Glock 43X: Compact Firearm Excellence Explained

The Glock 43X is a versatile and widely acclaimed handgun, especially popular for concealed carry. This pistol combines a slim profile with a comfortable grip, making it an excellent choice for new and seasoned gun owners.

With its 10+1 or 15+1 capacity, the Glock 43X offers a balance of firepower and portability that few handguns can match.

Designed for everyday use, the Glock 43X features a short trigger distance and a built-in beaver tail for improved handling. The gun also comes equipped with a match-grade barrel and a reversible magazine catch, enhancing its usability and accuracy. It competes directly with other popular concealed carry options like the Sig Sauer P365, offering similar capabilities in a user-friendly package.

One standout feature of the Glock 43X is its compatibility with the MOS (Modular Optic System) version, allowing for easy micro-optic attachment.

This makes it a flexible option for those wanting to upgrade their sighting system in the future.

The Glock 43X combines practicality and performance, making it a top contender among subcompact pistols.

Key Takeaways

• The Glock 43X is praised for its slim design and comfortable grip.
• Features include a match-grade barrel and reversible magazine catch.
• It offers flexibility with options for micro-optics attachments.

Design and Features

The Glock 43X combines a sleek design with functional features like a built-in beavertail and a Modular Optic System (MOS). It is engineered for concealed carry with elements that prioritize comfort, shootability, and readiness.

Frame and Grip

The Glock 43X's frame is built for a secure and ergonomic hold. Its slimline design allows for comfortable and discreet carry.

The grip includes an RTF (Rough Textured Frame) texture, ensuring a firm and reliable grasp in diverse conditions. At 128mm (5.04 inches) long, it is compact but substantial enough to offer good control.

A built-in beavertail reduces the recoil felt in the hand, enhancing overall comfort and allowing for steadier aim. Controls such as the reversible magazine catch make the firearm suitable for both right—and left-handed users.

Slide and Barrel

The slide of the Glock 43X is designed with precision-milled front serrations that assist in quick and secure racking. The slim profile makes it ideal for concealed carry while retaining functionality.

This model features the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB), which is known for its superior accuracy and consistency. The 9mm barrel has a 10-round magazine capacity, balancing firepower and compactness.

Front serrations on the slide enhance grip during slide manipulations and ensure ease of use under stress or tactical situations.

Trigger Mechanism

The Glock 43X's trigger is engineered for a short trigger distance, providing quick and decisive action. This makes it especially useful in self-defense scenarios where every moment counts.

The trigger mechanism includes a safety trigger system a standard Glock model feature that prevents accidental discharge. The trigger pull weight is optimized for balance, ensuring it is not too heavy to hinder action but substantial enough to avoid mishandling.

The short reset of the trigger aids in faster follow-up shots, which can be crucial in critical situations.

Modular Optic System

One of the standout features of the Glock 43X is its Modular Optic System (MOS). This allows for quickly mounting micro-optic sights, enhancing target acquisition and accuracy.

The MOS ensures compatibility with various mini red-dot sights, offering flexibility according to the shooter’s preference. This system is especially beneficial for those who need quick visual confirmation of their target in various lighting conditions.

The optic-ready slide design integrates seamlessly without adding extra bulk, maintaining the gun’s slim profile while enhancing functionality.

Ammunition and Capacity

The Glock 43X is known for its solid performance and compatibility with various ammunition types, making it ideal for shooting activities. It features versatile magazine options and uses standard 9mm cartridges.

Magazine Options

The Glock 43X typically comes with a 10-round magazine. These slim magazines are designed to be comfortable for concealed carry while providing reliable performance. They also feature an orange follower, which helps quickly identify if the magazine is empty.

Recently, 15-round flush fit magazines have become available, increasing the carrying capacity without sacrificing concealability. This higher-capacity option is especially useful for those who want more ammunition at the ready without reloading frequently. The reversible magazine catch allows for easy use by both left-handed and right-handed shooters.

Caliber and Cartridge

The Glock 43X uses 9mm ammunition, which is widely available and offers a good balance of power and recoil. FMJ (full metal jacket) ammo is recommended for general range shooting due to its affordability and reliable performance. For self-defense, JHP (jacketed hollow point) ammo is a better choice because of its stopping power and reduced risk of over-penetration.

The pistol supports a variety of 9mm cartridges, making it versatile for different scenarios. Whether for daily carry or practice at the range, the Glock 43X handles these cartridges efficiently and reliably.

Compatibility and Customization

The Glock 43X is notable for its versatility and ability to be customized to meet individual preferences. This pistol can be upgraded with a wide range of accessories for better performance and user compatibility.

Accessorizing the Glock 43X

Owners have multiple options to enhance the Glock 43X. Ameriglo sights are popular for better aiming, and micro-optics can be added through the slide cuts for more precision.

The Shield Arms S15 magazine allows a 50% capacity boost, holding 15 rounds instead of the factory-issue 10-round magazine. Triggers can be replaced for a more responsive feel, and grip sleeves improve handling.

