Hey there, fellow shooters! Today, I’m diving into a head-to-head comparison of two popular Glock models: the Glock 22 Vs Glock 43.
As someone who’s spent countless hours at the range and in the field, I’ve had the chance to thoroughly test these firearms. So, let’s cut to the chase and see which one might come out on top.
| Feature | Glock 22 | Glock 43 |
| Caliber | .40 S&W | 9x19mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 15 rounds | 6 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.49 inches | 3.41 inches |
| Weight (Empty Magazine) | 25.57 oz | 17.99 oz |
| Trigger Pull | 28 N | 24 N |
| Overall Length | 8.03 inches | 6.26 inches |
| Slide Length | 7.32 inches | 6.06 inches |
| Overall Width | 1.26 inches | 1.06 inches |
| Slide Width | 1.0 inch | 0.87 inch |
Overview of Glock 22
The Glock 22, a powerhouse in the Glock lineup, is renowned for its reliability and impressive .40 S&W caliber.
Specs
- Caliber: .40 S&W
- Magazine Capacity: 15 rounds (standard)
- Barrel Length: 4.49 inches
- Weight with empty magazine: 25.57 oz
- Trigger Pull: 28 N
- Overall Length: 8.03 inches
- Slide Length: 7.32 inches
- Overall Width: 1.26 inches
- Slide Width: 1.0 inch
Overview of Glock 43
The Glock 43 is a sleek, compact 9x19mm pistol, perfect for concealed carry and known for its ease of handling.
Specs
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- System: Safe Action®
- Magazine Capacity Standard: 6 rounds
- Barrel Length: 3.41 inches
- With empty magazine: 17.99 ounces
- Trigger Pull: 24 N
- Overall Length: 6.26 inches
- Slide Length: 6.06 inches
- Overall Width: 1.06 inches
- Slide Width: 0.87 inches
- Height including Magazine: 4.25 inches
Top 4 Features Glock 22 Vs Glock 43
1. Magazine Capacity & Reloading Efficiency
Glock 22
The Glock 22, boasting a .40 S&W caliber, is a true workhorse with its 15-round standard magazine capacity. During my tests, this capacity allowed for longer shooting periods before the need to reload.
This is especially critical in tactical situations or competitive shooting where every second counts. The higher capacity reduces the frequency of reloads, keeping the shooter engaged with their target for longer stretches.
Glock 43
The Glock 43, with its 9x19mm caliber, offers a significantly lower standard magazine capacity of just 6 rounds. In the field, this meant more frequent pauses for magazine changes.
While the smaller capacity might be a trade-off for its compactness, in high-demand scenarios, the need for constant reloading can be a noticeable hindrance, especially under stress or when rapid response is essential.
Winner
Given the importance of magazine capacity in various shooting scenarios, the Glock 22 takes the lead. Its higher capacity offers a tangible advantage in sustained fire situations, reducing downtime and keeping the shooter more consistently engaged.
2. Size and Concealability
Glock 22
The Glock 22, with its larger frame (8.03 inches in overall length and 1.26 inches in width), is noticeably bulkier.
This can be a bit of a setback for those looking for a firearm that is easy to conceal. During testing, carrying the Glock 22 discreetly was more challenging, and its larger size was more evident under clothing.
However, the larger frame does contribute to a better grip and control, especially for shooters with larger hands.
Glock 43
Contrastingly, the Glock 43 shines in the size and concealability department. Its compact dimensions (overall length of 6.26 inches and a width of just over an inch) make it an ideal choice for concealed carry.
During my field tests, the Glock 43 was significantly easier to conceal, less obtrusive, and more comfortable for all-day carry, particularly in covert situations or for personal defense where discretion is key.
Winner
When it comes to concealability and ease of carrying, the Glock 43 is the clear winner. Its compact design and smaller dimensions make it a more practical choice for concealed carry, offering discretion and comfort without sacrificing functionality.
3. Accuracy and Handling
Glock 22
The Glock 22, with its longer barrel (4.49 inches) and heftier frame, offers a stable shooting platform. This stability translates into improved accuracy, especially at medium to long ranges.
In my testing, the Glock 22 demonstrated consistent shot placement and less felt recoil, attributable to its larger size and weight, which aids in better control and follow-up shots.
Glock 43
The Glock 43, while more compact, has a shorter barrel length (3.41 inches), which can slightly affect accuracy at longer ranges.
However, in close-range scenarios, which are more typical for a concealed carry firearm, the Glock 43 performed admirably. The smaller size makes it more maneuverable, but it also means a bit more effort is needed to control recoil and ensure precise shot placement.
