New to GT & Glock - About to make my 1st purchase - G27 - Questions...

[gaspar]

Hi everybody!

I've been lurking here for a few months and signed up for an account a few days ago. I've been meaning to ask some questions, so I figured it's about time I said hi and asked away.

A little background...I'm married, no kids, in my 30s, but have never owned a gun. My dad always owned guns (rifles, shotguns, handguns, everything) all while I was growing up, and would take me out to shoot on occasion, so I'm not unfamiliar with guns at all. Grew up around them, always knew to be safe and not mess around, just never really had much interest. My dad was a hunter and a gun collector and a reloader...just never was my cup o' tea.

A few months back, a friend of mine and his bro-in-law decide to take the CHL course here in TX and asked if I was interested. They are both married as well, and with either kids or potential kids, and homes or potential homes, they felt it was time to start thinking about family protection. Once they started talking to me about it, I started thinking about gun ownership and proper knowledge and understanding in ways I hadn't really considered in the past.

I talked to my wife about it, and she was a little iffy at first. She's not too fond of guns, but also is pretty good about letting me do what I feel is right and knows that I'd never do anything stupid and anything I do, I'll do the right way. I didn't have the money for a gun at the time, but I started doing research. But I did take the CHL course with them which was a good first step. My friend bought a G26 and let me use it for the shooting portion of the CHL course. We practiced for a few weeks before taking the course and were able to get to an acceptably proficient level of use with the 26 and the shooting portion of the course was easy enough at that point.

So now, we've been going to the range every couple of weeks since then over the course of the summer, and it's about to be time for me to have a little extra money and make my purchase. My wife has even shot the G26 a couple of times and enjoyed the experience, and is comfortable enough with the idea of having a gun in the house now, but she has stipulated that we get a gun safe and keep it locked, which I'm definitely ok with...that was my plan anyway. I was originally planning to get a G26 as well, but I rented a G27 after a Border Patrol officer friend and another friend both recommended .40 cal Glocks to me, so I wanted to try one.

The G27 did kick a bit more than the G26, but not as much as I expected from what I had read here and from other reviews. I liked it quite a bit! And when I found out about the LWD barrels and the fact that I can basically have the best of both worlds for a little over an extra $100 (plus a couple of extra 9mm mags), I don't think I can pass it up!

So, thanks for reading all of that! Sorry for being so long winded :) Now, finally to my questions...I'm really thining that I'm going to pick up a G27 next week and finally join the Glock owners family, and I am wondering what I should get to go with it. Here's what I think I need:

LWD barrel - I'd like the stock length, but they're out of stock at the moment, so I'll likely order a different one. (plus a couple of G26 mags)

Mags - I'm sticking to the 2 most likely for the time being and not adding any extensions because I want it to be as small as possible and concealable. I've shot the G26 & G27 with and without the extensions and I shoot just fine without...I have small hands...so I'm going with the stock mags.

Sights - I have no idea! I think I want night sights, but I don't want to add any bulk/size to the gun. I want to keep it streamlined as much as possible. I've heard many recommendations for the different brands...anyone who has a G26/G27, what do you recommend?

Holster - Again, I've read a lot of recommendations, but haven't really looked too much into this yet. What is the best? I'm in Texas...it's hot! I probably won't carry often, but it will likely be IWB when I do. I'm fairly standard size...kind of thin, but not skinny, not fat.

Gun Safe - Looking at a GunVault mini right now...I think that's what I'm getting. Any reason not to?

I think that's it for now. Anything else I should be thinking about? Thanks again for reading!

[Giggity-Giggity]

Welcome aboard! Get Trijicon night sights along with your G27. Try a kydex or leather insided the waist band holster that specifically fits the subcompact Glock. I personally use Galco leather holsters and love them.

Lastly, be aware that the conversion barrels will have that 1% of imperfections since it's a modification.

[Half Lid]

Hi everybody!

I've been lurking here for a few months and signed up for an account a few days ago. I've been meaning to ask some questions, so I figured it's about time I said hi and asked away.

A little background...I'm married, no kids, in my 30s, but have never owned a gun. My dad always owned guns (rifles, shotguns, handguns, everything) all while I was growing up, and would take me out to shoot on occasion, so I'm not unfamiliar with guns at all. Grew up around them, always knew to be safe and not mess around, just never really had much interest. My dad was a hunter and a gun collector and a reloader...just never was my cup o' tea.

A few months back, a friend of mine and his bro-in-law decide to take the CHL course here in TX and asked if I was interested. They are both married as well, and with either kids or potential kids, and homes or potential homes, they felt it was time to start thinking about family protection. Once they started talking to me about it, I started thinking about gun ownership and proper knowledge and understanding in ways I hadn't really considered in the past.

