For years, I’ve searched for the perfect tool to supplement live-fire training. Dry-firing at home is essential, but it lacks the critical feedback of slide reciprocation and trigger reset. Trips to the range are invaluable but can be costly and time-consuming. The challenge has always been to find a middle ground—a training aid that bridges the gap between the living room and the shooting lane. The market is flooded with air pistols, but so many fall short. They feel like toys, their weight is off, the controls are mushy, and the trigger feels nothing like its firearm counterpart. This disconnect creates negative training scars, where you build muscle memory for an imitation that doesn’t translate to the real thing. I needed something that was, for all intents and purposes, a Glock 17 in every way except for the projectile it fired. A tool that would allow for hours of holster draws, sight acquisition drills, and trigger control practice with the authentic weight, feel, and mechanical feedback of the genuine article. This quest for a true 1:1 replica is what led me to the Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS BB Gun.
- Set your sights on the GLOCK 17 Gen 5 MOS-ready blowback BB pistol. Optics ready to accept your favorite pistol style reflex sight.
- Features the latest in GLOCK design innovation found in the Gen 5 iteration
What to Consider Before Buying a CO2 Blowback Air Pistol
A CO2 blowback air pistol is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for affordable, accessible, and realistic firearms practice. It solves the problem of high ammunition costs and the logistical challenges of frequent range visits. For enthusiasts, it offers a safe and enjoyable way to appreciate iconic firearm designs. The main benefits are building muscle memory for draws, reloads, and sight picture, all in the comfort of your own home or backyard (wherever legally permissible). The blowback action provides a tangible recoil impulse and cycles the slide, which is crucial for practicing follow-up shots and trigger reset—something static, non-blowback pistols simply cannot replicate.
The ideal customer for this type of product is a firearm owner seeking a training surrogate, a new shooter wanting to get comfortable with pistol handling fundamentals before moving to live fire, or an airgun collector who values authenticity and realism. It’s for the person who understands that the weight, dimensions, and function are paramount. However, it might not be suitable for those who are primarily focused on high-velocity pest control or single-shot precision target shooting, as pellet pistols often excel in those areas. It’s also not a children’s toy; its realistic appearance and function demand the same respect and safety protocols as a real firearm. For those seeking a different experience, a break-barrel pellet pistol might offer more power, while a classic revolver replica provides a different style of shooting enjoyment.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Realism & Dimensions: Does the air pistol replicate the size, weight, and controls of its firearm counterpart? For training purposes, a 1:1 scale is non-negotiable. Look for licensed replicas that pay attention to details like takedown levers, slide stops, and magazine releases. The closer it is to the real thing, the more valuable it is as a training tool.
- Action & Performance: The defining feature is the blowback action. A crisp, strong blowback enhances the realism and shooting experience. Consider the stated velocity (FPS – Feet Per Second), which for BB pistols is typically geared for plinking, not hunting. Also, investigate CO2 efficiency—how many usable shots or magazines can you expect from a single 12g CO2 cartridge? This directly impacts your cost per shot over time.
- Materials & Durability: A full-metal slide paired with a polymer frame, just like the actual firearm, is the gold standard for modern pistol replicas. This combination provides both realistic weight and long-term durability. Avoid all-plastic models if you’re looking for longevity and an authentic feel. As one user noted about a quality build, it should have a “solid feel with no odd ridges, lumps, bumps, or sharp edges.”
- Features & Maintenance: Modern features like an accessory rail for lights or lasers and optics-ready systems (like the MOS on this Glock) add significant value and versatility. Also consider the ease of loading the magazine and installing CO2 cartridges. Long-term care is vital; look for models that are easy to clean and lubricate. A simple tip, like adding a drop of airgun oil to the tip of each CO2 cartridge, can dramatically extend the life of the internal seals.
