Gaston Glock, the innovative mind behind the iconic Glock handgun, passed away at the age of 94 on Wednesday. His contribution to the field of firearms design and manufacturing propelled the Glock company to international recognition and success.

Back in the 1980s, the Austrian military was in search of a new and groundbreaking weapon, which led Glock to assemble a team of firearms experts. Together, they developed the Glock 17, a lightweight semi-automatic gun that incorporated a unique design element - a frame made of high-strength, nylon-based polymer, while the slide was made of metal. This groundbreaking construction won Glock's design the contract, surpassing rival companies' blueprints.

The Glock 17 quickly gained popularity worldwide, becoming a favored weapon among police and military units. Its easy assembly and reliability made it a global hit. In fact, one notable incident involved U.S. soldiers discovering former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein hiding with a Glock in a hole in the ground in 2003. This specific weapon was later presented to U.S. President George W. Bush.

Despite its success, Glock faced criticism from gun-control advocates who argued that his firearms popularized more powerful guns and facilitated concealed carry with increased ammunition capacity. However, Glock himself remained reclusive and seldom engaged in public debate, rarely granting interviews.

The entrepreneur's commitment to his principles was evident in 2000 when he refused to join other weapons manufacturers in signing a voluntary gun control deal with the United States, further cementing his independence and diverging stance.

Notably, at the age of 70, Gaston Glock survived a targeted attack on his life. The court heard that Glock had grown suspicious of how his investments were being managed, prompting him to confront an investment broker in Luxembourg. This confrontation turned violent when the broker hired a former wrestler to attack Glock with a rubber hammer. Despite suffering seven blows to the head, Glock managed to fend off the assault. Both the broker, Charles Ewert, and the attacker, Jacques Pecheur, were subsequently imprisoned.

Gaston Glock's passing marks the end of an era in the firearms industry. His revolutionary designs and commitment to quality solidified the Glock brand's position in the market, leaving a lasting impact. The legacy of Gaston Glock will undoubtedly endure as his innovative firearms continue to be trusted and relied upon by professionals around the world.

(Note: This news article is based solely on the information provided and does not include any additional details beyond those mentioned.)