Glock's 9mm Parabellum pistol was first introduced to the American public by Soldier of Fortune Magazine almost eight years ago (See "Plastic Perfection," SOF, October '84). Since that time more than 350 U.S. local law enforcement and federal agencies have adopted or authorized the Glock as a duty weapon With the exception of the slide, frame, barrel, locking block, recoil spring, recoil-spring guide rod and slide lock spring, all other components are interchangeable between the Models 22 and 23.
There are only 37 parts in these models, including the magazine. Glock says there are 35, but I count the sights and firing-pin spring cups as two components each. Of little matter, as in either case this is still less than half the number of bits and pieces found in competing designs. This remarkable history of success in just eight years is matched by Glock's even more remarkable design itself. Glock's only condescension to conventionality is the pistol's method of operation. Short-recoil operated, the barrel is locked to the slide by a single lug, which recesses into the ejection port in the manner of the SIG-Sauer series.
During the recoil stroke, the barrel moves rearward approximately 3mm until the bullet leaves the barrel and pressures drop to safe level. At this time the barrel drops downward, separating from the slide and terminating any further motion. The slide's continued rearward movement and counter-recoil cycle are those of the Browning types.
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