Glock 19X: Does It Come In Black?

So, you're wondering if the Glock 19X comes in black, huh? Let's dive right into it. The Glock 19X, a popular crossover pistol blending the full-size Glock 17 frame with the compact Glock 19 slide, initially gained fame for its distinctive coyote tan finish. This unique color set it apart from the sea of black polymer pistols, becoming a signature feature of the 19X. However, the burning question remains: Can you get a Glock 19X in black? The short answer is yes, but with a bit of a twist. When the Glock 19X was first introduced, it was exclusively available in coyote tan. This was part of its initial appeal and marketing. The idea was to offer something different, a Glock that stood out aesthetically while maintaining the reliability and performance the brand is known for. The coyote tan finish wasn't just a color choice; it was a statement. It gave the pistol a rugged, almost military-esque look that resonated with many shooters. But as demand grew and the market evolved, Glock listened to its customers. Many Glock enthusiasts and potential buyers expressed a desire for a black version of the 19X. They loved the pistol's hybrid design and ergonomics but preferred the more traditional and understated look of a black firearm. Glock eventually responded by releasing a black version of the Glock 19X. This decision was a smart move, broadening the appeal of the 19X to a wider audience. The black 19X offers the same features and performance as the original coyote tan version, including the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB), no finger grooves on the grip, ambidextrous slide stop levers, and a lanyard loop. The only difference is the color. For those who prefer the classic black look, this was welcome news. It allowed them to enjoy the benefits of the 19X platform without compromising their aesthetic preferences.

Exploring the Glock 19X

Before we get too deep, let's talk about the Glock 19X itself. The Glock 19X is often called a "crossover" pistol because it combines the full-size frame of the Glock 17 with the shorter slide of the Glock 19. Why is this significant? Well, the longer frame provides a more substantial grip, which can be beneficial for shooters with larger hands or those who simply prefer a more secure hold. This enhanced grip can lead to better control and accuracy, especially during rapid fire. At the same time, the shorter slide makes the pistol slightly more compact and easier to conceal than a full-size Glock 17. This combination of features makes the Glock 19X a versatile option for both open carry and concealed carry, depending on your needs and preferences. The design philosophy behind the Glock 19X was to create a pistol that offers the best of both worlds: the shootability and handling of a full-size pistol with the concealability of a compact pistol. This makes it an attractive option for law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. The Glock 19X also includes several other features that enhance its performance and usability. It comes with the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB), which is designed to improve accuracy. The GMB features enhanced rifling that provides a tighter gas seal around the bullet, resulting in more consistent velocities and improved precision. The pistol also has ambidextrous slide stop levers, making it easy for both right-handed and left-handed shooters to operate. This is a significant advantage for those who are not right-handed or who may need to switch hands in a tactical situation. Another notable feature of the Glock 19X is the absence of finger grooves on the grip. Many shooters find that finger grooves can be uncomfortable or even detrimental to their grip, as they may not fit everyone's hand size and shape perfectly. By removing the finger grooves, Glock has made the 19X more adaptable to a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles. The pistol also includes a lanyard loop, which can be used to secure the pistol to the shooter's body or gear. This is a useful feature for law enforcement and military personnel who may need to retain their weapon in close-quarters combat or other situations where there is a risk of losing it.

Why the Initial Coyote Tan?

So, why did Glock initially choose coyote tan for the 19X? It wasn't just a random color choice. Coyote tan has become increasingly popular in the tactical and military communities due to its effectiveness in a variety of environments. It's a neutral color that blends well with many different types of terrain, making it a practical choice for those who need to conceal themselves or their equipment. From a marketing perspective, the coyote tan finish helped the Glock 19X stand out from the crowd. In a market saturated with black polymer pistols, the 19X offered something different and visually appealing. It gave the pistol a unique identity and helped it attract attention. The coyote tan finish also aligned with the Glock's reputation for durability and reliability. It conveyed a sense of ruggedness and dependability, reinforcing the brand's image. While some shooters may have initially been hesitant about the non-traditional color, many others embraced it as a refreshing change. It gave them a way to express their individuality and stand out from the crowd. The coyote tan Glock 19X quickly became a status symbol, representing a blend of practicality and style. Of course, not everyone was a fan of the coyote tan finish. Some shooters preferred the classic look of a black pistol, while others simply didn't find the color aesthetically pleasing. This is where the black version of the Glock 19X comes in. By offering both coyote tan and black versions, Glock has catered to a wider range of tastes and preferences. This has allowed them to capture a larger share of the market and appeal to shooters who may have been turned off by the initial color offering. Ultimately, the choice of color is a matter of personal preference. Some shooters will always prefer the classic look of a black pistol, while others will embrace the unique style of the coyote tan finish. The important thing is that Glock offers both options, allowing shooters to choose the one that best suits their needs and preferences.

Finding a Black Glock 19X

Okay, so you're sold on the black Glock 19X. Where can you find one? Your best bet is to check with your local gun stores and online retailers. Because the black version is a standard offering, it should be readily available. Keep an eye out for deals, too! Gun shops often have sales, especially around holidays. Also, online forums and communities dedicated to firearms can be great resources. Members often share information about availability and pricing, and sometimes even private sales. When you're buying a firearm online, make sure the dealer is reputable and complies with all federal and state laws. You'll likely need to have the gun shipped to a local Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer, who will then conduct a background check before transferring the firearm to you. Before you buy, do your homework. Read reviews, compare prices, and make sure you're getting a fair deal. Also, be aware of any state or local laws that may restrict the purchase or ownership of firearms. Some states have magazine capacity limits, restrictions on certain features, or other regulations that you need to be aware of. It's always a good idea to consult with a local firearms attorney or knowledgeable gun shop employee to ensure that you're in compliance with all applicable laws. Once you've found a black Glock 19X and completed the necessary paperwork, you'll be ready to take it to the range and start practicing. Remember to always follow safe gun handling practices, and never point a firearm at anything you're not willing to destroy. Regular practice and training are essential for becoming a proficient and responsible gun owner. Consider taking a firearms safety course or joining a local gun club to improve your skills and learn from experienced shooters.

Conclusion

So, to wrap things up, yes, the Glock 19X does come in black. While it was initially released in coyote tan, Glock expanded its offerings to include a black version to cater to a broader range of preferences. Whether you prefer the unique look of the coyote tan or the classic appeal of black, the Glock 19X offers the same reliable performance and innovative design. Now that you know the answer, you can confidently pursue the Glock 19X in the color that suits you best. Happy shooting, guys!