The Glock 41 Gen 4 MOS is a long-slide, semi-automatic .45 ACP pistol engineered for shooters who demand exceptional accuracy, balance, and control in a duty or competition gun.
Featuring a 5.31-inch barrel, 13-round capacity, and dual recoil spring system, it delivers .45-caliber stopping power with surprising smoothness. Its slim, extended slide and Modular Optic System (MOS) capability make it one of the most versatile large-frame pistols Glock has ever produced.
Combining precision, reliability, and adaptability, the Glock 41 stands out as a top-tier option for both tactical professionals and competitive shooters.
What Makes the Glock 41 Stand Out Among .45 ACP Pistols?
Introduced in 2010, the Glock 41 represents the evolution of Glock’s large-frame .45 ACP lineup, merging the power of the Glock 21 with the accuracy and balance of the Glock 34 competition model. Its longer slide and barrel deliver improved sight radius and muzzle velocity, giving it an edge in both precision and recoil control.
Built for competition, tactical applications, and professional duty use, the Glock 41 caters to shooters who value consistent performance and long-range accuracy. Unlike the 21’s bulkier design, the G41 features a slimmer slide and optimized weight distribution, improving speed and handling without sacrificing the durability Glock is known for.
About the Manufacturer
Glock Ges.m.b.H., founded in Austria in the 1960s, redefined modern sidearms with its polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols. Known for their Safe Action® System, Glocks are carried by countless law enforcement agencies and military units worldwide. The Glock 41 continues this tradition — a high-capacity, competition-ready .45 ACP that upholds Glock’s reputation for rugged reliability and functional simplicity.
Intended Market
The Glock 41 is primarily aimed at:
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Competitive shooters seeking .45-caliber precision and longer sight radius
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Law enforcement professionals preferring .45 stopping power
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Home defense users who want high-capacity power with smooth control
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Tactical operators who demand accuracy at distance and optics integration
What Are the Glock 41 Specifications?
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP |
| Action | Safe Action® striker-fired |
| Barrel Length | 5.31 inches (135 mm) |
| Overall Length | 8.78–8.9 inches (223–226 mm) |
| Height | 5.47 inches (139 mm) |
| Width | 1.0–1.34 inches |
| Unloaded Weight | 23.6–27 oz (670–765 g) |
| Loaded Weight | ~36 oz (1025 g) |
| Magazine Capacity | 13 rounds (standard), 10-round compliant available |
| Frame Material | Polymer with steel inserts |
| Slide Material/Finish | Steel with nDLC corrosion-resistant coating |
| Sights | Adjustable rear, fixed front (MOS optics-ready optional) |
| Grip | Rough Textured Frame (RTF) with modular backstraps |
| Accessory Rail | Glock Universal Rail for lights/lasers |
| Generations Available | Gen3, Gen4, Gen4 MOS, Gen5 (limited availability) |
How Is the Glock 41 Designed and Built?
Frame and Slide Materials
The Glock 41 uses the brand’s signature polymer frame reinforced with steel rails, making it both lightweight and durable. The nDLC-finished steel slide resists corrosion and wear, maintaining a smooth cycling action even after thousands of rounds.
Ergonomics and Grip Feel
Shooters often praise the G41 for its balanced handling and comfortable grip. The Gen4’s modular backstrap system allows customization for different hand sizes, while the Rough Textured Frame improves grip retention under stress or when shooting in adverse conditions.
Controls and Safety
The pistol includes Glock’s Safe Action System, consisting of three internal safeties: trigger, firing pin, and drop safety. The reversible magazine catch supports left-handed users, and the enlarged controls improve reload efficiency. The dual recoil spring assembly softens recoil impulse and extends component lifespan.
Optics and Accessory Compatibility
The MOS variant allows shooters to directly mount popular red dots such as the Trijicon RMR, Holosun 507C, or Leupold DeltaPoint Pro using adapter plates. The integrated accessory rail accommodates weapon lights like the Streamlight TLR-1 HL or SureFire X300, enhancing its tactical versatility.
How Does the Glock 41 Compare to Other Models?
Generational Differences
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Gen3: Early variant, fixed backstrap, more limited ergonomics
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Gen4: Introduced modular grip system, improved recoil spring
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Gen4 MOS: Factory optic-ready slide, most popular configuration
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Gen5: Enhanced barrel accuracy and ambidextrous slide stop (limited release)
Internal Comparisons
| Model | Caliber | Barrel Length | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glock 21 | .45 ACP | 4.61 in | Duty use, general-purpose .45 |
| Glock 30 | .45 ACP | 3.78 in | Concealed carry |
| Glock 41 | .45 ACP | 5.31 in | Competition, tactical, precision |
Competing Firearms
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Springfield Armory XD-M Elite .45 – Comparable capacity but heavier frame
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Sig Sauer P320 XTen .45 – More modular, but bulkier slide and higher cost
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Smith & Wesson M&P45 Performance Center – Refined trigger, smaller mag capacity
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1911-style pistols – Better triggers, but far less capacity
In essence, the Glock 41 blends the accuracy of a 1911 with the capacity and reliability of a Glock, making it one of the most capable .45 ACP pistols on the market.