While the Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS BB Gun is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
Our Complete Guide to the Best Air Pistols for Target Shooting and Realistic Practice
- 15-Shot, .177 Caliber Bb Air Pistol
- 177 cal. BB Pistol with a smooth bore steel barrel
- Semi-automatic; .50 Caliber; 385 fps; 7.32" long
Unboxing and First Impressions of the Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS BB Gun
Opening the box, the first thing that struck me was the immediate sense of authenticity. There was no cheap, plasticky clatter. Instead, I was greeted by the solid, reassuring presence of the pistol itself. Lifting the Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS BB Gun from its packaging, the weight felt instantly correct. It wasn’t just heavy for the sake of it; the balance was right there in the hand, mirroring the feel of its 9mm sibling. The Gen 5 polymer frame has that familiar texture, providing a secure grip, while the metal slide adds the necessary heft and a cold, metallic touch. Racking the slide produced a satisfyingly solid sound—a clean, mechanical “clack-clack,” not the hollow sound of lesser replicas. We noted the attention to detail immediately: the ambidextrous slide stop, the reversible magazine catch, and the flared magwell are all present and fully functional. The drop-free magazine is also weighty and well-constructed, holding both the 18 BBs and the 12g CO2 cartridge. It ejects with authority, as one user rightly pointed out: “the spring just doesn’t ‘release’ the mag, it really ejects it, so be prepared to grab it.” This is exactly the kind of realism you want. Overall, the initial impression is not of a BB gun, but of a genuine Glock that happens to be powered by CO2. You can see its full feature set and detailed specifications online, but holding it is what truly convinces you of its quality.
What We Like
- Unparalleled 1:1 realism in weight, feel, and function
- Crisp, satisfying blowback action for a realistic shooting experience
- MOS (Modular Optic System) allows for easy mounting of red dot sights
- Durable construction with a metal slide and high-quality polymer frame
- Authentic Gen 5 features like ambidextrous controls and flared magwell
What We Didn’t Like
- High CO2 consumption, yielding about 5-6 magazines per cartridge
- Loading BBs into the magazine can be a bit slow and requires patience
A Deep Dive into the Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS BB Gun’s Performance
First impressions are one thing, but performance on the range is what truly defines a training tool. A replica can look and feel the part, but if it doesn’t shoot with consistency and reliability, it’s nothing more than a paperweight. We put the Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS BB Gun through its paces, focusing on the key attributes that matter most to serious shooters: authenticity in handling and function, the shooting experience itself, the game-changing MOS feature, and the practicalities of its power source and maintenance.
Authenticity and Realism: A True Training Companion
The single most impressive aspect of this air pistol is its devotion to realism. Umarex, holding the official Glock license, has replicated every curve, texture, and control with meticulous accuracy. When I placed it side-by-side with a firearm Glock 17 Gen 5, they were virtually indistinguishable in dimension and weight. This is not an approximation; it’s a mirror image. The benefit of this cannot be overstated for training. Every motion, from drawing from a holster (it fits all my Glock 17 holsters perfectly) to acquiring a grip and presenting the pistol, is a 1:1 transfer of skill. The magazine release is in the correct position and functions identically. The slide stop is not just a molded piece of plastic; it’s a functional, ambidextrous lever that locks the slide to the rear on an empty magazine and releases it with a satisfying snap. Even the trigger, often a major failing point in replicas, feels right. It has the characteristic Glock “safe-action” trigger blade and a clean, predictable break. One user described the trigger pull as “clean,” a sentiment we wholeheartedly agree with. This allows for genuine practice of trigger control without developing bad habits. The solid, all-metal construction of the slide and barrel, confirmed by users who noted it’s the “same weight size as original glock 17,” ensures that the balance and feel remain true, even during manipulation drills. This is the kind of build quality that inspires confidence, and it’s a feature that really sets it apart from cheaper alternatives.
On the Range: Blowback, Accuracy, and Shooting Experience
Picking up the Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS BB Gun and firing it for the first time is a revelation. The blowback is surprisingly forceful and crisp. With each pull of the trigger, the metal slide rockets back, ejecting a phantom shell and chambering the next BB with authority. It’s this kinetic feedback that makes all the difference. As one user aptly put it, the recoil “feels kinda like a 9mm recoil but toned down a little.” This is the perfect description. It’s not a violent kick, but it’s more than enough to disrupt your sight picture, forcing you to reacquire your target for follow-up shots—just like live fire. The cycle rate is fast, allowing for rapid strings of fire that are both fun and excellent for practicing recoil management. In terms of accuracy, we found it to be more than adequate for its intended purpose. At 20-25 feet, we could consistently keep all 18 shots within a 2-3 inch group, perfect for plinking at cans or practicing on silhouette targets. The standard Glock-style sights are clear and functional, but the real accuracy potential is unlocked with the MOS system. The stated velocity of up to 360 FPS is plenty for backyard fun, easily piercing cardboard targets and sending soda cans flying. The entire shooting experience is immersive, reliable, and, most importantly, an effective training simulation.
