While the .40 S&W round isn’t the most popular on the block, it does have a dedicated, loyal following. A happy medium between .45 ACP and 9mm, it’s no surprise that some gun owners just can’t give it up.
But what if you want your favorite round in plastic “perfection”… a.k.a. Glock? Glock has you covered with a handful of Glock pistols chambered in the .40 S&W round.
We can all agree that Glock’s naming scheme doesn’t always make sense, so we’re here to help! We’ll dive into each .40 S&W handgun Glock has to offer, talk about its best use, and give you a run-down of its specs and notable features.
By the end, you’ll be ready to pick out your own .40 S&W Glock!
So, keep reading!
Table of Contents
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THE QUICK LIST
.40 S&W Glock Comparison Chart
| Type | Barrel Length | Overall Length | Weight | Capacity | Price | |
| Glock 22 | Full-Size | 4.5″ | 7.3″ | 22.9 oz | 15 rounds | $402 |
| Glock 23 | Compact | 4″ | 6.9″ | 21.2 oz | 13 rounds | $413 |
| Glock 27 | Subcompact | 3.5″ | 6.3″ | 19.8 oz | 9 rounds | $499 |
| Glock 35 | Full-Size | 5.3″ | 8.1″ | 24.5 oz | 15 rounds | $596 |
How We Tested the Best .40 S&W Glocks
For this article, we gathered opinions from the Pew Pew Tactical staff and freelance writers based on .40 S&W Glocks that we’ve personally shot, reviewed, and/or owned. For guns we have reviews on, we’ve linked those so you can read more. Every review handgun undergoes a strict testing protocol that requires a minimum of 500 rounds of both FMJ and JHP ammo through it at 5 and 7 yards.
When selecting this list, we focused on .40 S&W Glock models that offered the best features vs. value and, most importantly, you can actually find in-store. (Looking at you, Glock 24.) We also tried to pull a variety of models that can fit into a few shooting categories, so whether you’re looking for a competition gun, a home defense model, or a concealed carry option, we have you covered.
Best .40 S&W Glocks
1. Glock 22 – Best Full Size .40 S&W Glock
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
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Pros
- Reliable
- Accurate
- Aftermarket support
Cons
- Not red dot compatible
Glock 22 Specs
- Type: Full-Size
- Capacity: 15 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4.5″
- Overall Length: 7.3″
- Weight: 22.9 oz
- Height: 5.4″
- Width: 1.18″
Kicking off our list is the Glock 22. If you’re on the hunt for full-size, this is the pistol you want.
Sporting those familiar Glock aesthetics but in a larger size means you’ve got a lot more to hold onto while shooting. This, in turn, means recoil is minimal.
No wonder many law enforcement agencies choose this particular Glock.
The Glock 22 is available in the Gen 4 and Gen 5, with a Gen 5 MOS version also in the lineup. Personally, I like the feel of the Gen 4, but if you can splurge on the MOS, it’s worth it.
Anytime a Glock comes with an optics-ready slide, I’m going to tell you to grab that option.
If you want to read more on the differences between Glock generations, check out our article on Glock Gen 3 vs. Gen 4. vs. Gen 5.
Overall, the Glock 22 is a great fit for those interested in a duty gun or home defense pistol.
2. Glock 35 – Best Optics Ready .40 S&W Glock
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Red dot capable
- Accurate
- Reliable
Cons
- Difficult to conceal
Glock 35 Specs
- Type: Full-Size
- Capacity: 15 rounds
- Barrel Length: 5.3″
- Overall Length: 8.1″
- Weight: 24.5 oz
- Height: 5.4″
- Width: 1.18″
Remember how I mentioned the MOS versions earlier? Well, the Glock 35 is one such model that comes in a MOS variant, and I would recommend it.
It has a long slide, which again helps with accuracy, but the addition of an optics cut really elevates this Glock pistol.
Perfect for competition shooters who shoot with red dots or home defenders who really want to make sure they’re on target, that optics cut right out of the box means all you need is a good red dot to pair with it, and you’re off to the races.
(You can see some of our top red dot recommendations in the Best Pistol Red Dots.)
While this option might not work for all concealed carriers, I really like it for other defensive situations.
