AIRSOFT GLOCK

Airsoft Glocks replicate the lineup of highly popular modern real-steel pistols well-known in today’s industry. Although most airsoft Glock pistols are powered by green gas or CO2, a few electric variants exist. Umarex is the largest producer of airsoft Glocks, but several other brands have also thrown their hat in the ring.

What Is an Airsoft Glock?

Glock remains one of the more popular manufacturers of real-steel pistols and also enjoys a robust following in the airsoft world. In previous years, airsoft Glock replicas lacked the proper demarcations and specifications, as no single airsoft gun brand was officially licensed by Glock. 

However, Umarex secured licensing from Glock in 2018, and since then, airsoft replicas made by Umarex carry the proper markings and logos. 

Most airsoft Glocks require compressed gas in the form of green gas or CO2 cartridges. Some feature blowback action to replicate recoil, while others have fixed slides. However, Novritsch makes the SSE18 Full Auto / Semi AEP Airsoft Pistol, an electric Glock built on the Glock 17 platform that fires in semi-auto and full-auto with the help of an internal battery. 

Airsoft Glocks make an excellent sidearm or backup weapon, depending on the type of role or airsoft game you play. The best part about most airsoft Glocks is that they’re compatible with a large portion of the accessories that pair with the real-steel Glock counterparts. 

For example, you can easily holster an airsoft Glock like you would the real thing, or add real lasers or lights to the Picatinny rail. 

What To Know About the Glock Lineup

Distinguishing between the different Glock models can be challenging. Here’s a quick guide to the airsoft and real-steel variants: 

• Glock 17: This entry-level Glock is popular among law enforcement. Airsoft players often start with the Glock 17, made by well-known brands like Tokyo Marui, WE, and Umarex/Elite Force. Design varies between the Gen 3, Gen 4, and Gen 5 models. 
• Glock 18C: This full-auto airsoft pistol typically comes with a 50-round magazine and features a high rate of fire. In fact, it’s often used as a primary weapon, especially in close-quarters battle (CQB) scenarios. 
• Glock 19: The Glock 19 is a smaller version of the Glock 17 and is immensely popular in the real-steel and airsoft worlds. 
• Glock 19X: With a Glock 17 full-size magazine and a Glock 19 slide and barrel, the Glock 19X fits together the best of both worlds.
• Glock 22: Conceal the Glock 22’s compact body for a reliable backup weapon, although it does have a lower round capacity. 
• Glock 42: Compact and low-profile, the Glock 42 features a different caliber from other Glocks in the real-steel variants. 
• Glock 45: A Glock 19X by any other color would be the Glock 45, with front slide serrations. 

Airsoft players often choose a Glock based on its size and how they want to use it in gameplay. The Glock 18C works well as a primary handgun, but players can also choose from many other Glock airsoft pistols as a backup weapon for a sniper role. Round capacity can also matter. 

Real-Steel and Airsoft Glock Models 

The chart below compares the different real Glock models to their airsoft counterparts. In some cases, the difference between airsoft Glock pistols of the same model depends on the generation (such as the Glock 17 Gen 3, Gen 4, and Gen 5 models). Which airsoft Glock will you purchase and play with?

How Does an Airsoft Glock Work? 

Electric airsoft Glocks, similar to all automatic electric pistols (AEPs), require a battery to function. 

A high-power motor drives an internal gear set that compresses the main spring. Once released, the spring propels the piston forward to create enough pressurized air for the BB to exit the muzzle at a high velocity (measured in feet-per-second, or FPS). 

Gas-powered airsoft Glocks perform a similar function with the help of compressed gas. Instead of a battery, gas airsoft Glocks require magazines specially fitted with a gas reservoir and valve. The valve releases green gas or CO2 in measured bursts to fire airsoft BBs down range. 

Gas-powered airsoft Glock pistols that feature a blowback response to mimic real-life recoil are known as gas blowback (GBB) airsoft pistols. 

What Are Some Popular Airsoft Glock Pistols?

Many of the most popular airsoft Glocks are sold under the Umarex brand as the result of a partnership between Umarex and VFC. If you’re looking for a specific Glock model (such as the popular Glock 17 or Glock 19), Umarex likely has a basic setup ready for customization. 

Base Airsoft Glock Pistols

Some of the most popular basic airsoft Glock guns include the following: 

• Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 (by VFC): The latest in Glock technology (yet in airsoft form) is in constant high demand. 
• Umarex Glock 19 Gen 3 (by VFC): The Glock 19 is one of, if not the most popular Glocks on the airsoft and real-steel market. 
• Umarex Glock 19X (by VFC): Originally produced only in flat dark earth (FDE), this Umarex/Elite Force Glock has a full-size frame and compact slide.
• Umarex Glock 42 (by VFC): Compact and lightweight, this Glock is perfect for beginners and those with smaller hands.
• Umarex Glock 45 (by VFC): Rely on VFC’s Guide Hop technology, a full-sized grip, and a Glock 19 slide with this powerful gas blowback airsoft pistol. 

Umarex also partnered with GHK on the Glock 17 Gen 3 airsoft pistol, which is a valuable training weapon for personal protection and self-defense scenarios. 

Custom Airsoft Glock Pistols

For players who prefer more modifications on their airsoft pistols, these airsoft Glocks have a bit more character:

• RWA Agency Arms Ronin Pistol: A CNC slide, stainless steel outer barrel, and Dragon Scale Front Serrations make this airsoft Glock a must.
• RWA Agency Arms EXA: The Timberwolf lower frame and full metal Agency Arms slide elevate this high-performance Glock. 
• Novritsch SSP18: Novritsch fans won’t be disappointed with this finely tuned airsoft Glock pistol.

Still unsure which airsoft Glock to buy? Check out our rankings for the best airsoft Glock to find out more. When you’re ready to pull the trigger, choose from RedWolf’s vast selection of airsoft Glock pistols — and don’t forget your airsoft gear, ammo, and accessories.