POTD: Rare First-Generation Glock 17L at Collectors Elite Auctions
Today’s Photo of the Day highlights a standout item from Collectors Elite Auctions’ December offering. A true first-generation Glock 17L, probably one of the most sought-after early pistols in the Glock lineage. The auction house’s monthly lineup focuses on scarce, investment-grade firearms, and this 17L should represent exactly the kind of transitional, low-production piece that attracts serious collectors.
If you think today’s Glock boxes are boring, imagine the one in the late 80s.
Introduced in 1988, the 17L was designed for competition, pairing the original Gen 1 polymer frame with an extended 6.02-inch barrel and a long slide featuring the characteristic lightening cut.
Because the model appeared just as Glock was phasing out the Gen 1 frame, only a small range of serial-number prefixes is known to correspond to authentic first-generation 17Ls, placing them among the rarest variants from the company’s early years.
This particular example carries matching numbers on the slide and frame, with its barrel correctly marked L433.
Condition is exceptional, showing minimal signs of handling. The pistol is accompanied by its factory-labeled case and a period-correct 17-round magazine, further enhancing its appeal.
Ported barrel, long before it became cool.
For collectors of early Glock history (or anyone interested in the evolution of modern polymer-framed handguns), this 17L should represent a notable opportunity to acquire a scarce piece from the platform’s foundational era.
For more details, check: https://www.gunbroker.com/item/1141848614
Source: CollectorsEliteAuctions.com
Ex-Arctic Ranger. Competitive practical shooter and hunter with a European focus. Always ready to increase my collection of modern semi-automatics, optics, thermals and suppressors. TCCC Certified. Occasionaly seen in a 6x6 Bug Out Vehicle, always with a big smile.
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I passed on one of these at a pawn shop back in 2006.
It's not perfect.