I talked to my wife about it, and she was a little iffy at first. She's not too fond of guns, but also is pretty good about letting me do what I feel is right and knows that I'd never do anything stupid and anything I do, I'll do the right way. I didn't have the money for a gun at the time, but I started doing research. But I did take the CHL course with them which was a good first step. My friend bought a G26 and let me use it for the shooting portion of the CHL course. We practiced for a few weeks before taking the course and were able to get to an acceptably proficient level of use with the 26 and the shooting portion of the course was easy enough at that point.

So now, we've been going to the range every couple of weeks since then over the course of the summer, and it's about to be time for me to have a little extra money and make my purchase. My wife has even shot the G26 a couple of times and enjoyed the experience, and is comfortable enough with the idea of having a gun in the house now, but she has stipulated that we get a gun safe and keep it locked, which I'm definitely ok with...that was my plan anyway. I was originally planning to get a G26 as well, but I rented a G27 after a Border Patrol officer friend and another friend both recommended .40 cal Glocks to me, so I wanted to try one.

The G27 did kick a bit more than the G26, but not as much as I expected from what I had read here and from other reviews. I liked it quite a bit! And when I found out about the LWD barrels and the fact that I can basically have the best of both worlds for a little over an extra $100 (plus a couple of extra 9mm mags), I don't think I can pass it up!

So, thanks for reading all of that! Sorry for being so long winded :) Now, finally to my questions...I'm really thining that I'm going to pick up a G27 next week and finally join the Glock owners family, and I am wondering what I should get to go with it. Here's what I think I need:

LWD barrel - I'd like the stock length, but they're out of stock at the moment, so I'll likely order a different one. (plus a couple of G26 mags)

Mags - I'm sticking to the 2 most likely for the time being and not adding any extensions because I want it to be as small as possible and concealable. I've shot the G26 & G27 with and without the extensions and I shoot just fine without...I have small hands...so I'm going with the stock mags.

Sights - I have no idea! I think I want night sights, but I don't want to add any bulk/size to the gun. I want to keep it streamlined as much as possible. I've heard many recommendations for the different brands...anyone who has a G26/G27, what do you recommend?

Holster - Again, I've read a lot of recommendations, but haven't really looked too much into this yet. What is the best? I'm in Texas...it's hot! I probably won't carry often, but it will likely be IWB when I do. I'm fairly standard size...kind of thin, but not skinny, not fat.

Gun Safe - Looking at a GunVault mini right now...I think that's what I'm getting. Any reason not to?

I think that's it for now. Anything else I should be thinking about? Thanks again for reading!
Well the G27 .40 S&W is bound to have abit more kick because its a bigger and more powerful round than the 9mm G26. It all depends on what you want, if you want a a gun with abit less kick and abit further range then go with the G26. But if your looking for something abit more powerfull with more stopping power then id go for the G27.
As far as the sights go i think you should save your money and just keep the stock sights they work perfectly fine. And since you dont have kids you might not really need a gun vault. Good Luck.

[bryceban]

First thing, good to have you here. It looks like you have done your home work and know what you want. As far as night sights go, they are not essential, I think you would be better served with a good flashlight. Can your wife shoot the .40 G27 as good as the 9mm G26? Something to consider if she ever needed to use it. I would personaly not keep my only firearm locked up if I did not have kids. Who are you protecting by locking it up? Know what I mean? It sounds like you pretty much have it figured out, oh and I am glad to see you buy your first gun and exercise your right to carry and own firearms. Take care.

[gaspar]

Welcome aboard! Get Trijicon night sights along with your G27. Try a kydex or leather insided the waist band holster that specifically fits the subcompact Glock. I personally use Galco leather holsters and love them.

Lastly, be aware that the conversion barrels will have that 1% of imperfections since it's a modification.

Thanks for the welcome! I've read up on Trijicon...they look good. I even looked at some at the gun show today and definitely like them. Thanks for the advice.

As for kydex holsters, are you talking about something like this:
http://www.opticsplanet.net/glock-26-27-36.html
Just trying to figure out what is best as far as the comfort/printing/heat combination goes, especially since Texas weather is pretty much hot or hotter :) I want the smallest Glock with good stopping power, but I don't want to add too much bulk and sweat factor with a holster.

I'm cool with the LWD barrel situation. It will mostly be for use at the range to save on ammo price for practice, and so my wife can still use the G27 as a mock-G26 that she's comfortable with when she wants to shoot. When it's for SD, it will be stock Glock G27.

