Glock 20

The Glock 20 is the benchmark 10mm Auto pistol — a full-size platform with 15+1 capacity and a 4.61-inch barrel that gets the most out of the 10mm cartridge's substantial power advantage over 9mm and .45 ACP. Originally developed for law enforcement, the G20 found its strongest civilian following among hunters, outdoorsmen, and serious shooters who want maximum power in a semi-automatic pistol. It is the most widely carried sidearm for bear defense and one of the most capable hunting handguns available.

Read our full Glock 20 Buying Guide ↓

Why 10mm?

The 10mm Auto was designed in the 1980s as the most powerful practical semi-automatic pistol cartridge — and it delivers on that premise. A full-power 10mm load pushes a 180-grain bullet at 1,200+ fps, producing 575+ ft-lbs of energy that exceeds every standard defensive handgun cartridge and approaches .357 Magnum territory. For hunting applications — deer, feral hogs, black bear — the 10mm provides semi-automatic pistol power at handgun hunting ranges. For woods carry in bear country, it's the most practical semi-auto choice available. The G20's 15-round capacity provides substantially more shots than .44 Magnum revolvers while delivering comparable energy per round with quality hunting loads.

G20 vs. .44 Magnum for Hunting and Outdoors

The G20 and a quality .44 Magnum revolver (S&W 629, Ruger Super Redhawk) compete for the same role — maximum power handgun for hunting and bear defense. The G20's advantages: 15+1 capacity versus 6 rounds, faster reloads, lighter weight than most large-frame revolvers, and the full Glock aftermarket. The .44 Magnum's advantages: higher peak energy with hot loads, greater caliber selection for specific hunting applications, and the reliability simplicity of a revolver. For bear defense specifically, the G20 is the more capable choice for most people due to its higher capacity and manageable recoil.

10mm Ammunition Selection

10mm ammunition spans a wide power range — from reduced-power loads nearly equivalent to .40 S&W to full-power hunting loads that maximize the cartridge's potential. For defensive carry, Sig Sauer V-Crown 180gr and Federal HST 200gr are quality choices. For hunting, Underwood Ammunition and Buffalo Bore produce the highest-velocity full-power loads. For range training, Blazer Brass and Federal American Eagle 180gr FMJ keep training costs manageable. See our 10mm ammo page for current selection.

G20 Aftermarket and Customization

The G20 benefits from the Glock platform's deep aftermarket. A Lone Wolf or KKM aftermarket barrel is a popular upgrade that improves accuracy and supports cast lead ammunition the factory polygonal barrel doesn't recommend. Extended slide stops, magwells, and night sights are straightforward additions. For a hunting or outdoor carry G20, a quality purpose-built hunting holster provides secure carry on extended outdoor trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Glock 20 good for bear defense?
Yes — the G20 in 10mm with quality hard-cast or bonded expanding loads is one of the most recommended semi-automatic pistols for bear defense. Its 15+1 capacity and manageable recoil make fast accurate follow-up shots more practical than with large-frame revolvers. Buffalo Bore 220gr Hard Cast and Underwood 200gr Hard Cast are popular bear defense loads for the G20.

Can the Glock 20 shoot .40 S&W?
With an aftermarket .40 S&W conversion barrel, yes. The G20 frame accepts .40 S&W barrels and magazines, making caliber conversion practical for lower-cost training.

Does Impact Guns carry the Glock 20?
Yes. Impact Guns carries the Glock 20 Gen 4 and Gen 5 and ships nationwide. See our Glock brand page and 10mm ammo page for related products.