The Glock 48 is a semi-automatic, striker-fired 9mm pistol built on Glock's Slimline platform. It chambers 9×19mm Luger rounds through a 4.17-inch barrel, delivering an overall length of 7.28 inches while maintaining a slim 1.1-inch width profile.
The pistol operates on Glock's Safe Action system with a partially pre-cocked striker and triple safety design (trigger, firing pin, and drop safeties). Factory capacity sits at 10+1 rounds with Slimline double-stack magazines, though aftermarket 15-round Shield Arms metal magazines have become extremely popular among owners.
The unloaded weight measures 20.74 ounces, balancing shootability with all-day carry comfort. The standard model features fixed sights and no accessory rail, while the MOS (Modular Optic System) variant includes a factory-milled slide for micro red dots and adds a Slimline rail for weapon lights.
What Makes the Glock 48 Worth Your Attention?
The Glock 48 represents the Austrian manufacturer's answer to the modern concealed carry market's demand for slim, shootable pistols that don't sacrifice reliability.
Introduced in January 2019 alongside its shorter sibling the 43X, this 9mm fills the gap between ultra-compact pocket pistols and full-size service guns. Glock designed the 48 specifically for everyday carry, targeting shooters who want maximum concealability without the compromised grip length that plagues true subcompacts.
The pistol sits in Glock's Slimline family, sharing DNA with the single-stack G43 but offering improved capacity and shootability through its unique double-stack-yet-slim magazine design.
Where the original G43 served ultra-deep concealment needs and the G19 dominated the compact duty market, the G48 carves out territory for those prioritizing both concealment and control.
Glock's reputation needs little introduction—the company has defined modern polymer-framed pistols since the 1980s, building a track record for reliability that borders on legendary.
The 48 continues this lineage while adapting to current shooter preferences for optics-ready platforms and accessory compatibility. It remains in active production as of 2026, explicitly excluded from Glock's 2025 discontinuation wave that retired many legacy models ahead of their V-Series launch.
This commitment signals Glock's confidence in the platform's long-term viability as a core concealed carry offering.
Glock 48 Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 9×19mm (9mm Luger) |
| Overall Length | 7.28 inches (185mm) |
| Barrel Length | 4.17 inches (106mm) |
| Height | 5.04 inches (128mm) |
| Width | 1.1 inches (Slimline profile) |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 20.74 oz (588g) without magazine |
| Weight (Loaded) | ~25.4 oz with loaded 10-round magazine |
| Frame Material | Reinforced polymer |
| Slide Finish | nDLC (black) or nPVD (silver); nDLC standard on current models |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds (factory Slimline); 15-round Shield Arms aftermarket widely used |
| Action Type | Safe Action striker-fired (partially pre-cocked) |
| Safety Features | Trigger safety, firing pin safety, drop safety (no manual thumb safety) |
| Sights | Fixed Glock U-notch rear, white dot front (factory) |
| Accessory Rail | None on standard model; Slimline rail on MOS version |
How Is the Glock 48 Built and How Does It Feel?
Frame Construction and Materials
The G48 employs Glock's proven reinforced polymer frame technology, the same material system that has proven itself across millions of pistols and countless duty cycles worldwide.
This isn't bargain-bin plastic—the polymer incorporates embedded steel rails for the slide and exhibits excellent dimensional stability across temperature extremes.
The frame houses Glock's Safe Action trigger mechanism, a design philosophy that eliminates external manual safeties in favor of three passive safety systems: a trigger-blade safety that prevents rearward trigger movement unless properly depressed, a firing pin safety that blocks the pin until the trigger completes its travel, and a drop safety that prevents discharge from impacts.
The result is a pistol that's ready to fire when you pull the trigger and won't fire when you don't, with no levers to manipulate under stress.
The slide receives either an nDLC (black) or nPVD (silver) finish depending on production run, with nDLC becoming the standard coating on recent models.
Both treatments provide excellent corrosion resistance and durability for daily carry exposed to sweat, weather, and holster wear.
Forward slide serrations complement the standard rear serrations, giving you options for press checks and chamber inspection.
