CZ P01 vs Glock 19: How to Choose One for Concealed Carry
With so many handgun models on the market, it can be hard to choose one for your daily CCW. Both CZ and Glock have long been leaders in the world of firearms, and in cases like these, it’s difficult to definitively say that one is better than the other.
So, how do you determine which pistol is right for you?
When comparing the CZ P01 vs Glock 19, it’s easy to see both pistols are incredibly reliable, accurate, and well-suited for everyday carry. They’re nearly identical in size, capacity, and features, with the main difference being that the P01 is equipped with an accessory rail.
In this article, we’ll get into the nitty-gritty about what sets these two firearms apart from one another so you can make an informed decision about which will best suit your needs.
CZ P01
Known for its impeccable balance, accuracy, and reliability, the CZ P01 has been a popular choice for concealed carry since its release in 2001. This model is a variant of the CZ 75, which is considered one of the most successful handgun designs in history.
The P01 is a common choice for everyday carry in part due to its forged aluminum alloy frame, which is still incredibly durable, but far lighter than steel alternatives. It also features a dust cover, decocker (allowing hammer-down carry), crisp trigger, and integral accessory rail adding weight to the front of the gun, reducing muzzle flip, and improving sight reacquisition.
The 9mm P01 can hold up to 15 rounds while still remaining a compact handgun, weighing 28.1 ounces and measuring 5.03 inches tall with a barrel length of 3.75 inches.
If you’re looking for a CZ P01 holster, check out our selection of Vedder Holsters Kydex IWB, OWB, and pocket carry holsters custom-made for your model.
Glock 19
By far one of the most popular firearms on the market, the Glock 19 is one of the best guns there is for concealed carry. And it’s not hard to see why. This compact pistol has traditionally been used as a backup weapon for police and is commonly carried by civilians as well.
Known for being incredibly reliable, durable, and accurate, the 9mm G19 is a striker-fired compact pistol designed with a locked breech and short recoil. It features Glock’s signature Safe-Action trigger system, which has three automatic and independently operated built-in mechanical safeties.
The Glock 19 is also an incredibly versatile option, coming with a modular backstrap so you can fit it to your hand size. It has a respectable 15-round capacity while only weighing 23.63 ounces and measuring 5.04 inches tall with a barrel length of 4.02 inches, so it’s still comfortable to carry on the daily.
If you’re in need of a Glock 19 holster, check out our selection of Vedder Holsters Kydex IWB, OWB, and pocket carry holsters custom-made for your model.
Glock 19 vs CZ P01: Specs
CZ P01 vs Glock 19: Size & Capacity
While these two pistols are pretty comparable in size and capacity, they do have a few small differences that may influence your choice. In terms of height, length, and width, the G19 and P01 are nearly identical. The CZ does have a slightly shorter barrel length, though it is also a bit thicker and weighs significantly more.
While the Glock 19 weighs 21.16 ounces and measures 5.04 inches tall, 1.26 inches wide, and 7.36 inches long with a barrel length of 4.02 inches, the CZ P01 weighs 28.1 ounces and stands 5.03 inches tall, 1.38 inches wide, and 7.2 inches long with a barrel length of 3.75 inches.
Both pistols come standard with a 15-round magazine capacity and are chambered in 9mm. One of the biggest differences between these two guns, however, is in price. The CZ P01 has an MSRP of $649 while the G19 costs a bit less at around $579.
Glock 19 vs CZ P01: Ergonomics
Frame
The Glock 19 is designed with a black polymer frame with a built-in beavertail allowing for a high and tight grip of the weapon. It also comes with modular backstraps, which are easily swapped to accommodate your specific hand size, making the 19 a great option for a variety of users.
The aluminum frame of the P01 may be lighter than its steel predecessor, but it’s still quite a bit heavier than the G19’s polymer. That being said, it is a truly durable and long-lasting frame, complete with a full-length dust cover that adds weight to the front of the pistol, which effectively reduces muzzle flip and increases overall accuracy. One distinct feature the CZ P01 has that gives it an advantage over the Glock 19 is its standard Picatinny accessory rail, which allows you to attach various lights and lasers if desired.
