The Glock 43 and Glock 43X are both semi-automatic pistols with slim profiles designed for concealed carry. They feature striker-fired actions with single-action (SA) triggers. The Glock 43 comes with a single-stack 6-round magazine and is chambered for the renowned 9mm Luger cartridge, offering more power than the .38 Special but less than the .357 Magnum. Due to its compact size, the G43 excels in self-defense scenarios and serves as an excellent choice for concealed carry (CCW).With self-defense and concealed carry being paramount considerations for many firearm enthusiasts. This article may help you find your answer to the glock 43 vs 43x question.
it's no surprise that numerous manufacturers have produced guns tailored to these needs. Among the Glock 43's competitors, the most noteworthy is its sibling, the Glock 43X, which offers subtle variations in design and features. Other contenders like the Sig P365 and S&W M&P Shield are also worth mentioning. In this comparison, we'll focus on the G43X and explore how it measures up to its famous counterpart, the G43, helping you determine which of these Glock siblings is the superior choice
But now, let’s take a look at glock 43 vs glock 43x, their similarities and differences to find out which one is better.
Introduction to Glock 43
The Glock 43 is a recoil operated semi-automatic pistol with a single-action (SA) trigger. The Glock 43 is a slim profile striker-fired handgun originally designed for concealed carry and self-defense purposes that quickly became very popular among many folks. The Glock 43 has a 3.39” long barrel and it is overall 6.26” long with a weight of 17.99-oz when unloaded. Due to its dimensions, the Glock 43 is ideal for concealed carry and there hasn't been many better CCW options released since its introduction back in 2015. For a more detailed look at this pistol, check out our Glock 43 review.
Introduction to Glock 43x
Now I said there might not be many better pistols that the standard G43, but the Glock 43x might be an exception to this rule.
The Glock 43X is a single-action, short-recoil operated, semi-automatic manufactured by the same Glock Ges.m.b.H., a very famous Austrian firearms manufacturer. The Glock 43X belongs to the Glock 43 family of pistols, all of which are designed for everyday concealed carry. Compared to the previous models, the Glock 43X offers higher magazine capacity, offering generous 10+1 rounds of ammo. This feature might actually be a real deal-breaker as it's definitely a positive that easily outweighs any glock 43x problems.
The pistol comes with a single-stack magazine and it relies on the use of the most popular everyday and service cartridge - the 9x19mm Parabellum. Even though the increased capacity results in a bigger magazine, the Glock 43 X is still quite compact so that it can meet the requirements of an ideal everyday carry gun. The pistol comes with a 3.41’’ long barrel and its overall length is 6.5 inches. The width of the pistol is 1.1 inch and its height is 5.04’’. For a more detailed inspection of the X version, check out my recent Glock 43x review.
glock 43 vs 43x difference
Although both the Glock 43 and the Glock 43X come from the same manufacturer and share the same model number, there are a few differences between them. While the G43 is smaller and more suitable for concealed carry, the G43X model is bigger and a little harder to conceal. But not impossible, especially within the right type of holster. Let’s now focus on glock 43 vs glock 43x main specs and features to find out which of these lovely pistols represents the better choice for you.
glock 43 vs glock 43x size comparison
Glock 43 vs 43x size is definitely a factor that counts. Especially, when you consider buying a new concealed carry gun or EDC gun. In that case, the smaller and more compact the gun is, the better result you get when concealed carrying it. On the other hand, if you’re looking for more comfortable shooting with higher fire power, that’s what the bigger guns offer. So size really counts.
When comparing the dimensions of the G43 and G43X, the Glock 43 is more compact and smaller than the 43X model. The Glock 43 is overall 6.26” long, 1.06” wide, 4.25” high and weighs 17.99-oz when unloaded. It comes with a 3.39” long barrel. In comparison to that the G43X is overall 6.5” long, 1.1” wide, 5.04 high and weighs 18.7-oz when unloaded. It has a longer barrel of 3.41” length.
So the G43X model is more heavy and less compact when compared to the Glock 43. And when keeping the ability to conceal in mind, the G43 is definitely more suitable for concealed carry than his bigger brother.
