Glock 34 Gen 3

Glock 34 Gen 3 Pistol: A Proven Competition and Tactical Firearm

Glock 34 Gen 3. When it comes to reliability, accuracy, and ruggedness, the Glock 34 Gen 3 pistol has long been a favorite among competitive shooters, law enforcement, and tactical users alike. Known for its extended barrel and slide, the Glock 34 Gen 3 blends precision shooting capabilities with Glock’s legendary durability.

This comprehensive guide explores everything about the Glock 34 Gen 3 — from its specifications and design to performance, practical uses, and maintenance — making it easier for shooters to understand why this model remains highly regarded.

Overview of the Glock 34 Gen 3

The Glock 34 Gen 3 is a full-size 9mm pistol developed primarily for competition shooting but also favored for tactical and law enforcement use. Introduced as part of Glock’s third-generation line, it features a longer slide and barrel compared to the standard Glock 17, providing a longer sight radius for enhanced accuracy.

While later generations have introduced new features, the Glock 34 Gen 3’s combination of simplicity, performance, and affordability keeps it relevant for many shooters today.

Key Specifications

Specification	Details
Caliber	9x19mm Luger (9mm)
Overall Length	8.15 inches (207 mm)
Barrel Length	5.31 inches (135 mm)
Height	5.47 inches (139 mm)
Width	1.26 inches (32 mm)
Weight (unloaded)	24.98 ounces (708 g)
Magazine Capacity	17 rounds
Trigger Pull Weight	~5.5 pounds
Sights	Fixed polymer sights
Frame Material	Polymer
Slide Finish	Tenifer (corrosion-resistant)

Design and Construction

Classic Glock Polymer Frame

The Glock 34 Gen 3 utilizes Glock’s signature polymer frame, which combines lightweight handling with exceptional strength. The frame is ergonomically shaped, with finger grooves designed to improve grip control, especially during rapid fire.

Extended Barrel and Slide

The 5.31-inch barrel is longer than standard Glock models, increasing bullet velocity and improving accuracy. The matching slide length provides a longer sight radius, making it easier to acquire and maintain a precise sight picture.

Grip and Texture

The Gen 3 grip features finger grooves to enhance grip comfort and control. The grip’s texture strikes a balance between secure handling and comfort, providing reliable control without excessive abrasion.

Slide Finish

The slide features a Tenifer finish, a hardening process that gives excellent corrosion resistance and durability. This makes the Glock 34 Gen 3 suitable for harsh environments and frequent use.

Sights

Standard polymer fixed sights come factory-installed, designed to be durable and functional. Many shooters opt to upgrade to fiber optic or night sights depending on their intended use.

Performance and Shooting Experience

Accuracy Glock 34

The Glock 34 Gen 3 is celebrated for its accuracy, thanks to its long barrel and sight radius. Shooters find that the pistol produces tight groups at competition distances, making it a top choice for USPSA and IPSC shooters.

Trigger System

The Glock Safe Action® system provides a consistent and reliable trigger pull averaging around 5.5 pounds. The trigger is smooth and predictable, allowing shooters to develop consistent shooting habits.

Recoil Management

The full-size frame and longer barrel contribute to reduced felt recoil and muzzle rise, enabling faster shot recovery and quicker follow-up shots.

Reliability

The Glock 34 Gen 3 is built with Glock’s time-tested mechanisms that have proven reliable under rigorous conditions and extended shooting sessions.

Magazine and Ammunition Capacity

The pistol accepts standard Glock 17 magazines with a capacity of 17 rounds, ideal for competitive shooting and tactical scenarios where higher capacity is beneficial.

The compatibility of magazines across Glock 9mm models makes it convenient for users who own multiple Glocks.

Ideal Applications of Glock 34 Gen 3

Competition Shooting

The Glock 34 Gen 3’s long barrel, slide, and sight radius make it a popular choice for competitive shooters in USPSA, IPSC, and other practical shooting sports.

Law Enforcement and Tactical Use

Its balance of capacity, accuracy, and reliability make it a solid choice for duty carry or tactical roles.

Recreational Shooting

For enthusiasts, the Glock 34 Gen 3 provides an enjoyable, accurate shooting experience ideal for regular range visits.

Home Defense

With its large magazine capacity and ease of use, it is also suitable as a home defense pistol, offering accuracy and control in high-stress scenarios.

Customization and Accessories Glock 34

The Glock 34 Gen 3 offers extensive customization options:

Sight Upgrades

• Fiber optic or night sights improve visibility in various lighting conditions.
• Adjustable competition sights allow precise zeroing.

Trigger Enhancements

• Aftermarket triggers can offer reduced pull weight and crisper reset.

Magazines

• Extended magazines provide higher capacity.
• Upgraded springs and followers improve reliability.

Holsters

• Competition and tactical holsters designed specifically for the longer frame improve retention and draw speed.

Barrels and Slide Work

• Match-grade barrels and slide milling for optics or compensators are popular upgrades among competitive shooters.

Maintenance and Care

To keep the Glock 34 Gen 3 operating at its best:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean the barrel, slide, and frame after shooting sessions.
• Proper Lubrication: Apply oil to the slide rails and other moving parts.
• Magazine Maintenance: Inspect and clean magazines regularly.
• Component Checks: Look for wear or damage and replace parts as needed.
• Safe Storage: Store in a secure, dry location to prevent corrosion.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Long barrel and sight radius for enhanced accuracy
• Proven Glock reliability and durability
• High magazine capacity (17 rounds)
• Comfortable grip with finger grooves
• Affordable compared to newer models
• Durable Tenifer finish

Cons

• Finger grooves may not fit all shooters’ preferences
• Not optics-ready — mounting red dots requires gunsmithing
• Lacks some modern ergonomic features such as ambidextrous controls
• Fixed sights may require upgrading for competition

Glock 34 Gen 3 Compared to Newer Models

Feature	Glock 34 Gen 3	Glock 34 Gen 5	Glock 34 MOS Gen 5
Barrel Length	5.31 inches	5.31 inches	5.31 inches
Slide Finish	Tenifer	nDLC	nDLC
Finger Grooves	Yes	No	No
Optics Ready	No	No	Yes
Ambidextrous Controls	No	Yes	Yes
Magazine Capacity	17 rounds	17 rounds	17 rounds

Glock 34

The Glock 34 Gen 3 pistol is a proven, reliable, and accurate firearm suited for competitive shooting, tactical applications, and personal defense. Its long barrel and slide provide enhanced accuracy and control, while its classic Glock reliability ensures it performs when it counts.

Although it lacks some modern features found in newer Glock generations, the Gen 3 remains a valuable option for shooters who appreciate its simplicity, durability, and affordability. Whether you are a competitor, law enforcement professional, or recreational shooter, the Glock 34 Gen 3 offers a dependable platform that has stood the test of time.