Full History Of Glock In Timeline From 1913

1913: No Event Found

No event found for this date.

1980: Austrian Armed Forces Seek New Service Pistol

In 1980, the Austrian Armed Forces announced their search for a modern duty pistol to replace the outdated Walther P38. They outlined 17 criteria, including self-loading capability, 9x19mm Parabellum compatibility, and rigorous safety standards.

1982: Glock 17 Adopted as P80 by Austrian Military and Law Enforcement

Following its success in trials, the Glock 17 was officially adopted as the Pistole 80 (P80) by Austrian authorities in 1982, with an initial order of 25,000 units. It marked a significant milestone for Glock, surpassing established manufacturers like Heckler & Koch, SIG Sauer, Beretta, FN Herstal, and Steyr Mannlicher.

1982: Glock Enters Austrian Military and Police Service

In 1982, the Glock firearm was adopted by the Austrian military and police after demonstrating superior reliability and safety in rigorous testing.

1982: Glock Develops Prototype for Austrian Army Trials

Responding to the Austrian Army's call for a new pistol in 1982, Glock assembled a team of experts and rapidly developed a prototype that incorporated proven features and utilized synthetic materials for cost-effectiveness.

1982: Glock 17 Wins Austrian Army Trials

The Glock 17, named for being the company's 17th patent, excelled in the Austrian Army's rigorous trials in 1982. Its performance, handling, capacity, and affordability outshone competitors, securing its victory.

1983: Norwegian and Swedish Trials of Glock 17 Begin

Between 1983 and 1985, Norway and Sweden conducted joint trials to evaluate the Glock 17, signifying the firearm's growing international appeal and reputation for reliability and performance.

1983: US Department of Defense Shows Interest in Glock

The Glock pistol attracted international attention, with the US Department of Defense requesting samples for evaluation in 1983, highlighting the growing recognition of its innovative design and performance.

1985: Glock Pistols Fail to Meet BATF Import Requirements

Glock's first attempt to enter the US market in 1985 hit a snag when their pistols didn't meet the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATF) import requirements. This led to the rapid development of an adjustable rear sight.

1985: Glock 17 Adopted as P80 in Norway

In 1985, after rigorous joint trials, the Glock 17 was officially adopted by the Norwegian Armed Forces as the P80, solidifying its position as a reliable and trusted firearm in international military service.

1986: Glock Introduces Adjustable Rear Sight for US Market

In 1986, Glock successfully entered the US commercial market by introducing an adjustable rear sight to their pistols. This modification, dubbed the "weekend" sight, allowed them to comply with BATF import requirements.

1988: Glock 17 Becomes Standard NATO Sidearm

Following its adoption by several NATO countries, the Glock 17 earned the distinction of becoming a standard NATO-classified sidearm in 1988, signifying its widespread acceptance and integration within the alliance's military operations.

1988: Second-Generation Glock Pistols Introduced

Glock introduced its second-generation pistols in 1988, featuring improved ergonomics with checkering on the front strap, trigger guard, and back strap, enhancing grip and user control.

1988: Undetectable Firearms Act Addresses Glock Myths

In 1988, the United States passed the Undetectable Firearms Act, addressing concerns about firearms undetectable by metal detectors, partially fueled by myths surrounding Glock's polymer construction. Despite being visible to X-rays, the myth persisted, highlighting the impact of early misconceptions surrounding Glock pistols.

1990: Development of .40 Smith & Wesson Caliber

The .40 Smith & Wesson caliber was jointly developed by Smith & Wesson and Winchester in 1990. This new round offered a balance of power and manageable recoil, bridging the gap between 9mm and 10mm Auto cartridges. Glock's adoption of this caliber led to the popular Glock 22, 23, and 27 models.

1991: Glock Introduces Integrated Recoil Spring Assembly

In 1991, Glock implemented a significant design improvement by replacing the original two-piece recoil spring and tube with an integrated recoil spring assembly, enhancing the pistol's reliability and ease of maintenance.

1991: Glock Releases Limited Edition and Commemorative Pistols

Starting in 1991, Glock began producing limited edition and commemorative versions of their pistols. This included anniversary models celebrating business milestones and US sales, as well as special editions for law enforcement agencies featuring engraved markings.

1991: Glock Pistols in Mass Shootings: A Recurring Issue Emerges

The 1991 Luby's shooting marked the start of Glock pistols' unfortunate presence in mass shootings in the United States. The incident brought to light the lethality and availability of Glock firearms, sparking initial debates about gun control.

1992: Glock Achieves Global Sales Milestone

By 1992, Glock had sold an impressive 350,000 pistols globally, including 250,000 in the US alone, marking a significant achievement for the company and demonstrating the widespread popularity and adoption of Glock pistols.

