Glock
Austrian manufacturer of the world's most popular polymer-frame pistol, dominant in US law enforcement
Overview
Founded by Gaston Glock in Austria in 1963, Glock became the dominant pistol for US law enforcement in the 1980s and 1990s. Today, approximately 65% of US law enforcement agencies carry Glock pistols — creating an enormous halo effect for civilian sales.
The Glock design, particularly its polymer frame, high magazine capacity, and simple disassembly, was genuinely revolutionary. It also made Glock a central target of early gun control debates (the "plastic gun" that could pass through metal detectors — a claim that was false but haunted the brand). US operations are managed through Glock Inc. in Smyrna, Georgia.
Key Personnel
Gaston Glock
Founder (deceased 2023)Austrian engineer who revolutionized handgun design. Died December 27, 2023, at age 94.
Josh Dorsey
Vice President, Glock Inc. (US)Leads US operations and the critical law enforcement sales relationships. The President of Glock, Inc. (US) is Günter Gigacher.
Legislative Wins / Policy Impact
- Defeated "plastic gun" legislation in the 1980s and 1990s
- PLCAA protections