Selected Handgun Detail

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

About the Gun

Subcompact, polymer-framed pistol chambered in .45 ACP, built on the large-frame architecture shared with the Glock 21 but scaled down for concealability while maintaining double-stack capacity. It uses a locked-breech, short-recoil operating system with a polygonal rifled barrel and double-stack magazines holding 10 rounds standard (with compatibility for full-size Glock 21 magazines offering higher capacity). This is a Gen3 configuration, incorporating finger grooves along the front strap, thumb rests on the frame sides, and the revised Gen3 grip texture pattern.

Production

Production ran from 2008 through the early 2010s.

Market value

MSRP at production was around $550–$590. Current used market value is $550–$650 for examples in good to excellent condition.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	.45 Automatic
Alias:	.45 Automatic Colt Pistol (ACP)
More Info

Analysis

The Glock 30 shares consistent Gen3 mechanics scaled for the .45 ACP cartridge, demonstrating reliable durability in law enforcement backup roles, civilian concealed carry, and defensive applications worldwide. Major components maintain broad compatibility with Gen3 Glock 21 parts, including slides, barrels, recoil springs, and most internals (with some scaling for the subcompact proportions), enabling extensive interchangeability and aftermarket support with only minor differences in grip feel. A short-frame (SF) variant was offered within the Gen3 production to provide a reduced grip circumference and trigger reach for users with smaller hands, while maintaining the same slide, barrel, and overall external dimensions as the standard frame. The polygonal rifling supports reliable function across a range of .45 ACP ammunition types—from standard-pressure to +P loads—and contributes to consistent practical accuracy at typical defensive distances. The platform's compact dimensions and 10-round standard capacity (expandable via extended magazines) provide a balance of concealability and firepower, with the finger grooves and thumb rests offering ergonomic adjustments suited to the shorter grip, while the accessory rail allows for mounting compact lights or lasers. The standard factory 10-round magazine (flat baseplate, part number MF30010 or equivalent) is the primary configuration shipped with the pistol and remains the representative model for display purposes, though its baseplate protrudes below the grip frame by approximately 1/4 inch or more compared to the shorter optional 9-round flush-fit magazine (introduced later as a separate accessory for deeper concealment). The protrusion on the 10-round magazine stems from the taller magazine body required to stack the additional round, while both factory baseplates are flat and low-profile with no inherent thickness variation; observed "fatter/taller" bases on some examples are aftermarket extensions added post-purchase. 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 other Gen3 large-frame subcompacts.