Well the G27 .40 S&W is bound to have abit more kick because its a bigger and more powerful round than the 9mm G26. It all depends on what you want, if you want a a gun with abit less kick and abit further range then go with the G26. But if your looking for something abit more powerfull with more stopping power then id go for the G27.
As far as the sights go i think you should save your money and just keep the stock sights they work perfectly fine. And since you dont have kids you might not really need a gun vault. Good Luck.

Thanks for the reply! Yeah, I'm good with the kick of the G27. I've rented one at the range that we go to and ran a box or two of ammo through it, and while it definitely kicked more than the G26, I felt like it was something I could get used to and was very happy with the experience. I like the idea of more power, plus the option of swapping barrels and turning it into a mock-G26 for range practice when I want to.

Interesting comment about keeping the stock sights. Most people seem to say ditch them immediately and go straight to night sights. My friend with the G26 has kept his stock sights so far, so that's what I'm used to...might just keep mine stock for a while and see what I think. Not really sure what I want anyway, it just seems like everyone says you have to go with night sights. Even when my friend bought his G26, the dealer pretty much said he could take it right then and install new sights for $XX (can't remember how much) and it would only take a few minutes. We were new...didn't know the difference, so he passed.

The gun vault is a compromise with my wife. She's ok with the gun in the house, ok with the CHL and me carrying, even goes to the range when she's in the mood to shoot, but she's not comfortable with a fully loaded gun unlocked while we're asleep. I could probably push the issue, but I'm actually comfortable with this compromise at this point. I'm still new to the gun ownership situation myself as I said in my first post...there might come a time when I decide that I want to change things, but for now, I think this is how I want it to be. I know that many of you will disagree with me, but I'm ok with that. It's my decision and I'm comfortable with it...for the time being.

First thing, good to have you here. It looks like you have done your home work and know what you want. As far as night sights go, they are not essential, I think you would be better served with a good flashlight. Can your wife shoot the .40 G27 as good as the 9mm G26? Something to consider if she ever needed to use it. I would personaly not keep my only firearm locked up if I did not have kids. Who are you protecting by locking it up? Know what I mean? It sounds like you pretty much have it figured out, oh and I am glad to see you buy your first gun and exercise your right to carry and own firearms. Take care.

Thanks for the welcome! Good to be here!

I've done more homework than I probably would have if I had the extra $500 a few months ago :) I would have just splurged and bought the G26 right along side my friend and I'm sure I would have been just happy as can be...I love his. It's a great gun! But now that I've done my research and figured out some things and talked to many people and read tons of threads here and elsewhere and shot both guns...I think I'm pretty much set on the 27.

Now you're the second person who says "no" to the night sights. Hmmm...now I really might have to just stick with the stock sights for a while and make a final decision later. Thanks for the input on that!

My wife has not shot the .40 so far, only the 9mm. That is a serious consideration and one that will have to be rectified once the purchase is made. I definitely want her to be comfortable with it should the need arise that she has to use it. I want the LWD barrel so we can shoot 9mm at the range for the less expensive ammo factor and because I know she will be more comfortable shooting with less kick of 9mm, but I do want her to know what it's like to shoot .40, and I want her to be comfortable with it and be able to handle it. I think she will be able to do it. She was nervous the first time she shot our friend's G26 and after the first 10 rounds came away saying "That wasn't bad at all!" I know she's going to say that the G27 kicks much more, but I also know that she's going to be able to handle it. But it's definitely a concern and something that I want HER to know she can handle and not have any fear of.

There are multiple reasons for having a gun safe that I don't really want to get into completely here. One of which, as I said previously, is that I'm still very new to gun ownership. I'm not saying that I can't handle the responsibility or anything like that, I just have never had a gun in my home (well, when I was a kid, but that was my parents' home, not my home), and it makes my wife comfortable at this point. If things change a month from now or 6 months from now or whenever, then the situation with the safe might change as well, but the initial status will be loaded, chambered, locked.

Another reason that I need a gun safe is that I work on a college campus. I cannot carry at work and I cannot have a gun in my car while parked on the campus. If I am caught with either, I can be fired. I really don't want to lose my job, so the gun stays home while I'm at work. That means the gun gets locked while I'm at work. So, even if the decision is made that the gun stays out at night, there has to be a gun safe for locking during the day.

I don't know if I have it "figured out," but I'm trying ;) Thanks again for the reply and welcome! I'm looking forward to exercising my right, and to doing so with a Glock!

[gaspar]

Hey guys! One other question I thought of that I haven't been able to fully figure out on my own through random internet research. We live in an apartment right now and I need to figure out what good SD apartment ammo would be in .40cal. I want something that's going to stop a BG, but not going to go through walls and cause any problems afterward. Any recommendations on the best brand/type to buy for this particular purpose? Thanks again!

[bryceban]

research Cor-Bon Glaser Safety Slug. In an apartment, over penetration is a very bad thing. Good thinking.

