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Glock pistols are a type of firearm that has gained popularity among gun enthusiasts and law enforcement agencies around the world. Despite their popularity, there is some confusion regarding their origin, with some sources jokingly claiming that Glocks are made in Australia. However, it is important to clarify that Glocks are not Australian-made and are, in fact, manufactured in Austria, with some models also being produced in the United States. This misconception may have stemmed from the existence of a special Glock model, the Glock 17A, which is designed to comply with Australia's unique firearm regulations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Austria |
| Countries where Glocks are used | Australia, United States, Canada, France, Philippines |
| Glock models | 17, 17A, 17 Gen 5, 19, 19X, 22, 22.5, 23, 24, 26, 26.5, 30S, 34.5, 43X |
| Glock features | Two-stage trigger, ILS safety lock, double stack magazines |
| Customization | Customization options include different barrels, slides, grips, and triggers |
| Cost of customization in Australia | $1000-$4000 |
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What You'll Learn
Glock pistols are manufactured in Austria, not Australia
There seems to be some confusion on social media and forums about whether Glocks are manufactured in Australia or Austria. While some users claim that Glocks are made in Australia, this is not true. Glock pistols are manufactured in Austria, not Australia.
Glock pistols are famous for their Austrian origins, with some enthusiasts preferring Austrian-made guns over those manufactured in the USA. The Glock factory in Austria customises pistols for specific markets, such as the Glock 17A, which is manufactured with a longer barrel for the Australian market. This is due to Australian laws that require handgun barrels to be at least 4.7 inches long.
The Glock factory in Austria also produces the lock mechanism, which must be factory-built and shipped as a special order. The lock causes a tab to protrude from the rear of the grip when activated, making it impossible to fire or disassemble the pistol. This safety feature is available as an option on most Glock pistols.
Glock pistols are used by law enforcement agencies worldwide, including in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the Philippines. The Glock Model 22 is a popular choice for police forces, and the French Armed Forces adopted the Glock 17 Gen 5 model in 2020.
While there may be some variation in the roll marks on the slide of Glocks made in different countries, the quality and performance of Austrian and USA-made Glocks are generally considered identical.
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Glock 17A: a special model with a longer barrel for Australia
Glocks are manufactured in Austria, not Australia. However, there is a special model of the Glock 17, the Glock 17A, which is manufactured specifically for the Australian market. This is because Australia has a minimum handgun barrel length of 4.7 inches, or 120mm. The standard Glock 17 model has a barrel length of 4.4 inches.
The Glock 17A is a rare firearm, and in 2017, Texas Machine Gun & Ordnance (TMGO) believed they had imported the only Glock 17A into the United States from Australia. TMGO shared pictures of the firearm, which features a factory-adjustable rear sight, a requirement for import. The Glock 17A also features Austrian proof markings on the slide, which differ from those found on Glocks imported to the US market. The markings include the Permanent International Commission (CIP) proof mark, which replaced the Eagle over N in 2014.
The Glock 17A has been sold in Australia, with some owners commenting on the odd appearance of the longer barrel. Some Australian owners have also expressed disappointment that they cannot carry their Glock 17A, despite being permitted to own it.
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Glock 17A imported to the US from Australia
Glocks are made in Austria, not Australia. However, in 2017, Texas Machine Gun & Ordnance, a firearms and explosives manufacturer, importer, and exporter in Dickinson, TX, imported what they believed to be the only Glock 17A in the United States from Australia. This was due to Australia's unique rules for handgun barrels, which must be at least 4.7 inches long. Glock created a special model of the Glock 17 for Australia, with a slightly longer barrel than the usual model. This particular Glock 17A was listed on Gunbroker, and the company shared pictures of it on their Facebook page.
