Glock 27 Gen 3 Review: A Comprehensive Look at This Subcompact Pistol

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The Glock 27 Gen 3, a subcompact pistol chambered in .40 S&W, has carved a significant niche for itself in the concealed carry market. Known for its reliability, simplicity, and manageable recoil, the Glock 27 Gen 3 offers a potent combination of firepower and concealability. This Glock 27 Gen 3 review will delve into its features, performance, and overall suitability for various shooters.

Overview of the Glock 27 Gen 3

The Glock 27 Gen 3 is part of Glock’s line of subcompact pistols, designed for easy concealment and comfortable carry. It retains the core Glock design principles – a polymer frame, striker-fired action, and simple, intuitive controls. The Gen 3 designation refers to the third generation of Glock pistols, which introduced several enhancements over previous models.

Key Features of the Gen 3 Model

Finger Grooves: The most noticeable feature of the Gen 3 is the addition of finger grooves on the grip, providing a more secure and ergonomic hold for many shooters.
Accessory Rail: A universal accessory rail (Picatinny rail) allows the attachment of lights, lasers, and other accessories.
Thumb Rests: Subtle thumb rests on either side of the frame enhance grip stability.
Improved Extractor: Glock made improvements to the extractor to enhance reliability.
Internal Safety: The Glock “Safe Action” system includes a trigger safety, firing pin safety, and drop safety.

Detailed Specifications

Understanding the specifications of the Glock 27 Gen 3 is crucial for assessing its suitability for your needs. Here’s a breakdown:

Caliber: .40 S&W
Capacity: 9+1 rounds (standard magazine)
Barrel Length: 3.43 inches
Overall Length: 6.50 inches
Width: 1.26 inches
Height: 4.17 inches
Weight (Unloaded): 21.99 ounces
Sights: Standard Glock sights (polymer or steel)
Frame Material: Polymer
Slide Material: Steel

Ergonomics and Handling

The ergonomics of the Glock 27 Gen 3 are a key factor in its popularity. The finger grooves, while appreciated by some, can be polarizing. Some shooters find them comfortable and secure, while others find them restrictive. The compact size makes it easy to conceal, but it can also lead to a less comfortable grip for those with larger hands.

The grip texture provides adequate purchase without being overly aggressive. The accessory rail allows for customization with lights and lasers, which can improve handling and target acquisition in low-light conditions. The slide serrations are deep and provide a secure grip for racking the slide.

Performance and Accuracy

The Glock 27 Gen 3 is known for its reliable performance. It is a workhorse pistol that can handle a wide variety of ammunition. Accuracy is generally good for a subcompact pistol. At typical self-defense distances (7-15 yards), it is capable of producing tight groupings. The short sight radius can make it more challenging to shoot accurately at longer distances.

Recoil is a consideration with the Glock 27 Gen 3 due to its small size and the .40 S&W cartridge. It is snappier than a 9mm pistol of similar size, but manageable with proper grip and technique. Practice is essential to master recoil control and maintain accuracy.

Concealability

Concealability is where the Glock 27 Gen 3 truly shines. Its subcompact dimensions make it easy to carry concealed in a variety of positions, including inside-the-waistband (IWB), appendix carry, and off-body carry. A good holster is essential for comfortable and secure concealed carry. [See also: Best Concealed Carry Holsters].

The shorter grip is a significant advantage for concealment, as it reduces printing (the outline of the firearm showing through clothing). The rounded edges of the slide and frame also contribute to a more comfortable and discreet carry.

Reliability and Durability

Glock pistols are renowned for their reliability, and the Glock 27 Gen 3 is no exception. It is built to withstand harsh conditions and function reliably with minimal maintenance. The polymer frame is resistant to corrosion and impact, while the steel slide is treated for enhanced durability. Many owners report firing thousands of rounds through their Glock 27 Gen 3 without experiencing any malfunctions.

The simple design of the Glock system contributes to its reliability. There are relatively few parts, which reduces the potential for failure. The “Safe Action” trigger system is also known for its durability and consistent performance.

Maintenance

Maintaining the Glock 27 Gen 3 is straightforward. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to ensure reliable operation. Disassembly is simple and requires no special tools. A detailed owner’s manual provides instructions for cleaning, lubrication, and basic maintenance procedures.

It is recommended to clean and lubricate the pistol after each shooting session or at least every few months, even if it has not been fired. This will help prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Replacement parts are readily available and relatively inexpensive.

Pros and Cons

To provide a balanced Glock 27 Gen 3 review, let’s summarize the pros and cons:

Pros:

Excellent concealability
Reliable performance
Simple and intuitive operation
Durable construction
Manageable recoil (for a .40 S&W subcompact)
Accessory rail for customization
Readily available parts and accessories

Cons:

Finger grooves may not suit all shooters
Recoil can be significant for inexperienced shooters
Short sight radius can affect accuracy at longer distances
.40 S&W ammunition can be more expensive than 9mm

Alternatives to the Glock 27 Gen 3

If the Glock 27 Gen 3 doesn’t quite fit your needs, consider these alternatives:

Glock 26 Gen 5: A 9mm subcompact with similar dimensions but less recoil. The Gen 5 improvements include a smoother trigger, improved accuracy, and ambidextrous slide stop lever. [See also: Glock 26 Gen 5 Review]
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield .40: A slim and lightweight .40 S&W pistol that is easy to conceal.
Springfield XD-S Mod.2 .40: Another .40 S&W subcompact with good ergonomics and a comfortable grip.
Glock 43X: A slimline 9mm pistol with a longer grip than the Glock 26, offering improved ergonomics for some shooters.

Who is the Glock 27 Gen 3 For?

The Glock 27 Gen 3 is an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize concealability and stopping power in a subcompact pistol. It is well-suited for:

Concealed carry permit holders
Individuals who prefer the .40 S&W cartridge
Those seeking a reliable and durable self-defense firearm
Experienced shooters comfortable with managing recoil

Final Verdict on the Glock 27 Gen 3

The Glock 27 Gen 3 remains a popular and capable subcompact pistol. Its reliability, concealability, and .40 S&W chambering make it a viable option for self-defense. While the recoil can be a challenge for some, with proper training and technique, it can be effectively managed. If you’re looking for a compact and powerful concealed carry pistol, the Glock 27 Gen 3 is worth considering. This Glock 27 Gen 3 review hopes to have provided a comprehensive overview to aid in your decision-making process.