Ergonomics and Grip Characteristics
The defining feature of this platform is its Slimline profile—at just 1.1 inches wide, the G48 feels noticeably thinner in hand than traditional double-stack 9mms.
This slim grip results from Glock's engineering of a double-stack magazine that maintains narrower dimensions than their standard double-stack designs.
For concealed carry, this translates to a pistol that prints less and carries more comfortably, particularly in appendix position where width directly impacts concealment.
The grip texture employs Glock's standard aggressive checkering, providing reliable purchase without being so aggressive it damages clothing or skin during extended carry.
Grip angle follows Glock's traditional 22-degree cant, which some shooters find naturally points better than the 1911's steeper angle while others need time to adjust from different platforms.
The full-length grip accommodates most hand sizes with all fingers on the frame, a major advantage over ultra-compact pistols where pinky fingers dangle.
Controls and Manual of Arms
The control layout follows Glock's minimalist philosophy. The ambidextrous magazine release sits just behind the trigger guard at a height accessible to most thumbs without adjusting grip.
It's not extended, which prevents accidental activation during concealed carry but may require deliberate thumb movement for shooters with smaller hands.
The slide stop lever lives on the left side only, functioning primarily as a slide lock during reloading rather than a slide release, though many shooters successfully use it for both purposes despite Glock's traditional preference for slingshot racking.
The trigger shoe is typical Glock: a curved face with the signature blade safety in the center.
Pull weight runs approximately 5.5 pounds with noticeable take-up before a somewhat mushy wall and break. It's a service trigger, not a competition trigger, designed for reliability rather than refinement.
Reset is tactile and relatively short, enabling quick follow-up shots once you learn the travel distance.
Accessory Compatibility
The standard G48 ships without an accessory rail, limiting weapon light options to grip-mounted lasers or less-than-ideal handlebar mounts.
This represents one of the platform's compromises for maximum slimness. The MOS variant corrects this with a Slimline rail machined into the dust cover, accommodating compact weapon lights like the Streamlight TLR-7 Sub without significantly increasing width.
For optics, the standard model requires aftermarket milling if you want a red dot. The 48 MOS solves this with a factory-cut slide accepting micro red dot optics using the RMSc pattern (Shield RMSc, Holosun 407K/507K, and similar).
This isn't the same footprint as Glock's full-size MOS guns, so verify compatibility before purchasing optics.
The factory cut includes multiple mounting plates and sits low enough that suppressor-height sights provide lower-third co-witness with most micro dots.
What Are the Different Glock 48 Variants and How Do They Compare?
Standard Glock 48 vs. MOS
The base Glock 48 launched in early 2019 with a silver nPVD slide finish and no provision for optics or lights. Black nDLC slides became available later that year, and today most production runs feature black slides as standard.
This version maximizes slimness and simplicity—what you see is what you get, with users adding aftermarket modifications as desired.
The Glock 48 MOS arrived in August 2020, adding two significant features. First, the slide comes factory-milled for micro red dot optics with the RMSc mounting pattern, eliminating the need for aftermarket milling and maintaining Glock's factory warranty.
Second, the MOS includes a Slimline accessory rail, opening up weapon light compatibility without requiring grip modifications.
These additions make the MOS variant the more modern, adaptable platform, though it commands a modest price premium and adds minimal bulk that some ultra-minimalist carriers prefer to avoid.
Generational Status and Special Editions
Unlike Glock's numbered generations (Gen 3, Gen 4, Gen 5), the Slimline pistols exist as their own family without generation designators.
The 48 incorporates Gen 5 features like forward slide serrations and the nDLC finish but isn't officially called a "Gen 5" model. Various distributors have offered special edition finishes and frame colors over the years, but the core specifications remain consistent across production runs.
Importantly, when Glock discontinued numerous legacy models on November 30, 2025, to make room for their V-Series launch, the 48 and 48 MOS were explicitly exempted.
Glock confirmed these models will remain in production through 2026 and beyond, signaling their place as core concealed carry offerings rather than transitional products.
Glock 43 vs. 48: Length and Capacity Trade-offs
The original Glock 43 shares the 48's barrel length (actually slightly shorter at 3.41 inches versus the 48's 4.17 inches) but delivers a much shorter grip housing a 6-round single-stack magazine.
