Is The Glock 19X Optic Ready? What You Need To Know

by Jhon Lennon 52 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into a question that's been popping up a lot in the firearms community: Is the Glock 19X optic ready? The answer isn't as straightforward as you might think, so let's break it down and get you clued in. Whether you're new to Glocks or a seasoned shooter, understanding the nuances of the 19X and its compatibility with optics is crucial for making informed decisions about your setup. So, stick around as we explore everything you need to know about the Glock 19X and optics.

Understanding the Glock 19X

Before we tackle the optic-ready question, let's get on the same page about what the Glock 19X actually is. The Glock 19X is a unique hybrid in the Glock lineup, combining the full-size frame of the Glock 17 with the shorter slide of the Glock 19. This design was initially developed for the Modular Handgun System (MHS) competition for the U.S. Army, though it didn't win the contract. Nevertheless, Glock decided to release it to the civilian market, and it's become quite popular.

Here's what makes the Glock 19X stand out:

  • Frame Size: It uses the Glock 17's full-size frame, which means it offers a longer grip. This can be advantageous for shooters with larger hands, providing more surface area to hold onto, which can improve control and reduce felt recoil. The full-size frame also typically allows for a higher magazine capacity.
  • Slide Length: The slide is the same length as the Glock 19, making it slightly more compact than the Glock 17. This shorter slide can make it a bit easier to conceal than a full-size Glock 17, offering a balance between concealability and shootability.
  • Color: One of the most distinctive features of the Glock 19X is its coyote tan color. This makes it easily recognizable and sets it apart from the traditional black Glocks.
  • Marksmanship: Shooters often find the 19X comfortable to shoot due to the full-size grip. The longer grip allows for better control, which can translate to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots.
  • Reliability: Like all Glocks, the 19X is known for its reliability and durability. It's built to withstand harsh conditions and high round counts, making it a trusted choice for both recreational shooters and professionals.

Now that we know what the Glock 19X is all about, let's address the big question: Is it optic ready right out of the box?

The Stock Glock 19X: Not Optic Ready

Out of the box, the standard Glock 19X is not optic ready. This means that the slide doesn't come with a cutout or mounting plate that would allow you to directly attach a red dot sight. The original design was intended to be a reliable, no-frills pistol, and optics weren't part of that equation. This can be a bit of a bummer if you're eager to slap a red dot on your 19X right away, but don't worry, there are still options.

Here's why the standard Glock 19X doesn't come optic ready:

  • Original Design Intent: The Glock 19X was initially designed for a military trial where optics were not a primary requirement. The focus was on reliability, durability, and ease of use.
  • Cost: Adding an optic cut to the slide would increase the manufacturing cost, and Glock likely wanted to keep the 19X competitively priced.
  • Market Demand at the Time: When the 19X was first released, the demand for optic-ready pistols wasn't as high as it is today. The market has since shifted, with more and more shooters wanting to add red dots to their handguns.

So, if you've got a stock Glock 19X and you want to mount an optic, you'll need to explore some aftermarket solutions. Let's take a look at what those are.

Options for Adding Optics to Your Glock 19X

Okay, so your Glock 19X isn't optic ready from the factory. No sweat! You've got a few solid options to consider if you want to add a red dot sight. Each has its own pros and cons, so let's break them down.

1. Slide Milling

One of the most popular and effective ways to add an optic to your Glock 19X is to have the slide milled. This involves taking your slide to a gunsmith who will machine a cutout into the slide to accommodate your chosen optic. This method offers a very secure and low-profile mounting solution.

  • Pros:
    • Low Profile: Milling allows the optic to sit lower on the slide, which can improve your sight picture and make it easier to find the dot quickly.
    • Secure Mounting: The optic is directly attached to the slide, providing a very stable and secure mount.
    • Customization: You can choose the exact optic cut that matches your preferred red dot sight.
  • Cons:
    • Permanent Modification: Milling is a permanent modification to your slide. There's no going back once it's done.
    • Cost: Milling can be relatively expensive, as it requires specialized equipment and expertise.
    • Downtime: You'll be without your slide for a period of time while it's being milled.

