Glock G31 Gen4: The Definitive Guide to a High-Performance .357 SIG Pistol

For serious firearm enthusiasts, self-defense practitioners, and law enforcement professionals seeking a powerful, precise, and exceptionally reliable handgun, the Glock G31 Gen4 chambered in the formidable .357 SIG caliber stands out as a premier choice. This comprehensive guide explores every facet of the G31 Gen4, revealing why it’s consistently recommended by experts and trusted in demanding environments.

Unleashing Velocity: Why Choose the .357 SIG Caliber?

One of the most compelling reasons to consider the Glock G31 Gen4 is its chambering in .357 SIG. This unique cartridge, developed by SIG Sauer in collaboration with Federal Cartridge, was engineered to replicate the ballistic performance of the legendary .357 Magnum revolver cartridge, but in a self-loading pistol platform.

• Exceptional Muzzle Velocity: The .357 SIG is renowned for its high muzzle velocity, often exceeding 1350 feet per second with standard loads. This attribute is crucial for several reasons:
  • Enhanced Terminal Performance: Higher velocity translates to more effective energy transfer upon impact, contributing to superior terminal ballistics for self-defense and law enforcement applications.
  • Flatter Trajectory: A flatter trajectory over longer distances improves accuracy and makes hitting targets at extended ranges more forgiving, ideal for both duty use and competitive shooting.
  • Superior Barrier Penetration: The high velocity also aids in penetrating various intermediate barriers, a critical factor for professional use.
• Consistency and Reliability: While powerful, the .357 SIG maintains excellent feeding reliability in modern semi-automatic pistols like the Glock G31. Its bottlenecked case design often contributes to smoother chambering compared to straight-walled cartridges.
• Law Enforcement Preference: Many law enforcement agencies worldwide have adopted the .357 SIG due to its proven performance, making the Glock G31 Gen4 a familiar and trusted sidearm for those in uniform. If you're looking for a handgun with a proven track record in demanding professional scenarios, the G31 Gen4 offers that assurance.

The Evolution of Excellence: Decoding Glock Gen4 Features

The Glock G31 benefits significantly from the design enhancements introduced with the Gen4 series, elevating its ergonomics, adaptability, and overall shootability. What makes a Gen4 Glock a preferred option for many users?

• Modular Backstrap System: A common question among new shooters or those with varying hand sizes is, "How can I get the best grip on my handgun?" The Gen4 answers this with its innovative modular backstrap system. It includes three interchangeable backstraps (small, medium, and large, including a beavertail option in later Gen4 models) that allow users to customize the grip circumference and trigger reach. This adaptability ensures an optimal and secure grip for a wider range of hand sizes, enhancing control and comfort during shooting.
• Rough Textured Frame (RTF): The frame features an aggressive, yet comfortable, rough textured grip (RTF). This enhanced surface provides a superior, non-slip hold even in adverse conditions such as rain, sweat, or when wearing gloves. This improved traction is vital for maintaining positive control, especially during rapid firing or stressful situations.
• Reversible Magazine Catch: Understanding that modern shooters are often ambidextrous or prefer specific configurations, Glock integrated a reversible enlarged magazine catch. This feature allows users to switch the magazine release button to the left or right side of the frame, accommodating both right-handed and left-handed shooters effortlessly. This seemingly small detail significantly improves user convenience and operational efficiency.
• Dual Recoil Spring Assembly: The Gen4 models, including the G31, incorporate a dual recoil spring assembly. This upgrade is designed to significantly reduce felt recoil, making the powerful .357 SIG caliber more manageable and comfortable to shoot, especially during extended range sessions or rapid follow-up shots. It also contributes to the pistol's longevity and reliable operation.
• Optimum Hardness & Corrosion Resistance: The advanced surface treatment applied to both the slide and the cold-hammer forged barrel of the G31 Gen4 provides optimal hardness, drastically reducing wear and tear. Furthermore, this treatment makes the components highly corrosion-resistant, even in harsh environments like saltwater conditions. This ensures the pistol’s durability and extends its service life, a critical factor for any firearm intended for serious use. The matte surface also minimizes light reflection, a tactical advantage.

Glock's Legendary Safe Action® System: Uncompromised Safety and Performance

When evaluating a firearm for self-defense or duty, safety is paramount. The Glock Safe Action® System is a cornerstone of Glock's design philosophy, providing consistent reliability without requiring manual safeties that could slow down deployment. How does Glock ensure safety while maintaining readiness?

1. Trigger Safety: A small lever on the face of the trigger must be depressed simultaneously with the trigger itself to allow the trigger to move rearward. This prevents accidental discharge from impacts or snags on clothing.
2. Firing Pin Safety: A spring-loaded safety plunger blocks the firing pin channel, preventing the firing pin from moving forward unless the trigger is pulled. This prevents accidental discharge if the pistol is dropped.
3. Drop Safety: A rear safety bar prevents the firing pin from moving forward until the trigger is fully pulled, ensuring that the pistol cannot discharge if dropped.

All three safeties disengage sequentially as the trigger is pulled and automatically reengage when the trigger is released. This intuitive system provides a consistent trigger pull from the first to the last round, contributing to reliable and predictable operation under stress. This elegant solution allows for quick, decisive action without fumbling for external levers or switches, a significant advantage for self-defense and law enforcement applications where seconds count.