This makes the 43 more pocketable and easier to conceal for body types or clothing choices where every millimeter matters. However, the abbreviated grip leaves many shooters with inadequate purchase, particularly those with medium or large hands.
The 48 sacrifices some of that deep concealment capability for dramatically improved shootability. The longer grip accommodates 10-round Slimline magazines while providing a full firing grip for most hand sizes.
For appendix carry or strong-side IWB, the additional grip length has minimal impact on concealment since the slide length remains manageable. Most shooters find the 48 offers a better balance between concealability and practical defensive capability.
Glock 43X: The Shorter Alternative
The Glock 43X represents the middle ground between the 43 and 48. It shares the 48's grip dimensions and 10-round capacity but mounts the shorter 3.41-inch barrel from the 43, resulting in a more compact overall package.
The reduced slide length provides marginally better concealment, particularly in appendix carry where the muzzle extends forward of the body.
Shooters choosing between the 43X and 48 are essentially deciding whether they value the 43X's extra concealment or the 48's longer sight radius and improved recoil management.
The difference isn't dramatic—we're talking about less than an inch of slide length—but for those prioritizing maximum concealment while maintaining shootability, the 43X often wins.
For those wanting the best-shooting Slimline pistol, the 48's additional barrel length makes a difference.
Glock 26: The Original Compact
The Glock 26 predates the Slimline family and represents Glock's original subcompact 9mm approach. It's built on the traditional double-stack magazine system with 10-round flush mags and compatibility with all larger Glock 9mm magazines (15, 17, 24, 33 rounds).
This makes it attractive for those already invested in the Glock ecosystem with magazine stockpiles.
However, the 26 is noticeably wider and shorter than the 48, creating a chunky profile that conceals less easily despite its smaller overall dimensions. The 48 offers superior concealability through its slim profile while matching capacity with factory mags.
Most modern buyers choose the 48 unless they specifically want magazine compatibility with their existing full-size Glocks.
How Does the G48 Stack Up Against Other Slim 9mms?
The slim 9mm category has exploded in recent years, with several competitors challenging Glock's position.
The Sig Sauer P365 and P365XL offer 10-12 round capacities in packages similar to or smaller than the 48, with the XL specifically competing on dimensions. The Springfield Hellcat pushes 11-13 rounds into a micro-compact footprint. The Smith & Wesson Shield Plus delivers 10-13 rounds depending on magazine choice.
Capacity-wise, the 48's factory 10 rounds lag slightly behind some competitors' 11-13 round offerings.
However, the widespread adoption of 15-round Shield Arms metal magazines largely closes this gap in practical terms, though these aftermarket mags aren't factory-warrantied.
Where the Glock particularly shines is in trigger familiarity for those already trained on Glock platforms, parts availability, holster selection, and that intangible "Glock reliability" reputation earned over decades.
The 48 represents the conservative choice—it won't win capacity contests on factory specs, but it delivers proven reliability with a manual of arms millions of shooters already know.
How Does the Glock 48 Perform in Real-World Use?
Accuracy Potential
For a slim concealed carry pistol with a 4.17-inch barrel, the G48 delivers respectable accuracy that satisfies defensive requirements while occasionally surprising shooters at distance.
Published reviews show the pistol grouping consistently within 2-3 inches at 7 yards and 3-5 inches at 15 yards with quality defensive ammunition when fired from a rest.
These aren't bullseye competition numbers, but they far exceed the precision needed for defensive shooting scenarios.
Practical accuracy—the kind that matters when you're shooting unsupported under time pressure—depends significantly on grip mastery.
The slim profile means less hand contact with the pistol compared to wider grips, which can allow the gun to shift during recoil if you don't maintain consistent pressure. Shooters report that once they adapt to the narrower grip and develop proper technique, they can shoot the 48 nearly as well as larger pistols.
The longer sight radius compared to the 43X helps here, giving you a bit more distance between front and rear sights for precise alignment.