Glock 43x vs 43 size-wise, the better version is … the Glock 43.
glock 43 vs 43x magazine & capacity
Although both of these pistols, the Glock 43 and the Glock 43X are the same model numbers, they have different magazines and capacity so the glock 43 vs 43x continues. The Glock 43 initially comes with a single stack magazine that can hold up to 6+1 rounds of ammo. Compared to that, the Glock 43X has a bigger magazine capacity. Its magazine can hold up to 10+1 rounds of ammo and it is single stack as well. Both these gun models rely on the use of the same Luger 9mm cartridge.
The magazine capacity of both the G43 and the G43X can be easily increased with the aftermarket mag extensions. The Glock 43 extended magazine can hold up to a maximum of 32 rounds, which is quite amazing, minimizing reloading time and keeping you in the action. While the Glock 43X can go even further with its extended magazine capacity of 33 rounds. For both Glock pistols, the extended magazines cost from approx $15 to $50 depending on the type of the magazine.
It should be fairly obvious which gun is better when it comes to mag capacity ... the Glock 43X.
Glock 43 vs 43x ACCURACY AND RANGE PERFORMANCE
Shooting the Glock 43 provides an ultimate experience mainly for small-handed shooters who don't need all the extra grip. With the shorter grip of the G43, you have less control over the gun. Regardless, the recoil is pretty minimal and painless. Even with the standard plastic sights equipped, accuracy is spot-on with both the G43 and G43X.
Compared to that, the longer grip on the G43X brings you more control over it, which leads to less recoil, so you are able to fire follow-up shots more efficiently. And the beavertail lends a lot more comfort and control, eliminating the slide bite you can get from the G43. Overall, this helps you keep the gun on target and fire with more accuracy.
In this battle the point seems to be deserved by the G43X for its easy reload. The extra grip really goes a long way. Magazines on smaller guns can get caught on their way out, which happens from time to time also to the Glock 43 pistol. More about this and other eventual The 4 Major Problems Of Glock 43 can be found here (and in case you're interested in which problems the G43X might give you, check out The 4 Problems Of Glock 43X). But that isn't the case for the bigger G43X due to the elongated grip.
Based on overal performance and accuracy, the version that comes out on top is … the Glock 43X.
glock 43x vs glock 43 - Caliber & Firing Mechanism
Both, the Glock 43 and the Glock 43X, relies on the use of the 9 mm Luger alias 9 mm Parabellum. This cartridge was first adopted by the German Navy in 1904 and then by the German Army in 1908. This cartridge has since become the most popular and widely-used handgun cartridge in the world. Performance wise, the 9 mm cartridge has somewhat more power than the .38 Special but falls well short of the .357 Magnum. There is nothing to compare when speaking about the caliber as both these pistols rely on the use of the same 9mm cartridge.
The Glock 43 and the Glock 43 X not only use the same type of cartridge, but they use the same firing mechanism as well. They are both striker-fired pistols, featuring a single-action (SA) trigger. Meaning the trigger does not cock the gun, but only releases the striker when pulled. Cocking of the striker is performed by the retracting slide. The trigger is the only operating element. This kind of firing mechanism has a lower firepower than hammer-fired pistols. Although it doesn’t require the gun to be composed from that many parts and that results in a lower risk of any hardware malfunctions. As the G43 and G43X are the same when talking about the firing mechanism, there is nothing to compare.
Based on the same caliber and firepower, this round ends in… a TIE.
