Holsters can be as subjective as the guns that go in them. You might try five different holsters for your preferred pistol before finding one that is just right. I’ve been playing with holsters a lot lately, and today I wanted to share another one with you. Todays subject is the Gritr Gear Omni Holster.
Gritr makes a variety of different holster options in different configurations for various popular pistols. They also make additional support gear like range bags, weapon lights and even their own Red Dot Sights. Much of their lineup is available at affordable prices direct from Amazon.
The Gritr Gear Omni Holster
The Gritr Gear Omni Holster is a simple Kydex design, optimized to be configured however best fits your needs. It can be used as an IWB holster, or an OWB holster. It can be configured right or left handed, and is available for most popular handguns with or without optics cut.
For my purposes I figured a Glock pattern would be optimal, as I have various Glock 17 and Glock 19 clones that would allow some evaluation. You can order the Omni holster to accept popular weapon light options like the SF X-300 or SL TLR-7. The Omni holster also came with a belt mount, allowing you to attach it directly to your belt and adjust the angle as well.
The Omni comes with a concealment strut on one side that rides under your belt to help keep your pistol tucked when concealing. It is both reversible and removeable for different carry styles, but I saw no reason to take it off.
the adjustable belt attachment
Configuring the Gritr Omni Holster
I would end up using the Omni in various configurations because I can. Both inside the waist belt (IWB) and outside the waist belt (OWB). The single belt-clip can be adjusted for ride height, so you can customize where your pistol sits. It can also be swapped to the opposing side should you need a wrong-handed draw. The clip has a nice retaining lip to prevent you from pulling the holster out when drawing the gun.
note belt-clip and concealment strut
There are also tension screws that allow you to adjust the squeeze of the holster to increase retention as needed. There is no secondary retention, just the friction of the holster’s squeeze. We found that this was adequate for keeping pistols secure in the holster. During testing we tried various G17 and G19 sized pistols with great results.
We also tested the Omni on a typical gun belt, using a Safariland QLS fork for attachment. This was a great option as it allowed quick removal and install from various belts.
Shooting From the Omni Holster
Drawing a handgun from the Omni holster was slick, just as its designed to be. The holster give generous space for sights to avoid any occlusions, and the Kydex covers all the important parts. Drawing the pistols from the holster had very little resistance, making it quick to get on target. Especially from the OWB configuration, as I am used to retention holsters and having to grip a release. This was much faster, simply pulling the pistol out an presenting on target.
As typical, there is a touch more to consider when drawing from the IWB position. Lifting clothing and avoiding snags requires a little more diligence. I do like how the Omni covers up everything; trigger, ejection port and more are covered by the Kydex “ears” that come up the side of the slide. It also protects you skin from slide serrations and other parts of the pistol that might cause discomfort.
All the pistols I tested in the holster were G17 or G19 clones, and they had a similar feel. Only the differences in slide cuts seemed to change the resistance when drawing the pistol.
The ability to configure this holster makes it and easy choice. I could even see getting a couple of them for various purposes due to their low cost. Whether you want to mount them to your belt, or just tuck them under your shirt it is pretty straight forward. The various mounting holes also allow you easy alternative mounting solutions. Overall, the Gritr Gear Omni Holster offers an inexpensive option that can be applied easily to just about any carrying need. And getting one drop shipped to your door using your prime account makes it that much easier.
We’ve brought you various different Glock pistol reviews over the years, as well as many of the new Glock clones. As a convert to the Glock cult, I often feel like a fresh set of eyes on most of their pistols. And today I bring you a fresh look at the Glock 47 Gen5 9mm pistol.
According to the manufacturer, the G47 was developed for US federal agent use by Customs and Border Protection. But don’t hold that against the gun, it also has great use for other people and patriots alike. The G47 is essentially a modified version of the prolific G17, perhaps one of the most used pistols in the world by law enforcement and other shooters.
The G47 has basic part interchangeability with the G17 and its siblings, the main difference is a shorter pic rail under the front of the slide. I wouldn’t consider this a downside since this is a full size pistol.