1994: Introduction of .357 SIG Caliber

Collaborating with Federal, SIG Sauer developed the .357 SIG cartridge in 1994. This high-velocity round aimed to replicate the ballistic performance of the .357 Magnum while being compatible with semi-automatic pistols. Glock capitalized on this new caliber by adapting their existing .40 S&W models (Glock 31, 32, and 33).

1995: Glock Releases .380 ACP Models

In 1995, Glock introduced the Glock 25 and 28, chambered in .380 ACP. These models, intended for markets with restrictions on civilian ownership of more powerful calibers, offered a less powerful alternative to the 9mm. However, import restrictions and barrel length requirements limited their availability in countries like the US and Canada.

1998: Third-Generation Glock Pistols Unveiled

Glock introduced its third-generation pistols in 1998, featuring a Universal Glock rail for mounting accessories, enhancing the pistol's versatility and adaptability for tactical use.

2001: Nepalese Royal Massacre Raises Security Concerns

The 2001 Nepalese royal massacre, carried out partly with Glock pistols, raised concerns about palace security and the potential for firearm misuse within positions of power. The tragedy led to increased scrutiny of gun ownership among high-ranking officials.

2002: Glock Introduces Loaded Chamber Indicator

Glock pistols produced after 2002 incorporated a redesigned extractor that doubled as a loaded chamber indicator. This safety feature provided a tactile and visual indication of a chambered round by protruding slightly when a cartridge was present, enhancing user awareness and safety.

2002: Erfurt Massacre Prompts Gun Law Reforms in Germany

The 2002 Erfurt massacre in Germany, committed with a Glock pistol, led to significant reforms in German gun laws. The tragedy highlighted the need for stricter age limits for gun ownership and improved security measures for gun storage.

2003: Introduction of Glock Internal Locking System (ILS)

In 2003, Glock introduced the Internal Locking System (ILS), also known as the Glock Safety Lock. This manually activated lock, located at the back of the grip, renders the pistol inoperable when engaged. The ILS is an optional feature available on most Glock models and requires factory installation.

2005: Viktor Kalivoda's Crimes Spark Debate on Gun Ownership

The killings committed by Viktor Kalivoda in 2005, using Glock pistols, sparked debate about responsible gun ownership and access to firearms by individuals with criminal intent. The case highlighted the need for comprehensive background checks and mental health evaluations.

2007: Glock Introduces Short Frame Pistols

In 2007, Glock introduced "short frame" versions of their large frame pistols, designed for users with smaller hands. Initially developed for a US military trial, these models featured a reduced grip size and were later made available in various configurations.

2007: Virginia Tech Shooting Fuels Gun Control Debate

The use of a Glock pistol in the 2007 Virginia Tech shooting further fueled the national debate on gun control. The incident, among the deadliest in U.S. history, highlighted concerns about the accessibility of high-capacity magazines and the need for stricter gun laws.

January 2009: Glock Expands Short Frame Model Availability

By January 2009, Glock extended its short frame variations to include the models 20, 21, 29, and 30. These models offered reduced trigger reach and overall length, catering to users with smaller hands.

2009: Glock Introduces RTF2 Pistols

In 2009, Glock introduced the RTF2 (Rough Textured Frame 2) variant, featuring a new checkering texture on the grip and scalloped serrations on the slide's rear sides. This update was available on various models, including the 17, 31, 32, 23, 21, and 19, expanding Glock's product line with enhanced ergonomics.

July 2010: Glock Expands Fourth Generation Lineup

In July 2010, Glock further expanded its fourth-generation lineup by releasing the compact Glock 19 and 23 models, followed by the subcompact Glock 26 and 27 in late 2010, offering users more size options within the improved "Gen4" design.

2010: Glock Unveils Fourth Generation ("Gen4") Pistols

At the 2010 SHOT Show, Glock launched its fourth-generation pistols ("Gen4"), starting with the Glock 17 and 22. These models featured key updates like a modified rough-textured frame, grip checkering, interchangeable backstraps, and a recoil spring assembly redesign, enhancing ergonomics and user customization.

2010: Glock Switches to Gas Nitriding

In 2010, Glock changed their Tenifer process from salt bath nitriding to a gas nitriding method for their steel parts. While the exact process remains undisclosed, this change maintains the corrosion resistance of Glock pistols.

July 2011: Cutoff Date for Glock Recoil Spring Exchange Program

July 22, 2011 marked the cutoff date for Glock's voluntary recoil spring exchange program, targeting fourth-generation pistols sold before this date. The program aimed to replace recoil spring assemblies and ensure the pistols met Glock's performance standards.

September 2011: Glock Initiates Recoil Spring Exchange Program

In September 2011, Glock announced a voluntary recoil spring exchange program for its fourth-generation pistols (excluding the subcompact models) sold before July 22, 2011. This program aimed to address potential issues with the recoil spring assembly and ensure consistent performance standards across its products.

