g 43 x

G 43 X - When looking for a concealed carry pistol, the choice often comes down to two top contenders that are very similar but have enough different features to distinguish one from the other. In this case, let's compare the Glock 43 to the Glock 43X, a pair of subcompact single-stack pistols from the same manufacturer.

Glock pistols have a reputation for quality, accuracy, and reliability. It is also famous for its high ammunition capacity, double magazine and polymer frame. Single-stack concealed carry pistols in 9mm weren't exactly their strong point until April 14, 2015, when they released the Glock 43.

G 43 X

The G43 came on the heels of a slightly smaller stack in 380 ACP called the G42. The primary competition at the time for the G43 was the S&W M&P Shield series of handguns. The Shield was designed as a small carry pistol and Glock realized that this was the market share they needed.

Glock G48 / G43x Complete Frame

However, some G43 shooters complain about the new Glock pistols. That is, they found the handle too small. For some it is too narrow and for others the length is too short for accurate and comfortable shooting. The simple answer might be to add a magazine extension which can optionally add an extra round to the magazine capacity, however, the long grip is really what is needed.

Glock answered this call by producing the G43X. A slightly larger, single-stack concealed carry pistol with a long grip and a 10-round magazine capacity compared to the 6 found in the G43. So, which one is better? Learn more about the 43 and 43X below.

The names of the two pistols are very similar, which may be a bit confusing for the novice shooter or newcomer to the Glock family of firearms. However, they differ enough in their unique set of benefits to warrant a closer comparison.

Although Glock's two subcompact pistols are similar in appearance, the differences between the 43 and 43X are enough that, from a naming convention, Glock might use a different number in the designation instead of adding an X.

Glock Introduces Optic Ready Slimline Models G43x And G48

As mentioned earlier, the G43 is a compact concealed carry pistol with a single stack magazine. It can really be called a sub-compact Glock because it has such a small footprint. The barrel is 3.41 inches long and the pistol is about 6.26 inches long. The pistol is 1.08 inches wide and 4.25 inches tall. Holds 6 rounds in the factory magazine and weighs 20.64 ounces.

In contrast, the slightly larger Glock 43X has the same long barrel but is slightly longer at 6.05 inches. The slide length has been increased and is ¾ inch longer at 5.04 inches, as the 10-round magazine requires a slightly longer frame. It tips the scales at 23.07 oz. The main noticeable difference is that the slide has an nPVD coating that gives it a silver finish as opposed to the G43's flat black finish. However, Glock recently released the 43X with a black colored slide as well.

Both pistols have no side rails, which has been the mainstay of all Glock models for the past 20 years. This may have been done to increase the concealability factor of each pistol. However, certain companies such as Streamlight offer visible white light and visible lasers that cover the trigger guard. This allows the optional shooter to add a compact and powerful light on the weapon.

The new version of the 43X includes an optical mounting plate as an upgrade. There is no such option for the current G43.

Slimline Pistols Under Test: Glock 43x And 48

The only major difference between the two pistols is that the 43X slide is milled with a forward bent serration, while the G43 only has a rear bending serration milled into the slide. This is a good choice for shooters who may not have hand strength while only holding the rear tang. It's not a bad idea to do a check press, especially in a tactical pistol training class.

A byproduct of the larger G43X is increased factory magazine capacity. In this case, it's 10 rounds versus the G43's 6 round capacity. It should be noted that the magazine is not interchangeable between the G43 and G43X. So, when you're looking for a replacement magazine for your pistol, double check to make sure you're getting the right one.

If you have larger hands, the G43X's extra grip length and longer magazine and increased capacity may make sense.

Subcompact pistols like the G43 and G43X are not known as sticky drivers due to their short sight radius, compact ergonomics, and relatively light weight. However, from reading reviews online or in various gun magazines, these two pistols are quite accurate depending on the ammo and skill level of the shooter.

Glock 43 Vs 43x

Average accuracy levels for the G43 and G43X seem to be between 2 and 3 inches out to 50 feet. This is something that can be improved by using an aftermarket trigger or even a micro red dot sight like the one from Shield Systems that is small enough to mount inconspicuously on the slides of these compact pistols. Upgrade your Glock today by purchasing our aftermarket triggers and other upgrades!

Depending on the shooter, the difference in accuracy can be negligible to significant. Shooters with larger hands may find the 43X more accurate than the 43 with its slightly wider and longer grip. Shooting with smaller hands may correctly recognize the image. In reality, most shooters probably won't notice a difference in accuracy. With trial and error, it may be possible to borrow a pistol from a friend for a session or frequent indoor shooting with enough rental parts to determine the best pistol for you.

Smaller guns like this are often unfairly criticized and lumped into the "often carried; rarely fired" category. While carrying often is never a bad thing. Shooting can rarely. Both pistols are reliable and accurate. The 43X offers a better gun grip for most shooters, and unless the shooter has small hands, it should win in the accuracy department.

There do not appear to be any major performance or reliability issues with any of these micro Glocks. As with all Glock pistols, there is an engineering and testing process before being released to the market. Everyone performs at their desired level before reaching the public arena.

Ll 803 Laserguard® Pro For Glock® G42, G43, G43x, G48

With all this information in mind and without any of the subcompact Glocks in your hands. 43X looks more interesting. The more comfortable grip frame, increased magazine capacity, and silver slide are very nice improvements and look like better production pistols, don't they?

That's when you need to step away from written words and pretty pictures and physically pick each one up to see how they behave and feel.

Where the G43 has a distinct advantage over its 43X sibling is that it's just a little more stealthy. Reading the measurement comparison above may not reveal this, but trying to carry one or the other in an attachment glove or ankle glove will certainly reveal the difference.

Obviously, the hardest part of any firearm to conceal is the grip. It may not be as wide or as long as the grip frame found on the 10mm G20 or G40, but sometimes just an inch or fraction of an inch can make a big difference between a concealed handgun and a “print”. Likewise, the G43 may be better suited for ankle carry.

Glock G43x Usa 9mm 3.4'' 10 Rd Dark Earth & Black Pistol

It depends on how much more comfortable you are as a sniper with the G43 or G43X. Hand size can play a role here, as can concealability. While both pistols can be carried openly rather than concealed, an open carry shooter may want to look at the larger, more fireable G19 or G17 models as opposed to these small Glocks.

All things being equal, it might come back to aesthetics. Some may prefer the silver finish of the 43X over the black finish of the G43. For some shooters it may be the other way around.

It ultimately depends on you. The slightly larger size and larger magazine capacity may appeal to some shooters while others appreciate the smaller size and weight of the G43. The bottom line is that you can't go wrong with either pistol. It all comes down to personal preference. Glock introduced its G43 in 2015 – part of the Slimline series – it didn't take long for the subcompact 9mm single stack to become a hit with enthusiasts. It measures 1.06 inches wide, 6.26 inches long, and 4.25 inches tall.

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