Glock 20 | The power of 10 mm Auto in the palm of your hand
Introduction
The Glock 20 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 10 mm Auto, designed by Austrian manufacturer Glock Ges.m.b.H.. Introduced in 1991, it is aimed at shooters and professionals seeking greater power than conventional calibers such as 9 mm.
Featuring Glock’s typical reliability and an impressive 15-shot capacity, the G20 is today prized by sports shooting enthusiasts, law enforcement agencies in certain regions, and hunters or professionals operating in hostile environments.
Background and development
The 10 mm Auto caliber was developed in the 1980s to offer superior ballistic performance to the 9 mm Parabellum, particularly in terms of stopping power and penetration.
Following the commercial failure of the Colt Delta Elite and the temporary adoption of 10 mm by the FBI, Glock offers a more robust and reliable alternative with the Glock 20, using the proven platform of the Glock 17 but adapted to the constraints of 10 mm.
The G20 stands out for its solidity, thanks to a reinforced chassis, a more massive barrel and an enlarged breech to handle the increased pressure of this ammunition.
Technical data
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 10 mm Auto |
| Capacity | 15+1 shots |
| Total length | 205 mm |
| Barrel length | 117 mm |
| Height | 139 mm |
| Width | 34 mm |
| Weight (loaded) | Approx. 1,125 g |
| Mechanism | Safe Action (striker) |
| Materials | Reinforced polymer / steel |
Operation and ergonomics
The Glock 20 features Glock’s own Safe Action system, combining three automatic safety devices:
trigger safety
firing pin safety
fall protection
Its grip is wider than that of 9 mm models, due to the larger caliber. It is compatible with interchangeable backsplashes on the most recent generations (Gen4 and Gen5), enabling the grip to be adapted to different morphologies.
Its polygonal barrel ensures good accuracy and durability, even under the high pressure of the 10 mm. Sighting is classic Glock: fixed rear sight and white notched front sight.
Performance and ballistic use
The 10 mm Auto caliber is one of the most powerful used in mass-produced semi-automatic pistols. It far surpasses .40 S&W and even some .357 Magnum loads in terms of energy.
This makes the Glock 20 particularly suitable for :
long-distance pistol shooting
environments where defense against wild animals is required (e.g. wooded areas in the U.S. and Canada)
sport shooting with IPSC or metal silhouettes
Versions and variants
Glock 20 Gen3: classic version with textured frame.
Glock 20 Gen4: improved grip, double spring system, interchangeable backsplashes.
Glock 20SF (Short Frame): version with thinner handle, more suitable for smaller hands.
Glock 40 MOS: long-range version of the G20, with 6-inch barrel and Modular Optic System interface, popular for precision shooting and hunting.
Comparison with other 10 mm guns
| Model | Capacity | Barrel length |
|---|---|---|
| Glock 20 | 15 shots | 117 mm |
| Colt Delta Elite | 8-shot | 127 mm |
| SIG P220 10 mm | 8 shots | 120 mm |
The Glock 20 remains the modern benchmark for 10 mm Auto, combining capacity, robustness and compatibility with high-pressure ammunition.
Adoption and popularity
The Glock 20 is used by :
certain wildlife agents in North America
special forces in countries where the 10 mm is deemed relevant
many hunters and sport shooters
It also benefits from a large community of civilian users, and a vast accessories market: holsters, custom triggers, springs, optics, extended magazines.
Conclusion
The Glock 20 embodies the meeting of the raw power of the 10 mm Auto and the legendary reliability of Glock.
With its impressive capacity, proven robustness and versatility, it remains one of the best choices for those looking for a high-caliber pistol capable of coping with extreme environments or demanding shooting scenarios.
At the crossroads of precision shooting, defense and the professional world, the Glock 20 remains a model apart in the world of modern handguns.