[crazypilot]

I would go with night sights in the future. I've practiced at night a bit and I can tell you that they help clearing rooms. Using a flashlight (not saying not to since I have a handheld and a weapon light) will give your postion away when you try to identify something or someone. You will not be able to see your stock sights at night unless you turn your flashlight on. This is something you may want to think about for home defense. It's all about preference. I have Meprolights on my G27.

Two reasons I say that is because when I went through Front Sight, I could not see my sights until I turned my light on during the night shoot. Another was at a steel match. The last stage was really dark and I could not hit the targets quickly enough. I kept shooting low. I tried another gun with night sight and I hit every plate without a miss.

I prefer leather holsters over kydex since they look better and feel better to me. You'll end up trying a few before you decide which one you like. I have a K&D Dakota Defender (IWB) but the Milt Sparks VM2 are very popular. For OWB I have a G&G B802 (OWB) with thumb break and it's comfortable.

For ammo, I would stick with Federal HST or Speer Gold Dot 180gr JHP. There's been some articles posted around here about Glaser Safety Slugs not penetrating well.

I bought my Gun Vault 2000DLX model on snapberry.com (it was awhile ago) for $103. They are ok but I would like a better safe; one that is hard to move and is fire resistant.

[gaspar]

research Cor-Bon Glaser Safety Slug. In an apartment, over penetration is a very bad thing. Good thinking.

Yeah, we live in a corner apt, but still two of the walls are against neighboring apartments. Luckily, the way everything is positioned, should anything (God forbid) happen at night, the way the break in would happen and things would go down would mean bullets would most likely be fired toward a wall that does not face any other apartment. But it still does face a parking lot and then a medium traffic street beyond that, so it's still nit completely safe, but at least it would have to pass through the actual brick of the exterior wall. Of course, that's *IF* things happen as expected, and that is not always the case, so I want to make sure that should anything go in the other direction, my neighbors are as safe as possible.

I'll look into the Cor-Bon Glaser Safety Slug. Thanks for the recommendation!

I would go with night sights in the future. I've practiced at night a bit and I can tell you that they help clearing rooms. Using a flashlight (not saying not to since I have a handheld and a weapon light) will give your postion away when you try to identify something or someone. You will not be able to see your stock sights at night unless you turn your flashlight on. This is something you may want to think about for home defense. It's all about preference. I have Meprolights on my G27.

Two reasons I say that is because when I went through Front Sight, I could not see my sights until I turned my light on during the night shoot. Another was at a steel match. The last stage was really dark and I could not hit the targets quickly enough. I kept shooting low. I tried another gun with night sight and I hit every plate without a miss.

I prefer leather holsters over kydex since they look better and feel better to me. You'll end up trying a few before you decide which one you like. I have a K&D Dakota Defender (IWB) but the Milt Sparks VM2 are very popular. For OWB I have a G&G B802 (OWB) with thumb break and it's comfortable.

For ammo, I would stick with Federal HST or Speer Gold Dot 180gr JHP. There's been some articles posted around here about Glaser Safety Slugs not penetrating well.

I bought my Gun Vault 2000DLX model on snapberry.com (it was awhile ago) for $103. They are ok but I would like a better safe; one that is hard to move and is fire resistant.

Thanks for the info on night sights. I'll add Meprolights to the list of ones to look into. I haven't shot with any at all, just looked at them at the gun show and online. It would be nice to be able to see them in practice...maybe I'll see if any of the rental Glocks at the range have them the next time I go, though I think they are all stock.

Leather holster hmmm? I hadn't even really considered leather, but now that's 2 recommendations. I think I'm going to take my G27 (after I buy it) to the gun show next month and try out a few different styles, brands, and materials and see what feels good. This kind of seems like one of those things that will be different for each person because it's a comfort thing. Leather might be good though because it will feel good, though I've never messed with any of the Kydex stuff. Definitely want to check into a few of these. Thanks!

Looks like I need to do much research on ammo before I make a final decision on SD for keeping inside the apartment. I didn't think that was going to be the difficult decision. Thanks for your input on that as well.

The fireproof situation is one that I really wish GunVaults had. I like the rest of their features. I just have to decide if I want to go with the biometric option or not. I think the regular pushbutton code could be fast enough to get into, but I don't want it to be a problem should there be a break in. Is the biometric option quick enough and does it work properly...I need to check this out as well...

[pens-66]

I have a G26 and love it! I would use Federal HST ammo,if you decide on night sights IMO go with Meprolight or XS BIG DOT night sights,they are a great close range combat sight. and afew holsters I would recommend are a M-Tac or Infidel from Comp-Tac...the Infidel is one of my favorites,it holds the gun nice and tight,its easy on easy off.Especially if you go places where you may have to disarm to go into...its a great holster!

