Glock 43x vs 19: Detailed Comparison for Concealed Carry Enthusiasts

The Glock 43X and Glock 19 are frequently highlighted as top choices when deciding on a handgun for concealed carry. The Glock 19 is known for its well-established track record as a reliable, compact firearm widely used by law enforcement and civilians. Its larger frame and magazine capacity make it suitable for various shooting applications. On the other hand, the Glock 43X brings a slimmer profile to the table, which can be an advantage for concealed carry. It is designed to balance comfort and capacity, making it an intriguing option for those prioritizing ease of concealment without sacrificing too much on firepower.

The Glock 43X and the Glock 19 serve different needs within the spectrum of concealed carry weapons. The Glock 43X's design emphasizes ergonomics and comfort for all-day carry, while the Glock 19 offers greater capacity and versatility, which may be preferred when firepower is a priority. Both handguns share the reliability and quality craftsmanship that Glock is known for, but the nuances in their features cater to diverse user preferences. Making an informed choice between these models involves considering how an individual intends to use the firearm, the importance of concealment, and the desired balance between size and ammunition capacity.

Key Takeaways

• The Glock 19 is a versatile compact handgun, while the Glock 43X provides a more concealable profile.
• Ergonomics, capacity, and overall design influence the selection of the two concealed carry models.
• Reliability and customization options allow both handguns to be tailored to specific user needs and preferences.

Design and Ergonomics

When assessing the Glock 43X and Glock 19, the differences in design and ergonomics are apparent across their sizing, grips, frame, slide, controls, sights, and finishes. These elements play a crucial role in the user's handling experience.

Size and Dimensions

Glock 43X

• Length: 6.5 inches
• Height: 5.04 inches
• Width: 1.10 inches

Glock 19

• Length: 7.36 inches
• Height: 4.99 inches
• Width: 1.26 inches

The Glock 43X is shorter and slightly taller than the Glock 19. It is also notably slimmer, making it less conspicuous for concealed carry.

Grip and Texture

Both models feature ergonomically designed grips that cater to a secure hold during usage. The Glock 43X offers a thinner grip profile, better suited for users with smaller hands or those who prioritize concealability. The Glock 19's grip is more comprehensive, providing a more substantial feel, which might be preferred for full-handed support during shooting.

Frame and Slide

The frames on the Glock 43X and the Glock 19 are made of polymer, contributing to their lightweight characteristics. Their slides are designed with durability in mind, featuring a black matte finish. The Glock 43X has a slimmer slide to complement its overall thinner frame.

Controls and Sights

Control-wise, both pistols have a magazine and slide release designed for quick and intuitive operation. Glock 19 has an advantage with more aftermarket options available for customization. The standard sights on both are adequate for target acquisition, but many users opt for upgrades to enhance their shooting experience.

Aesthetics and Finish

The aesthetics of both models are signature to Glock's utilitarian style — sleek, no-nonsense designs with a matte black finish that not only looks but also provides resistance to wear and corrosion. The Glock 43X and Glock 19 have a clean design that speaks to Glock's dedication to functionality and durability.

Performance and Handling

When comparing the Glock 43X and Glock 19, shooters often focus on how each handgun performs in terms of recoil management, accuracy, reliability, and trigger mechanics. These factors are crucial in determining the suitability for defensive scenarios or range use.

Recoil and Shooting Experience

Glock 43X: The slimmer frame and lighter weight of the Glock 43X lead to a perceived increase in felt recoil compared to heavier models. However, the ergonomic design allows for a comfortable grip, resulting in a manageable and distinct shooting experience.

Glock 19: Known for its balanced design, the Glock 19 offers a more forgiving shooting experience, with reduced felt recoil due to its increased mass. This often translates to quicker follow-up shots and a steadier hand during rapid-firing sessions.

Accuracy and Sights

Glock 43X: Typically equipped with standard fixed iron sights, the Glock 43X can also be fitted with various aftermarket options, including night sights for improved low-light performance. Despite its shorter barrel, shooters find it capable of impressive accuracy at self-defense distances.

Glock 19: The Glock 19's more extensive profile offers a longer sight radius, which can help achieve better accuracy. It also has options for iron or factory-installed night sights, enhancing visibility and precision in different lighting conditions.

