Selected Handgun Detail

Manufacturer
	Glock Ges.m.b.H. More Info

About the Gun

Full-size, polymer-framed pistol chambered in 9mm, featuring an integrated factory compensator designed to reduce muzzle rise and improve control during rapid fire. It uses a locked-breech, short-recoil operating system with a polygonal rifled barrel that includes four ports and corresponding keyhole openings in the forward portion of the slide, along with double-stack magazines holding 17 rounds standard. This is a Gen3 configuration, incorporating an accessory rail on the dust cover, finger grooves along the front strap, thumb rests on the frame sides, and the revised Gen3 grip texture pattern.

Production

Produced from the mid-1990s into the early 2010s.

Market value

MSRP at production was around $600. Good to excellent condition examples typically trade in the $500–$600 range.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	9 mm Luger
Alias:	9 mm Parabellum
More Info

Analysis

The Glock 17C shares the same core mechanics as the standard G17 but includes the factory compensator system to vent gases upward and help mitigate muzzle flip. Major components maintain broad compatibility with Gen3 Glock 17 parts in most areas, enabling extensive interchangeability and aftermarket support with only minor differences due to the ported barrel and slide cuts. The polygonal rifling supports reliable function with a variety of 9mm ammunition types and contributes to consistent practical accuracy at typical defensive and range distances. The accessory rail allows for mounting lights or lasers, while the finger grooves and thumb rests provide ergonomic adjustments for a range of hand sizes. The compensated design makes the G17C particularly useful for competition, training, or duty roles where faster follow-up shots are desired, though the ports can increase noise and flash. Secondary market preferences depend primarily on condition, originality, remaining finish, and individual grip fit rather than any inherent differences in mechanical performance or durability relative to the standard Gen3 G17.