The Glock 47
Caliber
9mm Parabellum
Capacity
17 rounds
Barrel Length
4.5 Inches
Weight (unloaded)
25.93 Ounces
Weight (loaded)
34.29 Ounces approx
Trigger Pull Weight
5.8 Pounds
Length
7.95 Inches
Width
1.34 Inches
Height
5.47 Inches
I mentioned the G47 shares much of its features with the G17, to be honest I am not entirely sure why the separation between the two pistols even exists. According to those who know more than me, its to allow agencies to use both the G19 and G47 models without having to hold separate parts and service for both. The interchangeability is what they were after.
the Glock 47 boast front and rear slide serrations for easy manipulation
I really enjoy shooting full size pistols, one of them is a G17 clone, my Shadow Systems DR920. I’ve really enjoyed shooting this pistol over the years, and if the G47 is comparable I was sure to like it as well.
The full-size grip is very nice for shooting, it allows full purchase of the grip and helps manipulate the pistol better. It also allows for the seventeen-round capacity that gives this pistol such a commanding presence. The standard Glock grip texturing is ok in my opinion, and the other Gen 5 frame features are also welcome.
The rounded edges where it matters on the slide make it easier to pocket when you need to. And the optics cut on the rear of the slide is a must have these days, as red dots are taking over the pistol world. The addition of ambidextrous slide release is a breath of fresh air for left-handed shooters.
I mentioned I was a Glock convert, so I have a few things that will go with the G47. I would also incorporate one of my Surefire X300 weapon lights, in my humble opinion they are a perfect match for the pistol. In addition to lighting up your target area, they also bring some weight to the front of the pistol which reduces some muzzle rise.
Also while shooting the G47 I would be using one of my Safariland ALS holsters. In my limited experience these are excellent holsters which help you get the most out of your pistol shooting.
For ammunition, I would be using bulk packed 115 grain ammo from Mountain West Lethal Precision. As well as some 115 grain ammunition from PMC.
the Glock 47 uses the shorter recoil spring like the Glock 19
On the Range with the Glock 47
Shooting the Glock 47 was an outdoor adventure, my children and I went into the open country of the nearby mountains. I took several hundred rounds of ammunition of various types, as well as a few different magazine options to see how the G47 functioned.
The plan was to run through all the ammo, and get a good feel for how the gun draws, points, cycles, and reloads. Running through both 17 and 19 round magazines the G47 never skipped a beat. I regret that I was unable to get a red dot mounted during the review. It’s a shame the Glock doesn’t have the optics mounting built into the slide, like so many others have done.
But we still ran the G47 through quite a bit of shooting. I like shooting single rounds loaded in each mag over and over. It helps build muscle memory for reloads, and it also gives each magazine an opportunity to fail locking back the action. All three magazine types used worked great in that aspect.
Drawing and shooting the G47 from my Safariland holster felt natural and smooth. Reinforcing the excellent grip angle and point of aim of the G47, the whole experience was pleasant. This of course came as no surprise since I quite enjoy shooting my G17 clone.
The G47 has the Gen 5 features that many shooters enjoy, the removal of the finger grooves on the grip area make it a little more universal-fitting. The texture on the grip allows good purchase, though I feel like I prefer the more aggressive grip of other brands.
The sights are typical Glock sights, which in my experience are great for getting a quick sight picture. Again, I would have preferred a red dot though. That said, I had no issues hitting what I aimed at.
Adding a slightly flared magwell made it even easier to load magazines, not that it’s hard to hit them without it. The polymer frame makes it easy to drop and insert mags quickly while keeping eyes on the target. I found the grip to be more than adequate as is, but it’s nice to know that you can change the backstrap out to custom fit your hand.
The controls on the G47 are very Glock, and I don’t mean that in a bad way. They are exactly where and what you’d expect, making for smooth reloads and operation. The large grip area gives lots of room to hold on, keeping the gun secure through recoil impulses.
Ergonomics
Glock pistols have almost always seemed a little “no-frills” to me, the huge stippling aftermarket seems to support my theory. That said, the G47 is comfortable to hold on to. The large grip area and beavertail give very adequate hold of the pistol. The undercut trigger guard allows you to keep your fingers mostly together while gripping the gun.
The magazine release seems pretty low profile, staying out of the way while shooting and carrying. But it’s in just the right spot when the time comes to use it. And speaking of controls, the ambidextrous slide release must be great for the lefties out there.
