both shorter slide and grip. This makes it easier to conceal but provides less grip surface for control.

The Glock 17 maintains full-size dimensions throughout with both longer slide and frame. It provides maximum sight radius and grip length but at the expense of increased overall size.

The 19X barrel length matches the Glock 19 at approximately 4 inches. This keeps the slide compact while the full-size frame provides better recoil management and magazine capacity.

The extended grip of the 19X allows it to use standard Glock 17 magazines without requiring extensions. This gives shooters more rounds and better purchase on the firearm compared to the compact Glock 19.