2011: Glock Pistols Feature in Multiple Mass Shootings

The year 2011 saw Glock pistols used in two high-profile mass shootings: the Tucson shooting, which injured U.S. Representative Gabby Giffords, and the Norway attacks, where a Glock was among the weapons used. These tragedies contributed to growing international concern over gun violence.

2012: Glock Pistols Used in Aurora and Sandy Hook Shootings

The year 2012 witnessed two horrific mass shootings involving Glock pistols: the Aurora, Colorado, movie theater shooting and the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. These tragedies reignited calls for stricter gun control measures, including bans on high-capacity magazines commonly used in Glock pistols.

January 2013: Glock Continues Fourth Generation Rollout

Glock continued introducing fourth-generation models into 2013, showcasing the Glock 20 Generation 4 alongside other models at the annual SHOT Show, further solidifying the "Gen4" design within the company's offerings.

2014: Glock Pistols: Third Most Traced Handgun in Chicago

A 2014 report by the Chicago Police Department identified Glock pistols as the third most frequently traced handguns, trailing only Smith & Wesson and Sturm, Ruger & Co. This highlighted the prevalence of Glock pistols in criminal activities within the city.

2015: Glock Production in Uruguay

In 2015, plans were announced for Glock 17 pistols to be assembled in Uruguay. This initiative aimed to meet the needs of the Uruguayan military and law enforcement agencies.

2015: Charleston Church Shooting Renews Focus on Gun Violence

The 2015 Charleston church shooting, perpetrated with a Glock pistol, shook the nation and reignited the debate on gun control, particularly regarding background checks and access to firearms by individuals with hate crime motivations.

June 2016: FBI Awards Glock Duty Pistol Contract

In June 2016, the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) selected Glock to supply new 9×19mm Parabellum duty pistols. Interestingly, the contract specifications deviated from Glock's existing fourth-generation models, suggesting specific requirements from the FBI for their firearms.

August 2016: Indianapolis Metro Police Department Adopts and Recalls Glock 17M

The Indianapolis Metro Police Department (IMPD) began training with the Glock 17M in August 2016, notable for its lack of finger grooves. However, by October, the IMPD issued a voluntary recall due to failures during dry firing exercises, highlighting unexpected reliability concerns with the new model.

2016: Orlando and Munich Shootings Highlight Global Gun Violence

Two significant mass shootings in 2016, the Orlando nightclub shooting and the Munich shooting, both involving Glock pistols, underscored the global reach of gun violence. These tragedies sparked international discussions about gun control measures and the need for greater mental health support.

August 2017: Glock Introduces Fifth Generation ("Gen 5") Pistols

August 2017 marked the debut of Glock's fifth-generation ("Gen 5") pistols, the Glock 17 and 19, both chambered in 9×19mm Parabellum. This generation emphasized ergonomics and reliability, featuring ambidextrous slide stops, a DLC finish, a redesigned barrel, a flared magazine well, and various internal improvements, marking a significant evolution in Glock's pistol design.

2017: Norinco Develops Glock 17 Clone for Export

In 2017, the Chinese firm Norinco developed the NP-7 (or NP7), a Glock 17 clone. Produced in collaboration with the Hunan Ordnance Industry Group, the NP7 bore design influences from the fourth-generation Glock 17 and was specifically marketed for international sale.

2018: Myanmar Military Adopts Glock 17 Clone

In 2018, the Tatmadaw, Myanmar's military, adopted a Glock 17 clone known as the MA5 MK II. This locally manufactured pistol was primarily intended for Myanmar's special forces units.

2018: Unlicensed Glock Clones Emerge in Pakistan

The Khyber region of Pakistan became known for producing unlicensed Glock clones, first reported in 2018. These clones highlighted the spread of Glock's design and the challenges of controlling firearm production in certain regions.

February 2019: Glock Marksmanship Barrel Study

A February 2019 study indicated that Glock's newer GMB barrels (Gen5, G42/43) leave more unique markings on projectiles compared to older barrels. This allows for easier and more reliable identification of bullets fired from a particular Glock pistol.

2019: Expiration of Glock Patents and Rise of Glock Clones

By 2019, a significant number of American companies began producing Glock clones due to the expiration of Glock's patents. This led to the term "Glock" becoming a generic term for pistols, particularly in the United States.

April 2022: Glock Faces Lawsuit Following NYC Subway Attack

Ilene Steur, a survivor of the April 2022 New York City subway attack, filed a lawsuit against Glock and its Austrian parent company. Steur sought compensation for physical injuries and emotional distress caused by the attack, which involved a Glock pistol.

2023: Prague Shooting Renews Debate on Gun Control in Europe

The 2023 Prague shooting, involving a Glock pistol, renewed discussions about gun control measures in Europe. The incident reignited debates about the accessibility of firearms, particularly for individuals with mental health concerns.