Understanding the Glock 37: A Solid Foundation
At its core, the Glock 37 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in .45 GAP, or Glock Automatic Pistol, a cartridge designed by Glock in collaboration with Speer Ammunition. It’s important to grasp the significance of the .45 GAP to fully appreciate the Glock 37. The .45 GAP was created as a response to the demand for a .45 caliber cartridge that could fit in a more compact frame, similar in size to a 9mm or .40 S&W pistol. This was especially appealing for law enforcement agencies wanting the stopping power of a .45 ACP but within a handgun that was easier to handle and conceal, for many the .45 ACP rounds had a much too hefty and weighty load.
The .45 GAP essentially replicates the performance of the .45 ACP in a shorter case. The bullet weight typically ranges from 185 to 230 grains. The goal was to deliver a substantial amount of force, making this a weapon of choice for security and police.
Glock’s design philosophy has always centered around simplicity, durability, and functionality. The company’s pistols are known for their polymer frames, offering advantages like reduced weight and resistance to corrosion. The Glock 37 is no exception to this rule. The frame is constructed from a high-strength polymer, while the slide is made of steel, treated with Glock’s proprietary Tenifer finish for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. Glock pistols are also renowned for their straightforward manual of arms and minimal controls. There are no external safeties to manipulate, relying instead on a series of internal safeties. This streamlined design contributes to the Glock’s reputation for being easy to learn and operate under pressure.
Exploring the Features of the Glock 37 Gen 4
The Glock 37 Gen 4 represents a significant step forward in Glock’s evolution. The “Gen 4” designation signifies a range of improvements over earlier generations, with enhancements designed to further enhance the pistol’s ergonomics, handling, and performance.
One of the most notable upgrades is the inclusion of modular backstraps. These interchangeable backstraps allow users to customize the grip size, accommodating different hand sizes and preferences. This is a crucial feature for ensuring a comfortable and secure grip, leading to better control and more accurate shooting. Three different sizes of backstraps are typically provided with the pistol, allowing shooters to perfectly fit their hand and increase the shooter’s overall performance.
The Gen 4 also features a dual recoil spring assembly. This is a crucial change that helps to mitigate felt recoil and improve the overall reliability of the pistol. This dual spring system absorbs more of the recoil energy, resulting in a smoother shooting experience. It also helps to reduce wear and tear on the pistol over time.
The grip texture of the Gen 4 has also been improved. The new texture, often referred to as the “rough texture,” provides a more secure and positive grip, especially in adverse conditions such as wet or sweaty hands. This is a major enhancement over earlier generations, which had a smoother grip surface.
Another significant change in the Gen 4 is the reversible magazine release. This allows shooters to easily change the magazine release to either side of the pistol, making it comfortable and natural for both right and left-handed shooters. This versatility is another example of Glock’s commitment to designing firearms that are accessible to a wide range of users.
The Glock 37 Gen 4 boasts a number of key components. The polymer frame houses the fire control system, which comprises the trigger, striker, and various internal safeties. The slide is made of steel, and the barrel is a polygonal rifled design. This polygonal rifling promotes accuracy and can lead to a slightly higher muzzle velocity than conventional rifling. The magazine, constructed of steel and polymer, holds a generous capacity of rounds, providing ample firepower for self-defense or duty use. The slide has front and rear slide serrations for easier manipulation.
The ergonomics of the Glock 37 Gen 4 are generally well-regarded. The pistol feels comfortable in the hand, especially with the customizable backstraps. The balance is good, making it relatively easy to point and aim. The trigger pull is a consistent weight and has a short reset, promoting faster follow-up shots. The sights on the Glock 37 Gen 4 are typically Glock’s standard three-dot sights, which are functional but can be upgraded to night sights or other aftermarket options.
Examining Performance and Accuracy
When it comes to evaluating any handgun, performance and accuracy are paramount. The Glock 37 Gen 4 is generally recognized as a reliable and accurate pistol.
In accuracy tests, the Glock 37 Gen 4 typically produces groups within a reasonable range. The size of the groups can vary based on several factors, including the type of ammunition used, the shooter’s skill level, and the distance to the target. Most shooters can achieve impressive results with some practice.
The Glock 37’s reliability is a hallmark of the Glock brand. Its simple design and high-quality components contribute to its ability to function flawlessly under a wide range of conditions. However, as with any mechanical device, there is always a possibility of a malfunction. Most issues, if they occur, are generally easy to diagnose and resolve, often stemming from problems with ammunition.
The Gen 4’s dual recoil spring assembly plays a significant role in recoil management. The .45 GAP cartridge does generate more recoil than 9mm, but the dual spring helps to mitigate it, making the pistol more manageable. Compared to other .45 caliber pistols of similar size, the Glock 37 Gen 4 feels relatively smooth and controllable, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
Weighing the Strengths and Weaknesses
The Glock 37 Gen 4, like any firearm, has both advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision about whether this pistol is the right choice for you.
