Buy the Glock (Part 2)

Last year, I made a simple recommendation: Buy a Glock 19. Don’t overthink it, just get a reliable, easy-to-learn pistol and focus on training.

Now, legendary firearms and self-defense instructor Massad Ayoob has published a new piece in GUNS Magazine making many of the same points, and a few I hadn’t fully articulated. You can (and should) read his article here: 👉 The Ubiquitous Glock 19

Below is a quick summary of why Massad’s writeup reinforces this site’s original recommendation, and gives even more reason to start your journey with a Glock 19.

1. It Just Works — and Keeps Working

Used by the FBI, NYPD, Secret Service, and SEALs. These agencies have no patience for unreliable gear. The G19 earned its place on their hips.

New shooters benefit from the same dependability. It feeds, fires, and runs without fuss. That matters.

2. Perfectly Sized to Learn and Carry

Big enough to control, small enough to conceal and light enough (21 oz) to carry all day. Smaller guns are harder to shoot. Larger guns are harder to carry. The G19 splits the difference well.

3. Beginner-Friendly to Shoot

Ayoob points out that even shooters with smaller hands — especially women in law enforcement — consistently qualify with Glock 9mm pistols. Good ergonomics, short trigger reach, and simple controls make that possible.

The Gen5 trigger in particular is excellent: smooth, predictable, and safe under stress. No gimmicks, just a solid, usable design.

4. Plenty of Ammo, Not Too Much Recoil

15+1 rounds of 9mm is no joke. That’s more capacity than most revolvers or older full-size pistols. Modern defensive 9mm loads perform extremely well out of a 4” barrel. Ballistics are comparable to .357 Magnum snubs with the right ammo, but far easier to shoot and reload.

5. Supported Everywhere, by Everyone

It’s the Toyota Camry of handguns. Parts, holsters, accessories, you’ll find them everywhere. It’s the most common size for training aids and blueguns. Entire industries are built around the Glock platform.

Whether you’re learning at home, in a class, or at the range, the Glock 19 is familiar ground.

Final Thought

This isn’t a fanboy pitch. It’s a nod to simplicity and reliability. Start with a Glock 19 because it’s a known quantity. You can always evolve into other styles and brands of pistols later after becoming a proficient shooter.