Reliability and Durability

Both firearms uphold Glock's reputation for reliability.

Glock 43X: Crafted with the durability expected of Glock handguns, the 43X withstands extreme conditions and maintains functionality after extensive use, making it a reliable option for everyday carry.

Glock 19: As a proven workhorse, the Glock 19's track record of reliability is hard to beat. It consistently performs well in various environments, attributable to robust construction and rigorous factory testing.

Trigger Mechanism

Glock's Safe Action system is utilized in both models, featuring a striker-fired trigger with a consistent pull.

Glock 43X: The trigger on the Glock 43X generally exhibits a crisp break and a positive reset. As a single-stack model, the trigger reach is shorter, suiting shooters with smaller hands.

Glock 19: The trigger of the Glock 19 shares similar characteristics with the Glock 43X, but the slightly wider frame may affect trigger reach for those with smaller hands. Its consistency is praised for providing a reliable interface between the shooter and the handgun.

Concealability and Comfort

When examining the Glock 43X and Glock 19, their size and design significantly impact their concealability and comfort as a concealed carry pistol.

Concealed Carry Considerations

The Glock 43X, with its slimmer frame and lightweight design, offers an edge for concealed carry, particularly when wearers seek deep concealment. It measures just over an inch in width, which allows for a more discreet profile under clothing. On the other hand, the Glock 19 is a compact firearm but is bulkier due to its double-stack magazine, making it less ideal when minimal printing is a priority.

• Glock 43X:
• Width: 1.06 inches
• Preferred for: Deep concealment
• Glock 19:
• Width: 1.26 inches
• Preferred for: Balance between capacity and concealability

Holster Options

Holster choices are pivotal in enhancing the concealment and comfort of carrying a pistol. The Glock 43X, due to its single-stack design, can fit into various slim holsters that can be easily hidden. Common holster styles for the Glock 43X include IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) and ankle holsters, which benefit from the pistol's slender profile.

• Glock 43X Holster Examples:
• IWB Holsters for enhanced concealment
• Ankle Holsters for alternative carry positions

Conversely, the Glock 19, although still a compact model, may require larger holsters to accommodate its wider frame. Despite the larger size, a vast market of holster options is designed for comfort, including OWB (Outside-the-Waistband) and paddle holsters for easier access.

• Glock 19 Holster Examples:
• OWB Holsters for comfort and quick draw
• Paddle Holsters for convenient attachment and removal

Selecting the right holster is crucial for balancing concealment, accessibility, and comfort for the wearer.

Capacity and Firepower

When evaluating the Glock 43X and the Glock 19, capacity and firepower are crucial for comparison. The Glock 19 holds more rounds, making it preferable for situations requiring more shots without reloading.

Magazine Options

The Glock 43X utilizes a slimline single-stack magazine designed to maintain a slimmer profile for concealed carry. On the other hand, the Glock 19 is compatible with double-stack magazines, which offer increased capacity.

Shield Arms offers an aftermarket option for the Glock 43X, allowing users to upgrade the magazine capacity without significantly altering the firearm's size.

Round Capacity

Looking specifically at round capacity, there is a notable difference between the two models:

• Glock 43X: Standard magazine holds 10 (+1) rounds of 9mm.
• Glock 19: Standard magazine carries 15 (+1) rounds of 9mm.

These capacities can be extended with aftermarket magazines or extensions, but they are the manufacturer's standard capacities.

Compatibility and Customization

Both the Glock 43X and Glock 19 offer distinct advantages in terms of compatibility and customization. The Glock 19's widespread use has led to many aftermarket accessories, while the Glock 43X benefits from a design that promotes concealability with modern modularity options.

Aftermarket Accessories

The Glock 19, one of the most popular handguns in the world, boasts a vast array of aftermarket accessories. Users can easily find custom slides, triggers, barrel upgrades, and magazine extensions, facilitating a high degree of customization to suit individual preferences. Additionally, a wide variety of grips, holsters, and custom parts are designed specifically for the Glock 19. In contrast, the Glock 43X has fewer aftermarket options, yet it supports essential accessories that enhance its performance and ergonomics.