Ergonomics and Design: A Glock for Every Hand

Beyond its internal mechanisms, the physical design of the Glock G31 Gen4 is meticulously crafted for user comfort and operational efficiency.

• Ideal Grip Angle: The Glock frame is engineered with an ideal grip angle that naturally points the pistol on target for most shooters, reducing the need for conscious adjustment and aiding in faster sight acquisition.
• Low Weight Polymer Frame: Constructed from durable polymer with hardened steel guides, the frame maintains a low overall weight (approximately 33.16 oz with an empty magazine), making the G31 Gen4 comfortable for extended carry without compromising robustness.
• Intuitive Controls: The slide stop lever and the magazine catch are positioned for easy operation with the shooting hand, minimizing hand repositioning and allowing for quicker reloads and manipulations.
• Loaded Chamber Indicator: The extractor serves a dual purpose as a loaded chamber indicator. Its position visually and physically indicates whether a cartridge is present in the chamber, enhancing safety and compliance with laws in certain jurisdictions.
• Integrated Picatinny Rail: The frame features an integrated Picatinny rail, allowing for easy attachment of tactical lights, lasers, and other accessories. This expands the pistol's versatility for low-light operations or specific tactical requirements.

Who is the Glock G31 Gen4 For?

The Glock G31 Gen4 is a versatile firearm that caters to a broad spectrum of users.

• Law Enforcement and Security Professionals: Given its adoption by numerous agencies, the G31 Gen4 is an excellent choice for officers and security personnel requiring a reliable, powerful, and easy-to-maintain duty weapon. Its high-velocity .357 SIG caliber provides excellent barrier penetration and terminal performance.
• Responsible Civilian Self-Defense: For those seeking a powerful and dependable handgun for home defense or concealed carry (where legal and permissible by size), the G31 Gen4 offers the stopping power and reliability synonymous with the Glock brand. Its 15+1 capacity provides ample firepower.
• Sport Shooters and Competitors: The pistol's inherent accuracy, consistent trigger pull, and the .357 SIG's flat trajectory make it suitable for various shooting sports, particularly those involving longer distances or steel targets. The reduced felt recoil from the Gen4's dual recoil spring also contributes to better follow-up shots.
• Firearm Enthusiasts: Collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate high-performance cartridges and robust, proven designs will find the G31 Gen4 a valuable addition to their collection.

Maintaining Your Glock G31 Gen4: Simple Care for Enduring Performance

Glock pistols are renowned for their rugged durability and ease of maintenance. To ensure your Glock G31 Gen4 performs optimally for years to come, here are some basic care tips:

• Regular Cleaning: After each shooting session, especially after firing many rounds, field strip your pistol and clean the barrel, slide, and frame. Remove carbon buildup from the bore, chamber, and breech face.
• Proper Lubrication: Apply a thin layer of quality firearm lubricant to designated areas, such as the slide rails, barrel exterior (where it contacts the slide), and trigger components. Avoid over-lubricating, as this can attract dirt and debris.
• Magazine Care: Clean your magazines periodically. Disassemble them and wipe down the follower, spring, and inside of the magazine body to remove dirt, carbon, or debris that could impede feeding.
• Ammunition Selection: Use high-quality, factory-loaded ammunition from reputable manufacturers. While the .357 SIG is powerful, using ammunition that matches the pistol's specifications is crucial for both performance and safety.

The Glock G31 Gen4 comes standard with essential accessories, including three 15-round magazines, a magazine loader for easier loading, a cleaning kit to help you maintain your firearm, a backstrap set for ergonomic customization, and a pistol case for secure storage and transport. A gun lock is also included for safety.

Why Trust DEGuns for Your Glock G31 Gen4?

When considering an investment in a high-performance firearm like the Glock G31 Gen4, choosing a reputable supplier is as important as choosing the right pistol. At DEGuns, customers can find this exceptional firearm, backed by the assurance of quality and service. DEGuns is committed to providing a comprehensive selection of firearms and accessories, ensuring that responsible citizens and professionals have access to reliable and high-quality equipment. The Glock G31 Gen4, with its UPC 764503016523, represents a pinnacle of handgun engineering, and it is available through trusted sources like DEGuns.

The Glock G31 Gen4 in .357 SIG is more than just a handgun; it's a testament to Glock's commitment to reliability, safety, and performance. Its high-velocity cartridge, combined with the ergonomic and functional improvements of the Gen4 series, makes it a formidable tool for self-defense, professional use, and recreational shooting alike.

Glock G31 Gen4 Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Glock
Series	Gen4
Model	G31
Caliber	.357 SIG
Capacity	15+1
Barrel Length	4.49 inches
Overall Length	7.95 inches
Weight	33.16 ounces (empty magazine)
Frame Material	Polymer
Frame Finish	Black
Slide Material	Steel
Slide Finish	Matte Black
Grips	Black Texture with Interchangeable Backstrap
Action	Safe Action (DAO)
Sights	Fixed
Safety System	Firing Pin / Trigger Block
Barrel Type	Cold Hammer Forged Steel
Rail	Picatinny Rail
Includes	3 Magazines, Mag Loader, Cleaning Kit, Pistol Case, Backstrap Set, Gun Lock
SKU	PG3150203
UPC	764503016523