3. Glock 23 – Best Compact .40 S&W Glock
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Easier to conceal
- Reliable
- Accurate
Cons
- More muzzle flip
Glock 23 Specs
- Type: Compact
- Capacity: 13 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4″
- Overall Length: 6.9″
- Weight: 21.2 oz
- Height: 5.0″
- Width: 1.18″
So we’ve run through full-size and long-slide Glocks. What if you want to carry a .40 S&W Glock? The Glock 23 is a great .40 S&W handgun.
The G23 offers a nice blend of capacity and weight, allowing for a Glock pistol that isn’t too heavy or bulky to carry. It’s a really good overall size for concealed carriers stepping into the .40 S&W Glock world.
Of course, it has the reliability and accuracy you’d expect from Glock. While it’s going to recoil more than your full-size variants above, it has enough weight that most shooters should be able to manage its recoil.
Like most of the other models mentioned, Glock offers it in Gen 3, Gen 4, Gen 5, and Gen 5 MOS variants, so there’s pretty much one here for everyone.
We have more details on this handgun in our hands-on Glock 23 review.
4. Glock 27 – Best Subcompact .40 S&W Glock
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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Pros
- Reliable
- Concealable
- Accurate
Cons
- Less capacity
- More muzzle flip
Glock 27 Specs
- Type: Subcompact
- Capacity: 9 rounds
- Weight: 19.8 oz
- Barrel Length: 3.5″
- Overall Length: 6.3″
- Height: 4.2″
- Width: 1.18″
If you want the smallest .40 S&W Glock has to offer, the Glock 27 is your last stop.
The Glock 27 is a subcompact, meaning its measurements squeak in just under the Glock 23. What you get with the G27 is a lightweight, smaller handgun that still packs that .40 S&W punch.
The only downside is the capacity—with its size, you drop down to 9 rounds. But with Glock mags in abundance, you can easily carry a spare or three.
Recoil will be a little more stout with the Glock 27 as it’s a lighter gun with a smaller grip area. So be aware of that if you’re sensitive to the thought of added recoil.
Overall, the Glock 27 is a good carry gun for those dedicated to the .40 S&W tribe.
Why Trust Pew Pew Tactical
Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings researched and wrote this article on Glock .40 S&W model. In addition to writing articles for Pew Pew Tactical, she also runs our experienced team of reviewers. She is a National Rifle Association Basic Pistol Instructor as well as a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association. Jacki has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. With 2,000+ articles to her name, she uses her professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards for Pew Pew Tactical.
Not to mention, Jacki carried a Glock for years so she’s very familiar with their ergonomics, features, and performance.
Final Thoughts
With a variety of Glocks in.40 S&W to choose from, you should be covered — from competition to the home. Not to mention, the best thing about Glock is that these guns are pretty much the same throughout models, so swapping between calibers isn’t a huge deal if you decide you want one in every round.
What’s your favorite .40 cal Glock model? Drop it in the comments below. For more Glock goodness, check out the Best Glocks Across Calibers, or for a step up, head to our Best .45 ACP Glocks.
Latest Updates
January 2025: Rewritten based on current availability and more testing data.
41 Leave a Reply
It' very hard to find 40 cal ammo anymore for my glock 27??
I own a G21 in 45 auto, a G27 (both gen3) and a G23(gen4). The 21 and 27 have never had any issues, but the 23 is a problem child and loves to extract but not eject. I've changed the extractor and ejector but to no avail.
Jim, you said it right. Caliber Capriciousness.
I did find it interesting that at least three of the five pistols in the picture at the top of the article are 10s and not 40 s&w. Right away there was inconsistency. This article, to me, reads as a "I don't like the 40 anyhow" vibe. Other than that, great write-up and always love reading the stories., I like my "22" and am comfortable carrying and shooting it
For what it is worth, I find words interesting. Two cents worth WAS the price of a soda water-seltzer. Due to INFLATION two cents worth is now a dollar.
Having enjoyed the opportunity to test fire each of the Glock Models listed, in generation 3, 4, and 5, I would, if forced, own a Glock 22 in Gen 5. This full sized model is the best, for my two cents worth. However, that being said, the full sized Springfield Armory XD Tactical and the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield are better options. Especially when it comes to the grip ergonomics. Other than, even with several years in forensic firearms, nobody should give a truck what I think! All about what works for you.
My favorite Glock .40 is the G22,G23 and the G27… lol… I have all three and carry both the G23 and G27… funny how the winds of caliber favorites blow so capriciously… Jim F.
I have purchased 9mm conversion barrels for my Glock 22 gen3 and Glock 23 gen5. Work great,
The 23 with the 9mm barrel shoots better than my Glock 19 gen4.
