The Glock 34 Gen 4 MOS has solidified its position as a favorite among competitive shooters and serious enthusiasts. Its blend of accuracy, reliability, and modularity makes it a compelling choice, but understanding its strengths and weaknesses is crucial before making a purchase. This in-depth review will explore everything you need to know about this popular handgun.
What Makes the Glock 34 Gen 4 MOS Stand Out?
The Glock 34 Gen 4 MOS isn't just another Glock; it's a refined platform built for precision. Several key features contribute to its appeal:
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Longer Barrel: The extended 5.31-inch barrel significantly enhances accuracy and muzzle velocity compared to its compact counterparts. This translates to flatter trajectories and improved shot grouping at longer ranges.
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Enhanced Accuracy: The longer sight radius provided by the longer barrel, combined with the inherent reliability of the Glock design, makes the 34 Gen 4 MOS a highly accurate pistol. This is crucial for competitive shooting disciplines like USPSA and IPSC.
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MOS System (Modular Optic System): The MOS system is a game-changer. It allows for easy mounting of various red dot sights (RDS) without the need for gunsmithing or aftermarket adapters. This adaptability is essential in modern competitive shooting where RDS are almost ubiquitous.
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Gen 4 Improvements: The Gen 4 enhancements, including the improved grip texture, ambidextrous slide release, and reversible magazine release, contribute to increased comfort, control, and customization. These refinements make the pistol more adaptable to a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles.
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Reliability: Glocks are renowned for their rugged reliability, and the 34 Gen 4 MOS upholds this tradition. It's a pistol you can depend on to function flawlessly under pressure.
Considerations Before Purchasing
While the Glock 34 Gen 4 MOS boasts numerous advantages, it's essential to consider some potential drawbacks:
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Size and Weight: The longer barrel and overall dimensions make it larger and heavier than compact Glock models. This might be a disadvantage for concealed carry, although it's manageable for those accustomed to larger handguns.
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Recoil: While manageable, the 9mm caliber still produces some recoil. This is less of a factor for experienced shooters but could be challenging for beginners. Proper training and technique are crucial.
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Cost: Glock 34 Gen 4 MOS pistols are generally priced higher than other Glock models due to their features and capabilities.
Choosing the Right Red Dot Sight
The MOS system's flexibility allows for a range of RDS options. However, selecting the right optic is crucial. Factors to consider include:
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Sight Height: The height of the optic will influence your sight picture and point of aim.
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Battery Life: Longer battery life is vital, especially during extended shooting sessions.
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Durability: The optic must withstand the recoil and potential impacts of use.
Conclusion: Is the Glock 34 Gen 4 MOS Right for You?
The Glock 34 Gen 4 MOS is an excellent choice for competitive shooters, law enforcement professionals, and serious enthusiasts who prioritize accuracy and modularity. Its longer barrel, enhanced accuracy, and MOS system provide a significant advantage. However, its larger size and weight should be considered, especially if concealed carry is a primary concern. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not this pistol is right for you depends on your individual needs and shooting preferences. Thorough research and perhaps even handling the firearm before purchase are highly recommended.