The Glock 17A is a common handgun model in Australia, as it complies with the country's regulations. In 2002, the National Agreement on Handguns in Australia included several changes, such as a 10-round magazine capacity limit, a calibre limit of no more than .38 inches (9.65 mm), and a barrel length limit of no less than 120 mm (4.72 inches). These regulations have made it challenging for Australians to import firearms from the US and have impacted the availability of certain Glock models in the country.
The importation of firearms, specifically Glocks, between Australia and the US is a complex issue due to the different regulations in each country. For example, standard Glocks may not be permitted in Australia due to size restrictions, and there are strict processes for obtaining firearm licenses in the country. Additionally, there is a risk associated with Australia's changing laws, as buy-backs may result in the disposal and destruction of firearms.
While Glock 17A is available in Australia, it is important to note that Glock pistols are originally designed and manufactured in Austria, and the presence of the Glock 17A in the United States appears to be an exception rather than the norm.
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Glock pistols can be customised in Australia
Glock pistols are not made in Australia, but in Austria. However, it is possible to customise Glocks in Australia.
Customising a Glock in Australia can be expensive, with one user reporting that they spent around $1800 on customisations for their pistol, including a Zev trigger, compensator, barrel, slide, RMR (RM06), suppressor height sights, and mag release. Another user warned that it is possible to spend $4000 on customisations, but that this would be excessive and unnecessary.
Some customisations are easier to perform than others. For example, swapping parts is expensive but straightforward, while cutting slides is challenging and requires finding a licensed professional who knows what they are doing.
It is important to note that while the frame of a Glock is the serialized part, the barrel and slide are regulated. This means that while Australians can buy these parts without issue, they cannot be shipped directly to their homes. Additionally, if the length of the barrel is changed, paperwork will be required.
Overall, while it is possible to customise a Glock in Australia, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a pistol designed for competitions, as handguns in Australia are restricted to competition use unless the owner is a primary producer.
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Glock pistols are used by Australian law enforcement
Glock pistols are not made in Australia, but in Austria, where the company is based. However, they are used by Australian law enforcement. The adoption of the Glock pistol by Australian police services is based on the proven reliability, simplicity, and built-in safety features of the Austrian-manufactured weapon. The Glock pistol is used by the NT Police, the West Australia Police Service (WAPS), and the South Australian Police (SAPOL). The Glock pistol is also used by police forces in the USA.
The Glock pistol was designed in 1983 by Austrian engineer Gaston Glock. The range of pistols produced in his factory combines reliability and accuracy. One of the most notable features of the pistol is the absence of an external safety catch. Instead, the Glock 'safe action' system incorporates three independent safety measures, all centred on the trigger. This system ensures that the weapon cannot be fired unless the operator deliberately pulls the trigger.
The Glock pistol has undergone various tests to ensure its safety and compliance with international standards. The manufacturer markings on Glocks also differ depending on the market they are intended for. For example, Glocks imported to the US market have the Smyrna, GA importer address on the frame, while the Australian Glock 17A lacks this address.
In Australia, the adoption of the Glock pistol by police services has led to changes in training and qualification requirements for officers. The West Australian Police, for instance, have developed a high degree of tactical proficiency through ongoing liaison with other Australian and international law enforcement bodies. Biannual one-day 'critical skills' training sessions are conducted to maintain skill at arms and general tactical proficiency. Non-operational police must also attend yearly training sessions. Officers who fail to reach the required standard of competency with firearms are prohibited from carrying a firearm until they attain the necessary qualification.
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Frequently asked questions
No, Glocks are made in Austria, not Australia. However, there is a special model of Glock 17 for Australia with a slightly longer barrel than the usual model to comply with Australian regulations.
There is no difference in quality between Austrian-made and US-made Glocks. The only difference is the roll mark on the slide.
The first-generation (Gen 1) Glock pistols are recognized by their smoother "pebble finish" grip and lack of finger grooves. The Gen 2 Glock pistols have a checkered grip pattern.
Yes, Glocks can be customized in Australia, but it is expensive. The biggest barrier is cost, with a customized Glock costing 3-4 times more than in the US.