The MOS Advantage: Optics-Ready Versatility
The “MOS” (Modular Optic System) is the standout feature that elevates the Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS BB Gun from a great replica to a superb training platform. This system, once reserved for high-end firearms, involves a removable plate on the top of the slide that allows for the direct mounting of a miniature red dot sight. In a world where optics on pistols are becoming the standard, having this capability on a training tool is a game-changer. We mounted a Vortex Venom-footprint reflex sight (note: compatible optic plates may be required) and the transformation was immediate. Target acquisition becomes faster and more intuitive, allowing you to maintain a clear focus on the target rather than shifting between the front sight, rear sight, and target. For new shooters, it simplifies the aiming process immensely. For experienced shooters who use red dots on their primary firearms, it allows for seamless transition and practice with their preferred sighting system. This feature alone makes the pistol an invaluable tool for competitive shooters or anyone running a dot-equipped carry gun. It’s a forward-thinking addition that ensures this air pistol isn’t just a replica of a Glock, but a replica of a *modern* Glock, configured the way thousands of shooters run them today. The opportunity to train with an optic at a fraction of the cost is an incredible value, and you can check the latest price and availability for this optics-ready model.
Power, Efficiency, and Maintenance
Every CO2-powered gun involves a trade-off between performance and gas consumption, and the powerful blowback on this Glock is no exception. Our testing confirmed user reports: we consistently achieved between 90 and 100 shots per 12g CO2 cartridge, which translates to about five full magazines, sometimes a partial sixth. While this isn’t the most efficient use of CO2 on the market, it’s a fair price to pay for the robust and realistic slide action. A non-blowback pistol will always get more shots, but it sacrifices the very feature that makes this model such an effective trainer. Preparing the pistol for shooting is straightforward. The CO2 cartridge fits neatly inside the magazine and is pierced by tightening a hex screw at the base with the included Allen key. Loading the 18 .177 caliber steel BBs requires depressing a spring-loaded follower and dropping them in one by one. As one reviewer noted, it “takes a bit of patience,” but it’s a standard process for this type of magazine. For maintenance, we followed another user’s excellent advice and placed a single drop of air tool oil on the tip of each CO2 cartridge before insertion. This simple step keeps the internal seals lubricated, preventing leaks and ensuring the pistol runs smoothly for a long time. It’s a small investment in time that pays huge dividends in the longevity and flawless performance of the pistol.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general sentiment from users mirrors our own findings, with the vast majority praising the pistol’s stunning realism. One owner stated it is “the most realistic BB pistol I own in look, feel, and weight,” highlighting that the “blowback is crisp and the trigger pull is clean,” making it “great for safe handling drills and practice.” This aligns perfectly with our assessment of its value as a training tool. Another user celebrated its solid, all-metal feel and the powerful magazine ejection system. The most common point of criticism, which we also noted, is its thirst for CO2. The feedback that it “only shoots about 5 or 6 mags before you need more Co2” is accurate and something potential buyers should be aware of. We did encounter one very negative review, written in Spanish, which claimed the material was “muy malo” (very bad) and suggested it might be a “copia china” (Chinese copy). Given the overwhelming positive feedback on the pistol’s robust build and our own hands-on experience with its high-quality materials, this seems to be a significant outlier, possibly the result of a defective unit or an issue with a specific third-party seller rather than a reflection of the product line as a whole.
How the Umarex Glock 17 Compares to the Competition
While the Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS BB Gun excels as a modern training replica, the air pistol market offers a diverse range of options for different tastes and purposes. Understanding how it stacks up against other popular models is key to making an informed decision. We compared it to three distinct alternatives to see where it stands out and who might prefer a different style of air pistol.
