Glock 36: Key Features, Performance, and Concealed Carry Guide

The Glock 36 stands out as one of the most compact .45 ACP pistols available for concealed carry. This single-stack handgun delivers the stopping power of a full-size .45 in a package that's easy to conceal and comfortable to carry daily.

The Glock 36 holds 6+1 rounds of .45 ACP ammunition and measures just 3.78 inches in barrel length, making it an ideal choice for shooters who want maximum power in a minimal frame. Unlike traditional double-stack .45 pistols that can be bulky and difficult to conceal, the G36's slim single-stack design provides excellent concealability without sacrificing reliability.

While the pistol market has shifted toward high-capacity 9mm options, the Glock 36 remains relevant for those who prefer the proven ballistics of the .45 ACP cartridge. The pistol offers Glock's famous reliability and simple operation in a package that's smaller than most compact 9mm handguns, though it does come with trade-offs in capacity and recoil management.

Key Takeaways

• The Glock 36 is a single-stack .45 ACP pistol designed specifically for concealed carry with a 6+1 capacity

• It delivers reliable performance and accuracy in a compact frame that's easier to conceal than double-stack alternatives

• The pistol offers proven .45 ACP stopping power but has limited aftermarket support and higher recoil than 9mm options

Glock 36 Overview

The Glock 36 stands as Glock's first single-stack pistol, chambered in .45 ACP for concealed carry applications. This subcompact design combines the stopping power of a larger caliber with a slim profile that measures close to a Glock 19 in overall dimensions.

Compact Single-Stack Design

The Glock 36 features a single-stack magazine design that makes it one of the slimmest .45 ACP options available. This configuration reduces the frame width compared to double-stack models while maintaining the reliability Glock pistols are known for.

The pistol's frame design allows for comfortable concealed carry. The grip texture provides adequate control during firing sequences.

Glock introduced the 36 as their first single-stack design to compete with subcompact 1911 models in the concealed carry market. The single-stack magazine limits capacity but creates a noticeably thinner profile than the double-stack Glock 30.

The frame construction uses Glock's standard polymer materials. This keeps the weight down while maintaining structural integrity under regular use conditions.

Specifications and Dimensions

The Glock 36 measures 6.97 inches in overall length with a 3.78-inch barrel. The pistol weighs 22.4 ounces unloaded and 26.81 ounces when loaded with a full magazine.

Key Specifications:

• Caliber: .45 ACP

• Magazine Capacity: 6+1 rounds

• Action: Striker-fired

• Barrel Length: 3.78 inches

• Overall Length: 6.97 inches

• Weight (Unloaded): 22.4 ounces

• Weight (Loaded): 26.81 ounces

The pistol's dimensions make it comparable to a Glock 19 in length and height. The main difference lies in the frame width, where the single-stack design creates a slimmer profile.

The G36 shares some components with the Glock 30 and 30S models. The slide width remains consistent across these models, while the frame narrows to accommodate the single-stack magazine.

Key Features

The Glock 36 incorporates Glock's Safe Action trigger system with three independent safety mechanisms. The trigger pull remains consistent from the first round to the last without requiring manual safety manipulation.

The pistol features polymer sights as standard equipment. These sights provide basic functionality but many users upgrade to metal or night sight options for enhanced durability.

The secure-grip design and minimal trigger-to-grip distance make handling simple for shooters at different experience levels. The grip angle follows Glock's standard geometry that promotes natural pointing characteristics.

The recoil system manages the .45 ACP cartridge effectively in the compact frame. While recoil is noticeable, it remains manageable for regular practice sessions.

Standard accessories include two magazines, a speed loader, and a cleaning brush. The pistol ships in a hard case for transport and storage purposes.

Glock 36 Performance

The Glock 36 delivers consistent accuracy with its 3.78-inch barrel and manageable .45 ACP recoil for a subcompact pistol. Its Safe Action trigger system provides a smooth 5.5-pound pull weight for reliable operation.

Accuracy and Reliability

The Glock 36 offers reliable performance with consistent shooting capabilities at typical self-defense distances. The 3.78-inch barrel provides adequate accuracy for concealed carry purposes.

The pistol maintains a 50-meter effective range for most shooting scenarios. Fixed sights come standard, though they can be upgraded for enhanced precision.

Reliability features include:

• Safe Action System with three safety mechanisms

• Polymer frame construction for durability

• Water-resistant up to certain conditions

• High dust resistance capabilities

The single-stack magazine design ensures consistent feeding of .45 ACP rounds. Field tests confirm dependable cycling in various environmental conditions.

Glock's manufacturing tolerances contribute to the pistol's reputation for consistent performance. The simple design reduces potential failure points.

Recoil and Handling

The Glock 36 produces moderate to high recoil due to its .45 ACP chambering and lightweight 22.4-ounce frame. The single-stack design creates a slim 1.13-inch width for comfortable grip control.

Recoil management benefits from the rough grip texture that improves hand placement. The compact size allows most shooters to maintain proper grip during firing.

