Glock 26 vs 43X: Detailed Comparison and Key Features

Choosing between the Glock 26 and the Glock 43X for concealed carry can be tricky. Both models are compact, reliable 9mm pistols from Glock, but they cater to different needs. The Glock 26 offers a thicker grip with a higher magazine capacity, while the Glock 43X provides a slimmer design that is easier to carry discreetly.

The Glock 26 is known for its double-stack magazine, offering more rounds per load, which can be crucial in self-defense situations. Its compact size doesn't compromise performance but might feel bulkier in smaller hands. On the other hand, the Glock 43X features a single-stack design, which makes it lighter and easier to conceal but results in fewer rounds available.

Both guns are reliable and accurate, making them favorites among concealed carry users.

Key Takeaways

• Glock 26 has a higher magazine capacity but is bulkier.
• Glock 43X is slimmer and easier to conceal with fewer rounds.
• Both models are reliable and accurate for concealed carry.

Glock 26 and Glock 43X Overview

The Glock 26 and Glock 43X are two well-regarded subcompact pistols known for their reliability and performance. Both are chambered in 9mm, but they have distinct differences in their design and dimensions.

Historical Context and Development

Glock introduced the G26 in the mid-1990s as a subcompact option for concealed carry. Known as the "Baby Glock," the G26 gained popularity due to its small size and dependable performance. It was designed to offer the power of a full-sized 9mm in a more portable form.

The Glock 43X, launched in recent years, is part of Glock's slimline series. It was developed to provide a slimmer profile than the G26, enhancing comfort for concealed carry. The G43X combined aspects of the original Glock 43 with added grip length for better handling and capacity.

Size and Dimensions

The Glock 26 stands at 4.17 inches tall and 6.42 inches long. It has a width of 1.30 inches, making it a bit bulkier than its counterpart. The barrel measures 3.43 inches, and it weighs 21.69 ounces with an empty magazine. Its standard magazine holds 10+1 rounds, offering a decent capacity in a compact frame.

In contrast, the Glock 43X is slimmer, at 1.10 inches in width. Its length is 6.5 inches, slightly longer than the G26. The height is around 5.04 inches, considering the extended grip. The barrel of the G43X is 3.41 inches long, and it weighs 18.7 ounces unloaded. Its magazine capacity is also 10+1 rounds, but its slimmer design makes it easier for some users to conceal.

The size differences between the two models play a significant role in determining which might be more suitable for different users, depending on their specific needs and preferences for concealed carry.

Design and Ergonomics

The Glock 26 and Glock 43X are designed for concealed carry, but they have different design features affecting their ergonomics, grip, and overall handling.

Grip and Frame Comparison

The Glock 43X has a slimline design, making it more comfortable for users with smaller hands. Its grip is thinner compared to the Glock 26, offering better concealability. The polymer frame has a more ergonomic shape, making it easier to handle during practice or in high-stress situations.

In contrast, the Glock 26 features a thicker grip and a more modular back strap design, allowing users to customize the fit to their hand size. This model also includes finger grooves on the front strap, enhancing control and stability during shooting. Despite its bulkier build, many shooters appreciate the robust feel of the Glock 26's grip.

Slide and Barrel Design

The Glock 43X's shorter barrel length of 3.41 inches contributes to its lightweight and slim profile. The slide is narrower, making it easier to conceal without compromising accuracy. The micro-optic-ready slide is a modern addition, providing versatility for various shooters.

On the other hand, the Glock 26 has a slightly longer barrel at 3.43 inches. While this difference is minimal, it affects the overall length, making the Glock 26 a tad longer. The slide of the Glock 26 is thicker, adding to its sturdiness and durability. Many users find that the thicker slide offers more recoil control, making follow-up shots quicker and more accurate.

Performance and Handling

The Glock 26 and Glock 43X provide reliable performance with notable differences in handling, trigger mechanisms, and recoil management. Key points to focus on include their trigger mechanisms and accuracy under various conditions.

