Hello, everyone! I’m Ruben Rodriguez, and today I want to share my reinvigorated passion for firearms and my recent trip to the Quickshot Firing Range here in Atlanta, Georgia. Firearms have always fascinated me, and I’m thankful to live in a country where the Second Amendment gives us the right to own and responsibly use them.
Although I have a concealed carry weapons license and sometimes carry here in Georgia, I want to preface this post by stating that I have no formal training. My knowledge comes from common sense and what I’ve picked up through personal experience and, of course, countless YouTube videos. With that said, I had the opportunity to test out four different Glock models recently, and I’d love to share my thoughts on each of them.
The Glocks I Shot at the Range
1. Glock 44 (.22 LR)
Don’t underestimate the Glock 44 just because it uses .22 LR ammo! While it’s often seen as a training pistol, it’s surprisingly viable for personal protection and home defense—especially when paired with the right grain and bullet type. I love this gun for training because the ammo is incredibly affordable, making it a great way to hone your skills without breaking the bank.
2. Glock 42 (.380 ACP)
This compact firearm is an excellent choice for concealed carry. Its small size makes it easy to carry discreetly, and it’s a solid option for those looking for a lightweight yet reliable weapon.
3. Glock 43X (9mm)
Another fantastic choice for concealed carry, the Glock 43X combines compactness with the stopping power of a 9mm round. It strikes a great balance between size and performance, making it a go-to for many.
4. Glock 21 (.45 ACP)
The Glock 21 is an absolute powerhouse. Chambered in .45 ACP, it’s a formidable option for home defense. While it’s a bit too large for concealed carry, its accuracy and stopping power are unmatched. I particularly enjoyed shooting this one and felt especially confident with it at the range.
My Range Experience
I had a blast testing out these firearms, but the day wasn’t without its surprises. Shooting the Glock 44, I found it challenging to maintain accuracy, possibly because of its light weight and my tendency to shoot faster with it. The Glock 42 presented some ejection issues during my session—likely due to user error—but it’s still a solid firearm.
When it came to the Glock 43X and Glock 21, I felt much more at ease. The 43X’s compact size and 9mm rounds made it smooth and reliable, while the 45 Auto of the Glock 21 delivered consistent accuracy and felt incredibly satisfying to shoot.
Reflecting on My Firearms Journey
I’ve been shooting for much of my life, but I’m now dialing in my focus to become a more skilled and responsible firearm owner. Training with different models like these Glocks helps me understand their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal uses. While I may not have formal training, I rely on common sense and continuous learning to improve.
Closing Thoughts
I hope you enjoyed reading about my experience with these incredible Glock firearms. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or someone just getting started, I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or suggestions in the comments below. Sharing this passion with others is what makes the firearms community so great!
Thank you for reading, and if you’d like to stay updated on my journey, don’t forget to follow me on social media and subscribe for more content. Until next time—stay safe, train hard, and always practice responsible gun ownership!
Ruben Rodriguez
Firearms Enthusiast and Proud Advocate of the Second Amendment