[ragu1macrider]

Save your money on the night sites...practice instinctive shooting, the Glock is a natural for that. Faster in an emergency then trying to aquire a sight picture.
Glasers are NICCCCCCCCE.

[bryceban]

For ammo, I would stick with Federal HST or Speer Gold Dot 180gr JHP. There's been some articles posted around here about Glaser Safety Slugs not penetrating well.



He said he live in an apartment, over penetration is a main concern of his. Are there better choices for SD ammo? Of course there are, but you have to work with what you got.

[DannyR]

I offer the following suggestions based on my experiences:

1. Check out your sight options at www.ameriglo.com

2. IWB holsters from www.blade-tech.com

3. Galco Horsehide Pocket Holster

4. Glaser for apartment use, Federal Expanding FMJ in 9mm and .40 for everything else.

[crazypilot]

He said he live in an apartment, over penetration is a main concern of his. Are there better choices for SD ammo? Of course there are, but you have to work with what you got.

Completely agree but I haven't seen that much information or evidence that Glaser will do it's job properly. I though about using Glaser as well but I've seen HSTs & GDs consistently expand.

How about frangible ammo? Will they work better? I'm not familiar with them. Is that an option to use in an apartment?

[gaspar]

I have a G26 and love it! I would use Federal HST ammo,if you decide on night sights IMO go with Meprolight or XS BIG DOT night sights,they are a great close range combat sight. and afew holsters I would recommend are a M-Tac or Infidel from Comp-Tac...the Infidel is one of my favorites,it holds the gun nice and tight,its easy on easy off.Especially if you go places where you may have to disarm to go into...its a great holster!

Man, you're not kidding...that G26 is sweet! I've been looking through the C-Tac website since your post while at work and I really like the look of some of those holsters. Really like the look of the M-Tac Minotaur. Is that too much holster for a G27? I don't want to add more bulk than necessary, but I do want it to be comfortable. I'm kind of liking the idea of the hybrid leather/kydex...seems like it would be the best of both worlds. But I really know little about holsters, so I'm not sure if it's worth the price or not. The Infidel (well pretty much everything on the C-Tac site) looks nice also!

Save your money on the night sites...practice instinctive shooting, the Glock is a natural for that. Faster in an emergency then trying to aquire a sight picture.
Glasers are NICCCCCCCCE.

Yeah, I'm starting to lean toward waiting at least for the time being on sights. I will most likely upgrade eventually, but it will probably have to wait through this initial round of purchases. Thanks for the response!

He said he live in an apartment, over penetration is a main concern of his. Are there better choices for SD ammo? Of course there are, but you have to work with what you got.

Yeah, definitely have to work around the apartment situation. I'd love to be able to go with the BEST self defense ammo, but I have to go with what's best in this situation.

I offer the following suggestions based on my experiences:

1. Check out your sight options at www.ameriglo.com (http://www.ameriglo.com/)

2. IWB holsters from www.blade-tech.com (http://www.blade-tech.com/)

3. Galco Horsehide Pocket Holster

4. Glaser for apartment use, Federal Expanding FMJ in 9mm and .40 for everything else.

Thanks for all of that. I'm probably going to hold off on the sights for now, but I'll put ameriglo on the list to check out. I'll most likely upgrade in a few months if the stock sights don't seem to be getting me where I want to be.

I'll definitely check out those holsters. I'm still pretty clueless about them, so anything I can look at that will give me more info is great, thanks!

Looks like Glaser is getting lots of votes...I'll check 'em out.

Completely agree but I haven't seen that much information or evidence that Glaser will do it's job properly. I though about using Glaser as well but I've seen HSTs & GDs consistently expand.

How about frangible ammo? Will they work better? I'm not familiar with them. Is that an option to use in an apartment?

Hmmm...have to look into this. Thanks for the tip. I've heard some iffy things about frangible ammo. I should probably know more about it. What I know is very surface Googling type info. Guess I should dig deeper.

Thanks again to everyone for all of the great tips and info!

[Colonel Klink]

Welcome. Nice to have new people. I am an NRA Certified Instructor in Pistol, Rifle and Shotgun. Interesting list of questions.

Thank you for getting a Concealed Carry Permit. Please encourage everyone you know to get one. Even if they never actually "carry" it shows the politicians another person supporting the Second Ammendment.

I get the impression you have done your homework and have an idea of what you want and are looking for input from those of us using guns for a lot of years. With that in mind may I suggest the 26 (or even a G19) may be better for your first gun. Because of the reduced recoil you will be inclinded to shoot it more. If your house becomes like mine your first gun will become your wife's in not too much time. That may not happen if you start with a .40 cal.
I own a S&W in .40 cal and would gladly shoot it if needed but don't regularly shoot because of the recoil.

