Glock 41: What It's For (Long-Slide .45), Specs, Who Should Buy It

The Glock 41 is a long-slide .45 ACP pistol designed for competition shooting, duty use, and applications where maximum accuracy and sight radius are priorities. It features a 5.31-inch barrel and full-size frame, making it one of the largest Glock pistols available.

This guide explains what the Glock 41 is designed for, its specifications, how it compares to other .45 ACP options, and who should consider it. Whether you're interested in competition shooting, duty use, or simply prefer a long-slide .45, understanding the G41's purpose and capabilities will help you make an informed decision.

People often ask about the Glock 41 because it's less common than the Glock 21 (standard .45 ACP) and serves a more specialized purpose. The long slide and barrel make it ideal for specific applications but less practical for everyday carry.

What Is the Glock 41?

The Glock 41 is a long-slide .45 ACP pistol introduced in 2013. It's essentially a Glock 21 (full-size .45 ACP) with an extended slide and barrel. The longer barrel provides increased velocity, better accuracy potential, and a longer sight radius for improved precision.

The G41 was designed with competition shooting in mind, particularly USPSA and IDPA matches where the longer sight radius and improved accuracy can be advantages. It's also used by some law enforcement agencies for duty applications where the longer barrel and improved accuracy are valued.

Unlike the Glock 21, which is designed as a general-purpose full-size pistol, the G41 is optimized for accuracy and precision shooting. The trade-off is increased size and weight, making it less practical for concealed carry or situations where compactness matters.

Specs & Key Features

  • Caliber: .45 ACP
  • Capacity: 13 rounds (standard magazine)
  • Barrel Length: 5.31 inches
  • Overall Length: 8.78 inches
  • Height: 5.47 inches
  • Width: 1.34 inches
  • Weight (without magazine): 23.63 oz
  • Weight (with empty magazine): 26.63 oz
  • Weight (with loaded magazine): 36.51 oz
  • Trigger Pull: Approximately 5.5 pounds
  • Sights: Standard Glock polymer sights
  • Frame: Polymer, Gen4 design
  • Slide: Long-slide design, MOS version available
  • Price: Varies by configuration and market

What It's Designed For

Competition Shooting

The G41's long barrel and sight radius make it well-suited for competition shooting, particularly in divisions that allow .45 ACP. The longer sight radius improves accuracy at distance, and the increased barrel length can provide better velocity and consistency.

Duty Use

The G41 is often considered for duty use where a longer barrel and sight radius are acceptable. The full-size frame provides good control, and the .45 ACP cartridge offers proven performance. The longer barrel and improved accuracy can be advantages in duty applications.

Precision Shooting

The long slide and barrel make the G41 ideal for applications where maximum accuracy is the priority. The longer sight radius makes it easier to achieve precise shot placement, especially at extended ranges.

Range and Training

The G41 is an excellent choice for range use and training, particularly for those who want to practice with a .45 ACP but prefer the improved accuracy potential of a long-slide design.

How It Compares to Similar Options

Glock 41 vs Glock 21

The Glock 21 has a standard 4.6-inch barrel and is more compact overall. The G41's longer barrel provides better accuracy potential and velocity, but the G21 is more practical for general use and easier to carry. Both use the same frame and magazines.

Choose the G21 for general-purpose use or if you need a more compact .45 ACP. Choose the G41 if you prioritize accuracy and don't mind the increased size.

Glock 41 vs Glock 30S

The Glock 30S is a compact .45 ACP with a shorter barrel and smaller frame. The G41 is significantly larger and offers better accuracy potential, while the 30S is more concealable. They serve completely different purposes.

