When it comes to concealed carry handguns, the choice between the Glock 43 and the Glock 43X can be a tough decision.
These two popular models from Glock offer distinct features and designs, making it essential to understand their differences to make an informed choice. Glock 43 vs Glock 43X, let’s dive into the details.
Something about Glock 43 vs 43X
Glock 43
The Glock 43 is a single-stack, 9mm Luger caliber pistol that was first introduced in 2015. It is the smallest and lightest pistol in the Glock lineup, making it ideal for concealed carry.
The Glock 43 has a six-round magazine capacity, but there are aftermarket magazines available that increase the capacity to 7 or 8 rounds.
The Glock 43 is a striker-fired pistol with a polymer frame and a steel slide. It has a safe-action trigger system that includes three passive safeties. The pistol also has a reversible magazine catch and a built-in beavertail.
The Glock 43 is a well-made and reliable pistol that is popular among concealed carry enthusiasts. It is accurate and easy to shoot, making it a good choice for self-defense.
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 9x19mm (9mm Luger) |
| Action | Semi-automatic, Safe Action |
| Capacity | 6+1 rounds (standard magazine) |
| Barrel Length | 3.39 inches (86 mm) |
| Overall Length | 6.26 inches (159 mm) |
| Height | 4.25 inches (108 mm) |
| Width | 1.02 inches (26 mm) |
| Weight | Approx. 17.95 oz (510 g) unloaded |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Sights | Standard Glock polymer sights |
| Trigger Pull | ~5.5 lbs (25 N) |
| Safety | Trigger safety, firing pin safety, drop safety |
| Slide Stop Lever | Ambidextrous |
| Magazine Release | Reversible |
| Accessories Rail | Integrated for mounting accessories |
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X is a subcompact, single-stack, 9mm pistol manufactured by Glock. It was introduced in 2019 as a companion to the Glock 48, which has a longer slide.
The G43X has a compact-size grip length with a minimal profile and a built-in beavertail for a comfortably balanced, versatile grip that’s ideal for a variety of users.
It is chambered in 9mm Luger and has a 10-round magazine capacity. It is also available with a 15-round magazine. The G43X has a polymer frame and a steel slide. It is finished in black or nDLC.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 9x19mm (9mm Luger) |
| Action | Striker-fired |
| Capacity | 10 rounds (standard), 15-round aftermarket magazines are available |
| Barrel Length | 3.41 inches (86.61 mm) |
| Overall Length | 6.5 inches (165.1 mm) |
| Height | 5.04 inches (128.02 mm) |
| Width | 1.10 inches (27.94 mm) |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 18.7 ounces (529.1 grams) |
| Sights | Standard Glock sights (white dot) |
| Frame Material | Polymer (Reinforced with steel) |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Finish | nDLC (Nitride Diamond-Like Carbon) Coating |
| Trigger Pull | Approximately 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) |
| Accessory Rail | Yes (Glock accessory rail) |
| Safety | Safe Action System (Trigger safety, firing pin safety, drop safety) |
| Magazine | Detachable box magazine |
| Grip Texture | Rough texture |
Quick Glock 43 vs 43X Comparison Table
| Feature | Glock 43 | Glock 43X |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm Luger | 9mm Luger |
| Capacity | 6+1 rounds | 10+1 rounds |
| Slide Length | 6.06 inches (154mm) | 6.06 inches (154mm) |
| Overall Length | 6.26 inches (159mm) | 6.50 inches (165mm) |
| Width | 1.02 inches (26mm) | 1.10 inches (28mm) |
| Height | 4.25 inches (108mm) | 5.04 inches (128mm) |
| Weight (Unloaded) | ~17.95 oz (~509g) | ~18.70 oz (~530g) |
| Trigger Pull | ~5.5 lbs (~2.5 kg) | ~5.5 lbs (~2.5 kg) |
| Barrel Length | 3.39 inches (86mm) | 3.41 inches (87mm) |
| Frame | Single-stack | Slimline |
| Grip Texture | Stippled | Stippled |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds (standard) | 10 rounds (standard) |
| Sights | Fixed | Fixed or Glock Night Sights |
| Accessory Rail | None | Standard Picatinny |
Glock 43 vs 43X Design and Size
The Glock 43 and the Glock 43X are two popular subcompact pistols that are widely used for concealed carry. In this section, we will compare the design and size of both models to help you understand their differences.
