G19 Gen Top half Differences

[MegademiC]

Biggest question is are new gen3 barrels the same as gen 5 barrels?

So I've standardized on G19s at the moment, but due to available deals, I'm all over the map as far as gens... so:

I know gen 4-5 the only upper differences are:
1. slide
2. backplate
3. Drop safety/trigger safety plunger
4. sights

What about gen 3-4?

[CAMagnussen]

Gen 5, all the way, and don't look back.

[MWAG19919]

3-4

Different recoil spring (dual spring on gen 4 versus single spring in gen 3)
Textured frame on gen 4
Replaceable backstraps on gen 4 (gen 3 equivalent to “medium” backstrap)
Larger magazine release on gen 4
Gen 4 comes with 3 magazines (gen 3 comes with 2)
Gen 3 has a much more durable finish on the slide

I believe barrels are interchangeable in all generations of G19, though recoil spring assemblies are not.

[MegademiC]

3-4

Different recoil spring (dual spring on gen 4 versus single spring in gen 3)
Textured frame on gen 4
Replaceable backstraps on gen 4 (gen 3 equivalent to “medium” backstrap)
Larger magazine release on gen 4
Gen 4 comes with 3 magazines (gen 3 comes with 2)
Gen 3 has a much more durable finish on the slide

I believe barrels are interchangeable in all generations of G19, though recoil spring assemblies are not.

Thanks, I am under the impression they are the same, but I see some manufactures selling gen3/4 barrels, and gen 5 barrels.
Comparing my gen4 vs gen5, I see no difference, and I know you can convert gen4 guns to gen3 recoil assemblies.

I'm buying a barrel to fit all 3 gens of G19 (3,4,&5) and want to make sure this is going to work.

[Budget]

I thought the locking blocks were all different too? So even though it may fit, the way the barrel tilts could cause increased parts wear. Don't quote me on that for sure, but I thought there were a lot of changes on the Gen 5, including RSA, which would also effect things.

[jsbhike]

Gen 3 has a much more durable finish on the slide

I will throw in a caveat that that is likely not the case for Gen 3 guns produced in the early to mid 2000's.

[robbins290]

Budget, only the locking block on the 17 was changed. the 17.5 has the same size locking block as the 19 now.

The 19 barrel will git all 3 gens the OP asked about. Only difference is the lands and grooves in a gen 5.

[Budget]

Budget, only the locking block on the 17 was changed. the 17.5 has the same size locking block as the 19 now.

The 19 barrel will git all 3 gens the OP asked about. Only difference is the lands and grooves in a gen 5.

Thank you.

I was still thinking that even though all barrels will work with Gen 3/4/5 it still wasnt recommended. I swear I read that here. Could be mistaken.