The Glock 22 is a full-size, striker-fired pistol chambered in .40 S&W, long known as the bridge between the 9 mm Glock 17 and the .45 ACP Glock 21. Originally launched in 1990 for law-enforcement service, it combines a 15-round magazine capacity with a controllable recoil system, polymer frame durability, and Glock’s proven Safe Action® trigger mechanism.
Across five generations, the Glock 22 has earned its reputation as one of the most reliable and widely issued .40-caliber duty pistols in America.
What Makes the Glock 22 a Standout in the .40 Caliber Category?
The Glock 22 delivers duty-grade power and reliability in a lightweight full-size frame trusted by law enforcement worldwide.
When Glock introduced the Glock 22 in 1990, it filled a crucial niche. Law-enforcement agencies wanted more stopping power than 9 mm but didn’t want to give up magazine capacity. The .40 S&W cartridge—new at the time—offered that middle ground, and Glock built the 22 around it.
Over three decades later, the Glock 22 remains a benchmark in police sidearms. Agencies from the FBI to local departments have relied on it for its consistent performance, corrosion resistance, and simple manual of arms. The pistol maintains nearly identical dimensions to the Glock 17, so holsters, magazines, and training transfers easily between the two.
As ammunition technology advanced, Glock adapted the platform through five generations, each refining grip texture, recoil management, and accessory compatibility. The result is a sidearm equally suitable for professional duty and civilian defense.
What Are the Specifications of the Glock 22?
The Glock 22 is a full-size striker-fired .40 S&W pistol with a 4.49-inch barrel, 15-round magazine, and a durable polymer-steel construction.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Full-size semi-automatic pistol |
| Caliber | .40 S&W |
| Action | Striker-fired, Safe Action® system |
| Barrel Length | 4.49 inches (114 mm) |
| Overall Length | 7.95 – 8.03 inches (202 – 204 mm) |
| Height | ~5.47 – 5.51 inches (139 – 140 mm) |
| Width | 1.26 in (Gen3/4) – 1.34 in (Gen5) |
| Weight (unloaded) | 22.8 – 25.8 oz (645 – 732 g) |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Steel with Tenifer or nDLC finish |
| Magazine Capacity | 15 + 1 standard; 10, 16 or 22-round options |
| Sights | Fixed polymer; night-sight options available |
| Rail | Accessory rail for lights/lasers |
| Manufacturer | Glock Ges.m.b.H. (Austria) |
| Release Year | 1990 (Gen 1/3 design), latest Gen 5 in 2017 |
Every iteration kept the same mechanical simplicity—three internal safeties and tool-less takedown—while refining ergonomics and corrosion resistance for long service life.
How Is the Glock 22 Designed and Built?
The Glock 22 is built around Glock’s polymer-steel hybrid system, emphasizing strength, corrosion resistance, and ergonomic updates across generations.
The Glock 22’s polymer frame remains one of the most proven in handgun history. It’s lightweight yet strong enough to handle the snappier .40 S&W pressure levels. The steel slide features a Tenifer (Gen 3/4) or nDLC finish (Gen 5) that provides exceptional hardness and rust resistance, making it ideal for duty carry in harsh environments.
Ergonomics & Controls
-
Grip Texture: Gen 4 introduced a more aggressive pattern and modular backstraps; Gen 5 refined this with a smoother yet secure surface.
-
Grip Angle: The classic Glock 22 angle (approximately 22°) promotes a natural point of aim.
-
Controls: Reversible magazine release (Gen 4+) and ambidextrous slide stop (Gen 5) improve usability.
-
Trigger: 5.5-lb pull with short, tactile reset.
Internally, the pistol uses Glock’s Safe Action® mechanism: trigger safety, firing-pin safety, and drop safety—simple, effective, and maintenance-free. The addition of a dual recoil spring assembly in Gen 4 reduced frame stress and softened recoil impulse noticeably.
Accessory rails allow weapon lights like the Streamlight TLR-1 HL or SureFire X300, and Gen 5 MOS versions support miniature red-dot optics for duty or competition use.
How Does the Glock 22 Differ Across Generations and Models?
Each generation improved ergonomics, recoil control, and finish durability while keeping the same full-size .40 S&W foundation.
Gen 3 – The Law-Enforcement Workhorse
This version dominated police holsters through the 1990s and 2000s. It featured the original polymer texture, single recoil spring, and accessory rail.
Gen 4 – Modern Refinement
Added dual recoil spring, modular backstraps, and improved grip texture. The Gen 4 Glock 22 remains one of the smoothest-shooting .40s thanks to better recoil absorption.
Gen 5 – The Contemporary Evolution
Debuted with nDLC finish, flared magwell, smoother trigger, ambidextrous slide stop, and no finger grooves—making it the most user-friendly iteration to date.
Comparable Alternatives
Shooters often compare the Glock 22 to the Sig Sauer P226 .40 S&W, Smith & Wesson M&P40, and HK USP 40. While these offer DA/SA triggers or steel frames, the Glock 22’s advantage lies in simplicity, lighter weight, and lower maintenance cost.
User note: “The Glock 22 is frequently praised for its outstanding reliability, trusted performance, and ease of maintenance by both law enforcement and civilian shooters. Most owners report it functions flawlessly after thousands of rounds, regardless of ammunition type, contributing to its widespread use as a duty pistol and home-defense firearm. The full-size grip suits larger hands well and, with interchangeable backstraps in Gen4 and Gen5, accommodates a broader range of users. Its accuracy is considered solid for a duty pistol, and many shooters are pleasantly surprised by manageable recoil for a .40 S&W—especially in the latest generations, which have enhanced recoil spring assemblies and heavier slides to help tame muzzle flip.”
