The Beretta APX A1 Compact and the Glock 19 are two handguns that often come up in conversations when discussing concealed carry and personal defense. Both have reputations built on performance, but they appeal to shooters in different ways.

The Beretta APX A1 Compact is a refreshed design of the original APX Compact which emphasizes modern design, modularity, and refined ergonomics. The Glock offers proven reliability, simplicity, and aftermarket support that have made it one of the most widely adopted pistols in the world.

Comparing the two requires more than a glance at specifications. Let’s examine their ergonomics, triggers, concealability, performance, aftermarket options, and long-term ownership value so you can decide which one best fits your needs.

Ergonomics and Grip

The Beretta APX A1 Compact highlights modularity in its design. It comes with interchangeable backstraps that allow shooters to adjust the grip size for improved comfort and control. The grip texture provides a secure hold without feeling overly aggressive, which is particularly helpful during extended-range sessions. 

The serialized portion of the Beretta APX A1 Compact is in the fire-control assembly. This design allows for users to take out the trigger assembly and drop it directly into a different frame if desired. Beretta offers different frames that accommodate larger magazine capacities and color options.  

Slide serrations run along the entire length of the slide, giving a confident purchase for press checks and manipulations under stress. The APX A1 Compact comes equipped with a fiber optic front sight and newer optics-ready slide. Beretta offers multiple adapter plates to fit your favorite red dot.

The Glock 19 features their iconic polymer frame design that shooters worldwide recognize instantly. Its grip angle, while debated, has become second nature for many who train consistently with Glock pistols. 

The texture strikes a balance between comfort and traction. However, shooters with sweaty hands often opt for grip sleeves or stippling for improved control. The current Glock 19 Gen-5 does feature interchangeable backstraps for a more custom fit. 

Glock uses steel painted white dot front sights and does not come standard with an optics ready slide. The Gen-5 model features updated slide serrations making it easier to manipulate in stressful situations. If you want an optics-ready slide, the Glock 19 MOS models feature Glock’s optic mounting system.

Trigger Performance

The Beretta APX A1 Compact comes with a flat-faced trigger designed to give a cleaner break and shorter reset. There is an integrated blade safety mounted on the trigger shoe. Modern shooters prefer the flat surface because it promotes a consistent finger placement, leading to smoother pulls and tighter groups. Many find the short reset beneficial for faster follow-up shots.

The Glock 19 uses its standard “Safe Action” trigger system which also incorporates a blade safety into the trigger shoe. The take-up feels longer compared to the Beretta, and the break is slightly less crisp, but it delivers a predictable pull every time. 

That predictability is one of the reasons Glock shooters train effectively under pressure. While some prefer the stock feel, others enhance the trigger with aftermarket kits to achieve a lighter or crisper break.

Size and Concealability

Compact pistols must strike a balance between shootability and concealment. Dimensionally, both the Glock 19 and Beretta APX A1 Compact are close, but the Beretta has the edge in concealability overall being smaller than the Glock 19.

The Beretta APX A1 Compact features rounded edges for comfortable carry. The overall length and width are slightly smaller than the Glock 19. The shorter dimensions of the APX A1 Compact will be easier to conceal year round.

The Glock 19 falls into a slightly larger category but remains one of the most popular concealed carry handguns in America. Its size offers a middle ground. It’s big enough to shoot comfortably for extended sessions but small enough for everyday carry. 

The Glock’s blockier profile does make it print a little more in specific holsters, but its near-universal availability of holster designs solves most concealment challenges.

Beretta APX A1 Compact vs. Glock 19 Gen-5 Dimensions:

Capacity and Magazines

The Beretta APX A1 Compact ships with 1 x 15-round (or 10-round if living in a restricted state) 9mm magazines. Its design focuses on reliability, with easy-to-load magazines that feed smoothly. For most defensive scenarios, the capacity is more than sufficient.

The Glock 19 ships standard with 3 x 15-round (or 10-round if living in a restricted state) magazines, offering additional value. Owners can use higher-capacity magazines from full-size Glock pistols, such as the Glock 17 or Glock 34, without modifications. 

This cross-compatibility appeals to shooters who want a single firearm for both carry and range use. Glock’s widespread popularity also means magazines are inexpensive and easy to find, an advantage for long-term ownership.

Reliability and Performance

Reliability sits at the top of the list for anyone choosing a defensive firearm. The Beretta APX A1 Compact has developed a reputation for consistent accuracy and durable construction. Its low bore axis and heavier slide reduces muzzle rise, allowing shooters to manage recoil effectively. 