Recoil Characteristics and Control
At just over 20 ounces unloaded, the Glock 48 sits in that zone where it's light enough for all-day carry comfort but doesn't have enough mass to completely tame 9mm recoil.
Shooters describe the recoil impulse as "brisk" or "snappy"—not punishing or uncontrollable, but noticeably sharper than heavier pistols like the G19 or full-size service guns.
The narrow grip exacerbates this somewhat since there's less surface area for your hands to distribute recoil forces.
Under rapid fire, the combination of light weight and slim grip demands solid fundamentals.
The pistol wants to rotate slightly in hand during recoil, and maintaining consistent grip pressure becomes critical for fast follow-up shots.
Shooters transitioning from wider pistols often report needing practice sessions to adapt their grip technique and recoil management. However, once adapted, most find they can run the gun at respectable speeds—maybe not as quickly as with a G34, but fast enough for defensive applications.
The longer barrel compared to the 43X helps somewhat with recoil management by adding a small amount of forward weight and slightly reducing felt impulse. It's not a dramatic difference, but shooters who've run both guns back-to-back generally give the 48 a marginal edge in controllability.
Reliability Track Record
This is where Glock's reputation shines through. User reports and professional reviews consistently describe the 48 as utterly reliable with quality ammunition and proper maintenance.
Trainers running students through classes report that 48s and 48 MOS pistols function predictably across thousands of rounds with minimal malfunctions, mirroring Glock's broader reliability reputation.
The standard caveat applies: reliability depends on using quality magazines and appropriate ammunition.
Factory Glock magazines deliver consistent performance, while the popular Shield Arms 15-round metal magazines generally perform well but require an aftermarket metal magazine catch for optimal reliability (the polymer catch can wear prematurely).
With these components properly matched, users report round counts in the thousands without failures beyond expected wear-item replacements.
The Safe Action system proves its worth here—the partially pre-cocked striker requires less energy from the slide's rearward movement to fully cock, reducing sensitivity to weak-wristed shooting or unconventional positions.
The simple mechanical design with minimal parts means fewer components to fail, and Glock's parts availability ensures quick repairs when needed.
Trigger Performance
The factory trigger represents Glock's philosophy: reliable and consistent rather than refined. Pull weight measures approximately 5.5 pounds with considerable take-up before encountering a somewhat vague wall and mushy break.
There's no crisp surprise break like you'd find on a quality 1911 or competition pistol. Reset is tactile and relatively short at roughly 0.3 inches, which becomes second nature after practice.
Many owners describe the trigger as "serviceable" or "acceptable for defensive use," with a significant percentage opting for aftermarket upgrades from manufacturers like Apex, Overwatch Precision, or Timney.
These upgrades typically reduce pull weight to 4-4.5 pounds, sharpen the break, and improve the reset feel. However, it's worth noting that the factory trigger functions reliably—the upgrades are about preference and precision rather than fixing a broken system.
What Ammunition Works Best in the Glock 48?
Defensive Ammunition Recommendations
For concealed carry and personal defense, the Glock 48 digests premium defensive hollowpoints reliably while delivering terminal performance appropriate for its barrel length. The 4.17-inch barrel provides sufficient velocity for most modern defensive loads to expand consistently, though it won't match the velocities achieved by longer-barreled pistols.
Popular defensive choices include Federal HST 124-grain and 147-grain, Speer Gold Dot 124-grain, Hornady Critical Defense 115-grain, and Winchester Ranger T-Series in various weights.
The 124-grain offerings often represent the sweet spot—heavy enough for good penetration and expansion while remaining controllable in this relatively light platform.
The 147-grain subsonic loads shoot softer due to reduced velocity but require proper ammunition selection to ensure adequate expansion from the shorter barrel.
Standard-pressure defensive loads function reliably and deliver adequate terminal ballistics for most defensive scenarios.
The platform handles +P ammunition without issues, though the increased recoil becomes more pronounced in a lightweight carry gun.
Unless you have specific reasons to run +P loads, standard pressure defensive ammunition provides excellent performance with less punishing recoil.
Practice and Training Ammunition
For high-volume practice, quality brass-cased full metal jacket ammunition in 115-grain or 124-grain configurations provides reliable function at reasonable cost.
