Glock G27
Glock Ges.m.b.H. · Pistol · In Production · 1995
Also known as: G27, Glock 27
Overview
The Glock G27 is a subcompact semi-automatic pistol chambered in .40 S&W, introduced in 1995 alongside the 9mm G26. Built on the same subcompact frame as the G26, the G27 offers the higher energy of the .40 S&W cartridge in a package just 6.42 inches (163mm) long and 4.21 inches (107mm) tall. The standard magazine holds 9 rounds of .40 S&W, and the pistol accepts all larger-capacity Glock .40 S&W magazines from the G22 (15 rounds) and G23 (13 rounds). The 3.43-inch (87mm) barrel delivers typical .40 S&W performance with 180-grain bullets at approximately 1010 fps (308 m/s) for 546 joules of muzzle energy. The current Gen5 model features the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) with enhanced hexagonal rifling, nDLC finish, flared magazine well, ambidextrous slide stop lever, and modular backstrap system. The G27 weighs 23.85 ounces (676g) with an empty magazine. The Safe Action trigger system provides a consistent 26 N (~5.8 lb) pull weight. The G27 was particularly popular with law enforcement agencies that standardized on the .40 S&W caliber, serving as the subcompact companion to the full-size G22 and compact G23. While the broader market shift back to 9mm has reduced .40 S&W popularity, the G27 remains in production and retains a loyal following among shooters who prefer the harder-hitting .40 caliber in a concealable package.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 676 g (23.8 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 827 g (29.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 163 mm (6.42") |
| Barrel Length | 87 mm (3.43") |
| Height | 107 mm (4.21") |
| Width | 33 mm (1.30") |
| Sight Radius | 137 mm (5.39") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Safe Action |
| Trigger Pull | 26 N (5.8 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 9 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 308 m/s (1010 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 546 J (403 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1500 m (1640 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 250 mm (9.84") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Tenifer |
Calibers
- .40 S&W · primary — also known as .40 Smith & Wesson, 10x22mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Trigger Safety, Firing Pin Safety, Drop Safety
- Features: Subcompact Frame, Reversible Mag Release, Interchangeable Backstraps, Dual Recoil Spring, Glock Marksman Barrel, Ndlc Finish, Flared Mag Well, Ambidextrous Slide Stop, Accepts Glock 22 23 Magazines
Variants
- Glock 27 Gen5 — Generation
- Glock 27 Gen4 — Generation
Service history
Operators
- U.S. Law Enforcement (Various Departments) · as Authorized Backup/Off-Duty
- U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (Historical) · as Approved Backup
- U.S. Civilian Concealed Carry
Production
Production years: 1995-present
Exact production figures not publicly disclosed. The G27 was one of the most popular .40 S&W subcompacts during the peak of .40 S&W law enforcement adoption in the 2000s.
Origin
Country of origin: Austria
Designer: Gaston Glock
Notes
The Glock 27 was introduced simultaneously with the G26 in 1995. The Gen5 variant was released in 2023, making it one of the later .40 S&W models to receive the Gen5 treatment. The G27 shares its frame dimensions with the G26 (9mm), G28 (.380 ACP), G33 (.357 SIG), and G39 (.45 GAP). The slightly taller height (107mm vs 106mm for the G26) is due to the .40 S&W magazine floor plate. Weight without magazine is 621g (21.91 oz). The G27 can be converted to 9mm by swapping the barrel and using G26 magazines, and to .357 SIG by swapping the barrel alone. This caliber versatility was a major selling point for law enforcement agencies. The snappier recoil of the .40 S&W in the lightweight subcompact frame requires more training to master compared to the 9mm G26. The loaded weight includes a full 9-round .40 S&W magazine at approximately 151g. Optional 13-round G23 magazines provide extended capacity.
Background
The Glock 27 arrived as the .40 S&W companion to the G26, providing law enforcement agencies that standardized on the .40 caliber with a subcompact option that maintained magazine compatibility with their duty G22 and G23 pistols. During the late 1990s and 2000s, when the .40 S&W was the dominant law enforcement caliber in America, the G27 was the go-to backup weapon for thousands of officers. Though the industry-wide shift back to 9mm has reduced the .40's market share, the G27 remains a potent concealed carry option for those who prefer the .40's harder-hitting ballistics.