Gaston Glock, the revered weapons designer who created one of the most popular handguns in the world, has passed away at the age of 94.
Gaston Glock, born in Vienna, Austria, in 1929, is best known for developing the Glock semi-automatic pistol, which is the most common handgun in the world and is used by law enforcement, military, and civilians alike. First following the Austrian Army’s request in 1982, the Glock model G17 9mm Parabellum handgun was designed—a weapon Glock spent three months developing from scratch. It was an instant success and skyrocketed in popularity for its light weight, durable polymer frame, and low price point, making it widely accessible.
In 1987, Glock released the right-handed version of the pistol, followed by a compact version in 1996 and a long-slide version in 1998. He continued to improve the design over his lifetime, and the Glock pistols are now available in various sizes and calibers.
Glock was also something of a maverick in the weapons industry, often eschewing traditional conventions. The Glock Company, which he founded in 1982, eschewed the use of a large sales force, and instead relied on excellent word of mouth for the success of the pistol. Glock himself became a billionaire in 2008, thanks in large part to his company’s sales.
Gaston Glock leaves behind a remarkable legacy that is inextricably linked to the weapons industry. His development of the Glock was revolutionary and has had a profound impact on the industry. His memory will forever be remembered by those who have used his weapon or have been affected by it.
Gaston Glock, the revered weapons designer who created one of the most popular handguns in the world, has passed away at the age of 94.
Gaston Glock, born in Vienna, Austria, in 1929, is best known for developing the Glock semi-automatic pistol, which is the most common handgun in the world and is used by law enforcement, military, and civilians alike. First following the Austrian Army’s request in 1982, the Glock model G17 9mm Parabellum handgun was designed—a weapon Glock spent three months developing from scratch. It was an instant success and skyrocketed in popularity for its light weight, durable polymer frame, and low price point, making it widely accessible.
In 1987, Glock released the right-handed version of the pistol, followed by a compact version in 1996 and a long-slide version in 1998. He continued to improve the design over his lifetime, and the Glock pistols are now available in various sizes and calibers.
Glock was also something of a maverick in the weapons industry, often eschewing traditional conventions. The Glock Company, which he founded in 1982, eschewed the use of a large sales force, and instead relied on excellent word of mouth for the success of the pistol. Glock himself became a billionaire in 2008, thanks in large part to his company’s sales.
Gaston Glock leaves behind a remarkable legacy that is inextricably linked to the weapons industry. His development of the Glock was revolutionary and has had a profound impact on the industry. His memory will forever be remembered by those who have used his weapon or have been affected by it.