Glock 43 Design
The Glock 43 is a single-stack, striker-fired pistol that is designed for concealed carry. It has a polymer frame and a stainless-steel slide. The pistol has a 6+1 capacity and is chambered in 9mm.
The Glock 43 is a very slim and compact pistol that is easy to conceal. It has a height of 4.25 inches, a length of 6.26 inches, and a width of 1.02 inches. The pistol weighs only 16.19 ounces unloaded.
Glock 43X Design
The Glock 43X is also a single-stack, striker-fired pistol that is designed for concealed carry. It has a polymer frame and a stainless-steel slide. The pistol has a 10+1 capacity and is chambered in 9mm.
The Glock 43X has a longer grip than the Glock 43, which makes it easier to hold and shoot. It has a height of 5.04 inches, a length of 6.50 inches, and a width of 1.10 inches. The pistol weighs 18.70 ounces unloaded.
Glock 43 vs 43X Size Comparison
The Glock 43 and the Glock 43X are both compact and easy to conceal, but they have some differences in size. The Glock 43 is smaller and lighter than the Glock 43X. It has a shorter grip and a shorter overall length.
The Glock 43X, on the other hand, has a longer grip and a longer overall length. This makes it easier to hold and shoot, but it may be more difficult to conceal for some people.
| Glock 43 | Glock 43X | |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 4.25 inches | 5.04 inches |
| Length | 6.26 inches | 6.50 inches |
| Width | 1.02 inches | 1.10 inches |
| Weight (unloaded) | 16.19 ounces | 18.70 ounces |
Overall, the Glock 43 and the Glock 43X are both well-designed pistols that are ideal for concealed carry.
The Glock 43 is smaller and lighter, which makes it easier to conceal, while the Glock 43X has a longer grip and a longer overall length, which makes it easier to hold and shoot.
Ultimately, the choice between these two models will depend on your personal preferences and needs.
Glock 43 vs 43X Magazine Capacity
The Glock 43 and 43X are both compact, single-stack 9mm pistols, but the 43X has a slightly larger frame and grip, which allows for a larger magazine capacity. The Glock 43 comes with a standard 6-round magazine, while the Glock 43X comes with a 10-round magazine.
The Glock 43X magazine is designed to be longer and narrower than the Glock 43 magazine, which allows for a larger capacity without adding too much bulk to the grip. The magazine extends 2 and 7/8 inches below the grip itself, which can provide a more comfortable grip for shooters with larger hands.
It’s worth noting that the Glock 43X can also use the same magazines as the Glock 43, so shooters who already own a Glock 43 can use the same magazines with the Glock 43X.
However, the Glock 43 cannot use the larger magazines designed for the Glock 43X. Overall, the larger magazine capacity of the Glock 43X can be an advantage for shooters who want a compact pistol with a higher round count. The Glock 43 may be a better choice for those who prioritize a smaller grip and easier concealment.
| Glock 43 | Glock 43X |
|---|---|
| 6-round magazine | 10-round magazine |
| Magazine length: 5.67 inches | Magazine length: 6.26 inches |
| Magazine weight (empty): 1.16 ounces | Magazine weight (empty): 1.87 ounces |
In conclusion, the magazine capacity of the Glock 43 and 43X is an important factor to consider when choosing a compact 9mm pistol. The Glock 43X offers a larger magazine capacity, while the Glock 43 prioritizes a smaller grip and easier concealment.
Glock 43 vs 43X Trigger and Recoil
The trigger on both the Glock 43 and 43X is similar, with a smooth pull and a crisp break. However, some shooters may find the factory trigger pull weight of around 6 pounds to be too heavy. Fortunately, there are aftermarket trigger upgrades available that can reduce the trigger pull weight and improve the overall feel of the trigger.
When it comes to recoil, the Glock 43X has a slight advantage over the Glock 43 due to its slightly larger size and weight. The added weight helps to reduce felt recoil, making the 43X more comfortable to shoot for extended periods of time. However, both handguns are chambered in 9mm, which is a relatively mild cartridge, so recoil should not be a major concern for most shooters.
It is worth noting that the recoil spring assembly on the Glock 43X is different from the one on the Glock 43. The 43X uses a dual recoil spring assembly, which is designed to reduce felt recoil and improve the durability of the handgun over time. The Glock 43, on the other hand, uses a single recoil spring assembly.