• Glock 19 Aftermarket Options:
  
  
• Slides: Multiple designs and finishes
• Barrels: Standard, threaded, and match-grade
• Triggers: Adjustable and competition-ready
• Glock 43X Aftermarket Options:
  
  
• Grips: Customizable for improved handling
• Magazines: Extended options for increased capacity

Optics and Modularity

Both models take a different approach to optics and modularity. For instance, the Glock 43X MOS (Modular Optic System) facilitates the mounting of various optics directly to the slide, a feature that increases its appeal for users seeking enhanced sighting capabilities. The Glock 19, by design, includes a universal Picatinny rail for attaching lights and lasers, and while it does not come standard with MOS, aftermarket slides or mounting plates can rectify this.

• Optics Compatibility:
• Glock 43X MOS: Ready for direct mounting of optics.
• Glock 19: Requires adapter plates for optic installation.
• Modularity Features:
• Glock 43X:
• Slides: Capable of accepting various micro red dot sights.
• Glock 19:
• Picatinny Rail: Standard for attachment of tactical lights or lasers.

Both Glocks exhibit inherent design thoughtfulness. The Glock 19 leads in aftermarket support, while the Glock 43X MOS shines in its ready adaptability for optics without the need for additional modifications.

Comparison and Selection

The selection between the Glock 43X and Glock 19 hinges on understanding their size, capacity, and handling differences. This section will elucidate these aspects through a meticulous comparison to aid potential buyers in making an informed choice.

Side-by-Side Analysis

A comprehensive analytical examination between the Glock 43X and Glock 19 reveals distinguishable traits apt for a side-by-side comparison. Here's a focused comparison chart:

This side-by-side analysis shows that the Glock 19 carries more rounds and possesses a slightly longer barrel, which can contribute to improved accuracy and control.

Practical Use Cases

When it comes to practicality, each model excels in different scenarios:

• Glock 43X: Its compact size and reduced magazine capacity make it an excellent choice for concealed carry, particularly for those who prioritize a slim profile and lighter weight.
  
  
• Glock 19: The Glock 19's larger capacity and size make it better suited for home defense and as a duty weapon, where the higher capacity can be an advantage. Its size also helps with recoil management, making it preferable for training and practice at the range.
  
  

Buyers must consider these factors concerning their unique self-defense, concealed carry, or home defense needs to select the most fitting model.

Frequently Asked Questions

When comparing the Glock 43X and Glock 19, enthusiasts frequently inquire about their differences in size, concealability, accuracy, magazine compatibility, and unique advantages. This section addresses these common questions, providing factual and concise information for potential users and enthusiasts.

What are the size differences between the Glock 43X and the Glock 19?

The Glock 19 is larger, with a standard magazine capacity of 15 rounds and the ability to accept high-capacity magazines. It has a longer barrel and greater overall length. The Glock 43X, however, features a slimmer frame with a single stack magazine holding ten rounds, resulting in a shorter grip and overall size.

Which is more suitable for concealed carry, the Glock 43X or the Glock 19?

The Glock 43X is generally better suited for concealed carry due to its slimmer profile and reduced weight than the Glock 19. Its design emphasizes ease of concealment without sacrificing grip comfort.

How does the accuracy of the Glock 43X compare to that of the Glock 19?

Both firearms are designed with Glock's standard accuracy in mind. The Glock 19 may provide slight improvements in accuracy due to its longer barrel and sight radius, but both pistols are capable of high accuracy in trained hands.

Can the Glock 43X use magazines from the Glock 19?

The Glock 43X cannot use magazines from the Glock 19 as they are designed for different frame sizes and magazine configurations. The 43X uses single-stack magazines, while the Glock 19 uses double-stack magazines.

What are the primary advantages of choosing a Glock 43X over a Glock 19?

The primary advantages of the Glock 43X are its slim design, lighter weight, and ease of concealment. These factors make it appealing for individuals seeking a comfortable and concealable everyday carry pistol.

How does the Glock 43X compare to other handguns in a similar class, such as the Sig P365?

The Glock 43X holds its own against competitors like the Sig P365, offering a slim profile and a reliable shooting experience. While similar in size, the Sig P365 may offer higher magazine capacity in a very compact frame, representing different priorities in the design of concealable firearms.