Glock 43 vs 43x dimensions
So far it looks the X version of the Glock 43 takes a slight edge. But before we rule the final verdict, let's have a quick look at the summary of the main specs of either of these excellent Glock carry guns. Check our the definitive Glock 43 vs 43x size comparison below:
|
|
GLOCK 43 |
GLOCK 43X |
|
Caliber |
9 mm Luger |
9mm Luger |
|
Width |
1.06 inch |
1.1 inch |
| Overal length |
6.26 inch |
6.5 inch |
|
Height |
4.25 inch |
5.04 inch |
|
Weight (loaded) |
17.99 oz. |
18.7 oz. |
|
Barrel Length |
3.39 inch |
3.41 inch |
|
Magazine |
Single stack |
Single stack |
|
Capacity |
6 + 1 (flush) |
10 + 1 (flush) |
|
Trigger |
Striker-fired |
Hammer-fired |
|
Frame |
Polymer |
Polymer |
|
Slide |
Steel w/ nDLC finish |
Stainless steel |
| MSRP | ca. $580 | ca. $600 |
glock 43 vs 43x FAQ
When it comes to concealment, the Glock 43 has a slight advantage over the Glock 43X due to its smaller size. The Glock 43X, while still suitable for concealed carry, is slightly larger and may be a bit more challenging to hide entirely. However, with the right holster and clothing, both pistols can be effectively concealed, and the difference in concealment is not significant for most users.
Whether the Glock 43 is better than the Glock 43X depends on your priorities. The Glock 43 is more compact, making it better for concealment, while the Glock 43X offers more rounds in the magazine for enhanced firepower.
The primary difference between the Glock 43 and Glock 43X magazines is their capacity. The Glock 43 typically comes with a 6-round magazine, while the Glock 43X features a larger 10-round magazine. This higher capacity is one of the key distinctions between the two models. It means you have more rounds available before needing to reload with the Glock 43X, which can be beneficial in self-defense scenarios.
Yes, both the Glock 43 and Glock 43X can generally use the same holsters. They share a similar frame design and size, making them compatible with many holsters designed for concealed carry. However, it's crucial to ensure that the holster you choose is explicitly designed to accommodate both models for a secure and reliable fit. Checking with the holster manufacturer or a knowledgeable firearms retailer can help you find the right holster that works for both Glock 43 and Glock 43X handguns.
As you can see in this chart, the Glock 43 is smaller, less heavy and more compact when compared to the bigger Glock 43X. The other main difference between these two pistols is within their magazine capacity. The Glock 43x has a higher initial magazine capacity than the Glock 43. Otherwise, they are very similar in design and material used.
How to carry Glock 43 and Glock 43x?
Although both the Glock 43 and the Glock 43X are compact enough to meet the concealed carry expectations, still one of them is more suitable for CCW. Are you asking which one? Definitely the Glock 43 and why? Easily because it is more compact and lightweight than the G43X making it easier to be hidden and used as a EDC gun.
But the important thing when considering to wear either the more compact Glock 43 or the bigger Glock 43X as everyday carry guns is to pair them with a well-fitting holster. Fortunately, there is a big offer of Holsters For Glock 43 as well as Holsters For Glock 43x whether you like the CCW better or not. And if you
CONCLUSION - Which version is better?
In the showdown between the Glock 43 and Glock 43X, the choice ultimately boils down to your specific needs and preferences. The Glock 43 offers a compact and lightweight option, ideal for concealed carry enthusiasts. It excels in self-defense scenarios and is perfect for those seeking a slim, easy-to-hide pistol. On the other hand, the Glock 43X, while slightly larger and heavier, compensates with a higher magazine capacity, providing 10+1 rounds of ammo. This extra firepower, along with improved control and accuracy, makes it a compelling choice for those prioritizing firepower and comfort.Both pistols share the same caliber and firing mechanism, but their size and magazine capacity are the key differentiators. If you value compactness and ease of concealment, the Glock 43 is the superior option. However, if you prioritize enhanced firepower and accuracy, the Glock 43X emerges as the winner in the glock 43 vs glock 43x battle. Ultimately, your choice depends on your specific use case and preferences, so carefully consider your needs before making a decision.
Finally we came to the conclusion on who is the winner of this battle. Although both the Glock 43 and the 43X were made by the same manufacturer and with regards to the same purposes, still there are a few differences that count. In general, the winner of this ultimate battle seems to be the Glock 43X, mainly due to higher magazine capacity and better accuracy. But when it comes to ability to conceal, the Glock 43 is definitely a better choice than the 43X. So each of these pistols has its pros and cons and it’s all up to your preferences. However, it is easy to say that either one of these guns would be great to take home.
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