Glock 41 vs 1911

The 1911 is a traditional .45 ACP design with a single-stack magazine (typically 7-8 rounds). The G41 offers higher capacity (13 rounds) and modern features like polymer frame and striker-fired action. The 1911 has a different feel and trigger system that some prefer.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • • Long sight radius for improved accuracy
  • • Longer barrel provides better velocity
  • • 13-round capacity in .45 ACP
  • • Proven Glock reliability
  • • Good for competition and precision shooting
  • • MOS version available for optics

Cons

  • • Large size makes concealment difficult
  • • Heavy weight (over 26 ounces with empty magazine)
  • • Less practical for everyday carry
  • • .45 ACP ammunition is more expensive than 9mm
  • • Longer slide can be slower to draw from holster
  • • May be too large for smaller-framed individuals

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Choose It

Best For

  • • Competition shooters who want .45 ACP with long sight radius
  • • Those who prioritize accuracy over compactness
  • • Duty use where long barrel is acceptable
  • • Range shooters who want maximum .45 ACP accuracy
  • • Those who prefer .45 ACP and don't need to conceal

Consider Alternatives If

  • • You need a concealable pistol (choose Glock 30S or similar)
  • • You want a general-purpose .45 ACP (choose Glock 21)
  • • Budget is a concern (.45 ACP is expensive)
  • • You have smaller hands or frame
  • • You prioritize speed over precision

Glock 41 FAQ

Is the Glock 41 good for concealed carry?

No, the G41 is not practical for concealed carry. Its large size (8.78 inches long) and weight (over 26 ounces with empty magazine) make it difficult to conceal and uncomfortable to carry. It's designed for competition, duty, or range use where concealment isn't a priority.

What's the difference between Glock 41 and Glock 21?

The G41 has a longer barrel (5.31 inches vs 4.6 inches) and longer slide, providing a longer sight radius and better accuracy potential. The G21 is more compact and practical for general use. Both use the same frame and magazines.

Is the Glock 41 good for competition?

Yes, the G41 is well-suited for competition shooting, particularly in divisions that allow .45 ACP. The long sight radius improves accuracy, and the 13-round capacity is competitive. Some shooters prefer it over the standard Glock 21 for competition use.

Can you put a red dot on a Glock 41?

Yes, Glock offers a MOS (Modular Optic System) version of the G41 that comes with a factory-milled slide for mounting red dot sights. The standard G41 requires aftermarket slide milling to mount an optic.

What magazines does the Glock 41 use?

The G41 uses the same magazines as the Glock 21: standard 13-round magazines. It's also compatible with extended magazines and other Glock 21 magazine options.

Is the Glock 41 worth it over a Glock 21?

That depends on your needs. If you prioritize accuracy and don't mind the larger size, the G41 offers advantages. If you want a more practical, general-purpose .45 ACP, the G21 is a better choice. The G41 is worth it for competition or precision shooting applications.

Safety Considerations

Ammunition Compatibility

The G41 is designed for standard pressure .45 ACP ammunition. It can handle +P ammunition, but frequent use may accelerate wear. Always use ammunition that meets SAAMI specifications.

Holster Selection

The G41's long slide requires a holster designed for its specific dimensions. Not all Glock 21 holsters will accommodate the longer slide. Ensure your holster is specifically designed for the G41 or verify compatibility.

Draw and Presentation

The longer slide can make the draw slightly slower and requires more clearance. Practice your draw technique to ensure smooth presentation. The longer barrel also means more care is needed to avoid sweeping yourself or others during the draw.

Bottom Line

The Glock 41 is a specialized long-slide .45 ACP pistol designed for competition shooting, duty use, and applications where maximum accuracy is the priority. Its long barrel and sight radius provide advantages for precision shooting that the standard Glock 21 doesn't offer.

It's best for competition shooters, those who prioritize accuracy over compactness, and duty applications where the longer barrel is acceptable. The G41 is not practical for concealed carry and is less versatile than the standard Glock 21.

If you need a general-purpose .45 ACP, the Glock 21 is a better choice. If you specifically need the accuracy advantages of a long slide and don't mind the size, the G41 serves its purpose well. Consider your specific needs and whether the trade-offs are worth it for your application.