Pros & cons
What works
- Full-power 10mm Auto in a proven Glock platform
- Dual recoil spring assembly tames 10mm recoil
- Interchangeable backstraps for grip fit
- Reversible magazine release for left-handed shooters
Trade-offs
- Heavier than a comparable 9mm Glock at about 30.7 oz unloaded
- 10mm ammo costs more and is less common than 9mm
- Aftermarket 10mm holster options are more limited
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Glock 20 Gen 4 is Glock's full-size 10mm Auto pistol, the sidearm hunters, hikers, and outfitters in bear country carry more than any other handgun. It uses the same Safe Action trigger and general manual of arms as every other Glock, so if you've shot a G17 you already know how this one runs — the difference is the 10mm cartridge underneath it. The Gen 4 update adds interchangeable backstraps, a rougher grip texture, and a dual recoil spring assembly built specifically to tame 10mm's stronger recoil impulse.
What is it used for?
It's built for backcountry and bear-defense carry, as a hunting sidearm, and for 10mm enthusiasts who want a duty-size platform. It also works fine as a general range or home-defense gun for anyone who specifically wants the caliber.
How does it compare to the Glock 17?
Glock describes it as shooting "as easily as a Glock 17," and the manual of arms is identical, but it's heavier at roughly 30.7 oz unloaded and chambered in a substantially more powerful cartridge. The barrel is also a bit longer at 4.61 inches versus the G17's 4.49 inches.
What fits it?
It has a standard accessory rail for lights or lasers, a reversible magazine release for left-handed shooters, and Gen 4 backstraps that let you adjust grip circumference. Aftermarket 10mm holsters are less common than for 9mm Glocks, so budget extra time to find one you like.
Who is this not for?
Skip it if you're recoil-sensitive to a full-power 10mm, if you want a concealed-carry gun rather than a full-size duty pistol, or if you haven't yet confirmed this exact Gen 4 configuration is current on California's roster.
Is it worth choosing over a 9mm Glock?
If you need genuine stopping power for large predators or want one gun that doubles as a hunting sidearm, yes. If you just want a general-purpose duty or carry gun, a 9mm Glock 17 or 19 will be easier to shoot fast and cheaper to feed.
Does it work in California?
Confirm California roster status with the dealer before ordering, since roster listings are tracked per exact Glock generation and model. California-bound guns also ship with 10-round magazines instead of the standard 15-rounder — see our California gun laws page for the complete process.
FFL transfer required
This item is a firearm and ships only to a licensed FFL dealer, never to a home address. At checkout, enter your preferred dealer as the shipping address, or leave it blank and we will assign a licensed dealer near you at no extra cost. You complete the background check and paperwork with the dealer when you pick up.
California buyers: handguns must be on the California roster for delivery to a California FFL, a Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) and DROS are handled at the dealer, and the 10-day waiting period applies. Out-of-state buyers receive the firearm through their own local FFL under their state's rules.
Key attributes
| Transfer | Ships to your FFL dealer |
| Caliber | 10mm Auto |
| Barrel Length | 4.61 in. |
| Overall Length | 8.07 in. |
| Weight | ~30.7 oz unloaded |
| Capacity | 15 rounds (10 in restricted states) |
| Trigger | Safe Action, ~5.5 lb pull |
Frequently asked questions
- What's the trigger pull weight?
- Roughly 5.5 lb., Glock's standard Safe Action pull.
- How much does it weigh unloaded?
- About 30.7 oz.
- Does it come with 15-round magazines?
- Standard capacity is 15+1. California orders receive 10-round magazines instead.
- What's the barrel length?
- 4.61 inches, with an 8.07-inch overall length.
- Is 10mm too much recoil for a new shooter?
- It has noticeably more recoil than 9mm. The Gen 4's dual recoil spring and textured grip help, but new shooters should try one before committing to it as a first gun.