Glock 48 Review

Discover the sleek Glock 48 with a 4.17″ barrel in 9mm Luger, offering a 10-round capacity, durable polymer frame, and silver nPVD coated slide, complete with essential safety features and fixed sights. The Glock 48, a part of Glock’s Silver Slimline series, has been a constant companion of mine for over a year now. As a firearm enthusiast with a diverse experience in handling a variety of pistols, I approached the Glock 48 with a mix of curiosity and high expectations. Known for its slim profile and reliability, this 9mm pistol promised a blend of comfort and performance suitable for both everyday carry and range use.

Specifications

• Caliber: 9mm Luger
• Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
• Frame Material: Polymer
• Slide: Steel, silver nPVD coating
• Barrel Length: 4.17 inches
• Overall Length: 7.28 inches
• Width: 1.10 inches
• Height (incl. Mag): 5.04 inches
• Weight (w/o Mag): 18.48 oz
• Trigger Pull: ~5.4 lbs
• Sight Radius: 5.98 inches
• Sights: Fixed front and rear (night sight options available)
• Safety Features: Trigger, firing pin, drop safeties

Design and Build Quality

The Glock 48 features a sleek, streamlined design that is immediately noticeable. Its slimline frame, combined with a silver nPVD coated slide, not only offers an aesthetically pleasing look but also contributes to its durability. The build quality is exemplary, as expected from Glock, with a solid feel and no noticeable play between components. The polymer frame and steel slide construction ensure a lightweight yet robust build, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Glock 48 has consistently exceeded expectations. Its precision-engineered barrel and improved slide design contribute to enhanced accuracy, making it a reliable choice for both self-defense and range shooting. The pistol operates with the smoothness and reliability synonymous with the Glock brand, handling various ammunition types without any issues. Its consistency in performance, even after thousands of rounds, speaks volumes about its design and engineering.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Ergonomically, the Glock 48 is a standout. Its slim profile not only aids in concealed carry but also offers an exceptionally comfortable grip for a wide range of hand sizes. The grip texture is balanced, providing enough friction for a secure hold without being abrasive. The controls are intuitively placed, allowing for easy operation without the need to adjust your grip. Whether at the range for hours or carrying throughout the day, the Glock 48 remains comfortable and easy to manage.

Maintenance and Durability

Maintenance of the Glock 48 is straightforward and user-friendly. Its design allows for quick disassembly without the need for special tools, making routine cleaning and maintenance hassle-free. The durability of the Glock 48 is impressive, with its high-quality materials and finish showing little wear over time. This pistol is built to last, maintaining its reliability and performance even with heavy use.

Versatility

The Glock 48’s versatility is one of its strong suits. Its slim design, combined with the reliable performance of the 9mm caliber, makes it suitable for a variety of users, from concealed carry enthusiasts to those looking for a dependable home defense option. The pistol’s balanced characteristics make it an excellent choice for both novice shooters and experienced firearms enthusiasts.

Value for Money

Considering its features, performance, and durability, the Glock 48 offers excellent value for money. It provides the reliability and quality expected from Glock at a price point that is competitive within its category. For those seeking a high-quality, versatile pistol that won’t break the bank, the Glock 48 is a compelling option.

Things I Love About the Glock 48

• The Glock 48’s slim design is a game-changer for concealed carry. It’s unobtrusive and comfortable to wear all day, making it my go-to choice for personal defense.
• I’m consistently impressed with its accuracy. Whether at the range or in a self-defense drill, the Glock 48 has proven to be reliable in hitting targets precisely.
• The grip and balance of this pistol are just right for my hand. It feels natural and comfortable, allowing for extended shooting sessions without discomfort.
• Like its Glock brethren, the 48 is incredibly reliable. It eats through various types of ammunition without any hiccups, which gives me a lot of confidence in its performance.
• The silver nPVD coated slide not only adds a layer of durability but also gives the Glock 48 a sleek, modern look that stands out from the typical black finish.

Things I Don’t Like

• While there’s some aftermarket support, the customization options for the Glock 48 are somewhat limited compared to other models. I wish there were more options for sights, triggers, and grips right out of the gate.
• For its size, the 10-round capacity is understandable, but I do find myself wishing for just a bit more, especially given the advancements in magazine design these days.
• The grip texture is effective but can be a bit aggressive for my taste, especially during long shooting sessions. I’ve considered aftermarket solutions to this minor issue.
• The standard sights are functional, but I immediately upgraded to night sights for better visibility. It would be nice if Glock offered more factory sight options.