Slide & Barrel
When it comes to the slide and barrel of these two pistols, there are only a few small differences. The CZ P01 has a cold hammer forged steel barrel and a steel slide featuring aggressive front and rear serrations for a better grip even in slippery or wet conditions.
The Glock 19 is also designed with a steel slide that’s Tenifer-coated for improved durability and corrosion resistance and also comes with slide serrations.
CZ P01 vs Glock 19: Sights & Optics
Both of these models come with their manufacturer’s standard sights, though both can also be upgraded to those of your choice. Neither pistol comes optics-ready, however, so if optics are a must-have for you, you may want to consider a different model or look for a modified version through a dealer.
Glock 19 vs CZ P01: Controls
Safety
While both pistols come with safety features, the manufacturer’s approach is quite different. The CZ P01 comes with a decocking lever, a safety stop on the hammer, and a firing pin block safety. The G19, on the other hand, comes with Glock’s Safe Action trigger system, which is designed with three independent mechanical safeties that disengage as the gun’s trigger is pulled and re-engage when released, offering protection if the firearm is dropped.
Trigger
As far as triggers go, the Glock 19 comes with a pretty basic one. The G19 Gen 5 does come with Glock’s latest trigger variant, however, which features a rolling break. The P01’s DA/SA trigger has a heavy first-round pull, followed by lighter follow-up shots. Its decocker also allows the option of hammer-down carry if desired.
FAQ: CZ P01 vs Glock 19
What Does the 19 Mean in Glock 19?
It’s common knowledge that Glock firearms are differentiated by both generations and numbers, which can get a bit confusing, to say the least. So, what does the Glock 19’s “19” mean? In a nutshell, any given Glock model is assigned a number based on when it was patented. So, the Glock 19 was the manufacturer’s 19th patent.
Which Glock 19 Gen is the Best?
Not only are Glocks numbered based on when they were patented, but each model has multiple “generations” as well. Essentially, Glock goes through and periodically changes its pistols with various updates and improvements. While some people may have a personal preference for a certain generation, the best one is typically the most recent version. So, since the Glock 19 Gen 5 is the latest upgrade, it is arguably the best.
Is the CZ P01 Discontinued?
No. While some variants of the CZ P01 have been discontinued by the manufacturer, the base model is still in production.
Is CZ P01 Omega Any Good?
The CZ P01 Omega (which was discontinued in 2023) is a variant of the P01. The main difference between this model and the original is it came with CZ’s Omega trigger system, allowing you to switch from a decocker to safety operation like you can with a P07 or P09. Despite being discontinued, the CZ P01 Omega is arguably a good gun, with a mere 0.05% failure rate. It even replaced the CZ 75s that the Czech National Police used to carry. Although the manufacturer no longer makes these pistols, you can still find them used at some gun shops or through online brokers.
Which is Right For Me?
The right firearm for you all comes down to your personal needs and preferences. That being said, there are a few factors to consider that may skew you toward one or the other.
If you’re strictly looking for the lightest carry option, you’ll want to give the Glock 19 a try, as it’s nearly 7 ounces lighter than the CZ P01. However, if you plan to add accessories like a light or laser to your weapon, you’ll need to go with the P01 since the G19 is not equipped with a rail. Beyond that, the differences that may influence your choice are more minute and come down to personal preference.
If you’re looking for a new IWB, OWB, or pocket carry holster for a Glock 19 or CZ P01, visit our Holsters by Gun Model page for Kydex holsters that are custom-made for your weapon of choice.
Interested in items beyond holsters? Check out our Resources Page for links to recommended products like lights, lasers, first aid, maintenance, and more, and browse our selection of apparel, and accessories at our website, vedderholsters.com.
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