Choosing the right sidearm in Escape from Tarkov can significantly impact your survival rate. While many consider the pistol a secondary weapon, effective pistol use can mean the difference between victory and defeat, especially in close-quarters combat. This in-depth comparison analyzes the Glock and the M9, two popular pistol choices in Tarkov, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Glock 17/18/26: The Versatile Workhorse
The Glock family (represented here by the 17, 18, and 26) is a staple in Tarkov for good reason. Their reliability, relatively high capacity, and readily available modifications make them a solid choice for players of all skill levels.
Glock Advantages:
- High Capacity: The Glock 17 and 18 boast impressive magazine sizes, offering a significant advantage in extended firefights.
- Ergonomics: The Glock's grip is generally considered comfortable and easy to control, even under stress.
- Customization: A wide array of aftermarket parts are available, allowing you to tailor the Glock to your specific preferences and playstyle. You can adjust sights, add compensators, and even swap out the trigger for improved performance.
- Reliability: Glocks are renowned for their reliability, a crucial factor in the unforgiving world of Tarkov.
Glock Disadvantages:
- Recoil: While manageable, the Glock's recoil can be more pronounced than that of the M9, especially with heavier ammunition.
- Cost: Depending on the modifications and the market, Glocks can be expensive to acquire and maintain.
Beretta 92/92FS (M9): The Classic Contender
The Beretta M9, a classic sidearm in real-life and Tarkov, offers a different set of advantages and disadvantages compared to the Glock.
M9 Advantages:
- Recoil Management: The M9 generally exhibits less felt recoil than the Glock, leading to potentially faster follow-up shots.
- Open Sights: Many players find the M9's open sights easier to acquire targets with, especially at slightly longer ranges.
- Ambidextrous Safety: The ambidextrous safety lever offers enhanced control and adaptability for both right- and left-handed shooters.
M9 Disadvantages:
- Lower Capacity: Compared to the Glock, the M9 typically has a smaller magazine capacity.
- Customization Limitations: While aftermarket parts exist for the M9, the selection is considerably smaller than that for the Glock.
- Reliability Concerns (in-game): Although reliable in real life, some players report experiencing more malfunctions with the M9 in Tarkov compared to the Glock.
Glock vs. M9: The Verdict
The "better" pistol ultimately depends on your individual preferences and playstyle. There is no clear winner.
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Choose the Glock if: You prioritize high capacity, extensive customization options, and reliable performance above all else. The Glock excels in close-quarters combat and situations requiring sustained fire.
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Choose the M9 if: You value manageable recoil, easy-to-use sights, and an ambidextrous safety. The M9 might be a better choice for players who prefer more controlled, precise shots at slightly longer ranges.
Beyond the Basics: Ammunition Considerations
The choice of ammunition significantly impacts both pistols' performance. Experiment with different rounds to determine what works best for you. Factors to consider include:
- Penetration: How effectively the round penetrates armor.
- Damage: The amount of damage inflicted on targets.
- Recoil: The impact of the round on weapon control.
Ultimately, effective pistol use in Tarkov involves mastering both the weapon and its ammunition. Practicing with both the Glock and the M9 on the shooting range will help you determine which sidearm feels best in your hands and best suits your combat style. Remember to factor in your overall loadout and strategic approach when making your final decision.