Front slide serrations are another addition that helps users get a better grip while chambering rounds. Lasers and lights can be attached to the accessory rail for improved visibility. ETS also offers high-quality magazines for this model, making loading and shooting more efficient.

Comparative Models

One can consider customization and compatibility features when comparing the Glock 43X to similar models.

The Glock 48 and Glock 19 are often considered because of their larger capacities, but many users opt for the 43X because they balance size with functionality. The 9mm Luger caliber is commonly used, providing reliable stopping power and manageable recoil.

Mounting options for lights and lasers add versatility, distinguishing the 43X from other compact pistols that may lack these features. The addition of micro-optics makes it suitable for tactical scenarios, similar to larger models while retaining the convenience of a compact frame.

Performance and Handling

The Glock 43X is well-regarded for its comfortable grip and reliable shooting experience, making it a solid choice for new and experienced shooters. Its performance aspects are critical, focusing on ergonomics, accuracy, and trigger mechanics.

Ergonomics and Comfort

The Glock 43X offers a well-balanced grip that fits comfortably in the hand. The textured grip ensures a firm hold, even in sweaty conditions. This is essential for defensive shooting, where a secure grip can make a difference.

Finger grooves are absent, which many find to be less restrictive. This design allows for a more natural grip adjustment and makes it easier to handle for extended periods, reducing hand fatigue during range time.

Recoil management is another strong point. The Glock 43X has a manageable recoil that helps keep the sights on target for quicker follow-up shots. Combined with the comfortable grip, it makes for a smooth shooting experience.

Shooting Accuracy

The Marksman Barrel in the Glock 43X significantly improves its accuracy. Its better rifling ensures consistency, helping shooters hit their targets more reliably. This is crucial for both defensive shooting and practice at the range.

The trigger pull is light and crisp, enhancing accuracy. A good trigger feel allows for more precise shots, as the shooter can predict when the gun will fire. Reliability in this area makes the Glock 43X a trustworthy choice for many.

Recoil is minimal, aiding in maintaining accuracy. The fewer movements the gun makes as it recoils, the better the shooter can control it. This combination of minimal recoil and a quality trigger makes the Glock 43X stand out.

Carry and Practical Use

The Glock 43X excels at concealed carry and everyday reliability. Its compact design and solid build make it a dependable option for those seeking a lightweight and effective self-defense firearm.

Concealed Carry Insights

The Glock 43X features a slimline design that makes it easy to conceal. Its 10+1 round capacity provides ample firepower without sacrificing portability.

Compared to the Sig Sauer P365, which offers higher capacity options, the Glock 43X remains popular for many shooters due to its ergonomic design and ease of use.

Its compact size makes it suitable for both Inside-the-Waistband (IWB). Many find it fits comfortably against the body, reducing printing and making it less noticeable under clothing. This is particularly beneficial for those who carry daily and need a reliable firearm that won’t draw unnecessary attention.

Everyday Reliability

Daily carry requires a reliable and durable firearm. The Glock 43X offers consistent performance with its robust build and proven track record.

Users have reported minimal malfunctions, even after extensive use, placing it among the dependable options for self-defense.

It shares similar features with other Glock models, such as the Glock 19 and Glock 26, but in a more compact format. The G43X MOS model even provides options for mounting optics, appealing to those who prefer advanced targeting systems. The simplicity and effectiveness of the Glock 43X make it a preferred choice for many, especially those who prioritize daily reliability in their concealed carry firearm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Due to its compact size and effectiveness, the Glock 43X is a popular choice for concealed carry. This section addresses common questions about differences, comparisons, accessories, and modifications related to the Glock 43X.

What are the primary differences between the Glock 43X and the Glock 43?

The Glock 43X has a longer grip and a larger magazine capacity (10 rounds) than the Glock 43, which holds 6 rounds. It also features a silver slide finish and is slightly larger, making it more comfortable to shoot but a bit harder to conceal.

Can you compare the Glock 43X to the Glock 19 in size and performance?

The Glock 19 is larger and holds 15 rounds, making it better for scenarios requiring more ammunition. The Glock 43X is more suited for concealed carry due to its smaller size and lighter weight. Both are reliable, but the 19 offers more versatility in performance due to its larger size and capacity.

What are some of the best accessories recommended for the Glock 43X?

Popular accessories include night sights for better low-light visibility, extended magazines for more capacity, and aftermarket triggers for enhanced performance. Other recommended items are grip extensions and holsters specifically designed for the 43X.

Is there an option for an extended magazine for the Glock 43X?

Yes, extended magazines are available. They can increase capacity from the standard 10 to around 15 rounds, providing more firepower without significantly affecting the gun's size and concealability.

What modifications are available for the Glock 43X MOS?

The Glock 43X MOS can be fitted with a modular optic system. This includes red dot sights for improved aiming. Other modifications include custom slide cuts for weight reduction and aesthetic purposes, enhanced triggers, and upgraded barrel options.

Which type of holster is most suitable for carrying a Glock 43X?

Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters are highly recommended for the Glock 43X due to their compact size and ease of concealment.