Glock 40 Review – The Ultimate 10mm Handgun for Hunting and Defense

The Glock 40 Gen4 MOS is a full-size, semi-automatic pistol chambered in 10mm Auto, purpose-built for hunting, long-range shooting, and duty applications requiring exceptional power and precision.

Featuring a6.02-inch barrel, 15-round magazine, and Modular Optic System (MOS), it delivers the hard-hitting ballistics of 10mm in a platform engineered for accuracy, durability, and adaptability.

With itsdual recoil spring assembly, nDLC-finished steel slide, and polymer frame, the Glock 40 offers a rare combination of magnum-level power and Glock reliability — a true workhorse for serious shooters, backcountry hunters, and tactical professionals.

Credits

What Makes the Glock 40 a Standout 10mm Powerhouse?

TheGlock 40 represents the top tier of Glock’s 10mm lineup — a pistol built to maximize the full ballistic potential of the 10mm Auto cartridge. Introduced in 2015, the G40 was designed for hunters, tactical professionals, and sport shooters who demand extended range and unmatched precision from a semi-auto sidearm.

At its core, the Glock 40 is a long-slide pistol — its 6.02-inch barrel offers increased velocity, superior sight radius, and greater accuracy than standard duty pistols like the Glock 20. With the MOS (Modular Optic System), it accommodates today’s leading reflex optics, making it a top choice for modern shooters who prefer red dots for fast target acquisition.

Manufacturer Background

Glock GmbH, based in Austria, revolutionized the handgun world in the 1980s with the introduction of the polymer-framed, striker-fired design. Known for their Safe Action® System, durability, and simplicity, Glocks have earned a global reputation among military, law enforcement, and civilian users. The Glock 40 continues that tradition, combining cutting-edge modularity with the raw energy of the 10mm cartridge.

Lineage and Evolution

The G40 builds upon the success of the Glock 20, sharing the same frame dimensions but offering a longer slide and barrel for enhanced performance. The MOS system introduced in Gen4 further modernized the platform, allowing direct mounting of optics without gunsmithing — a key advantage in both hunting and competition.

Intended Market

This firearm targets hunters, outdoorsmen, and serious tactical users. Its 10mm chambering makes it one of the few semi-auto pistols powerful enough for protection against medium game or dangerous predators. For competitive shooters, the longer sight radius and red-dot readiness make it a formidable choice for USPSA Limited or 3-Gun divisions.

What Are the Glock 40’s Specifications?

Specification	Detail
Caliber	10mm Auto
Action	Safe Action® striker-fired, short recoil
Barrel Length	6.02 inches (153 mm)
Overall Length	9.49 inches (241 mm)
Height	5.47 inches (139 mm)
Width	1.34 inches (34 mm)
Unloaded Weight	32.28 oz (915 g)
Loaded Weight	44.62 oz (1265 g)
Magazine Capacity	15 rounds (standard), 10-round compliant options
Frame Material	Polymer with steel inserts
Slide Material/Finish	Steel, nDLC corrosion-resistant finish
Sights	Adjustable rear, fixed front (optic-ready MOS)
Grip	Rough Textured Frame (RTF) with modular backstraps
Accessory Rail	Glock Universal Rail for lights/lasers
Generations Available	Gen4, Gen4 MOS

How Is the Glock 40 Built and Designed?

Frame and Slide Construction

The polymer frame keeps the Glock 40 lightweight despite its full-size dimensions. Embedded steel guides reinforce the slide rails for long-term durability. The nDLC-coated steel slide offers exceptional wear resistance and corrosion protection, making it suitable for harsh outdoor environments.

Ergonomics and Grip

The Glock 40’s Rough Textured Frame (RTF) provides excellent traction even when wet or gloved. Its modular backstrap system allows customization to fit various hand sizes. The grip angle (22 degrees) maintains Glock’s natural pointability, helping shooters align sights quickly and instinctively.

Controls and Safety Features

The pistol employs Glock’s proven Safe Action® System, which integrates three passive safeties:

• Trigger safety prevents unintended discharge unless pressed deliberately.

• Firing pin safety blocks striker movement until trigger actuation.

• Drop safety prevents discharge if dropped.

The ambidextrous slide stop and reversible mag release improve left-hand accessibility, while the dual recoil spring assembly reduces felt recoil and extends service life.

Accessory and Optic Compatibility

The MOS (Modular Optic System) version of the Glock 40 allows easy mounting of red dot sights like Trijicon RMR, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, or Holosun 507C. The pistol also features a Glock accessory rail, accommodating tactical lights such as the Streamlight TLR-1 or SureFire X300.

What Are the Glock 40 Variants and Comparable Models?

Generations and Variants

The Glock 40 Gen4 is the standard configuration, available in both traditional and MOS (Modular Optic System) variants. No Gen5 version currently exists, but the Gen4 MOS remains a flagship for long-slide 10mm pistols.

Internal Comparisons

• Glock 20: More compact, easier to carry, but shorter sight radius and reduced muzzle velocity. (Learn more: Glock 20 vs Glock 40)

• Glock 29: Subcompact 10mm with limited capacity and higher recoil, ideal for concealed carry.

• Glock 40: Longest barrel, superior velocity, reduced recoil, and optimized for hunting or target shooting.

Competing Firearms

• Springfield XD-M Elite 10mm: Slightly softer recoil but less modular than the MOS system.

• Sig Sauer P320 XTen: Similar ballistic performance, heavier trigger, higher price.