The customizable backstrap is another great feature for those who need it. Adding both the ability to thicken the grip size, as well as add to the beavertail thickness should you desire.
Reliability
You’d expect a pistol from Glock to have legendary reliability. After all, that is what has made Glock the choice of countless law enforcement agencies and militaries. During the course of our shooting, the G47 performed flawlessly. No failures to fire, eject or any other flaws were experienced. The closest thing to a malfunction was when I found myself dropping the slide too early, but this is of course poor operation and not a malfunction.
All three different magazine types we used worked well with the G47. As did most of my G17 accessories. The G47 fit perfectly in my Safariland holsters bought for the G17. This is excellent news for G47 owners because the compatibility with its G17 sibling gives you many options.
Accuracy
With handguns I often feel a little out of place when it comes to accuracy. As a rifle junkie, shooting pistols accurately isn’t exactly my forte. And I’ll admit that using red dots has become something of a crutch for shooting more accurate shots for me. With all that said, I still found it easy to hit my targets with the G47. The sights’ vibrant contrast against the black pistol made them easy to pick up and center on the target. I’ll also mention that the G47’s trigger felt great, and its consistent break also helped shoot more consistently.
a typical pattern fired from the Glock 47 at 10 yards
Value
It seems that the street price for a new G47 hovers around the $630 mark at the point of writing this. That’s honestly a pretty fair price in my opinion. Looking at the plethora of Glock clones out there, the competition has gotten stiff. The G47 seems to function as well and shoot as reliably as my Shadow Systems DR920 which costs around $200 more, though I do prefer the vibe of the SS over the Glock.
And there are also much cheaper options, some better than others. You can get a BCA Grizzly 101 for under $300, which for some people is enough to make the difference. I guess I would say that bottom line, if you just want a gun that shoots those options will do. But if you want Glock perfection, the price of the G47 is fair.
After my time shooting the G47 I can say I feel every bit as positive about the gun as the G17 and its clones. The G47 does much of the heavy lifting in the full-size service pistol market. And for many good reasons as we’ve outlined here. Reliable operation is what these pistols are known for, and this one surely does. Not only are they reliable but they are comfortable, familiar and compatible with most of the ancillary equipment you’ll want to use.
I keep coming back to Glock clone pistols, which is quite the 180 turn for me. Today I am taking a look at another something new, this time from one of America’s best known manufacturers and in part by another. Today I bring a you a review of the Ruger RXM 9mm pistol. The RXM is a recoil operated 9mm pistol that is fed by Magpul magazines in the very popular Glock pattern. Like many other pistol on the market today, the RXM is a clone of the extremely successful Glock. But it also has a whole new trick up it’s sleeve, and it’s sleeve is also made by Magpul.
the classic underbite of the Surefire X300, for dark places and flashes
It is hard to deny the success of the popular design of these kind of pistols, and the incredible aftermarket support already available makes it even more appealing. Not only do you get the famous reliability, but you can use the same holsters, and others accessories that you probably already have.
What is the Ruger RXM
For those who’ve been hiding under a rock (or behind a 1911), Glock clones have become extremely popular. Following the pattern of the Gen 3 striker fired poly-framed pistols has been very successful for quite a few manufacturers now. Ruger has partnered with Magpul to make the polymer frame for the RXM, while Ruger made the rest. There is a secret within the frame though, in a similar idea to the incredibly popular Sig Sauer P320the Ruger RXM has a removable Fire Control Insert (FCI). The FCI is the trigger and serialized portion of the firearm.
the removeable FCI, captured at the rear, and held in place by two pins at the front
This allows you as the user to swap from one grip frame to another. And with a partner like Magpul in this endeavor, I expect we will see an unprecedented flow of grip frame options come to market in the future.
So if you are wondering what makes the RXM so special, I can sum it up like this; it’s as though two of the most successful pistols of the past decades had a baby blessed by Magpul.
