Sick Builds: Glock 19 Roland Special – Between Compact & Full Size
The Roland Special is a setup that originated in the US Special Forces – and has now achieved cult status here as well. In this episode of SICK BUILDS , Wolfgang presents his personal interpretation of the Glock 19 Roland Special – and explains why this build is more than just aesthetics.
What is a Roland Special?
In this episode of "SICK BUILDS," Wolfgang from Black Trident introduces his very own Glock 19 Roland Special. A weapon with a history—and not just because it was his first. The focus is on the build, the origins of the concept, and the question: Who is such a setup actually suitable for?
The origin: US special forces
The idea behind the Roland Special originated with American special forces. The fundamental question was: How do you optimize a compact pistol to deliver maximum performance for concealed carry—while simultaneously bridging the gap between compact weapons and full-size service pistols?
Especially around 2015, when this build became known, compact pistols like the Glock 43, 48, or the Sig P365 were not yet commonplace. Therefore, the idea was new and innovative at the time.
What does “compact” even mean?
Compact pistols are typically characterized by shorter slides and barrels, as well as a shorter grip. This makes them lighter and easier to conceal—but often also harder to control, especially during rapid bursts. The goal of the Roland Special approach was to compensate for this disadvantage through targeted upgrades.
The base: Glock 19
Wolfgang's weapon is based on a Glock 19 – but it looks completely different today than it did when I bought it. It was gradually tuned for performance and everyday usability. The focus wasn't simply on a "tactical upgrade," but rather on being a useful addition for realistic applications.
For whom does such a setup make sense?
A Roland custom build isn't for everyone. It's not a minimalist solution—it's for users who consciously value control, precision, and modularity. Whether for civilian EDC use or professional use, anyone seeking a balance between maneuverability and firepower will find a possible answer here.
Wolfgang's Glock 19 Roland Special Build List
- Glock 19 Gen4 MOS
- CMC Triggers Threaded Barrel Bronze
- ZEV Pro Comp V2
- Trijicon Bright & Tough Suppressor Height Sights
- Trijicon SRO 5 MOA Optic
- Jagerwerks x Black Trident BROS (available here)
- Black Trident Signature Backplate (available here)
- ZEV Universal Pro Magwell
- ZEV Extended Mag Release
- Ghost Minus 3.5 Connector
- Ghost Bullet Forward Slide Release
- Surefire X400U (Recommendation: X300U - available here)
- Black Trident Magazine Basepads +2 (available here)
Pro tip for inhibitions
Having problems with ammunition jamming on your Glock Roland Special? Try loosening the screws on your X300 weapon light – they might be too tight. This helped me clear jamming on my Glock 19.
Conclusion
The Glock 19 Roland Special is more than just a trend. It's a concept with a rich history, born out of practical experience – and still proving its worth years later. Wolfgang's personal version shows: You don't have to reinvent everything, but you should know why you're changing something.