How Does the Glock 41 Perform in Real Testing?
Accuracy and Sight Radius
With its 5.31-inch barrel and long slide, the Glock 41 achieves superb accuracy. Many testers report 2-inch groups at 25 yards using premium 230gr FMJ ammunition. The extended sight radius aids precise alignment for both irons and optics.
Recoil and Follow-Up Control
Thanks to its dual recoil spring system, the G41 delivers smooth recoil characteristics. While .45 ACP naturally has a heavy impulse, the system tames muzzle flip effectively, making it easier to maintain target focus during rapid strings.
Reliability and Durability
As expected from Glock, the 41 excels in reliability. Multiple range tests show zero malfunctions across thousands of rounds, regardless of ammunition type. It functions clean or dirty, wet or dusty — a true duty-grade pistol.
Trigger Feel
The G41 offers a cleaner, lighter trigger than the Glock 21, averaging around 5.0–5.5 lbs. The take-up is smooth, the break is crisp, and the reset is tactile — ideal for competitive accuracy and tactical speed.
User note: “The Glock 41 enjoys a strong reputation among both competition shooters and tactical users, praised especially for its balance of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil. Verified user reviews and forum discussions highlight its longer barrel and slide length as key contributors to its superior sight radius and precision compared to other .45 ACP Glocks like the Glock 21. Shooters often remark that this results in better target acquisition and tighter groups especially at distances beyond 25 yards.”
What Ammunition Works Best in the Glock 41?
Optimal Grain Weights
The Glock 41 performs best with 185gr–230gr bullets, balancing expansion and penetration for both defensive and competition loads.
Recommended Defensive and Range Loads
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Federal HST 230gr JHP – Law enforcement-proven, consistent expansion
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Hornady Critical Duty 220gr +P – Excellent barrier penetration
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Speer Gold Dot 200gr JHP – Reliable feeding and deep penetration
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Winchester White Box 230gr FMJ – Affordable, accurate practice load
Ammunition Behavior
The G41 digests both standard and +P .45 ACP without issue. Users report smooth cycling even with flat-nose bullets, thanks to Glock’s improved feed ramp design.
How Versatile Is the Glock 41 in Real-World Use?
Concealed Carry
While possible, the Glock 41 is not optimized for concealed carry due to its overall length. It’s best suited for open carry, duty rigs, or competition belts.
Home Defense
For home defense, the Glock 41’s accuracy, capacity, and accessory options make it formidable. Its size aids stability, and with a mounted light or optic, it excels in low-light environments.
Competition Shooting
The G41 thrives in USPSA, IDPA, and 3-Gun categories. Its long slide provides faster target transitions and improved sight tracking. Many shooters use it as a high-capacity alternative to 1911s in .45 divisions.
Hunting and Outdoor Utility
Loaded with hardcast or +P defensive rounds, the G41 is effective for hog hunting or backcountry defense against medium game.
What Are the Best Glock 41 Holsters?
Finding the right Glock 41 holster is essential for comfort and access given its long-slide profile. The following holster types provide different carrying solutions for tactical, range, or field use.
Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
This Glock 41 holster offers deep concealment under jackets or loose clothing with adjustable ride height and cant for all-day comfort.
Belt Holster
A belt-mounted Glock 41 holster balances weight evenly, ideal for open carry or competition setups requiring stability and quick access.
OWB Paddle Holster
The OWB paddle Glock 41 holster allows fast draw and easy attachment, making it great for range or duty environments.
Swivel Drop Leg Holster
This Glock 41 holster lowers the firearm to the thigh, perfect for tactical operators wearing vests or chest rigs.
Chest Holster
A chest-mounted Glock 41 holster keeps the pistol readily accessible while hiking, hunting, or carrying a long gun.
Hook & Loop Holster
This Glock 41 holster offers versatile mounting inside vehicles or gear bags with secure adhesion and quick access.
What Are the Glock 41’s Pros and Cons?
Pros
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Long slide and barrel deliver superb accuracy
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Manageable recoil for a .45 ACP
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Reliable across all ammunition types
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MOS system allows optics mounting
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Customizable grip and reversible controls
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High 13-round capacity
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Durable nDLC finish resists wear and corrosion
Cons
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Large size limits concealed carry use
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Heavier than compact or polymer 9mm pistols
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Trigger feel still lacks 1911 refinement
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+P ammunition can be costly for regular training
Final Verdict: Is the Glock 41 Worth It?
Who Should Buy It
The Glock 41 is ideal for competition shooters, tactical users, and serious defenders who value .45-caliber performance and precision. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prefer optic-ready, high-capacity sidearms without compromising Glock reliability.
Value and Longevity
At around $750–$850, the G41 offers tremendous value. With readily available parts, magazines, and accessories, it’s a long-term investment for any serious shooter.
Final Thoughts
The Glock 41 Gen4 MOS delivers everything shooters expect from a competition-grade .45 ACP — accuracy, balance, and flawless reliability. Its long slide and MOS system make it a precision tool in capable hands, while its proven durability ensures it’s ready for any mission.