2. Adapter Plates

Another option is to use an adapter plate. These plates attach to the existing rear sight dovetail on your Glock 19X slide and provide a mounting platform for your optic. This is a simpler and less expensive option than milling, but it does have some drawbacks.

  • Pros:
    • Easy Installation: Adapter plates are easy to install and don't require any permanent modification to your slide.
    • Cost-Effective: They're generally much cheaper than having your slide milled.
    • Reversible: You can remove the adapter plate and return your slide to its original configuration if you choose.
  • Cons:
    • Higher Profile: Adapter plates raise the optic higher above the slide, which can make it more difficult to find the dot and may require taller sights.
    • Less Secure: Adapter plates are not as secure as direct milling and may be more prone to shifting or loosening over time.

3. Optic-Ready Aftermarket Slides

If you don't want to modify your factory slide, you can purchase an aftermarket slide that comes with an optic cut already installed. This gives you the benefit of having an optic-ready pistol without permanently altering your original slide.

  • Pros:
    • No Modification to Factory Slide: You can keep your original slide in its original condition.
    • Optic Ready: The slide is already milled to accept a variety of red dot sights.
    • Customization Options: Aftermarket slides often come with additional features, such as enhanced serrations or coatings.
  • Cons:
    • Cost: Aftermarket slides can be expensive, especially high-quality ones.
    • Compatibility: Ensure the aftermarket slide is compatible with your Glock 19X frame and internal components.

4. Send it to Glock

Glock sometimes offers a slide milling service where you can send in your slide and they will mill it for you. This is a good option because you know the work will be done by Glock professionals and will be up to their standards.

  • Pros:
    • Professional Job: You know the job will be done right by professionals who know Glocks.
    • Glock Standard: The work will be up to Glock's standards, ensuring reliability.
  • Cons:
    • Cost: This can be an expensive option.
    • Downtime: You will be without your slide for a period of time while it is being milled.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Optic Mounting Option

Before you make a decision about how to mount an optic on your Glock 19X, there are a few key factors to consider:

  • Budget: Slide milling is generally the most expensive option, followed by aftermarket slides, while adapter plates are the most budget-friendly.
  • Intended Use: If you're using your Glock 19X for competition or duty use, a more secure mounting solution like slide milling may be preferable. For recreational shooting, an adapter plate may suffice.
  • Optic Choice: Some optics require specific mounting cuts, so make sure your chosen mounting method is compatible with your preferred red dot sight.
  • Skill Level: If you're comfortable with basic gunsmithing tasks, you may be able to install an adapter plate yourself. However, slide milling is best left to the professionals.

Optic-Ready Glock Variants

It's worth mentioning that Glock has released other models that do come optic ready from the factory. These are typically designated with the MOS (Modular Optic System) designation. If you're set on having an optic-ready Glock straight out of the box, you might consider one of these models.

Some popular optic-ready Glock models include:

  • Glock 17 MOS: The full-size Glock 17 with an optic-ready slide.
  • Glock 19 MOS: The compact Glock 19 with an optic-ready slide.
  • Glock 34 MOS: A longer-slide Glock designed for competition, with an optic-ready slide.
  • Glock 45 MOS: Similar to the G19X with a black finish and an optic-ready slide.

These MOS models come with a series of adapter plates that allow you to mount a variety of different red dot sights directly to the slide. This is a convenient option if you want to avoid the hassle of aftermarket modifications.

Final Thoughts

So, to sum it up: the standard Glock 19X is not optic ready from the factory. However, there are several viable options for adding an optic, including slide milling, adapter plates, and aftermarket slides. Consider your budget, intended use, and skill level when choosing the best option for you.

Whether you decide to mill your slide, use an adapter plate, or go with an aftermarket slide, adding an optic to your Glock 19X can enhance its versatility and performance. Just be sure to do your research, choose a reputable gunsmith (if you go the milling route), and practice, practice, practice to get comfortable with your new setup.

Happy shooting, and stay safe out there!