Dan V.
I had a great time shooting I.P.S.C. with my Glock 35 with a ZEV trigger and Advantage Tactical sight, made Level 2 on my first qualifier!
I have a Glock 22 and a Glock 23, both Gen 4. Love shooting 40 caliber but a feature I like about these pistols is the ability to shoot them in 9mm or 357 SIG with the modest investment of a barrel and magazine.
Glock 22 is my favorite.
I’ve carried a Glock 22 professionally for over 20 years. Great weapon!! Goes bang when you need it to go bang. Eats any round I’ve put in it’s a Glock. Not all decked out with bells, frills & whistles. Glock is a hammer!! Triggers are not the best but with all the aftermarket triggers drop in a Timney, slap on some good sights and you’ll have yourself one of the best, most reliable pistols in the world. You just can’t beat them. It’s why so many other manufacturers have duplicated them over the years.
I too like the .40 S&W cartridge, but I certainly prefer my S&W M&P 2.0 instead of Glock.
I want 4999 casse off glock 40s write in notebook let's shot my inbound write in notebook nakieaha wife niekieyaha ship everything out 5726hadfield street front roof now
You on something bro?
I like the .40 S&W Cartridge, but I'm not a Glock fan. Trigger always felt mushy no matter the model. I prefer my Walther PPQ M2. Best damn stock trigger any manufacturer ever released.
I hear the 5th Generation Glock Triggers are better, but I've not fired one to compare.
I have multiple Glocks 21C, 22C, 22, & 23 for personal use. As an officer, I never had my 22 fail and loved taking it to the range. They are easy to upgrade the triggers, sights, and barrels if needed, and Glock advanced Armourers school taught me a lot about the care and use of the weapon. I highly recommend Glocks; they are forgiving and will shoot in any environment I have shot in. I can't say enough about these pistols.
I love my Gen3 Glock 32c in 357Sig. I can easily swap it out to 40 Cal.
Your sizing/specs of the Glock 22 is incorrect. Overall length is a tad over 8” and barrel length is 4.9”. FYI
Love my glock 22 gen 3. I enjoy the recoil when fired. Took a few rounds before I got use to the handling. Found that proper grip {thumbs forward} gave the full encompass feel on the handle thus controlling the recoil much better. I fired a 9mm and found it ok but the rush of firing the ..40 much more pleasing . I haven’t fired a gun since I was in my twenties. Mid sixties now and I start with a .40. Real glad I did!!!!!
I’m more a beginner than most commenters here; please forgive my more simple comments. My fave is the 23. The kick is a little more than a 9mm, but a little practice fixed my control. Had the 27 which was hard for me to control; purchasing the pinkie extension solved that, and still kept it very concealable.
My $.02 worth: My experience is the G27 has amazing rapid fire grouping for me. Follow up shots are precise. Maybe it’s my wide hands and bigger forearms? My EDC is a Gen3 G27 with G23 mags, X-grip slip on, and Mepro Tru Dot night sights. 13+1 with easy conceal ability! Bought used on a budget years ago, from a retired motorcycle patrol officer in Atl. It was her backup weapon. Still my go-to favorite today. When I’m grabbing a CCW for mine and my family’s protection, I always go with my G27. It’s my “Ol Reliable”! I have the same setup for my G26; G19 mags with X-grip and Tru Dots. 15+1 with same footprint as above.
If you want a .40 get an H&K Usp or the glock GEN 5 model...I love the USP
jueedkkd
There is a lot wrong in this article...firstly 24s were a limited run so nobody carries them new now. The do no accept a smaller mag than a 22 its infant the same magazine. The slide on a 34 is not longer than the slide of a 24...etc. nbd just saying
Thank you. Had been educated a great deal. I want to use for compatition, as was stuck on the 1911, S&W. I now changed. Sorta. Lol. But going for licence soon and again. Thanks for the know. ledge
Why did I pick a Glock in 40 s&w? Because the sub 2k I bought takes Glock mags. Happily, I can get law enforcement trade in guns and mags at great prices. First time shooting my model 22 I could put 10 rounds in a plate sized, salad not dinner, area.
