Glock G36
Glock Ges.m.b.H. · Pistol · In Production · 1999
Also known as: G36, Glock 36, Glock Slimline 36
Overview
The Glock G36 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in .45 ACP, produced by Glock Ges.m.b.H. Featuring a 6-round magazine capacity, this pistol offers compact firepower for concealed carry applications. At 565g (19.9 oz) unloaded, this lightweight firearm is optimized for comfortable all-day carry without creating undue fatigue or printing concerns.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 565 g (19.9 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 760 g (26.8 oz) |
| Overall Length | 177 mm (6.97") |
| Barrel Length | 96 mm (3.78") |
| Height | 120 mm (4.72") |
| Width | 30 mm (1.18") |
| Sight Radius | 150 mm (5.91") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Safe Action |
| Trigger Pull | 28 N (6.3 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 260 m/s (853 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 477 J (352 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1600 m (1750 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 400 mm (15.75") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Tenifer |
Calibers
- .45 ACP · primary — also known as .45 Auto, 11.43x23mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Trigger Safety, Firing Pin Safety, Drop Safety
- Features: Slimline Frame, Single Stack Magazine, Subcompact Frame, Safe Action Trigger, Hexagonal Rifling, Accessory Rail
Service history
Operators
- Various U.S. Law Enforcement Agencies
Production
Production years: 1999-present
Exact production numbers not publicly disclosed. The G36 carved out a niche as the thinnest .45 ACP Glock available.
Origin
Country of origin: Austria
Designer: Gaston Glock
Notes
The G36 was revolutionary as Glock's first departure from double-stack magazines, predating the Slimline series (G42, G43, G43X, G48) by over a decade. The single-stack design limits capacity to 6+1 rounds but creates a noticeably thinner grip than the 10-round G30. The G36's slide was later used on the G30 frame to create the hybrid G30S. Unlike later Slimline models, the G36's magazines are not compatible with any other Glock model. The G36 does not accept Glock 21 or G30 magazines. Felt recoil is more pronounced than the heavier G30 due to the lighter weight.
Background
The Glock 36 was a pioneer that proved Glock could think thin. When it debuted in 1999, the idea of a single-stack Glock was almost heretical -- the company had built its reputation on high-capacity double-stack magazines. But demand for a concealable .45 ACP was undeniable, and the G36 answered that call. Its slide would later find a second life atop the G30 SF frame as the G30S, proving that Glock's modular design philosophy extended even to mixing components between models. The G36 paved the way for the entire Slimline series that now includes some of Glock's best-selling models.