Overall, both the Glock 43 and 43X are reliable and accurate handguns that are well-suited for concealed carry. While the 43X may have a slight advantage in terms of recoil, the difference is not significant enough to make a major impact on performance. Ultimately, the choice between these two handguns will come down to personal preference and individual needs.
Glock 43 vs 43X Sight and Accuracy
The Glock 43 and 43X are both designed with the same Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) which is known for its accuracy and reliability. The GMB is a polygonal rifled barrel that is designed to improve accuracy and reduce bullet deformation. Both models have a sight radius of 5.24 inches, which is the distance between the front and rear sights.
However, the Glock 43X has a longer sight radius than the Glock 43 due to its longer slide and barrel. This longer sight radius can improve accuracy and make it easier to acquire targets. Additionally, the Glock 43X comes with a standard Glock front sight and a Glock Night Sight rear sight. The Glock Night Sight is a tritium-powered sight that provides an illuminated sight picture in low-light conditions.
While the Glock 43 only has a standard white dot front sight and a white outline rear sight. However, both models can easily be upgraded with aftermarket sights to improve accuracy and sight picture.
When it comes to accuracy, both models are capable of shooting accurately at self-defense distances. However, the longer sight radius of the Glock 43X and the addition of the Glock Night Sight can make it easier to shoot accurately in low-light conditions and at longer distances.
Glock 43 vs 43X Price and Value
The Glock 43 and 43X are both popular concealed carry handguns, but how do they compare in terms of price and value?
According to True Gun Value, as of 2023, the average price for a new Glock 43X is around $519.77, while a used one goes for around $440.83. The 12-month average price for a new Glock 43X is slightly higher at $530.65. On the other hand, the Glock 43 has an average price of around $460 for a new one and $400 for a used one. Therefore, the Glock 43X is generally more expensive than the Glock 43.
However, it’s important to consider what you’re getting for the higher price of the Glock 43X. One key difference is the increased magazine capacity of the Glock 43X, which holds up to 10 rounds compared to the Glock 43’s 6-round magazine. This can be a significant advantage in a self-defense situation where every round counts.
Another factor to consider is the size and weight of the two handguns. The Glock 43X is slightly larger and heavier than the Glock 43, which may or may not be a concern depending on your personal preferences and needs. The Glock 43X also features a longer grip, which can be beneficial for those with larger hands.
Ultimately, the decision between the Glock 43 and 43X comes down to personal preference and intended use. While the Glock 43 is generally more affordable, the Glock 43X offers increased magazine capacity and a longer grip. It’s important to handle both guns and consider your specific needs before making a purchase decision.
FAQs
Can I use Glock 43 magazines in the Glock 43X and vice versa?
No, the magazines are not interchangeable between the Glock 43 and Glock 43X due to differences in design and dimensions.
Can the Glock 43X magazines fit in the Glock 43 with an extended grip?
No, the magazines for the Glock 43X are designed specifically to fit its wider frame and will not properly fit or function in the Glock 43’s narrower frame.
Are there magazine extensions available for the Glock 43 and Glock 43X?
Yes, there are aftermarket magazine extensions available for both models. These extensions can provide additional grip surface and may increase magazine capacity slightly.
Can I convert my Glock 43 into a Glock 43X or vice versa?
Converting a Glock 43 into a Glock 43X (or vice versa) would require significant modifications to the frame and components, which is not recommended. It’s generally more practical to choose the model that best suits your needs from the outset.
Do both models have the same trigger safety features?
Yes, both the Glock 43 and Glock 43X incorporate Glock’s Safe Action System, which includes trigger safety mechanisms to help prevent accidental discharges.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between the Glock 43 and the Glock 43X, there are a few key differences to consider. The Glock 43 is smaller and lighter, making it easier to conceal, while the Glock 43X offers a higher capacity magazine and a more comfortable grip.
Ultimately, the decision between these two guns will come down to personal preference and intended use. For those who prioritize concealment and portability, the Glock 43 may be the better option. On the other hand, those who prioritize capacity and comfort may prefer the Glock 43X.
It’s also worth noting that both guns are highly reliable and accurate, making them great choices for concealed carry. Whether you choose the Glock 43 or the Glock 43X, you can feel confident knowing that you have a high-quality firearm at your disposal.
Shelly Jark Drakny is a retired SF weapons sergeant (E-5 or above) with a military occupational specialty (MOS) code 18B. He served 24 years in the military, including assignments in SF, Infantry, and Special Forces.