1. Crosman SNR357 CO2 Revolver
- SNR357 - Sleek black, heavy-weight, full-metal body
- FUELED BY A 12-GRAM CO2 CARTRIDGE - Delivers speeds up to 400 fps with BBs and 500 fps with .177 caliber pellets (CO2 not included)
The Crosman SNR357 offers a completely different shooting experience rooted in classic revolver action. Its primary appeal is its dual-ammo capability, firing both .177 BBs and pellets from realistic-looking cartridges. This versatility is a major plus. The heavy, full-metal frame gives it a substantial feel, and the act of loading individual shells into the cylinder is a fun, immersive process. However, it lacks the semi-automatic function and blowback action of the Glock. It’s a six-shot revolver, making it slower to shoot and less suitable for drills that mimic modern semi-auto pistol handling. A shooter who loves the aesthetics of a snub-nosed revolver or wants the flexibility of shooting both BBs and more accurate lead pellets would prefer the Crosman SNR357. It’s more about nostalgic plinking than tactical training.
2. Umarex Trevox Air Pistol
- TNT (Turbo Nitrogen Technology) power system provides smooth and consistent shooting
- The 5-chamber SilencAir sound dampener is permanently affixed to the air pistol to reduce down range noise and maximize stealth
The Umarex Trevox occupies another niche entirely. As a break-barrel, single-shot pellet pistol, it requires no CO2 cartridges. Its power source is a gas piston that you compress by “breaking” the barrel for each shot. This results in higher velocity and greater potential for single-shot accuracy compared to the Glock BB gun. The Trevox is for the shooter who prioritizes precision target practice or light pest control. The trade-off is a complete lack of realism in terms of firearm replication and a very slow rate of fire. There is no magazine, no blowback, and the shooting process is methodical and deliberate. Someone who wants to practice marksmanship fundamentals and doesn’t care about simulating a semi-automatic firearm would find the Trevox to be a more practical and cost-effective choice in the long run, as its only consumable is pellets.
3. Crosman 1911BB Semi-Auto CO2 BB Air Pistol
- COMPACT POLYMER FRAME
- FUELED BY ONE 12-gram CO2 CARTRIDGE - Delivers speeds up to 480 fps (CO2 cartridge not included)
The Crosman 1911BB is perhaps the most direct competitor to the Umarex Glock 17. It replicates another legendary firearm platform, the Colt 1911, and offers a similar CO2-powered, semi-automatic blowback experience. It provides a satisfying recoil impulse and is great for plinking and getting a feel for the 1911’s ergonomics, including its classic frame and grip safety. The choice between the Crosman 1911BB and the Umarex Glock 17 often comes down to platform preference. Do you prefer the iconic, all-metal single-action 1911 or the modern, polymer-framed striker-fired Glock? The Glock replica, particularly this Gen 5 MOS version, has the edge in terms of modern features like the optics-ready slide and ambidextrous controls, making it a more versatile training tool for contemporary firearm owners.
Final Verdict: Is the Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS BB Gun Right for You?
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS BB Gun is far more than just a toy. It stands as one of the best 1:1 training replicas on the market today. Its unparalleled realism in weight, dimensions, and function makes it an incredibly valuable tool for any Glock owner or anyone serious about firearms training. The crisp blowback action provides essential feedback, and the game-changing MOS feature brings its training potential into the modern era of pistol optics. Its primary drawback is its appetite for CO2, a worthy trade-off for the performance it delivers. If you are looking for a high-power pest control tool or a hyper-efficient plinker, this may not be your first choice. But if you’re seeking an authentic, reliable, and incredibly effective platform for practicing holster draws, sight alignment, trigger control, and reloads, this air pistol is in a class of its own. It successfully bridges the gap between dry-firing and live-firing in a way few other products can.
For its exceptional quality and training value, we wholeheartedly recommend it. If you’re ready to take your practice sessions to the next level with an incredibly realistic and capable air pistol, we highly encourage you to find out more and purchase the Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS BB Gun today.
Last update on 2025-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API