How Does the Glock 22 Perform on the Range?
The Glock 22 is exceptionally reliable, accurate within service-pistol expectations, and manages .40 S&W recoil better than most competitors.
Accuracy
From bench rest, groups average 2.5 – 3 inches at 25 yards with quality ammunition. Its long sight radius and consistent trigger break lend themselves to fast, precise defensive shooting.
Recoil & Control
The .40 S&W produces sharper impulse than 9 mm, but the full-size frame, grip texture, and recoil-spring system tame muzzle flip effectively. Shooters note quicker recovery between shots than with compact .40s.
Reliability
Glock 22 reliability is legendary—users routinely report 5,000 + rounds between cleaning cycles without stoppage. It runs flawlessly on varied ammunition, including steel-case and reloads.
Trigger Feel
Though slightly gritty out-of-the-box, it smooths with use. The short reset aids rapid fire and defensive accuracy.
What Ammunition Works Best in the Glock 22?
The Glock 22 handles everything from 155 gr to 180 gr loads; 165 – 180 gr JHP is ideal for defensive use.
The Glock 22’s chamber tolerances and feed-ramp geometry make it reliable with all major factory loads.
-
Range Ammo: Federal American Eagle 180 gr FMJ, Winchester White Box 165 gr.
-
Defensive Loads: Speer Gold Dot 180 gr JHP, Federal HST 165 gr +P, Hornady Critical Duty 175 gr.
-
Competition or Reduced Recoil: 155 gr target loads perform smoothly for training.
No known extraction or feed issues are reported across quality ammunition types. The dual-spring assembly in later models helps manage higher-pressure +P loads safely.
How Practical Is the Glock 22 for Different Roles?
The Glock 22 excels as a duty and home-defense pistol, functions capably in competition, and offers limited practicality for concealed carry due to its size.
Concealed or Self-Defense Carry
At 8 inches long and over 34 oz loaded, the Glock 22 is large for daily concealment. That said, with an IWB holster and proper attire, it’s feasible for users who value capacity and stopping power over compactness.
Home Defense
This is where the Glock 22 shines. The accessory rail accommodates a weapon light, and the .40 S&W round delivers authoritative energy. Its simplicity and reliability make it ideal for defensive readiness.
Competition Shooting
In IDPA or USPSA Limited 10 divisions, the Glock 22’s consistency and parts availability make it a popular choice.
Outdoor and Field Use
While 10 mm pistols offer more power for wildlife defense, the .40 S&W still performs well for hikers and hunters seeking a flat-shooting, reliable sidearm.
What Are the Best Glock 22 Holsters?
The Glock 22 holster lineup includes concealed, open, and tactical options for every environment.
Level 3 Duty Holster
The Level 3 Duty Glock 22 holster provides maximum retention and security for law enforcement and professional users. Its triple-lock system ensures the firearm stays secure during physical activity or weapon retention encounters, while still allowing a fast, intuitive draw under pressure.
Level 2 Duty Holster
A Level 2 Duty Glock 22 holster balances quick access with dependable retention for duty or tactical use. It features a dual-lock system that secures the firearm during active movement, offering confident carry for officers and security professionals.
Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
This inside-the-waistband Glock 22 holster provides deep concealment with maximum comfort. Adjustable cant and ride height let users tailor retention for daily carry.
Belt Holster
A belt-mounted Glock 22 holster offers reliable stability for open carry or duty use. It ensures consistent draw angle and quick presentation.
OWB Paddle Holster
The OWB paddle Glock 22 holster enables rapid on-off use without removing your belt—perfect for range days or casual carry.
Swivel Drop Leg Holster
This drop-leg Glock 22 holster positions the firearm low on the thigh for fast access when wearing armor or heavy gear.
Chest Holster
A chest-mounted Glock 22 holster secures the gun across the torso for hikers, ATV riders, or hunters needing accessibility while seated or wearing packs.
Hook & Loop Holster
This modular Glock 22 holster mounts easily in vehicles, bags, or soft panels, offering discreet and versatile placement options.
Belly Band Holster
A belly band Glock 22 holster enables flexible carry without a belt, ideal for active users or light clothing.
Appendix Holster
An appendix Glock 22 holster keeps the pistol positioned for rapid front-carry draw, balancing speed with control for trained users.
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Glock 22?
The reliability and power of the the Glock 22 are unmatched in the .40 S&W class, though recoil and size may deter smaller-handed shooters.
Pros:
-
Outstanding reliability across all generations
-
Proven .40 S&W stopping power
-
15 + 1 capacity in full-size frame
-
Manageable recoil with dual-spring system
-
Long service life and minimal maintenance
-
Vast aftermarket support for parts and accessories
Cons:
-
Sharper recoil than 9 mm models
-
Grip size still large for small hands
-
Heavier for concealed carry
-
Basic factory sights
-
Trigger feel can be gritty until break-in
What’s the Final Verdict on the Glock 22?
The Glock 22 remains a dependable, accurate, and battle-proven .40 S&W service pistol that balances power with capacity.
If you want a handgun that’s easy to maintain, field-ready, and trusted by professionals, the Glock 22 delivers. It’s not the softest-shooting pistol, but it rewards training with consistent performance and lasting durability.
From police holsters to civilian nightstands, the Glock 22 continues to earn its reputation as a professional-grade workhorse. Its blend of capacity, reliability, and proven .40 S&W power keeps it relevant even in an era dominated by 9 mm service pistols.