Winner
For accuracy and handling, especially at longer ranges, the Glock 22 edges out as the winner. Its design offers a more stable platform for accurate shooting, making it a preferable choice for scenarios where precision is crucial.
4. Durability and Maintenance
Glock 22
Glock firearms are renowned for their durability, and the Glock 22 is no exception. Its robust construction handled everything I threw at it during testing, from various ammunition types to different environmental conditions.
Maintenance-wise, the Glock 22 is relatively easy to clean and maintain, which is a big plus for those who spend a lot of time at the range or in the field.
Glock 43
The Glock 43 also lives up to Glock’s reputation for durability. Despite its smaller size, it showed no compromise in reliability and resilience in my tests.
Its compact design even makes it somewhat easier to clean and maintain, particularly for those new to firearms or with limited experience in gun maintenance.
Winner
In terms of durability and ease of maintenance, both the Glock 22 and Glock 43 stand on equal footing.
Both models demonstrate the robust construction and reliability that Glock is known for, making them both excellent choices in this aspect.
Pros & Cons of Glock 22
Pros
- High magazine capacity (15 rounds) allows for extended shooting without frequent reloads.
- Longer barrel length (4.49 inches) enhances accuracy, especially at longer distances.
- Heavier weight (25.57 oz with empty magazine) provides stability, reducing felt recoil.
- Robust and durable, withstanding various shooting conditions.
- Wider grip (1.26 inches overall width) offers better control for shooters with larger hands.
Cons
here are some problems of glock 22
- Larger size can make concealed carry more challenging.
- Heavier weight might be less comfortable for all-day carry or for shooters with smaller hands.
- May not be as suitable for close-quarters scenarios where a more compact firearm is needed.
Pros & Cons of Glock 43
Pros
- Compact and lightweight, ideal for concealed carry (overall length 6.26 inches, weight without magazine 16.23 oz).
- Easier to maneuver in tight spaces, perfect for close-range engagements.
- Simpler to maintain and clean due to its smaller size.
- Lower trigger pull (24 N) can be more comfortable for some shooters.
Cons
here are some problems of glock 43
- Lower magazine capacity (6 rounds) necessitates more frequent reloads.
- Shorter barrel length (3.41 inches) may affect long-range accuracy.
- Smaller size might be less comfortable for shooters with larger hands.
Similarities between Glock 22 Vs Glock 43
- Both are designed with Glock’s signature Safe Action® system.
- Renowned for reliability and durability across various shooting environments.
- Easy to maintain and clean, thanks to Glock’s user-friendly design.
- Equipped with a consistent and crisp trigger feel characteristic of Glock firearms.
Differences between Glock 22 Vs Glock 43
- Glock 22 uses .40 S&W caliber, while Glock 43 uses 9x19mm.
- Glock 22 has a standard 15-round magazine, whereas Glock 43 has a 6-round capacity.
- Glock 22 is larger and heavier (overall length 8.03 inches, weight 25.57 oz), compared to the more compact Glock 43 (overall length 6.26 inches, weight 16.23 oz without magazine).
- Glock 22 is better suited for longer-range accuracy due to its longer barrel, while Glock 43 excels in close-range situations.
- Glock 22 offers a larger grip area, providing a better hold for larger hands, in contrast to the more concealable and lighter grip of the Glock 43.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and comparison of the Glock 22 and Glock 43, it’s time to draw a conclusion. Both guns have proven their mettle in various aspects, each shining in its own right.
In most of my comparisons, the Glock 22 emerged as a strong contender, especially in situations where firepower and accuracy are paramount. However, the Glock 43’s compact design and ease of handling cannot be overlooked, particularly for those prioritizing concealment and comfort.
In the end, my choice leans towards the Glock 22. Its versatility, coupled with its higher capacity and accuracy, make it a more adaptable firearm for a wider range of scenarios.
FAQ’s
Is Glock 22 popular?
Yes, the Glock 22 is highly popular, especially among law enforcement in the United States, due to its powerful .40 S&W cartridge and high capacity.
Is the Glock 43 a good gun?
Absolutely, the Glock 43 is a reliable and durable firearm, ideal for concealed carry with its manageable recoil and effective 9mm chambering.
Is a Glock 43 semi-automatic?
Yes, the Glock 43 is a semi-automatic, single-stack, subcompact pistol known for its simplicity and reliability.
Do police carry Glock 43?
Yes, the Glock 43 is often used as a sidearm by law enforcement officers, particularly for its slim, lightweight design suitable for concealed carry.
Is a Glock 22 a good gun?
Indeed, the Glock 22 is a top choice for law enforcement in the U.S., favored for its powerful .40 S&W cartridge and high capacity in a full-sized handgun.
