GLOCK 43 vs GLOCK 43X

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Glock 43X vs Glock 43.

The Glock 43 (G43) was first released in 2015. The Glock 43X (G43X) was released in 2019. The new debate is G43 vs G43X and why? Well both are considered concealed carry specific guns. Both the G43 and the G43X fit the same holsters, despite the capacity differences. This is due the geometry of the slide, trigger guard and contact surfaces with the holster are all still identical. ANR Design has holsters for Glock 43, Glock 43X, Glock 48, and MOS variations (https://www.anrkydexholsters.com/product-category/quick-ship-cnc-holsters/).

G43X LEFT, G43 RIGHT

Slide lengths are the same. Radius on both guns are slightly different where the top and side flats meet the radiuses. You can see the G43X vs G43 comparison of the muzzles (above). The G 43X has a longer leading radius for easier holstering of the firearm.

Here is ANR Design’s very FIRST YouTube Gun Review May, 2015. We have sure come a long way since then. Alex rocking a nostalgic Ares Armor hoodie. This was one of the first released G43 pistols. The owner of Riley’s Gun Shop let us borrow the gun for the video. RIP Riley’s Gun Shop, the old shop is sorely missed. Riley’s was the first gun shop to give us a chance and purchase holsters for resale of ANR Design. We sill need to do a G43 vs G43X video!

ANR Design’s very first YouTube video in 2015.

The Grip on the G43 vs G43X

lock 43X Magazine: Capacity, Design, and Concealed Carry Considerations

The Glock 43X boasts a 10-round capacity, a significant upgrade from the Glock 43’s standard 6-round magazine. This increased capacity is achieved with a longer magazine design, reminiscent of the Gen 5 Glock magazines. While aftermarket extensions are available for the G43, the G43X offers this increased capacity in a sleek, factory-designed package.

One notable design feature is the “bobbed” or rounded baseplate. Contrary to some beliefs, this rounded design doesn’t significantly impact printing when carrying concealed. Instead, it’s primarily intended to enhance palm control and reloading comfort. The rounded baseplate provides a smoother, more consistent contact point for your hand during reloads, promoting faster and more efficient magazine changes.

G43X Grip vs G43 Grip

Magazine of the G43 vs G43X

The Glock 43X boasts a significant capacity upgrade over the G43, holding 10 rounds compared to the G43’s standard 6. This is thanks to its longer magazine, similar in design to Gen 5 Glock magazines. While G43 owners can purchase aftermarket extensions, the G43X offers this higher capacity as a standard feature.

A notable design element of the G43X magazine is its rounded (“bobbed”) baseplate. This doesn’t necessarily reduce printing when carrying concealed, contrary to what some might think. Instead, the rounded design primarily enhances palm control and reloading comfort. By providing a smoother, more consistent contact point for your hand, the G43X magazine baseplate promotes faster, more efficient reloads.

G43 Magazine vs G43X Magazine.

Everyone wants micro guns with full size gun capacity and capabilities, and we do not understand why. They still shoot like micro or subcompact guns.

G43 Magazine vs G43X Magazine

Shield Arms makes a steel 15 round capacity magazine for the G43X and G48 magazine. This is the best route to take with the newer Glock 43X and 48 pistols. Shortly after the release of the G43X and G48, Glock released the MOS series; Glock 43X MOS and Glock 48 MOS. They have the same dimensions and magazines, but now come with a Glock specific accessory rail and a MOS optic plate system. From the factory, you can add a HS507K (https://www.anrkydexholsters.com/product/holosun-507k-x2-micro-red-dot/) and a Streamlight TLR-7 SUB G43X Pistol Light (https://www.anrkydexholsters.com/product/streamlight-tlr-7-sub-glock-43x-48-mos/), both of which ANR Design sells. Carry your G43X in a Glock 48 holster.

Summary of the G43 vs G43X Pistols

Glock 43X MOS vs. Glock 43: Why the 43X MOS Reigns Supreme for Concealed Carry

The Glock 43X MOS, with its optic-ready slide and increased capacity, has significantly outpaced the Glock 43 as a primary concealed carry option. While the G43 served its purpose, the 43X MOS offers several advantages that make it a superior choice for everyday carry.

Glock 43X MOS Advantages:

  • Optic Ready: Easily mount a red dot sight for faster target acquisition and improved accuracy.
  • Increased Capacity: The 10-round magazine capacity provides a significant advantage over the G43’s 6 rounds.
  • Enhanced Shootability: The larger grip size and improved ergonomics of the 43X MOS make it more comfortable and controllable to shoot.
  • Versatile Carry Options: While easily concealed in a dedicated holster, the 43X MOS can also be effectively carried in a Glock 48 holster for even greater discretion.

Glock 43 Limitations:

  • Not Optic Ready: Lacks the ability to mount modern red dot sights.
  • Lower Capacity: The limited 6-round capacity may be a concern for some users.
  • Less Comfortable Shooting: The smaller grip size can be uncomfortable for shooters with larger hands.

Conclusion:

While the Glock 43 may still have a niche role as a backup or ankle carry gun, the Glock 43X MOS offers a clear advantage for primary concealed carry. Its combination of optic readiness, increased capacity, and improved shootability make it a more versatile and effective self-defense tool. Pair it with a high-quality IWB Kydex holster, such as those from ANR Design, for optimal comfort and concealment.

(https://www.anrkydexholsters.com/product/cnc-appendix-with-claw/).

G43X (TOP) vs G43 (BOTTOM)
Quick ship IWB holster in black.

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5 comments

  1. Roger Bevins

    Will a g43 slide work on a g48 frame ?

    1. Yes, if you have a 48 and a 43, you can switch the slides around to effectively be able to have a 43X as well.

  2. Roger Bevins

    Will a g43 slide work on a g48 frame ?

  3. The G43 just fits into your front pocket without showing. The G43X does not.
    The G43 is far better on the ankle carry.
    The spare mag on the G43 is small and compact.

    Which gun are you more likely to leave at home when in a rush to leave? And so, you have your answer which is better. The best gun is the one you have on you when you need it.

    1. ROBERT FARRELL TAYLOR

      HELLO can you pocket carry the 43 with the OEM pinky extension

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