Handling characteristics:

• Weight: 22.4 ounces unloaded

• Length: 6.97 inches overall

• Grip: Single-stack for narrow profile

The polymer frame absorbs some recoil energy while maintaining structural integrity. Quick follow-up shots remain manageable for experienced shooters.

New shooters may need practice to handle the .45 ACP recoil effectively. The compact dimensions aid in weapon retention during rapid fire sequences.

Trigger System

The Glock 36 features the Safe Action trigger system with a 5.5-pound pull weight. Three integrated safeties operate automatically without manual activation.

The trigger includes trigger safety, firing pin safety, and drop safety mechanisms. This system eliminates the need for external safety levers or buttons.

Safety components:

• Trigger Safety: Prevents accidental discharge

• Firing Pin Safety: Blocks firing pin movement

• Drop Safety: Prevents firing if dropped

Trigger travel remains consistent across all shots fired. The striker-fired design provides the same trigger pull for every round.

Reset distance stays short for rapid follow-up shots when needed. The smooth trigger face reduces finger fatigue during extended shooting sessions.

Concealed Carry Suitability

The Glock 36's single-stack design and compact dimensions make it well-suited for concealed carry applications. Its slim profile and manageable weight address key concerns for everyday carry users.

Portability and Comfort

The Glock 36 weighs 26.81 ounces when loaded with its 6+1 capacity. This weight sits in the middle range for subcompact pistols, making it manageable for all-day carry.

The pistol's single-stack magazine creates a notably slim profile. The frame width measures significantly thinner than double-stack alternatives, reducing printing through clothing.

Key Dimensions:

• Barrel Length: 3.78 inches

• Overall Length: 6.97 inches

• Loaded Weight: 26.81 ounces

The Glock 36 fits in some Glock 19 holsters due to similar dimensional characteristics. This compatibility expands holster options for carriers.

The grip texture provides adequate control without being overly aggressive against skin or clothing. The polymer frame construction keeps weight down compared to all-metal alternatives.

Ease of Concealment

The Glock 36's slim profile excels at concealment under light clothing. Its single-stack design reduces the grip thickness that often causes printing issues with double-stack pistols.

The pistol offers excellent concealability with minimal performance loss compared to full-size service pistols. The 3.78-inch barrel length balances concealability with ballistic performance.

Concealment Advantages:

• Single-stack frame reduces printing

• Rounded edges minimize snag points

• Compact slide length works with shorter cover garments

The pistol works well for appendix carry, inside-the-waistband carry, and other concealed carry positions. Its dimensions allow it to disappear under typical daily clothing.

Limited aftermarket support affects holster selection somewhat. However, the dimensional similarity to the Glock 19 provides some cross-compatibility with existing holster designs.

Customization and Accessories

The Glock 36 offers numerous upgrade paths through slide modifications, barrel replacements, enhanced sights, and specialized accessories. These modifications can improve accuracy, ergonomics, and overall performance for different shooting applications.

Slide and Barrel Options

Custom slides transform the Glock 36's appearance and function. Wilson Combat manufactures custom parts that enhance performance through precision machining. Aftermarket slides often feature front and rear serrations for better grip during manipulation.

Match-grade barrels significantly improve accuracy over factory specifications. Black Phoenix Customs offers match-grade barrels along with other performance upgrades. These barrels use tighter tolerances and premium materials.

Threaded barrels allow suppressor attachment for the .45 ACP cartridge. The added length requires holster considerations but provides sound reduction benefits.

Coating options include:

• Cerakote finishes in multiple colors

• Nitride treatments for durability

• PVD coatings for corrosion resistance

Slide cuts reduce weight and add visual appeal. Popular cuts include window cuts, lightning cuts, and RMR cuts for optic mounting.

Aftermarket Accessories

Glock accessories from specialized retailers include performance triggers, extended controls, and grip modifications. Trigger upgrades reduce pull weight and improve break quality.

Extended magazines increase capacity beyond the standard 6-round limit. Some aftermarket magazines hold 8-10 rounds while maintaining reliability. Ghost Inc. offers extended magazines along with other Glock modifications.

Grip modifications include:

• Stippling for better texture

• Grip plugs to fill the frame gap

• Grip sleeves for added thickness

Magazine releases can be extended or reversed for left-handed shooters. Slide stop levers also come in extended versions for easier manipulation.

Anarchy Outdoors specializes in Glock 36 accessories with focus on tactical applications. Their products include magazine extensions and grip enhancements.

Sight Upgrades

Factory Glock sights limit precision shooting capability. Night sights use tritium inserts for low-light visibility. Popular brands include Trijicon, Ameriglo, and XS Sight Systems.

Fiber optic sights gather ambient light for faster target acquisition. These work best in daylight conditions but fade in darkness.

Adjustable sights allow windage and elevation corrections. Target shooters prefer these for precision work. Rear sight adjustments require special tools in most cases.