Trigger Mechanisms and Safety

The Glock 26 features a dual recoil spring system, contributing to a smoother shooting experience. Its trigger pull is consistent, providing each shot with a reliable and predictable feel.

The Glock 43X offers a slightly lighter trigger pull, which some shooters with smaller hands might find more manageable. Both models include Glock's Safe Action system, which ensures a uniform trigger pull and built-in safety mechanisms. This system features three safety features: trigger, firing pin, and drop safety, making both guns safe and dependable.

Accuracy and Recoil Management

Regarding accuracy, the Glock 43X has a slightly longer grip, which some shooters find offers better control and stability. This can lead to improved accuracy, especially for those with smaller hands.

The Glock 26's more compact design may produce more felt recoil. However, its dual recoil spring system helps manage recoil, making it a solid choice for experienced shooters looking for a balance between size and performance.

While the Glock 43X offers an advantage in shootability with its slimmer profile and better grip, both models are accurate and have unique handling and performance strengths.

Capacity and Compatibility

The Glock 26 and the Glock 43X are popular concealed carry options. While the G26 offers a higher magazine capacity, the G43X is often preferred for its slimmer profile.

Magazine Options

The Glock 26 (G26) comes with a standard 10-round double-stack magazine. This higher capacity can be advantageous for those who prioritize having more rounds. Additionally, the G26 can use higher-capacity magazines, offering versatility in capacity options.

• Standard Magazine: 10 rounds
• Optional Magazines: Up to 33 rounds using extended magazines

On the other hand, the Glock 43X (G43X) features a single-stack magazine holding ten rounds. While it matches the G26 in standard capacity, the single-stack design has a slimmer grip, making it more comfortable for some users.

• Standard Magazine: 10 rounds
• Optional Magazines: Limited options due to single-stack design

Carry and Concealment Factors

For concealed carry, the Glock 26 might be less comfortable for some due to its broader and more bulky profile, arising from the double-stack magazine. It could print more under clothing, making it slightly more challenging to conceal.

• Width: 1.30 inches
• Weight: 21.69 ounces (empty magazine)

The Glock 43X, with its single-stack magazine, offers a slimmer and lighter design. This can make carrying easier, especially in an **IWB (inside the waistband) holster. The slimmer profile also often results in less printing under clothes.

• Width: 1.10 inches
• Weight: 18.7 ounces (empty magazine)

Frequently Asked Questions

The Glock 26 and Glock 43X have several key differences that make each suitable for different users and purposes. This section addresses common questions about their size, weight, and functionality.

What are the size comparisons between the Glock 26 and the Glock 43X?

The Glock 26 has an overall length of 6.42 inches. The Glock 43X is slightly longer at 6.5 inches. The barrel length for the 43X is 3.41 inches, while the Glock 26's barrel is roughly the same length.

How do the Glock 26 and Glock 43X differ in weight and handling?

The Glock 26 weighs 21.69 ounces, heavier than the Glock 43X, which weighs 18.7 ounces. The 43X's lighter weight contributes to easier handling, particularly for concealed carry.

Given its dimensions, can the Glock 43X be comfortably used for concealed carry?

Yes, the Glock 43X's slim profile, with a width of 1.10 inches, makes it more comfortable for concealed carry. Its design helps reduce printing and makes it easier to carry in various positions.

In what ways does the Glock 26 Gen 5 differ from the Glock 43X?

The Glock 26 Gen 5 includes ambidextrous slide releases and improved grip texture. The Glock 43X, on the other hand, offers compatibility with red dot sights and has a narrower grip.

What are some criticisms or drawbacks mentioned with respect to the Glock 43X?

Some users find the Glock 43X grip length less comfortable than other models. Additionally, its magazine capacity of 10 rounds is a limitation for those who prioritize higher capacity.

What are the key differences when comparing the Glock 26, Glock 43X, and Glock 48?

The Glock 48 has a longer slide and barrel than the Glock 26 and 43X. This enhances accuracy but slightly affects portability. The Glock 48 also has a slimmer frame similar to the 43X, making it a good balance between the two models in size and capacity.