Ruger RXM Features
Caliber
9mm
Overall Length
7.15 inches
Height
5.31 inches
Barrel Length
4 inches
Slide Width
1 inch
Grooves
6
Twist
1:10 right hand
Weight
23.2 ounces
Optics Ready
yes
Front Sight
Tritium co-witness height
Rear Sight
Steel drift adjustable
Manual Safety
No
Barrel & Slide Material
Alloy steel
Capacity
15 + 1
Steel Finish
Black FNC Nitride
Grip Frame
Magpul enhanced grip
Magazines
Two 15 round PMAGs included
MSRP
$499.00
I was very pleased that the design team took the time to think this pistol through. It is apparent that they wanted to incorporate some of the better features in this pistol. Things like an optics cut slide and the tritium sights are definitely better than many standard features. Even my son noticed and mentioned the convenient load indicator slot so you can easily identify a hot chamber. And of course the Magpul frame that can be interchanged by swapping the FCI.
Note loaded chamber indicator
I was even more impressed when I pulled the optics plate off to see the semi-universal optics footprint. The RXM can take the RMR, Delta Point Pro, and RMSc optics, which covers a huge variety of optics. The footprint area of the RXM slide has various holes to accept screws but also comes with configurable pins to allow proper securing of your red dot.
mounting the red dot was easy using the provided alignment pins
The grip frame features Magpul’s TSP grip texture, and also has a pretty covert magwell flare. As well as an undercut trigger guard which is nice.
Unboxing the Ruger RXM
I’m always excited when I open a new gun, I’d already handled the RXM at SHOT Show 2025 but I was still excited to take it home. The hard plastic case carried the RXM and 2 fifteen round Magpul PMAGS, as well as the typical gun lock and other accessories. I will say that the case is bigger than it needs to be, allowing additional accessories and mags to be stored for transport. The box also has a cutout for an optic, whether for a user added optic or a later model including an optic is yet to be seen. You’ll also see room for a threaded barrel, giving away future options Ruger?
factory fresh
I lifted the RXM from its case, and felt that same familiar grip of the clones. It felt good and only got better as I played with the pistol further. All the controls felt just as you would expect, the trigger is crisp. The front and rear slide serrations make for easy gripping to pull against the stout spring. The sights line up nicely with my hold, and the front tritium pops against the dull winter overcast sky.
I ran the slide a few times against the empty magazine, and was pleased with how smooth and easy it was to actuate everything. The mag release is extended a bit, and at first I thought it might be too forward. But after all of my shooting it seemed it was perfect.
drawing the RXM from a holster helped illustrate its soft edges
I did a quick field strip to see the curious FCI and how it was secured into the frame by a couple push pins. The whole thing looked very nice, with a great finish and quality look.
Ruger RXM Setup
I was anxious to get this pistol shooting, so I wasted no time getting it ready for a range trip. I dug through my selection of red dots, and decided to grab the Vortex Defender CCW. It was a good fit for the RXM, and would be easy to mount as well using the supplied fasteners.
Including anchor pins to secure the red dot gives the RXM another leg up, by allowing you to configure the footprint to match the red dot. Instead of forcing you to change to a dot that fits the footprint.
Because I’d planned on carrying the pistol for a while, I decided to also install my Streamlight TLR8. It’s a handy light laser combo for CCW pistols and it fits perfectly on the Ruger RXM. And the whole conglomeration fit nicely into my Hidden Hybrid IWB holster.
The RXM fit in all my holsters
On the Range
All that was left was to head to the range and shoot this small wonder, I grabbed a few boxes of 115 grain ammo from MWLP for some initial testing. My first range trip would be a typical trip into the snowy Rocky Mountains, and both my son and I would enjoy the afternoon plinking away with the Ruger RXM.
I took the opportunity to try a bunch of different things like drawing from the holster, reloading after single shots and such. It didn’t take long to get comfortable with the RXM. The Defender red dot made it quick to bear and make clean shots on my targets.
I was very impressed with how easy reloads went with the gun. I am used to big guns with flared magwells, this little Ruger does have a flare but it’s hardly noticeable unless you look under the gun. It came very easy to me to stab the magazine even without looking, it felt much easier than other similar guns I’ve shot in the past.
Shootability
As you might imagine, a pistol modeled after one of the most successful pistols ever shoots very well. The RXM grip is very comfortable, and the angle lines up quite naturally with my aim. Recoil from the RXM is quite modest and keeping on target is akin to other similar pistols. Its also nice to be able to use a red dot, pushing your focus to the target.
