Glock 43 vs Glock 43X

The Glock pistol set the standard for the double-stack magazine, allowing pistol owners and enthusiasts to carry up to twice the number of rounds without making the grip bulky and cumbersome for the hand. This does not mean Glock’s single-stack options are to be overlooked – quite the contrary. The Glock single stack line of pistols coupled to Glock’s amazing research and development team gave the gun world a subcompact pistol line that is ideal for standard concealed carry.

What started with the Glock 42, and is now up to the 48, means Glock has a strong foothold in the concealed carry market. Glock’s reliability and effectiveness in a subcompact with a reasonable MSRP makes either the Glock 43 or Glock 43X almost equal for concealed carry.

However, the two models have some differences. This blog will look at the two models in the 9 mm round for ease of convenience in comparing two Glocks. We have plenty of quality product upgrades for both the Glock 43 and Glock 43X.

Initial Comparison of Glock 43 vs. Glock 43X

The Glock 43 is the 9mm upgrade from the Glock 42 .380. The Glock 43 became such a fantastic seller that Glock came back with the 43X – expanding the single stack magazine for better capacity and performance.

The primary difference between the Glock 43 and Glock 43X is the size. At first glance, the two seem virtually identical. The average person would not notice the 0.04-inch difference in width (1.06 inches to 1.10 inches) or the 0.79 inch (4.25 to 5.04 inches) height when loaded with a full magazine.

Glock fans love the accessory rail on some of the current lines, but the accessory rail is absent on both the Glock 43 and 43X out of the necessity of conceal and carry. The Glock 43 is smaller by a slim margin.

In the world of concealed carry, small margins are big deals.

Weight Comparison Between Glock 43 and Glock 43X

There is, like the dimensions, a moderate weight difference of 2.43 oz. if both the Glock 43 and 43X have a loaded magazine with the same ammunition. A portion of the weight difference is the extra capacity of the Glock 43X. Strangely, some report the Glock 43 is a bit more top-heavy with a full magazine, resulting in a small forward droop when getting on target. Given this, most find the 43X to rest more comfortably in hand and feel like it is better balanced. It would seem the 2.43 oz. difference means faster time to target.

Ergonomics Comparison Between Glock 43 and Glock 43X

Glock takes their ergonomics seriously, and the Glock 43X ranks highly in this area for concealed carry. The more extended grip on the 43X makes drawing from a Kydex holster to on target swift and smooth. The Glock 43’s smaller grip meant taking a little more time, but for the trained individual, the difference is minor. Drawing a concealed pistol, particularly in a stressful situation, is difficult at best and almost impossible without regular practice and training.

Capacity Comparison Between Glock 43 and Glock 43X

Most people who use a Glock choose them because of the magazine’s capacity. This is also the case in the world of concealed carry.

If there were anywhere in the comparison that would have a real, objective difference, it is here with the magazine capacity. The 43X four additional rounds over the 43 is a distinct advantage in situations where the extra firepower is vital. This argument is easily quelled with the addition of the plus line of magazine extenders. The extra length on the magazine may make the concealment difficult on an ankle, but it will matter little for inside-the-pants concealment or in a bag.

Comfort Comparison Between Glock 43 and Glock 43X

The right holster is what makes the carry comfortable. The subcompact Glock models fit easily against the side of the body or ankle, with the 43X causing some difficulties with the side printing. This is easily worked around with the sheer number of holsters and accessories that make any concealed pistol fit snuggly and comfortably against the body.

Ultimately, even with a holster and accessories modeled to a specific body shape, the Glock 43 rests better than the 43X, largely due to the ammunition capacity.

Conclusion – Glock 43 or Glock 43X

If you are in the market for a concealed carry pistol – which one is the best between the 43 and 43x? That comes down to the same issue that so often happens when two virtually equal products are tested side by side – personal choice.

Regardless of what subcompact is chosen for a concealed carry, it is best to take a firearms safety course with a certified professional and spend time practicing with the pistol. This means the absolute fundamentals – limitations, drawing, getting on target, firing, reload, and returning the gun to the holster. These should be practiced until each move is second nature.

Lastly, be sure to check out the upgrades available for the Glock 43 and Glock 43X from Ghost Inc.

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