Glock 43 vs. Glock 43X: Choosing the Perfect Compact Pistol

Posted by GP on 7th Jun 2023

Glock 43 vs. Glock 43X: Choosing the Perfect Compact Pistol

When it comes to compact pistols, Glock has established itself as a trusted brand in the firearms industry. The Glock 43 and Glock 43X are two popular options that offer a balance of concealability, reliability, and firepower. In this blog post, we will compare the Glock 43 and Glock 43X to help you make an informed decision about which pistol suits your needs best.

Size and Concealability: Both the Glock 43 and Glock 43X are designed for concealed carry, but there are some key differences in size and dimensions. The Glock 43 is the smaller of the two, featuring a slim profile and a single-stack magazine that holds 6 rounds. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize deep concealment and prefer a more compact pistol.

On the other hand, the Glock 43X offers a slightly larger frame with a 10-round magazine capacity. It has a longer grip that accommodates a double-stack magazine, providing additional rounds and a more comfortable grip for individuals with larger hands. While it may be slightly less concealable than the Glock 43, the Glock 43X strikes a balance between concealability and capacity.

Capacity and Versatility: The Glock 43's single-stack magazine design allows for a slimmer grip, making it easier to conceal. However, its limited capacity may be a consideration for those who prioritize having more rounds readily available. Despite this, the Glock 43's compact nature makes it an excellent choice for backup or deep concealment purposes.

In contrast, the Glock 43X's double-stack magazine increases the capacity to 10 rounds. This higher round count can be a significant advantage in self-defense scenarios or situations where additional rounds may be necessary. Additionally, the longer grip on the Glock 43X allows for more control and a better shooting experience for those with larger hands.

Comfort and Shootability: The Glock 43 and Glock 43X share many similarities in terms of overall design and operation. Both pistols feature Glock's reliable Safe Action System and offer a consistent trigger pull. However, due to the differences in grip size, shooters with larger hands may find the Glock 43X more comfortable to handle and shoot. The Glock 43X's increased grip surface area and double-stack magazine make it easier to control and mitigate recoil.

Customization and Accessories: Glock pistols are well-known for their vast range of customization options, and both the Glock 43 and Glock 43X are no exceptions. With a wide selection of aftermarket sights, holsters, and magazine extensions available, shooters can easily tailor these pistols to their preferences and needs.

Conclusion: Choosing between the Glock 43 and Glock 43X ultimately depends on your specific requirements and priorities. If deep concealment and a slimmer profile are essential to you, the Glock 43's compact size and single-stack magazine might be the ideal choice. However, if you value a higher magazine capacity, greater comfort, and shootability, the Glock 43X's double-stack magazine and extended grip may be the better option.

Both pistols offer the reliability, durability, and reputation Glock is known for, ensuring that you can trust them in critical situations. Take the time to handle and test-fire both models, considering factors such as size, capacity, and personal comfort, to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and preferences. Whichever you choose, you can rest assured that Glock has designed these pistols to deliver the performance and dependability you expect from their firearms.