As a devoted user of the Glock 48, I’ve established a personal maintenance routine that ensures my pistol remains in top-notch condition, functioning reliably whenever I need it. Here’s a breakdown of my maintenance routine based on my experiences and practices:

After Every Use

• Field Strip and Clean: After each trip to the range, I field strip my Glock 48 according to the manufacturer’s instructions. I make sure to clean the barrel, slide, frame, and recoil spring assembly using a quality gun cleaner. A bore brush and patch are essential for the barrel to remove residue and maintain accuracy.
• Lubricate Key Points: Once clean, I apply a light coat of gun oil to the slide rails, barrel, and other moving parts. Glock pistols don’t require much lubrication, so I’m careful not to overdo it. Just a drop on the slide rails, barrel lug, and the exterior of the barrel gives the necessary protection without attracting too much dirt.

Monthly (Or as Needed)

• Detailed Inspection: Even if I haven’t fired my Glock 48 in a while, I do a detailed inspection monthly. This includes checking for any unusual wear or damage, ensuring the firing pin and extractor are clean and functional, and verifying that the magazine release and slide stop lever are operating smoothly.
• Magazine Maintenance: I also disassemble and clean my magazines regularly to prevent feeding issues. Removing dirt and grime from the follower and interior ensures reliable feeding and function.

Semi-Annually

• Deep Clean: Twice a year, I give my Glock 48 a more thorough cleaning. This involves a more detailed disassembly (within the bounds of what Glock recommends for users) to clean areas that don’t typically get as much attention during regular cleanings.
• Replace Parts as Necessary: I inspect all springs and replace them as needed, especially the recoil spring assembly, which Glock recommends replacing after a certain number of rounds. This preventive maintenance keeps my Glock 48 in reliable working order.

As Needed

• Immediate Attention to Issues: If I ever notice any issues during operation or cleaning, such as a sticky trigger or failure to eject properly, I address it immediately. Sometimes this means taking my Glock 48 to a certified gunsmith for a professional look.

Personal Touches

• Record Keeping: I keep a log of maintenance activities and round counts. This not only helps me track when it’s time for routine maintenance but also provides valuable data on the longevity and performance of parts over time.
• Customizations: While I keep my Glock 48 fairly stock, any customizations I’ve added (like upgraded sights) are also inspected regularly to ensure they’re secure and functioning as intended.

This maintenance routine has kept my Glock 48 in excellent condition, ensuring it’s ready and reliable for everyday carry. Consistency in care not only extends the life of the firearm but also reinforces my familiarity and confidence in its performance.

Glock 48 Performance Evaluation: My Expert Ratings and Insights

Conclusion

After extensive use and thorough evaluation, the Glock 48 has proven itself to be a top contender in its class. Its combination of design, performance, ergonomics, and value places it a cut above the rest. Whether for concealed carry, home defense, or as a range pistol, the Glock 48 offers a balanced blend of reliability, comfort, and versatility. It’s a testament to Glock’s commitment to innovation and quality, making it a highly recommended choice for anyone in the market for a new pistol.

FAQs

1. What is the Glock 48?
   The Glock 48 is a slimline 9mm pistol designed for concealed carry. It features a longer grip and barrel than other slimline models, offering improved accuracy and ergonomics without sacrificing concealability.
2. How does the Glock 48 compare to the Glock 43x?
   Both the Glock 48 and the Glock 43x share the same frame size and magazine capacity. The primary difference is the slide length; the Glock 48 has a longer slide, offering a slightly longer sight radius which can improve accuracy.
3. What is the magazine capacity of the Glock 48?
   The Glock 48 comes with a standard magazine capacity of 10 rounds.
4. Can the Glock 48 be customized?
   Yes, the Glock 48 can be customized with a variety of aftermarket parts and accessories, including sights, trigger systems, and grip enhancements, though it might have fewer options compared to more popular models like the Glock 19.
5. Is the Glock 48 suitable for beginners?
   Absolutely. Its balanced ergonomics, manageable recoil, and simplicity of operation make the Glock 48 an excellent choice for beginners.
6. How does the Glock 48 handle recoil?
   The Glock 48 handles recoil very well for a pistol of its size, thanks to its balanced weight and ergonomic design. The recoil is manageable, making it comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
7. What type of ammunition can be used in the Glock 48?
   The Glock 48 is designed to fire 9mm Luger ammunition. It can handle a wide range of 9mm ammunition, including FMJ for practice and JHP for self-defense.
8. Is the Glock 48 easy to conceal?
   Yes, the slim profile of the Glock 48 makes it one of the easier pistols to conceal, fitting comfortably under clothing without significant printing.
9. How durable is the Glock 48?
   The Glock 48 is extremely durable, designed to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use. Its nPVD coated slide and polymer frame are resistant to corrosion and wear.
10. What is the price range of the Glock 48?
    The price of the Glock 48 can vary depending on the retailer and any potential modifications or accessories. Generally, it is competitively priced within the market for compact 9mm pistols, offering good value for its features and reliability.

Remember, the true value of a firearm lies not just in its design or history, but in the skill and responsibility of the one who wields it. Stay safe, stay trained, and let every shot fired be a testament to the respect we hold for the power in our hands.