The controls of the RXM are great. The trigger is a little longer than I would have expected but it is very smooth and breaks nicely. This allowed for great shot placement particularly when coupled with the fine aimpoint of the Defender.
At first, I did find one thing that bothered me. During the first few mags my thumb would push slightly up on the slide release causing the RXM to lock open between rounds. This was easily corrected once I realized it was just my thumb crowding the area. Even my kids had a good time shooting the RXM.
the kids had a great time learning to shoot the RXM
Ergonomics
Again, as a clone its hard to beat the time tested successful design. The grip angle is just right and feels natural. Slide cuts provide just the right amount of grip without being abrasive. The mag release is a touch further forward than expected but certainly caused zero problems during my reloads. The trigger blade safety isn’t even noticeable during shooting, which is the way it should be.
My hands are neither small nor large, and the grip area was just right for them. If I had larger hands I could see it getting a bit crowded, but I also anticipate that there will be additional grips available from Magpul in the near future that will solve that issue.
A little custom paint made the RXM even better looking
Accuracy
I’m a bit of an accuracy nerd when it comes to rifles. But when it comes to handguns I don’t consider myself anything but average, and I had no issues hitting what I aimed at. I don’t suspect this gun is currently going to be used for competition shooting (at least not yet), but more likely it will be used for typical semi-compact 9mm purposes. CCW use and general shooting are more likely in its future, and for that the accuracy was perfectly adequate.
Hitting paper plate sized targets from a quick draw was easy to do even at fifteen to twenty yards. I carried the pistol as my CCW for several days quite confident that should I need to use it I would be able to hit my target.
Reliability
I mentioned the occasional locking back caused by my imposing thumb, that was the only thing I could call a failure that we experienced while shooting the Ruger RXM. It has cycled through hundreds of rounds and many boxes of 115 and 124 grain ammunition now without any failures.
The Glock clone market is getting steep with competition. Many companies have brought some very affordable models to market to compete with this Ruger RXM, and this has brought the prices down. The RXM is more affordable than most of the original Austrian polymer pistols, depending on which generation you are looking at. And even among its clone peers the RXM is still quite competitive with street prices just under $400.
these clones are stacking up
For comparison, my ZRO Delta FKS9 can be had for around $350 but it will cost more than the RXM if you want the optics ready slide. I also have a PSA Daggerthat is very comparable to the RXM, but again if you want an optics ready slide it’s price goes up to within a carton of eggs price of the RXM. So there’s plenty of competition from other good products.
BUT, we haven’t addressed some of the RXM’s advantages. Not only is the RXM optics ready, its configurable footprint will take most optics. Additionally its removable FCI allows you to swap grip frame modules, none of the other clones do that at this price. I cannot fathom that Ruger and Magpul haven’t thought this through for years to come. I expect we will see a massive and steady release of RXM variants with various sizes, slides and barrels. Time will surely tell, but with all that in mind I think the Ruger RXM is a fantastic value, with a bright future.
I’ve kind of already gone over all the pros of this pistol. Its a comfortable shooter with clean lines and a nice fit. The customization and potential for future modification make it stand out against its competition. I was even impressed with how seamless and tight fitting the FCI fits into the grip module, at a glance you wouldn’t even think it was removeable. The edges of the RXM aren’t as hard as they could be, making it less likely to snag while drawing.
I’ve also thought quite a bit about what I would change on the Ruger RXM. And to be completely candid I could hardly come up with something to pick at, I’d almost have to put myself in the shoes of another to find something. For example, the RXM isn’t built for lefties. That doesn’t bother me, but it might turn off some left-handed shooters. Though I’d imagine they are used to it by now. Also, perhaps you’re a Gen 3 critic, and would prefer clones copied a different version of Gaston Glock’s family. But you’re diggin’ really deep if you want to call these liabilities to the Ruger RXM.
Again, if I was reaching real hard I could say I wish the magazine was a touch more snug in the frame. But who am I to question Magpul’s design, perhaps it works best that way.
Preferred Ammunition
Besides the MWLP ammo, I also shot a few boxes of AAC 124 grain ammo. Both of which functioned flawlessly through the Ruger. For carry ammo I would use something predictable like Hornady Critical Duty 124 grain defense ammo.
