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This is my Glock, there are many like it, but this one is mine. Well, at least that’s what the shirt that you can order from Glock says. It sounds like a hokey knock-off of a famous line from the movie Full Metal Jacket…that is, until you shoot a Glock for the first time. I must first confess that I was a non-believer. After having picked up a couple of Glocks (models 24 – short frame and 30 in .45ACP – wide grip), I just didn’t think they were for me (I was wrong…). You see, I have a wide hand with short fingers. However, while at a tactical pistol class a month ago, I was handed a Glock 17 (9mm) by one of the instructors. I was immediately amazed at how well it fit my hand and how comfortable it felt to present in a shooting stance. I was also surprised by how quickly I started shooting really good groups.
Box it up, I’m taking it home! That’s what I said that very evening to the buy behind the gun counter at Bass Pro Shop. Yes, I cashed in my rewards points on a brand new Glock 17 and a Fobus holster. 
The next day at class I shot better than I could have ever imagined. I consistently made good hits in the kill zone…even at 25yds! (Rear sight Sharpie trick to follow in Tips & Tricks section.) I certainly couldn’t have done that with the S&W 4101s I originally brought with me (I’ll save that discussion for another article…). I’ve found that shooting with a weapon that fits comfortably in the hand makes everything from grip and front sight acquisition to proper trigger squeeze significantly easier. As we all know, doing all of these things right results in more accurate shooting.
Although I wouldn’t recommend that everyone buy a new pistol after day 1 of a tactical pistol class, I certainly do recommend that you first find a pistol that fits your hand properly. This is a lesson I will not soon forget.
Since arriving home, I have made a few upgrades to my Glock. I ordered the following parts for under $100 (including tax and shipping) from Cheaper Than Dirt: Trijicon tritium front sight, extended magazine release, grip cap, armors tool and an extra magazine. The Glock is so incredibly simple and straightforward in design that I was able to install the front sight, extended magazine release and grip cap on my own…in less than 10 minutes! Yes, I said less than 10 minutes. It’s amazing how beautifully simple these pistols are made.
If you’re considering a Glock, I hope my experience will help you in your decision. It was simply amazing to me what a difference something like proper fit can make.