Major manufacturers like Federal American Eagle, Blazer Brass, Winchester white box, and Magtech all produce appropriate training loads. The 48 tolerates steel-cased ammunition from Tula or Wolf reasonably well, though some shooters report slightly higher extraction rates of failure with steel cases compared to brass.
Lighter 115-grain practice loads help with training volume since they're typically less expensive and generate milder recoil than heavier bullets.
However, practicing with ammunition that matches your defensive load's weight helps maintain consistency in trigger control and recoil management.
If you carry 124-grain HST, spending at least some practice time with 124-grain FMJ makes sense.
Ammunition Compatibility Notes
Glock's chamber design accommodates a wide range of ammunition specifications without feeding or extraction issues.
The generous chamber dimensions and aggressive extractor design mean the 48 rarely experiences failures related to ammunition choice, assuming you're using factory-manufactured rounds in good condition.
Reload ammunition quality varies by manufacturer, so if running reloads, choose reputable sources and inspect ammunition before use.
The only consistent ammunition-related feedback involves some match-grade or boutique loads with unusual bullet profiles occasionally exhibiting feeding quirks.
These represent edge cases rather than systematic problems—stick with mainstream defensive and practice ammunition, and the 48 will run.
Where Does the Glock 48 Excel and Where Does It Fall Short?
Concealed Carry and Personal Defense
This is the 48's primary mission, and it excels here through its combination of slim profile and adequate capacity.
The 1.1-inch width conceals easily in appendix, strong-side, or even ankle carry configurations, often disappearing completely under untucked shirts, light jackets, or modest layering.
The full-length grip provides a complete firing grip for most hand sizes, enabling more confident presentation and first-shot accuracy compared to ultra-compact pistols.
At 10+1 rounds, factory capacity meets minimum requirements for concealed carry, though many carriers immediately upgrade to 15-round Shield Arms magazines to increase capacity without adding width.
The slim dimensions make appendix carry particularly comfortable, as the narrow grip prevents the painful digging that wider pistols can cause when seated. Weight distribution remains manageable throughout full days of carry, and the polymer frame doesn't cold-transfer discomfort during winter months like metal-framed pistols can.
Home Defense Applications
The Glock 48 can certainly serve in a home defense role, though it's not optimized for this mission compared to larger pistols or dedicated long guns.
The primary limitation is capacity—10 or even 15 rounds may prove adequate for most home defense scenarios, but larger pistols offer 17-19 rounds without magazine extensions, providing a deeper safety margin.
The lack of an accessory rail on the standard model complicates weapon light mounting, which is essentially mandatory for defensive pistols used in home environments.
The MOS variant addresses this with its Slimline rail, making it far more suitable for bedside duty when paired with a compact weapon light. The longer sight radius and barrel length compared to ultra-compact options provide accuracy advantages in the potentially longer engagement distances possible in home defense scenarios.
If you're choosing a dedicated home defense pistol, a G19, G17, or similar full-size gun makes more sense. But if the 48 is your primary carry gun and needs to pull double duty, particularly in MOS configuration with a light, it's entirely adequate for protecting your home.
Competition Viability
The Glock 48 can participate in certain competition divisions, particularly Production division in IDPA where it fits comfortably, or Carry Optics in USPSA if running the MOS version with a red dot.
However, it's not competitive at high levels due to limited capacity, slightly reduced sight radius, and a trigger that lags behind tuned competition guns.
For recreational local matches or as a training tool to practice with your actual carry gun under time pressure, the 48 works fine.
The slim grip and lighter weight don't significantly disadvantage you in casual competition, and many shooters benefit from running their carry guns in matches to develop competence under stress.
But if you're seriously pursuing competition performance, dedicated competition pistols with higher capacity, longer sight radius, and refined triggers will serve you better.
Outdoor and Hunting Use
This represents the 48's weakest application. While 9mm can take small game or serve as a trail gun for predator defense, the 48's slim grip and relatively light weight make it less than ideal for deliberate shooting at distance.
The sights are basic and the trigger is serviceable rather than precise—not the combination you want for ethical hunting shots.