For those who want a pistol that strikes a balance between comfort and control, the Beretta delivers strong results.

The Glock 19, however, has become the standard bearer for reliability. Law enforcement and military agencies across the world rely on it for duty use, and civilian shooters echo the same trust. 

It functions reliably with a wide range of ammunition types and runs in harsh conditions with minimal maintenance. While the Beretta holds its own, the Glock’s decades-long track record gives it an edge for those who prioritize proven performance.

Aftermarket Support and Accessories

The aftermarket world plays a significant role in determining the versatility of a pistol. Glock dominates this space. Owners can choose from a nearly endless supply of sights, triggers, slides, barrels, and holsters explicitly designed for the Glock 19. 

Customization is easy and affordable, allowing shooters to tailor the gun to their exact preferences.

The Beretta APX A1 Compact has growing aftermarket support, but not on the same scale as Glock. Shooters can find holsters, sights, and some trigger upgrades, but options remain limited compared to the Glock ecosystem. Luckily Beretta manufactures a wide range of aftermarket accessories for the APX line.

For those who enjoy customizing firearms extensively, the Glock provides more opportunities. For those who prefer a pistol that performs well out of the box, the Beretta’s features satisfy most needs without modification.

Price and Long-Term Value

The Beretta APX A1 Compact is often available at a slightly lower price point than the Glock 19. For budget-conscious buyers, that difference can make a meaningful impact. The Beretta offers modern features, such as its optic-ready slide and modular grip system, at a competitive cost, making it an appealing choice for those seeking maximum value.

The Glock 19, while sometimes more expensive initially, tends to hold its value better. Its reputation, demand, and aftermarket support keep resale prices strong. 

Buyers seeking long-term ownership and potential resale may view the Glock as a more substantial investment. Marketplaces like GunsAmerica offer a reliable way to compare prices and availability for both new and used models.

Ownership Considerations

Ownership extends beyond the initial purchase. The Glock 19’s global popularity ensures easy access to parts, magazines, holsters, and accessories almost anywhere. Owners rarely struggle to find replacements or upgrades, making maintenance simple.

The Beretta APX A1 Compact, while not as widely supported, still benefits from Beretta’s long-standing reputation for quality. Parts and accessories may require more searching, but owners generally find what they need through authorized dealers or online retailers. 

For those who prioritize out-of-the-box performance over customization, the Beretta offers everything necessary for reliable carry without additional upgrades.

Final Thoughts

The Beretta APX A1 Compact and Glock 19 each bring strengths to the table. The Beretta appeals to shooters who want modern ergonomics, a crisp trigger, and modularity at a competitive price. The Glock remains the king of proven reliability, supported by decades of duty use, unmatched aftermarket options, and substantial resale value.

Both pistols perform well for concealed carry and personal defense. The right choice depends on what you value more. Either way, you end up with a dependable pistol capable of protecting you when it matters most.

FAQs

1. Which pistol has better ergonomics for small hands?

Shooters with smaller hands should find that both the Beretta APX A1 Compact and the Glock 19 Gen-5 will be comfortable to use thanks to the interchangeable backstraps.

2. How do the triggers compare during live fire?

The Beretta APX A1 Compact provides a flat-faced trigger with a crisp break and short reset, which many shooters find improves accuracy during rapid fire. The Glock 19 trigger has more take-up and a slightly longer reset, but it maintains a consistent feel across all Glock models. Shooters who train extensively with Glocks often develop muscle memory that compensates for the difference.

3. Is the Glock 19 easier to maintain than the Beretta?

Both pistols are straightforward to maintain, but Glock’s reputation for simple disassembly and fewer internal parts gives it a slight edge. The Beretta requires a similar level of cleaning and care, and it performs reliably with regular maintenance. For most owners, the difference in upkeep is minimal once a cleaning routine is established.

4. Which pistol handles recoil better?

The Beretta APX A1 Compact benefits from a lower bore axis, which reduces muzzle rise and makes recoil more manageable for many shooters. The Glock 19 has a slightly higher bore axis but balances recoil with its proven frame design and weight distribution. In both cases, proper grip and stance play a larger role than design alone in controlling recoil.

5. Which pistol holds value better over time?

The Glock 19 tends to retain its value better due to its widespread use, high demand, and extensive aftermarket support. Beretta’s APX A1 Compact holds value as well, but its resale prices are generally lower compared to Glock models. Buyers seeking long-term investment potential often lean toward the Glock, while those looking for modern features at a lower upfront cost may prefer the Beretta.