Accessory Options
The Vortex Defender red dot worked out great for the RXM, I had no reason to dislike it. But I also like the US Optics RISE red dot as it is a bit larger window and more refined dot on the glass. The beauty of the RXM is that just about any popular sight will drop on to the Ruger RXM.
The Streamlight TLR8 was also a great choice for a weapon light, particularly for CCW use. An obvious choice would have also been the Surefire X300, though it is a bit bigger and more cumbersome for a carry gun.
My hidden Hybrid Holster fit the Ruger RXM well, but as objective as holsters can be you might want to pick your own. I also carried the RXM in a 1791 Gunleather holster that was also pretty comfortable.
Coming from two big names like Ruger and Magpul it’s no surprise this went well
Last Thoughts
My initial thoughts on the Ruger RXM turned out to be pretty dead on. I have always liked Ruger’s firearms, they seem to be optimized for the average American gun owner. And providing them with a pleasant and affordable experience.
I was quite surprised just how much I liked the RXM and how well thought out it was. It is a step above your average Glock clone, with some great added value and features. I expect this gun has a vibrant future ahead, much like the P320 is currently living. And not unlike the Dagger’s explosive popularity. Perhaps someday in the future there will be a compensated competition long-slide version and micro compact CCW versions as well, all with interchangeability. Great job and a tip of the hat to the collaborative teams at Ruger and Magpul.
-CBM
2025 Update:
After nearly a year of shooting the RXM, I have yet to come up with a down side. I have swapped half a dozen red dots across the slide cut, and used every kind of magazine I can get hands on. Magpul recently released additional frames for it, and I intend on trying at least one more size out. I have carried the RXM many different ways almost every week since I got it. I still feel it is an excellent value, and worth your consideration.
Few pistols have seen the proliferation of Glock’s venerable design. The polymer framed striker pistols are everywhere. Today we will take a first look at a new-to-me Glock design, we are reviewing the Glock 29 10mm Compact pistol.
Background
I must admit; to be completely honest I have never been a big fan of the Glock design. But in my defense it has been based mostly on aesthetics and looks. As the design’s service record and popularity are undeniable.
But as my tastes have matured, I have become more and more open to Glocks and the band of clones that copy them. So I suppose it should come as no surprise that my curiosity built when I opened up the case of the brand new model 29 Compact.
9mm pistols are for sure my favorite pistol round, but there is something a little magical about the 10mm. For only one more millimeter you gain impressive power and performance. Obviously there is more to the design than just a bigger bullet, there is additional powder capacity which increases velocity.
All the 10mm bros can’t be wrong, so I decided it was my turn to descend into the 10mm rabbit hole. And the Glock 29 was the vehicle of choice. The model 29 is an abbreviated version of the model 20 10mm pistol. Trimmed up and reduced to fit in a CCW holster of your choice, but still bring the 10 millimeter heat.
Specifications
Type Striker Fired
Size Sub-Compact
Caliber 10MM
Barrel Length 3.78″
Color Black
Capacity 10 Rounds
Accessories 2 Mags
Sights Fixed Sights
Frame Material Polymer
Finish Matte
Glock 29 Features
Safe action trigger system- prevents accidental discharge of the pistol
10 round magazines- holds ten round of 10mm Auto
Low Profile Sights- the compact sights pop in your sight picture
Picatinny accessory rail- to add your preferred weapon-light
Grip texturing- to help you hold onto the pistol under recoil
Other models and Generations
The Glock 29 is available in both a 4th gen and 5th generation. The Gen 5 version incorporates some of Glock’s latest changes. Such as interchangeable grip backstraps, removed finger grooves, and ambidextrous slide release. These are some nice features for those who are looking for them.
As mentioned above, the model 29 is a compact version of the larger Glock model 20. The larger model 20 allows additional grip area as well as additional weight to better allow the shooter to control the pistol.
If you find yourself trying to decide which model would better fit your needs, I would for sure get your hands on them. For my hand size, I find the 29 to be almost too small. I think adding a +2 magazine base plate would easily solve that concern for me.
