Glock 43 vs 43X: Which Glock is Best?

The Glock 43 and 43X are two popular subcompact pistols for self-defense. Both are highly valued for their slim design, accuracy, and shooting performance. However, if you want to invest in one of the models or are looking to understand them better, a detailed comparison of the Glock 43 vs 43x should be done.

At a single glance, you may not notice many differences between the two guns. They are both refined versions of the earlier stumpy Glocks, such as the G26. The pistols are designed to minimize discomfort while shooting for people with different hand sizes. Read on for a detailed comparison of these pistols and find out a great pick for yourself.

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Glock 43 vs 43X – Size and Specs

A single look at the size and specifications shows that the Glock 43X is larger than the G43. Glock 43X's frame is larger than 43. It also has a higher capacity than the G43.

Glock G43 vs G43X - Ergonomics and Design

When talking of ergonomics, we compare grip size, weight distributions, beavertail design for recoil management, and other small innovations for comfort.

The Glock 43X is decisively better in these aspects. It has an elongated grip, which feels better in the user's hands, unlike the shorter grip of the G43. The extensive grip makes drawing and aiming easier. Racking the slide is also effortless because of the larger grip in the G43X.

Glock 43X's weight increases when it's loaded, but because of the larger grip size, it is distributed evenly. The even distribution of this subcompact pistol's weight makes recoil manageable. Both the pistols feature a beavertail design. However, the G43X aids in managing recoil and muzzle flips. The Glock 43 eliminates slidebite for users with hands that are huge for the shorter frame.

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Magazine Capacity Differences Between the Glocks

The magazine capacity of the Glock 43X is higher. It offers 10+1 rounds compared to 6+1 rounds. Both the pistols are single-stack models and use the same Luger 9mm cartridge.

Also, the increased weight of this pistol model is due to its higher capacity. The greater capacity of the G43X makes it ideal for various emergency and defense situations more than the G43.

However, with the aftermarket parts, especially magazine base pads for the Glock 43, this difference in magazine capacity is reduced considerably. Currently, a +3 machined aluminum magazine base pad makes the capacity of the G43 9+1. So, it comes very near to the 10+1 capacity of the G43X. Moreover, when the aftermarket base pads are installed, the Glock 43 becomes a good high-capacity concealed-carry pistol.

Differences in Trigger Reach and Pull

The Glock 43 and 43X have single-action (SA) trigger. It does not cock the Glock and releases when you pull the striker. The retracting slide cocks the gun. The G43X has a Slimline trigger with a shorter trigger reach (2.64 inches) than a regular Glock trigger, making it more user-friendly. This gives it a short trigger pull. However, the G43 has an even shorter trigger reach of 2.56 inches, which is why it's suitable for people with small hands.

Additionally, the Glock 43X has a trigger pull weight of 8 lbs compared to the 5.4 lbs of the Glock 43. This weight range makes both the Glocks ideal for self-defense purposes.

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Slide and Optics Comparison Between Glock 43 Vs 43X

The Glock 43's stainless steel slide is broader than the G43X's slide, which is made of steel and has an nDLC finish. There is a minute difference of 0.2 inches.

The big difference is the presence of forward cocking serrations in the G43X apart from the rear ones. The G43 does not have forward cocking serrations, so you cannot rack a slide by holding just the rear serrations. If you want to find a gun for tactical training purposes, the presence of forward cocking serrations in the G43X will suit you.

Additionally, the G43X has a Modular Optics System (MOS), which is not the case with the G43. MOS means that the G43X has a slide that is milled to support a micro-optic like Shield RMSC.

The latest version of the Glock 43X is available with a slim GLOCK mounting rail system. With it, you can attach a light closely aligned to the gun's bore in front of the trigger guard. In turn, it allows you to have a two-handed grip. This feature makes the Glock 43X ideal for competition shooting and target shooting.

Differences in Accuracy Between the Glock 43 and 43X

There are no major differences in the accuracy of pistols. It mainly depends on how comfortably you can grip the gun. If your hands are large, the bigger grip of the G43X will help you get a more accurate shot than the G43. Conversely, people with small hands will find the smaller grip of the G43 better than 43X.

Both the Glocks give accurate shots at defensive distances and up to 20 yards. However, at longer distances of over 20 yards, the short radius of both the guns hinders accuracy. This is not a downside because both guns are made for self-defense. Also, the better quality ammunition you use and the more you practice, the more accurately you will shoot.

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Differences in Recoil and Comfort

In the recoil department, no Glock scores over another significantly. Since both are small pistols, the recoil and muzzle rise are noticeably sharper. If you have used Glock 19 and Glock 17, you will certainly find the recoil impulse more.

However, after closely comparing the recoil of the pistols, it was found that the wider frame of the G43X makes the recoil easier to handle. It facilitates the consistent firing of follow-up shots, which can be challenging for the Glock 43 because of its smaller grip.

Differences in Concealability

The Glock 43 is decisively more suitable for concealed carry than the Glock 43X. The low capacity, slim design, and thinner grip make it easy to disguise compared to the bigger Glock 43X. So, if concealment and comfort are your top priorities, using the Glock 43 will be a better choice. If you are looking for more firepower, go with the G43X, but remember to wear loose clothes to minimize printing.

Which Glock is the Best?

The Glock 43X is comfortable to grip, has more firepower, and shoots nicely. It differs from the Glock 43 in terms of size, ergonomics, and concealability. If you have big hands and aren't concerned much about concealability, the Glock 43X will be a great option.

Note that there are no major differences between the shooting performance, accuracy, and recoil of these pistols. These striker-fired pistols with a single-action trigger are based on the same caliber. The Glock 43X has a higher capacity than the G43, making it ideal for firing more rounds without reloading.

However, if you have the Glock 43, there is no need to discard it. You can customize it further with the various aftermarket accessories. Likewise, you can make your Glock 43X more robust with aftermarket parts. The final decision rests with you.