For serious outdoor use where you might encounter bears or other large predators, you'd want either a larger-caliber handgun or a long gun. The 48 can serve as a lightweight trail companion for smaller threats or as a backup to a primary long gun, but it's not purpose-built for outdoor work.
Range Toy vs. Professional Tool
The Glock 48 falls firmly into the "professional tool" category rather than "fun range toy." It's designed and optimized for the serious business of concealed carry and personal protection.
While it's certainly enjoyable to shoot—particularly once you've mastered its characteristics—it doesn't offer the pure shooting pleasure of a finely-tuned 1911, the raw power satisfaction of a .44 Magnum revolver, or the high-capacity firepower fun of a competition-oriented pistol.
What it does offer is confidence. The 48 is the gun you carry every day because it conceals easily, won't fail when you need it, and delivers adequate capacity and shootability to handle defensive scenarios.
That reliability and suitability for its intended role make it valuable, even if it's not the most exciting pistol at the range.
What Are the Best Holsters for the Glock 48?
Finding the right Glock 48 holster significantly impacts carry comfort and accessibility. The slim dimensions that make this pistol concealable require holsters designed specifically for its Slimline profile, and the growing popularity of the platform means extensive options across multiple carry methods.
Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
The Cloak Tuck 3.5 represents a hybrid design combining a formed polymer shell with a backing material for comfort against the body. This inside-the-waistband configuration positions your G48 between your pants and body, typically at the 3-4 o'clock strong-side position or in appendix carry around 1 o'clock.
Belt Holster
A traditional belt holster mounts your Glock 48 outside the waistband on your belt, offering quick accessibility and comfortable carry when concealment isn't the primary concern. This style works well for open carry, range use, or when wearing cover garments like jackets that easily hide the pistol's profile.
OWB Paddle Holster
Outside-the-waistband paddle holsters utilize a curved backing plate that slides inside your waistband and hooks over your belt, creating a stable platform without requiring threading through belt loops. This makes the paddle design particularly convenient for those who add or remove their Glock 48 holster multiple times daily.
Swivel Drop Leg Holster
A drop leg platform positions your Glock 48 on your thigh rather than at waist level, accessed by reaching downward rather than across. The swivel mounting system allows the holster to rotate with leg movement, reducing binding during physical activity.
Chest Holster
Chest-mounted holsters position your G48 across your upper torso on adjustable straps, placing the pistol readily accessible while keeping your waistline clear. This configuration particularly benefits outdoor enthusiasts who wear backpacks with hip belts that make waist carry uncomfortable, or those engaging in activities where bent-over positions make waist carry impractical.
Hook & Loop Holster
Hook and loop fastener systems create flexible mounting options for your Glock 48 across various surfaces and gear. These holsters feature a polymer shell with hook-sided material on the backing, attaching to loop panels sewn or adhered to bags, vehicle interiors, safes, or specialized clothing.
Belly Band
Belly band holsters wrap around your torso with elastic material containing an integrated polymer holster shell for your G48. This design permits carry positions impossible with traditional belt-mounted holsters, including high appendix, cross-draw, small-of-back, or even opposite-side carry under one arm.
Appendix Holster
Purpose-built appendix carry holsters position your Glock 48 at the front of your body, typically between 12 and 2 o'clock, optimized for this specific carry location. The slim profile of the 48 makes appendix carry particularly effective, as the narrow grip minimizes printing while maintaining full shootability.
Rapid Force Level 2 Retention
Level 2 retention holsters incorporate two distinct mechanisms that must be defeated to draw your G48, significantly improving weapon security against unauthorized access. A polymer shell provides primary retention through friction adjustment, while a secondary hood, button, or lever adds active retention requiring deliberate manipulation during the draw stroke.
What Are the Glock 48's Strengths and Weaknesses?