I’m right there with you, Mike. I got a Sub 2K that takes Glock mags specifically to be a companion piece to my G23. In that vein, I’ve had a S&W 59 for decades so I got a Sub 2K that takes S&W 5900 series mags. Since then I’ve picked up a S&W 915 and a 5906. Yep, same mags work. Coincidentally, I came across, and snapped up a Marlin Camp 9 and those same S&W mags will also function in it. I like the versatility in companion firearms.
I have a Glock 22 S&W40. Great house gun. Looking for a Glock S&W 40 for concealed carry. Any with double stack magazines? Would like to utilize my 15 round Glock 22’s magazines in emergencies!
Why is 9mm even being mentioned when this was an article based on 40s&w Glock models? Also, the better 40s&w self defense ammo exceeds most off the shelf 45ACP rounds in foot pounds of energy and when comparing round capacity of similar sized pistols, 40s&w always wins. So 40s&w is not a compromised between 9mm & 45ACP, it’s more powerful powerful than 9mm and most 45ACP self defense rounds. Recoil is a non factor for 40s&w in full size frames as well. Another great advantage to 40s&w that nobody talks about is the plethora of bullet weights on offer. You can buy off the shelf 40’s in 155, 165, 180 & 200 grain loads. Bottom line is 40s&w is a solid self defense round that is versatile and cheap to shoot.
Well said! Must say cuz as read! Noticed best for me is the 34 as its better for compatition. And I got off track when reading different ones matching this mag ect, cuz cheaper. That's not why I came here. As you no. I love your comment. And I don't believe in mixing and matching to save. No sir. Thanks, what you said needed to be said.
I'm a retired law enforcement officer. I carried a S&W model 10 early in my career transitioned to autos and was not satisfied until my agency approved of Glocks. I still have my 19 gen3, as for the added power of the 40 caliber I prefer the Glock 22 gen4. Fits me like a well worn glove w/o the additional backstraps. I'm 64 now and recoil is not tolerable anymore. The 40 S&W offers a lot of power for it's platform size and it's manageable recoil. I know there's agencies switching back to 9mm a couple of bad shootings and the trend will be back to a bigger caliber, in most cases the caliber wasn't the problem. There's simply way to many variables to use a blanketed solution.
How does the glock 24 have a smaller handle it is a full size frame like the 22,35 and takes the same magazines
I first practiced shooting with a 1911 45 & got pretty good.
No problem hitting the target.
Now I'm thinking about going to the Glock 40.
I find it very interesting
Nothing like a precision 1911....or so I thought until I picked up a Glock Precision in Excellence engineering masterpiece. Still, love 'em both.
Great article ! Especially for someone like me looking into .40 caliber first time purchase and fighting with barrel length for ccw and being able to stand with friends at the range . If there are any mods to the glock 23 to keep me on target . Please let me know .
I carryy a 22 on duty w a 27 as back up. For some reason I shoot the heck out of the 27. Let’s see +p a .40.....9 is ok, I will stick with the .40. .40 is an excellent compromise without having to +P it. Don’t get me wrong I can really shoot the heck out of a G17, but that’s not what I am allowed to carry, so I keep it simple and stick to what I am training with. End of the day, carry what you train with and shoot well. Off duty I carry either gun. For those depating a 9mm is better, then why not go to the .357 Sig.....my opinion, shoot all different the calibers and go with what you can shoot very well under pressure (use a reasonable caliber). Same goes for the gun you purchase. I have been shooting Glocks for 20+ years because that’s what I have to carry at work so I make a point to know this gun inside and out......but when I started shooting handguns a long time ago, a Bareta fit me the best and I was suprisingly naturally accurate with that gun...
Same here, now retired, turned in the model 22, 27 was personal purchase. Now looking for a full size Glock that accepts all the extra magazines I bought.
Love my 27. I carry it with an extended 11 round mag that offers good pinky grip. My extra mag is 15 rounds. I recently traded in my gen 3 for a gen 5 glock 27 & the ergonomics are vastly improved. Where the gen 3 was kinda snappy, the gen 5 pi ots perfectly on the web of my right hand and allows for extremely fast target reacquisition/follow-up shots. Great gun.
Well, OK, I'll bite.
I'm unaware of any genuinely qualified subject matter expert who still thinks the 40SW is a better choice than the modern 9mm JHP or 9mm JHP +P rounds now available.
But ... carry on. Nothing like a good caliber debate to watch.
I'll make the popcorn.
:)
I think .380 is the best caliber for self-defense and combat and I will viciously argue with anyone who things otherwise.
I also enjoy popcorn :D
same here!
colt super 38