Red dot optics require slide modification for mounting. The RMR cut accepts Trijicon and similar compact optics. Co-witness iron sights backup the electronic sight.

Official Glock accessories include OEM sight options and performance triggers. These maintain warranty coverage while improving function.

Sight height considerations:

• Standard height for regular use

• Suppressor height for threaded barrels

• Co-witness height for red dot optics

Pros and Cons

The Glock 36 offers distinct advantages and drawbacks for concealed carry users. Understanding these factors helps make an informed decision.

Pros:

• Compact Size - The single stack design makes it one of the smallest 45 ACP options available for concealed carry

• Proven Reliability - It maintains Glock's reputation for dependable function in all conditions

• Manageable Recoil - The recoil feels more like a push than a sharp snap, making it controllable for most shooters

• Good Accuracy - Capable of tight groups at defensive distances despite its compact size

• Easy Operation - Features the standard Glock Safe Action trigger system that many users know

Cons:

• Limited Capacity - Only holds 6+1 rounds compared to modern 9mm pistols with 10+ rounds

• Reduced Aftermarket Support - Less aftermarket parts availability compared to other Glock models

• Plastic Sights - Stock sights are fragile and may need upgrading for serious use

• Grip Feel - The thin grip may feel awkward for shooters with larger hands

• Higher Cost Per Round - 45 ACP ammunition costs more than 9mm for practice and carry

• Slower Follow-up Shots - The 45 ACP cartridge produces more recoil than smaller calibers, affecting rapid fire

The pistol works best for users who prioritize stopping power over capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Glock 36 generates many questions about its specifications compared to other models, generation updates, magazine capacity, and current production status. These common inquiries focus on practical differences and availability concerns.

What are the differences between Glock 36 and Glock 30 in terms of specifications?

The Glock 36 features a single-stack design while the Glock 30 uses a double-stack configuration. Both pistols chamber .45 ACP ammunition but differ significantly in capacity and dimensions.

The Glock 36 holds 6 rounds in its standard magazine compared to the Glock 30's 10-round capacity. This difference stems from the single-stack versus double-stack magazine design.

The Glock 36 measures thinner in width due to its single-stack construction. This makes it more suitable for concealed carry applications where a slimmer profile is preferred.

The Glock 30 weighs more than the Glock 36 because of its larger frame and higher capacity magazine. The weight difference affects carry comfort and concealment options.

What generation differences exist for the Glock 36 model?

The Glock 36 has remained relatively unchanged through its production run. Glock introduced this model as part of their slimline series and has not implemented major generational updates.

Unlike other Glock models that have seen multiple generations with significant changes, the Glock 36 maintains consistent specifications. The basic design and features have stayed the same since its introduction.

Minor manufacturing improvements may have occurred over time. These changes typically involve internal components or manufacturing processes rather than visible external modifications.

How does the capacity of the Glock 36 compare with other Glock models?

The Glock 36's 6-round capacity ranks among the lowest in the Glock lineup. This limited capacity results from its single-stack .45 ACP design.

Most 9mm Glock models offer significantly higher capacities. The Glock 17 holds 17 rounds while the Glock 19 carries 15 rounds in standard magazines.

Other .45 ACP Glock models provide more rounds. The Glock 21 holds 13 rounds and the Glock 30 carries 10 rounds in their standard magazines.

The trade-off for reduced capacity is a slimmer profile. This makes the Glock 36 easier to conceal despite the lower round count.

What are the magazine extension options for the Glock 36?

Several manufacturers produce magazine extensions for the Glock 36. These extensions typically add 1-2 rounds to the standard 6-round capacity.

The extensions also provide additional grip surface. This helps shooters with larger hands achieve a more comfortable hold on the pistol.

Glock 36 magazines are not compatible with other Glock models. This limits cross-compatibility but ensures proper fit and function.

Some extensions include finger grooves or textured surfaces. These features can improve grip security during shooting or carry.

For what purposes is the Glock 36 most suitable?

The Glock 36 excels as a concealed carry pistol due to its slim profile and manageable size. Its single-stack design makes it easier to hide under clothing.

The .45 ACP caliber provides substantial stopping power. This makes it effective for personal protection situations where larger projectiles are preferred.

The pistol works well for backup duty use. Law enforcement officers sometimes choose it as a secondary weapon due to its compact dimensions.

Home defense applications are possible but limited by capacity. The 6-round magazine may require more frequent reloading compared to higher-capacity alternatives.

Has the production of Glock 36 been discontinued or is it still available?

The Glock 36 is not currently discontinued according to official Glock information. The company still lists it as an active model in their current lineup.

Availability may vary by dealer and region. Some retailers experience periodic stock shortages that fuel discontinuation rumors.

Production runs for the Glock 36 appear smaller than flagship models. This can create temporary availability issues without indicating actual discontinuation.

Rumors about discontinuation persist due to limited production runs and competition from newer models. However, no official announcement has been made by Glock.