Pros:
- Exceptional concealment-to-shootability ratio delivers a full firing grip and adequate capacity in a genuinely slim package that disappears under light clothing
- Glock reliability and parts availability mean the pistol runs consistently across ammunition types with minimal maintenance, backed by worldwide parts support and service networks
- Extensive aftermarket ecosystem provides upgrade paths for triggers, sights, magazines, holsters, and accessories without hunting for specialty items
- MOS variant offers factory red dot compatibility with a mounting system that maintains warranty coverage and doesn't require aftermarket machining
- Proven Safe Action system delivers consistent trigger operation and multiple passive safeties without manual levers to manipulate under stress
- Shield Arms 15-round magazines (aftermarket) effectively close the capacity gap with competitors while maintaining the slim profile
- Relatively affordable for the reliability level and feature set, with strong resale values and confirmed long-term production commitment through 2026+
Cons:
- Narrow grip challenges shooters with large hands and provides less recoil management surface than wider pistols, requiring adaptation and practice
- Factory 10-round capacity lags competitors offering 11-13 rounds, forcing reliance on aftermarket magazines to match competitive capacity
- Stock trigger feels serviceable rather than refined, with many owners immediately seeking aftermarket upgrades for improved feel
- Standard model lacks accessory rail for weapon lights, limiting its defensive utility compared to the MOS or requiring grip-mounted solutions
- Slim profile and light weight create brisk recoil that some shooters find less pleasant than heavier, wider pistols
- Factory sights are basic plastic without tritium or fiber optics, commonly replaced immediately by owners seeking better visibility
- MOS uses non-standard optics footprint requiring specific micro-dots or adapter plates, limiting optic choices compared to more universal mounting systems
Should You Buy a Glock 48?
The Glock 48 earns strong recommendations for several specific user profiles. If you're an experienced Glock shooter seeking a slimmer carry option that maintains familiar manual of arms while improving over the G26's concealability, the 48 delivers exactly that.
New concealed carriers who prioritize reliability and simplicity over maximum capacity or refined triggers will appreciate its proven track record and straightforward operation. Those seeking a modern carry platform should opt for the MOS variant to future-proof their purchase with optics capability and weapon light compatibility.
The pistol makes less sense for shooters with particularly large hands who find the narrow grip uncomfortable or insufficiently controllable. If you're prioritizing maximum factory capacity, competitors like the Hellcat or Shield Plus deliver more rounds in similar packages without requiring aftermarket magazine purchases.
Those seeking the most refined shooting experience may find the factory trigger disappointing and should budget for immediate aftermarket upgrades.
Value Assessment
At typical street prices in the $450-600 range depending on variant and dealer, the Glock 48 represents fair value rather than a bargain. You're paying for Glock's reputation, proven reliability, and comprehensive aftermarket support rather than getting the absolute lowest price point. Compared to competitors, the price is competitive—neither significantly cheaper nor more expensive than comparable offerings from Sig, Springfield, or Smith & Wesson.
The real value emerges in long-term ownership. Glock's confirmed production commitment through 2026 and beyond means parts availability won't become an issue, and the extensive aftermarket ensures upgrade paths and accessories will remain available for years.
Resale values remain strong due to brand recognition and continuing demand, so even if you later change platforms, you'll recoup reasonable percentages of your investment.
Long-Term Ownership Considerations
For extended ownership, the 48 offers excellent prospects. Factory parts support is comprehensive—anything that wears or breaks can be replaced through Glock directly or countless third-party suppliers.
The simple design means most repairs require minimal gunsmithing expertise, with many owners performing their own maintenance and modifications using readily available tools and tutorials.
Upgrade potential extends across nearly every component. Popular modifications include aftermarket triggers from Apex or Overwatch Precision, night sights from Trijicon or Ameriglo, extended magazine releases and slide stops for easier manipulation, connector and spring upgrades for trigger refinement, and barrel replacements for threaded suppressors or porting.
The MOS provides optics mounting without machining, and the Slimline rail accommodates compact weapon lights. You can evolve the pistol to match developing skills and preferences without replacing the entire platform.
The Glock 48 succeeds at what it's designed to do: provide Glock reliability and simplicity in a genuinely concealable package that doesn't sacrifice shootability.
It won't win you competition trophies or impress collectors with mechanical refinement, but it will ride comfortably all day, function when you press the trigger, and give you confidence that your carry gun will work when everything else is going wrong. For most concealed carriers, that's exactly what matters.