Mags - get what you need today. You'll buy more at each gun show you attend. I have 21 9MM mags that I got one or two at a time. I have hands larger than yours so I practice shooting my G26 using mag extensions. I am confident that if I ever need my G26 and don't have a extension mag I won't notice.

Sights - I have one each G19, G26 and G17 (bought two weeks ago) and none of them have night sights. I also took a night shooting class and find a good flashlight more important than night sights. If you haven't heard it, the most important things to remember, in a gunfight is front sight, front sight, and front sight. You might want to get just a front night sight.

Holster - Buy one. It won't be your last. Most of us have a collection.

Gun Safe - I have two. A long one in the basement for long guns and a smaller one for handguns and important papers, gold coins, checkbooks and mortgage papers. The smaller one is a two drawer, fireproof, lockable legal size file cabinet. (If you get one bolt it to the floor) The following isn't mine and I like it a lot. As long as your gun is totally under your control you can have it in any condition and in any location. I always carry in condition 1.

Also not mine - A handgun is what you use to get back to your long gun. With that said I suggest a shotgun for home protection. Far less penetration than a solid projectile ie: bullet.

Thanks for taking the time to post your questions and let us know how it goes.

[alank2]

Hi,

Congrats on making the decision to protect yourself and your loved ones.

#1 - if you have not tried the compact series (G19 or G23), do yourself a favor a at least try one before buying the subcompact. Nothing wrong with a G26/G27, but there are some advantages to the compacts and they can be concealed almost as easily.

#2 - +1 on www.ameriglo.com. The ameriglo classics are the same as OEM'd Trijicons with the excellent ameriglo service.

#3 - CompTAC is a great company. I prefer the CTAC over the MTAC myself.

#4 - Conversions are NOT as reliable and I agree that I would not use them for SD. The question is, if you wife was home and needed to defend herself, could she handle the 40? If it is shared, you might think about sticking with 9mm. I myself prefer 40, but the 9 is not far behind in capability.

Good luck,

Alan

[UncleLuke]

Do it! You will love the 27.

[The_Gun_Guru]

Dude, as stated above, the compact models are AWESOME!!!!

I have the 27 and I love it!!!

I just got the 19 and I love it MORE!!!!!

Now I want the 23 and I will finally be happy.....for a while:supergrin:

Do yourself a favor and try to rent a 19 or 23. I also have a 17 and a 22 (full size 9 and .40) and I have to tell you that the Compact is definitely my favorite of the bunch! My first Glock was the 22, and to this day I wish I had bought the 17 instead! You know why? Because it would have made me want the 19 YEARS SOONER!!!!!

Please check out the 19 BEFORE committing to the 27.

TGG

[kotaus]

...I'm really thining that I'm going to pick up a G27 next week and finally join the Glock owners family, and I am wondering what I should get to go with it.




Welcome. G27 here myself. You'll love it. Get the night sights! They are great. I have Trijicons, yellow rear, green front. I carry in a Smartcarry. I also have a High Noon Split Decision that I like pretty well. But, its not nearly as comfortable as the Smartcarry. I've got an MTAC that I still can't find the sweet spot with. So, it doesn't see any action at this point. If you do use an IWB or OWB holster, get a good gun belt. I have a Beltman horse hide one.

I'd also get a few extra mags and plenty of ammo. I shoot the el cheapo Winchester from Wal-Mart for practice. I carry Federal HST and Federal Tactical Bonded for defense.

I still need a safe myself, but I want one big enough for a couple of long guns as well as a few pistols.

[BustedFlush]

gaspar,

Welcome to GT!

I think you've done a great job of research.

The 27 is a great choice, especially if you have already shot it and feel comfortable with it. It was my second Glock, after a 23. If the 27 existed a few years earlier it might have been my first Glock. It is my most carried Glock.

There is nothing wrong with a 9mm Glock. Shot placement is everything. There are so many better ammo choices today than existed when I got my 23. Many folks go with a 9mm Glock to start because it's easier to shoot on the hands and the wallet. But if you and the wife can shoot the 27 well and like it, go for it. If you do get a conversion be sure you get adequate .40 practice.

Some folks can conceal a big pistol with less effort than others. If the pistol is for concealed carry and you shoot it fine, get the subcompact. You can make it "bigger" with a 15 round mag or a magazine extension, but you can't make a 23 any smaller.

I'm glad to hear you feel comfortable shooting with the stock magazine. I do not use the extensions anymore, except the "GAP finger rest extensions" that do not compromise concealability or reliability.

http://www.concealablecontrol.com

I would not be surprised if you decide to get more than two stock 27 mags. If that's how you will carry, practice that way.

