GLOCK 48 COA: Better Than an MOS

GLOCK 48 COA: Better Than an MOS

Avery Skipalis delivers an inside look at the GLOCK 48 COA. She received one of these pistols to review – and she tells us makes it stand out. This is not another take on an MOS ... it's better.

GLOCK has built its reputation on reliability, simplicity and performance. In my opinion, there is no more perfect partner than Aimpoint, the pioneer of red dot sights, to birth this exclusive package: the GLOCK 48 COA. 

>

Aimpoint and GLOCK are taking a much-needed and fresh approach to offering an optics-ready concealed carry pistol by offering a direct-cut, factory-milled slide using the Aimpoint A-CUT with a pre-installed COA optic. While some may mistake product for GLOCK’s traditional MOS (Modular Optic System), this is something entirely different – and it’s a game-changer. Let’s dive into why the 48 COA stands out.

Slimline Design for Everyday Carry

The GLOCK 48 COA is part of the Slimline series. This series offers a thin, compact frame designed for concealed carry without sacrificing comfort or performance. The 48 COA is equipped with a pre-installed Aimpoint COA 3.5 MOA red dot with a large field of view. 

This pistol features a GLOCK Marksman Barrel (GMB) with a 4.17-inch barrel, offering serious accuracy. A single-stack, 10-round magazine keeps the grip slim while still providing enough capacity for defensive use. At just 1.1 inches wide and featuring an ergonomic built-in beavertail, the GLOCK 48 COA offers a comfortable, natural grip that sits high in the hand for better recoil control. GLOCK has also shortened the trigger reach, making this an excellent option for shooters with smaller hands like myself or those who prefer a more intuitive trigger pull.

And here’s the cherry on top: if you already own a GLOCK 48, you can use the same holster. We love a win for your wallet.

What Sets the GLOCK 48 COA Apart: The Aimpoint A-CUT

A lot of people assume this is just another MOS model. It’s not. Instead of using GLOCK’s MOS, which requires adapter plates, the GLOCK 48 COA comes with a factory-milled, direct-cut slide designed exclusively for the Aimpoint Acro series of optics pre-installed.

Why does that matter?

• The optic sits lower in the slide, providing better sight alignment and a more natural point of aim.





• Eliminates the need for an MOS plate, ensuring a more secure fit while reducing the bulk.





• Co-witnesses with standard-height sights eliminates the need for suppressor-height sights.





• More durable & reliable with less moving parts. 

And one of my favorite features? Currently, you can only purchase the COA from GLOCK. The Aimpoint Acro features a closed emitter, meaning dirt, lint, sweat and rain stay out of your optic. If you carry daily, you already know how important that is.

Performance & First Impressions on the Range

The second I got my hands on the GLOCK 48 COA I could tell this setup was built for performance. Out of the box, it felt sleek, lightweight and balanced, and when I hit the range, I was even more impressed. Dot acquisition was fast and easy—no hunting for the reticle. The glass was crisp, buttons were tactile and easy to adjust, even while wearing gloves. The closed emitter kept debris out of my sight picture. Having sights that co-witness is a benefit as well. Manageable recoil ensures you’re able to get fast follow-up shots. 

Another small but significant design win? The battery compartment is on the side, not the bottom. That means you don’t have to remove your optic to swap out the battery. It’s the little things that truly make a big difference. And, of course, it wouldn’t be a GLOCK if it didn’t run flawlessly. Whether I was shooting range ammo or defensive loads, the GLOCK 48 COA didn’t miss a beat.

Pricing and Model Options

The GLOCK x Aimpoint COA series isn’t just limited to the GLOCK 48 COA. It’s available on the slimline models (G43X COA and G48 COA) with an MSRP of $1,002. Meanwhile, the full-size models (G19 Gen5 COA, G45 COA, and G47 COA) are priced at $1,165 MSRP.

Skip's Takeaway

If you’re looking for an optics-ready concealed carry pistol with a factory installed optic right out of the box, the GLOCK 48 COA is a top-tier choice. Here’s why I think it’s worth considering:
 

• Ultra-slim, comfortable for everyday carry.





• Factory-milled slide eliminates the need for an MOS plate.





• Low-profile red dot mounting means faster, more natural sight alignment.





• Easy-to-acquire red dot & tactile brightness buttons.





• A closed emitter keeps your optic clear in all conditions.





• Legendary GLOCK reliability with zero hassle.

Lastly, the Aimpoint COA red dot sight is not available separately from the GLOCK pistol with the Aimpoint A-CUT. This is GLOCK’s best optics-ready Slimline pistol yet. If you’re serious about carrying with a red dot, the GLOCK 48 COA is absolutely worth considering. If you’re already carrying a GLOCK 48 or 43X, this is a worthy upgrade, especially if you’re transitioning to a setup with an optic. The A-CUT design changes the game, offering a direct-mount red dot experience with zero adapter plates.

Source: GLOCK 48 COA: Better Than an MOS