• Ruger SR1911 10mm: Great accuracy, but lower capacity and slower reloads.

Overall, the Glock 40 stands out for reliability, optics readiness, and magazine capacity, offering the best of both worlds for hunting and tactical roles.

How Does the Glock 40 Perform in Real-World Use?

Accuracy and Range Capability

The 6.02-inch barrel enhances muzzle velocity and precision. Test groups often show 2-inch clusters at 25 yards with premium 180gr loads. The extended sight radius and MOS compatibility make it a precision tool in both iron-sight and red-dot configurations.

Recoil Management

Despite the powerful 10mm cartridge, recoil is smooth and linear. The dual recoil spring assembly absorbs much of the slide’s rearward impulse, enabling faster follow-up shots. Compared to the Glock 20, shooters report noticeably less muzzle flip.

Reliability

In testing across thousands of rounds, users report zero failures-to-feed or eject. The G40 digests a wide variety of ammunition — from light target loads to heavy 220gr hardcast rounds — with consistent reliability.

Trigger Feel

The Glock 40 retains the standard Glock trigger: approximately 5.5–6 lbs, with a clean break and tactile reset. While not match-grade, it is predictable and ideal for field reliability.

What Ammo Works Best in the Glock 40?

Optimal Grain Weights

The G40 performs best with 180–220 grain projectiles, balancing velocity and penetration.

Recommended Defensive and Hunting Loads

• Underwood 200gr Hard Cast Flat Nose – Excellent for backcountry defense against bears or hogs.

• Buffalo Bore 180gr JHP – High velocity and deep penetration for hunting.

• Hornady Critical Duty 175gr FlexLock – Reliable expansion for defensive use.

• Federal HST 180gr JHP – Proven law enforcement load, moderate recoil.

Range Ammunition

• Blazer Brass 180gr FMJ – Affordable practice ammo.

• Sellier & Bellot 180gr FMJ – Clean-burning, consistent reliability.

Feeding and Extraction

The Glock 40 handles most 10mm loads flawlessly, though shooters report best consistency with full-power ammunition. Lower-pressure “FBI-lite” loads may reduce slide travel, occasionally affecting reliability in colder temperatures.

Is the Glock 40 Practical for Different Uses?

Concealed Carry and Duty Use

The Glock 40 is not intended for concealed carry. Its 9.5-inch length and weight make it impractical for everyday carry. However, for open carry or duty use, it offers unmatched power and accuracy for a sidearm.

Home Defense

For home defense, the G40’s 15-round capacity, accessory rail, and optic compatibility make it formidable. The recoil is controllable, though its length can be cumbersome in tight environments.

Hunting and Outdoors Applications

This is where the Glock 40 truly shines. The combination of 10mm Auto power, long barrel velocity, and MOS optics capability makes it an excellent backcountry sidearm. It’s capable of ethically harvesting medium game or serving as bear defense when loaded with hardcast ammunition.

Competition and Range Use

The G40’s accuracy and controllability make it a solid choice for USPSA, 3-Gun, and long-range pistol competitions. The added optic mounting enhances sight acquisition for timed events.

What Are the Best Holsters for the Glock 40?

Finding the right Glock 40 holster ensures comfort and retention for a pistol of this size. These holsters are made from durable polymer (Boltaron) for strength and long-term fit.

Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster

The Cloak Tuck 3.5 Glock 40 holster offers adjustable ride height and cant for concealed carry beneath a jacket or vest, providing deep concealment despite the pistol’s size.

Belt Holster

A belt-mounted Glock 40 holster provides stability for open carry or field use, distributing weight evenly for long hikes or range sessions.

OWB Paddle Holster

An OWB paddle Glock 40 holster allows for quick on-and-off wear, perfect for range training and competition shooters.

Swivel Drop Leg Holster

The swivel drop leg Glock 40 holster lowers the pistol for easy access when wearing tactical gear or hunting packs.

Chest Holster

A chest Glock 40 holster is ideal for hunters or backpackers, keeping the pistol accessible while carrying a rifle or pack.

Hook & Loop Holster

A hook & loop Glock 40 holster allows for secure mounting in vehicles, safes, or on tactical surfaces.

What Are the Glock 40’s Pros and Cons?

Pros

• Powerful 10mm performance suitable for hunting and defense

• Exceptional accuracy from long 6-inch barrel

• MOS system supports multiple optic options

• Dual recoil spring reduces felt recoil

• Excellent reliability in adverse conditions

• High magazine capacity for a 10mm pistol

• Durable nDLC finish resists corrosion and wear

Cons

• Large and heavy for everyday carry

• Noticeable recoil for inexperienced shooters

• Expensive ammunition compared to 9mm

• Bulkier frame may not fit smaller hands comfortably

What’s the Final Verdict on the Glock 40?

Who Should Buy the Glock 40?

The Glock 40 is ideal for hunters, backcountry adventurers, and serious 10mm enthusiasts. It’s also a great choice for competitive shooters who want accuracy and dependability in a high-energy pistol.

Value and Longevity

At around $750–$800, the G40 delivers outstanding value for its capability. Its reliability, parts availability, and support ensure decades of service life. For shooters invested in the 10mm cartridge, few handguns offer this combination of power, accuracy, and versatility.

Final Thoughts

The Glock 40 Gen4 MOS is not just another Glock — it’s a precision-built powerhouse that redefines what a 10mm handgun can do. Whether you’re tracking game in the Rockies, competing in a 3-Gun match, or defending your life against predators in the wild, this pistol provides unmatched confidence and performance.