When I carry the 27, I usually carry a 13 round Glock 23 mag as a spare. I can shoot fine with the bigger mag, and do not care for the A&G sleeves. YMMV.

I think the holster and belt are more important at this point than your night sights. Take your time and research that like you did the pistol. The CTAC and MTAC are big favorites.

Shoot safely!

BF :wavey:

p.s. If you decide to change your mind and get a 23/19 or whatever, that will be fine too. I predict your first Glock will not be your last!

[gaspar]

Welcome. Nice to have new people. I am an NRA Certified Instructor in Pistol, Rifle and Shotgun. Interesting list of questions.

Thank you for getting a Concealed Carry Permit. Please encourage everyone you know to get one. Even if they never actually "carry" it shows the politicians another person supporting the Second Ammendment.

I get the impression you have done your homework and have an idea of what you want and are looking for input from those of us using guns for a lot of years. With that in mind may I suggest the 26 (or even a G19) may be better for your first gun. Because of the reduced recoil you will be inclinded to shoot it more. If your house becomes like mine your first gun will become your wife's in not too much time. That may not happen if you start with a .40 cal.
I own a S&W in .40 cal and would gladly shoot it if needed but don't regularly shoot because of the recoil.

Mags - get what you need today. You'll buy more at each gun show you attend. I have 21 9MM mags that I got one or two at a time. I have hands larger than yours so I practice shooting my G26 using mag extensions. I am confident that if I ever need my G26 and don't have a extension mag I won't notice.

Sights - I have one each G19, G26 and G17 (bought two weeks ago) and none of them have night sights. I also took a night shooting class and find a good flashlight more important than night sights. If you haven't heard it, the most important things to remember, in a gunfight is front sight, front sight, and front sight. You might want to get just a front night sight.

Holster - Buy one. It won't be your last. Most of us have a collection.

Gun Safe - I have two. A long one in the basement for long guns and a smaller one for handguns and important papers, gold coins, checkbooks and mortgage papers. The smaller one is a two drawer, fireproof, lockable legal size file cabinet. (If you get one bolt it to the floor) The following isn't mine and I like it a lot. As long as your gun is totally under your control you can have it in any condition and in any location. I always carry in condition 1.

Also not mine - A handgun is what you use to get back to your long gun. With that said I suggest a shotgun for home protection. Far less penetration than a solid projectile ie: bullet.

Thanks for taking the time to post your questions and let us know how it goes.

CK - Thanks for the welcome! I'm looking forward to being a member here...seems like a good place full of knowledgeable folks!

A agree about the CHL...before I even decided if I was going to buy my own or just learn how to use a gun properly, I decided to take the course with my friend and his brother-in-law, and get my CHL. I'm a big proponent of learning more about things I don't know, and especially in this case, supporting something I believe in.

I appreciate the recommendation on the G26, and I've considered it. If my wife should decide she wants her own in the future, I'm more than prepared to buy one for her. I've actually even asked if she wants something to carry in her truck already, but she's not comfortable yet with that idea and says she doesn't think she will want to do so anytime soon (Texas has a law that allows vehicle carry now, even without a CHL). Should she decide, I'm prepared to buy one for her ASAP.

I am getting the LWD 40-9 barrel partially so she can continue shooting the caliber she's comfortable with, but I will also get her comfortable with .40S&W so should something happen at home, she's prepared.

Thanks for the input on mags, holsters and safes too! Lots of good info here...much appreciated! I've got plenty to think about!

Hi,

Congrats on making the decision to protect yourself and your loved ones.

#1 - if you have not tried the compact series (G19 or G23), do yourself a favor a at least try one before buying the subcompact. Nothing wrong with a G26/G27, but there are some advantages to the compacts and they can be concealed almost as easily.

#2 - +1 on www.ameriglo.com (http://www.ameriglo.com/). The ameriglo classics are the same as OEM'd Trijicons with the excellent ameriglo service.

#3 - CompTAC is a great company. I prefer the CTAC over the MTAC myself.

#4 - Conversions are NOT as reliable and I agree that I would not use them for SD. The question is, if you wife was home and needed to defend herself, could she handle the 40? If it is shared, you might think about sticking with 9mm. I myself prefer 40, but the 9 is not far behind in capability.

Good luck,

Alan

Alan...
#1...I've checked them out and I'm pretty set on the G27, but I'll look again, thanks!

#2 - Another vote for ameriglo? Must be good :) I'll likely wait a bit right now, but I'll keep them in mind.

#3 - CTac/MTac are looking like my best option at the moment.

#4 - No, the conversion would not be for SD, only at the range. My wife will definitely get trained on the G27 stock .40

Thanks!

