If you keep an eye on the handgun market, you’ve likely noticed a change running through the GLOCK ecosystem. The manufacturer has quietly discontinued a wide range of models — including several Gen 5 variants of its cornerstone G17.
For gun stores and distributors, that kind of move from a brand as dominant as GLOCK can trigger a perfect storm of demand, speculation and rapid inventory turnover.
Demand Surges, Inventory Shrinks with GLOCK Change
According to Outdoor Analytics, overall GLOCK sales have jumped more than 30% since the discontinuation list began circulating, with G17 sales climbing 40%. Inventory levels are reportedly down by roughly 60%, and major distributors such as Lipsey’s are already fully allocated.
In the resale market, scarcity is driving bidding wars. Two Gen 5 G17 MOS pistols recently broke the $2,000 mark on GunBroker — a clear signal of what collectors and enthusiasts are willing to pay when supply tightens.
Interestingly, not all models are affected equally. The long-slide G17L MOS remains stable in both availability and price, while the standard Gen 5 G17 MOS continues to evaporate from shelves. Customers are prioritizing the MOS variant for its optics-ready platform, and the moment news of scarcity hit, demand followed.
Retail Insight: Watch the G19 MOS
The next model to watch could be the G19 MOS. GLOCK’s updated catalog reportedly lists only one G19 MOS variant — a distributor-exclusive — with commercial sales of the G19 COA already halted.
Outdoor Analytics data shows G19 sales up 40%, suggesting a similar run could follow as inventory tightens. Retailers who anticipate that trend and secure allocation early could capture strong sales momentum before prices spike further.
Don’t Panic — Prepare
For gun stores, the key takeaway is to strategically manage GLOCK inventory over the next several months. Consider:
- Locking in distributor orders now before allocations close.
- Highlighting MOS models (especially G17 and G19 Gen 5) in-store and online (GunBroker).
- Engaging collectors and loyal GLOCK customers with updates on discontinued SKUs.
- Adjusting pricing and promotions to reflect changing demand rather than chasing secondary-market spikes.
Even in a brand as steady as GLOCK, sudden changes can create both sales challenges and opportunities. Staying ahead of the curve — and keeping your customers informed — is the best way to turn this market disruption into a profitable moment.
Stores heavy with GLOCK inventory should consider listing said inventory on marketplaces, such as GunBroker. This puts desired models in front of interested customers, possibly willing to pay a premium for hard to find models, such as MOS GLOCKs.
