The reclusive engineer and tycoon, Gaston Glock, passed away at the age of 94, as reported by the company. He was the mastermind behind the development of the world-renowned Glock pistol, which gained immense popularity among police and military personnel worldwide. His family’s fortune was estimated at $1.1 billion in 2021 by Forbes.
Glock’s success story began in the 1980s when the Austrian military sought a groundbreaking weapon. Despite the company’s previous focus on military knives and consumer goods, Glock and his team of firearms experts designed the Glock 17, a lightweight semi-automatic gun primarily composed of plastic with a metal slide. The innovative design outperformed competitors’ models, leading to a lucrative contract for Glock’s company.
The Glock pistol quickly gained worldwide acclaim and was embraced by US police officers and popularized in music and movies. However, the firearm also faced criticism from gun-control advocates who argued that its power and concealability presented safety concerns. Tragic incidents involving the use of Glock pistols added to the controversy.
Gaston Glock was known for shunning public attention and rarely engaging in public discourse. His personal life also made headlines, including a harrowing assassination attempt and a high-profile divorce. Despite the controversies, he left behind a legacy of success and innovation.
He is survived by his wife, a daughter, and two sons.