Dude, as stated above, the compact models are AWESOME!!!!

I have the 27 and I love it!!!

I just got the 19 and I love it MORE!!!!!

Now I want the 23 and I will finally be happy.....for a while:supergrin:

Do yourself a favor and try to rent a 19 or 23. I also have a 17 and a 22 (full size 9 and .40) and I have to tell you that the Compact is definitely my favorite of the bunch! My first Glock was the 22, and to this day I wish I had bought the 17 instead! You know why? Because it would have made me want the 19 YEARS SOONER!!!!!

Please check out the 19 BEFORE committing to the 27.

TGG

I'll check them out, but I have before and I'm pretty set on the 27. Thanks for the recommendation!

Welcome. G27 here myself. You'll love it. Get the night sights! They are great. I have Trijicons, yellow rear, green front. I carry in a Smartcarry. I also have a High Noon Split Decision that I like pretty well. But, its not nearly as comfortable as the Smartcarry. I've got an MTAC that I still can't find the sweet spot with. So, it doesn't see any action at this point. If you do use an IWB or OWB holster, get a good gun belt. I have a Beltman horse hide one.

I'd also get a few extra mags and plenty of ammo. I shoot the el cheapo Winchester from Wal-Mart for practice. I carry Federal HST and Federal Tactical Bonded for defense.

I still need a safe myself, but I want one big enough for a couple of long guns as well as a few pistols.

Thanks for the welcome! I guess I have to look into a good belt now too :) I might end up with an extra mag, but will probably just end up collecting them as I go. No long guns for me right now, so a small safe is all that's in my future.

gaspar,

Welcome to GT!

I think you've done a great job of research.

The 27 is a great choice, especially if you have already shot it and feel comfortable with it. It was my second Glock, after a 23. If the 27 existed a few years earlier it might have been my first Glock. It is my most carried Glock.

There is nothing wrong with a 9mm Glock. Shot placement is everything. There are so many better ammo choices today than existed when I got my 23. Many folks go with a 9mm Glock to start because it's easier to shoot on the hands and the wallet. But if you and the wife can shoot the 27 well and like it, go for it. If you do get a conversion be sure you get adequate .40 practice.

Some folks can conceal a big pistol with less effort than others. If the pistol is for concealed carry and you shoot it fine, get the subcompact. You can make it "bigger" with a 15 round mag or a magazine extension, but you can't make a 23 any smaller.

I'm glad to hear you feel comfortable shooting with the stock magazine. I do not use the extensions anymore, except the "GAP finger rest extensions" that do not compromise concealability or reliability.

http://www.concealablecontrol.com (http://www.concealablecontrol.com/)

I would not be surprised if you decide to get more than two stock 27 mags. If that's how you will carry, practice that way.

When I carry the 27, I usually carry a 13 round Glock 23 mag as a spare. I can shoot fine with the bigger mag, and do not care for the A&G sleeves. YMMV.

I think the holster and belt are more important at this point than your night sights. Take your time and research that like you did the pistol. The CTAC and MTAC are big favorites.

Shoot safely!

BF :wavey:

p.s. If you decide to change your mind and get a 23/19 or whatever, that will be fine too. I predict your first Glock will not be your last!

Thanks for the welcome!

Yeah, I'm comfortable with the G27 selection and I have confidence in my wife getting comfortable with it too. She took to the G26 so easily that I have no doubt that she'll be able to handle the 27 with a little practice. There will definitely be plenty of practice with .40cal for both of us.

I actually like the stock mags better than the extensions. My friend put extensions on all of his G26 mags and I just don't like them as much. I'm keeping mine stock, at least at first.

Thanks for the recommendations on the holsters/belt. I'm starting to lean that way instead of night sights for now. I'd like to get a good holster that's comfortable and the price is about the same as sights, so I think that's where my money is going.

Thanks again!

[alank2]

Alan...
#1...I've checked them out and I'm pretty set on the G27, but I'll look again, thanks!


No sweat; just wanted to make sure you've thought about them.


#2 - Another vote for ameriglo? Must be good :) I'll likely wait a bit right now, but I'll keep them in mind.


They really are great sights. For what it is worth, I greatly prefer the 3 dot picture they give me for daylight shooting in addition to the glowing dots for night. Trijicon's are great too and you can buy a G27 with Trijicons already on it.


#3 - CTac/MTac are looking like my best option at the moment.


I've tried them both and CTAC is my preference, but many people like the MTAC. You can order both of them from Comp-Tac and easily return the one you don't prefer.


#4 - No, the conversion would not be for SD, only at the range. My wife will definitely get trained on the G27 stock .40
Thanks!


Sounds like a good plan!

Good luck,

Alan