The advantages of the Glock 37 Gen 4 include: its rugged durability and exceptional reliability, its relative ease of maintenance, which is a significant benefit for both experienced shooters and those new to firearms. The Glock 37 Gen 4 is renowned for its simplicity, featuring a minimum number of parts and a straightforward takedown process. Its modular design further facilitates maintenance. The availability of aftermarket parts and accessories is another benefit. Glock pistols are among the most customizable firearms on the market. The Glock 37 Gen 4 is no exception, with a wide range of accessories available, including holsters, sights, trigger upgrades, and more. For many shooters, the comfort factor is high. The pistol’s design and ergonomics make it comfortable to carry and shoot. The customizable backstraps allow for a customized fit.
The disadvantages of the Glock 37 Gen 4: The most significant drawback for some potential buyers is the .45 GAP cartridge itself. While the .45 GAP offers impressive ballistic performance, the ammunition can be more expensive and less readily available than more common calibers, such as 9mm or .40 S&W. The unique round may be difficult to find. The Glock grip angle, a characteristic shared by all Glock pistols, is a point of contention for some shooters. Some find the grip angle to be less natural than other handguns. While practice can help overcome this, it’s a factor to consider. While the trigger is predictable, some shooters may not prefer the feel of a Glock trigger. The trigger is not the crispest and it does take time to learn. The Gen 4, while generally reliable, has been reported to have potential issues with the dual recoil spring assembly in some early production models. However, these issues have largely been resolved through manufacturing updates and component replacements.
Considering Alternatives and Comparisons
To properly assess the Glock 37 Gen 4, it’s helpful to compare it to other pistols, both within the Glock family and across the broader handgun market.
Within the Glock family, the Glock 37 is often compared to models such as the Glock 17, Glock 19, and Glock 21. The Glock 17 and 19 are chambered in 9mm, while the Glock 21 is a .45 ACP. The Glock 17 and 19 offer a wider range of ammunition options and are generally more popular due to their smaller frames and more concealable design. The Glock 21, however, has more stopping power. The Glock 37 occupies a unique niche, offering the .45 GAP cartridge within a frame that is slightly larger than a Glock 19.
Because the .45 GAP is a niche cartridge, the Glock 37 doesn’t have too many competitors. Other handguns have been chambered for the .45 GAP, but they are not as well-known and their market share is extremely limited.
Identifying the Ideal User Profile
The Glock 37 Gen 4 is a versatile pistol that can be a good fit for a variety of users.
It is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and powerful handgun, it’s a great fit for law enforcement officers who are already comfortable with the Glock platform and the .45 GAP cartridge. The Glock 37 offers a familiar manual of arms and a comfortable grip. Its reliability is well-suited for the demands of duty carry. The Glock 37 Gen 4 is also suitable for self-defense, offering substantial stopping power in a manageable package. The round also makes it a great choice for women and smaller-framed shooters. While not the smallest pistol, the Glock 37 can also be considered for concealed carry, depending on the individual’s build and preferences. Its relatively compact size makes it easier to conceal than a full-size .45 ACP pistol. The Glock 37 can be a good choice for those who enjoy target shooting.
The Glock 37 may not be the ideal choice for everyone. Those who are concerned about the availability and cost of .45 GAP ammunition may want to consider a pistol chambered in a more common caliber. Shooters who are looking for a smaller, more concealable option might prefer a Glock 19 or another compact handgun.
Taking Care of Your Glock 37 Gen 4
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your Glock 37 Gen 4 functioning reliably and for extending its lifespan.
Cleaning and lubrication are crucial. After each shooting session, it’s important to clean and lubricate the pistol. This involves disassembling the pistol, cleaning the barrel and other components with a cleaning solvent, and lubricating the slide rails, trigger mechanism, and other key parts with a quality gun oil.
Regular inspection is also important. Regularly inspect the pistol for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, rust, or damage to the frame or slide. Pay close attention to the barrel, recoil spring assembly, and other critical components.
Conclusion: A Reliable Performer
In conclusion, the Glock 37 Gen 4 is a solid and reliable handgun that offers a compelling combination of power, reliability, and ease of use. The .45 GAP cartridge provides significant stopping power, while the Gen 4 enhancements, such as the modular backstraps, dual recoil spring, and improved grip texture, further refine the pistol’s handling and performance. The Glock 37 Gen 4 is a dependable and accurate handgun that is likely a good choice for a wide range of shooters, particularly those seeking a high-quality and well-built weapon for personal protection or duty carry. If you are looking for a Glock, you will most likely find that the Glock 37 will be a great choice.
Do you have any experience with the Glock 37 Gen 4? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
