Will Gen 5 Glock Magazines Work in a Glock 17 Gen 3?
The short answer is no, Gen 5 Glock magazines are not designed to be fully compatible with Glock 17 Gen 3 pistols. While there might be some superficial similarities, crucial design differences prevent reliable function. Attempting to use them could lead to malfunctions and potential safety hazards.
Here's a deeper dive into the incompatibilities:
Key Differences Between Gen 3 and Gen 5 Glock Magazines
Glock has made several improvements to their magazine design over the generations. While outward appearances might be similar, internal components and dimensions differ significantly between Gen 3 and Gen 5 magazines, specifically in the following areas:
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Follower Design: The magazine follower, the part that pushes the rounds up, is distinctly different. The Gen 5 follower is optimized for improved feeding reliability and is not interchangeable with the Gen 3 follower.
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Body Dimensions: While seemingly similar in overall size, subtle differences in the body dimensions of Gen 3 and Gen 5 magazines exist. These minor variations can prevent the magazine from properly seating in the Gen 3 Glock 17's magazine well, causing feeding issues or even preventing insertion altogether.
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Feed Lips: The feed lips, the crucial components guiding rounds into the chamber, have slight variations between generations. These differences can lead to misalignment and jamming problems if a Gen 5 magazine is used in a Gen 3 pistol.
Potential Problems Using a Gen 5 Magazine in a Gen 3 Glock
Attempting to force a Gen 5 magazine into a Gen 3 Glock 17 is strongly discouraged. Doing so could result in:
- Failure to Feed: The magazine might not feed rounds reliably, leading to stoppages and malfunctions during shooting.
- Magazine Drop Issues: The magazine might not drop freely from the pistol, creating a potential safety hazard.
- Damage to the Pistol or Magazine: Forcing incompatible components can potentially damage both the firearm and the magazine, leading to costly repairs or replacement.
The Safest and Most Reliable Approach
Sticking with Gen 3 magazines for your Gen 3 Glock 17 is the only way to guarantee reliable and safe operation. Using the correct magazines designed specifically for your firearm model is paramount for safety and performance.
Conclusion
While the temptation to utilize newer generation components might be appealing, the realities of mechanical incompatibility dictate that Gen 5 Glock magazines should never be used in a Gen 3 Glock 17. Always prioritize safety and reliability by using only the correct magazines for your specific firearm model. Any attempts to circumvent this crucial safety measure are strongly advised against.
