The Glock 17 Gen 6

Glock 17 Gen 6 overview and specs

The discussion opens with an introduction to the Glock 17 Gen 6, which replaces the earlier 47 configuration and moves away from the full-size Gen 5 frame. They outline the basic specifications: overall length is about 7.95 inches, width is 1.35 inches, and height is 4.75 inches. Barrel length is 4.49 inches, consistent with typical Glock 17 models. Standard capacity is 17 rounds in the magazine plus one in the chamber, chambered in 9mm. Unloaded weight without a magazine is listed at approximately 21.16 ounces, and around 31.39 ounces loaded with magazine and ammunition. These baseline specs set the stage for comparing the Gen 6 to the previous Gen 5 and 47 versions.

Internal changes and recoil system

They move into the internal differences of the Glock 17 Gen 6. The recoil system is described as using a setup reminiscent of a Gen 3 recoil spring, while the internal layout still looks very similar to a standard Glock 17. When compared side by side with a Gen 5, the Gen 6 can be identified by differences such as the spring configuration, which now runs the full length rather than stopping short as on the 47. Some internal components have been reworked in a way comparable to Gen 5 updates, including a revised extractor and related parts. Exact disassembly details are not shown due to platform restrictions, but the emphasis is on subtle internal refinements that distinguish the Gen 6 from earlier generations.

RTF6 grip, ergonomics, and controls

Attention shifts to the Gen 6 frame and ergonomics, particularly the RTF6 grip texturing on this full-size model. Compared with a Glock 19, one presenter prefers the 19’s overall feel but notes that the 17 Gen 6 still feels excellent in hand. The frame now features a more pronounced palm swell and a higher beavertail, which together improve comfort and control. The grip texture is more aggressive than on many earlier models but avoids the overly harsh feel associated with older RTF3 patterns that some users found abrasive. The undercut on the trigger guard reduces the distance between the web of the hand and the trigger, aiding shooters with smaller hands. The pistol also includes frame “gas pedals” for the support-hand thumb, enhancing control and helping keep rounds on target. A flat-face trigger is included; it still feels and behaves like a typical Glock trigger in terms of pull and break.

Flared magwell and frame refinements

They compare the Gen 6 frame directly with a Gen 5 frame to highlight subtle but important changes. The Gen 5 already had a flared magwell, but on the Gen 6 it feels slightly more pronounced, with a bit more of a lip that aids in guiding magazines during reloads. Side-by-side alignment suggests the overall dimensions are very close, yet the Gen 6 flare is more noticeable in hand. The texturing pattern also differs visually, stacking squared elements from the Gen 5 in a way that blends older and newer styles. Additional frame material has been added beneath the slide release on both sides. This change is intended to reduce the chance of unintentionally pressing the slide release, especially now that the frame includes gas pedal features. Overall, these refinements aim to improve handling without dramatically altering the familiar Glock profile.

What comes in the box and optics plates

The presenters then cover what is included with the Glock 17 Gen 6. It arrives in the standard Glock hard case, with a magazine loader, two magazines, and additional backstraps. Optics plates are also provided for mounting various pistol optics. They spend time on the revised optics mounting system, which required changes to the extractor and related internal parts. The new design routes optic screws directly into the slide rather than relying on a plate that then attaches to the slide. The plates now sit slightly recessed into the slide cut, effectively sandwiching into place. This arrangement is intended to prevent overly long screws from intruding into the internal mechanism and causing malfunctions, an issue that could occur on earlier setups if screws were driven too deep. The direct-to-slide approach also removes one interface between optic and slide, potentially reducing points of failure over extended use.

Weight verification and trigger pull

To verify the published specifications, they place the Glock 17 Gen 6 on a scale. Measured without a magazine, the pistol weighs about 1.32 pounds, and with an empty magazine installed it weighs about 1.49 pounds, aligning closely with the listed figures. They then measure trigger pull using a gauge. With one person holding the pistol and the other operating the gauge, the first reading comes in at approximately 4.25 pounds, and a second pull measures about 4.06 pounds. They note that the gauge is applied near the bottom of the trigger shoe, which tends to produce slightly lighter readings than pulling from higher on the trigger. Accounting for this, they estimate the practical trigger weight to be around five pounds, which matches expectations for a Glock duty-style trigger while benefiting from the new flat-face design.

Final thoughts on Glock 17 Gen 6 updates

In closing, they reflect on how the Glock 17 Gen 6 incorporates many changes that users previously sought through aftermarket work. Features such as the more aggressive yet manageable RTF6 grip texture, enhanced palm swell and beavertail, undercut trigger guard, gas pedal areas, refined slide serrations, and improved takedown levers address long-standing ergonomic requests. The more pronounced flared magwell and added frame material around the slide release further refine handling and control. Internally, the revised extractor system and updated optics mounting aim to improve reliability when adding optics, especially regarding screw length and potential interference with internal parts. Overall, the Gen 6 is presented as an evolution that responds directly to user feedback, integrating many popular modifications into a factory configuration while maintaining the familiar Glock 17 character.