Glock 29 Review
To review the Glock 29, a friend and I took the pistol and a few boxes of ammunition into the hills. The model 29 was literally new in the box unfired by me, so it was with great anticipation that we prepped for shooting.
Loading the chubby 10mm cartridges into the magazine wasn’t a challenge. Using the provided magazine loader that comes with the gun seemed to only add time to the process. It didn’t take long before we were stacking shots on targets.
It is not uncommon for shooters to create an idea in their mind of how a new gun experience will go. Having no experience with the Glock 29, I had imagined it would be a fairly spicy kick. With perhaps a little bit of a challenge to control.
Shooting the Glock 29
Shooting the pistol actually turned out to be much more pleasant than I had expected. The recoil wasn’t bad at all when shooting 180 grain ball ammo, and controlling the gun only took a little bit of time to get used to. The short grip was a slight hindrance, though one I could deal with considering this pistol is optimized for concealing.
The controls worked great and allowed quick manipulation of the pistol. The sights, though simple, were very useful and effective.
I was surprised at how easy it seemed to shoot the model 29 accurately. Keeping shots on milk jug sized targets at around 15 yards at a swift cadence was impressive. As someone who does a lot of fishing in bear country, my shooting companion mentioned how the 29 might serve as an ideal fishing companion.
After shooting the 29 for afternoon I’d say I have to agree. Ten or more rounds of 10mm Auto would make a great deterrent to any menacing assailant two-legged or more.
One of the more common praises of Glock pistols is their reliability. The simplistic design has simply worked for decades.
During our shooting we experienced only a single malfunction, where a round failed to fully seat into battery. A slight tap was all it took to correct the situation. While I am not positive what caused the malfunction, I find myself quick to dismiss it as potentially an unbroken in pistol. The ammunition and pistol functioned flawlessly together outside of this single issue. Time will tell if it was a singular event.
With a comfortable and pleasant experience shooting the Glock 29, its sub six-hundred dollar street price seems to be pretty fair. There are a few other comparable pistols in the same price range. Though many of them lack some of the 29’s advantages. For example; the Springfield Armory XD compact shares its size. But lacks the Glock reputation and service history. The Smith & Wesson M&P shares the service experience but lacks a compact model. These features tend to make the Glock 29 stand out.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Nice consistent trigger pull
Simple yet useful sights
Compact size can go anywhere
Did I mention it’s 10mm?
Glock
Cons
10-round capacity
Can be a bit of recoil for some
Report Card
Shootability (B+) shooting the Glock 29 was easier and more fun than I expected.
Ergonomics (B) Everything was very comparable to other Glocks, but for the slightly short grip.
Reliability (B+) Aside from the single malfunction, it seemed to run fantastic.
Accuracy (A) The accuracy of the pistol was better than expected
Value (B+) There are few other options out there for a compact 10mm, especially with this reputation.
Preferred Ammunition
I shot both Blazer 180 grain ball ammunition and American Eagle 180 grain ball ammunition through the Glock 29. Both of them seemed to work and shoot great. For more serious work I like shooting Speer Gold Dot 200 grain hollow points.
The Glock 29 for sure needs a good holster. Whether you want to use it as a concealed carry pistol, or as bear-mace, you will need a way to keep it close. A whole harness system like those offered by Crossbreed Holsters is a good way to keep it close. And if maximum concealment is your goal, the concealing options from Galco will help keep your Glock high and tight.
Weapon Light
A good light source is important for a CCW pistol. A compact pistol like the Glock 29 would benefit from one of the many compact weapon lights like the Streamlight TLR8.
Magazine Baseplates
Additional length can be added to the grip with extended floor plates. And the addition of more capacity is also welcome. These ones from Pearce will give an additional rounds, as well as helping you control the pistol better.
Sportsmans Warehouse has the full Glock pistol lineup, shop here.
Final Thoughts on the Glock 29
I said in the beginning that I was never a big Glock fan, but that view is changing. The Glock 29 is surely on my list of Glocks I don’t mind having. It fills a pretty small niche of 10mm compact pistols, and it does so with Glocks service reputation and style. For a reasonable price it has good features paired with a great shooting experience. If you are looking for a really powerful compact pistol, make sure you don’t look past the Glock 29 before spending your hard earned money.
