As a professional who’s spent a fair bit of time on the range, I’ve had the unique chance to get up close and personal with both the Glock 42 Vs Glock 43.
After testing these two in various scenarios, I’m excited to share my insights on these compact powerhouses. So, let’s dive in and see which of these Glocks might just be the right pick for you.
Overview of Glock 42
The Glock 42 is a sleek, subcompact semi-automatic that’s gained a reputation for its ease of handling and reliability. Perfect for those who prefer a lighter firearm without sacrificing performance.
Specs
- Caliber: .380 Auto
- Magazine Capacity: Standard 6
- Barrel Length: 3.25 inches
- Weight (Empty Magazine): 390 g (13.76 oz)
- Trigger Pull: 24 N (5.4 lbs)
- Overall Length: 5.94 inches
- Slide Length: 5.75 inches
- Overall Width: 0.98 inch
- Slide Width: 0.83 inch
- Height (Including Magazine): 4.13 inches
Overview of Glock 43
Enter the Glock 43, a compact firearm that’s a step up in power with its 9mm caliber. This model is designed for those who need a reliable, easy-to-conceal handgun without compromising on firepower.
Specs
- Caliber: 9x19mm (9mm)
- Magazine Capacity: Standard 6
- Barrel Length: 3.41 inches
- Weight (With Empty Magazine): 510 g
- Trigger Pull: 24 N
- Overall Length: 6.26 inches
- Slide Length: 6.06 inches
- Overall Width: 1.06 inches
- Slide Width: 0.87 inch
- Height (Including Magazine): 4.25 inches
Features Comparison: Glock 42 VS Glock 43
1. Concealed Carry & Comfort
Glock 42
The Glock 42 shines in the realm of concealed carry. My personal field tests confirmed its comfort, particularly for IWB carry.
Its slimmer profile fits seamlessly, making it barely noticeable even during extended wear. For petite individuals or those preferring non-traditional carry like ankle or boot holsters, the Glock 42 is a clear winner.
Glock 43
The Glock 43, although slightly larger and heavier than the Glock 42, still performs admirably in concealed carry scenarios.
During my tests, the Glock 43 was comfortable enough for daily carry, especially inside the waistband with a belt. However, its additional weight was more noticeable during active scenarios like running or gym workouts.
Winner
Comparing the two, the Glock 42 emerges as the superior option for concealed carry and comfort. Its advantages are particularly evident in my field tests.
The reduced weight and slimmer profile of the Glock 42 make it a more versatile and comfortable choice for a broader range of carry styles and body types.
2. Ergonomics & Handling
Glock 42
The Glock 42 excels in ergonomics. Its smaller frame fits snugly in the hand, offering a comfortable grip that enhances control, especially for shooters with smaller hands.
In my field tests, I noticed the ease of manipulating the slide and magazine release, attributed to its size and design. The trigger reach is shorter, allowing for better trigger control and recoil management.
Glock 43
The Glock 43, while slightly larger, still maintains a high level of ergonomics. The handling is intuitive, and during my testing, I found it to be very manageable, even for extended shooting sessions.
The slightly larger size can be an advantage for shooters with larger hands, providing a fuller grip. The slide and magazine release are comfortably accessible, though slightly more effort is required compared to the Glock 42 due to its larger dimensions.
Winner
When it comes to ergonomics and handling, the Glock 42 edges out the Glock 43. My field tests highlighted the Glock 42’s superior manageability and comfort, especially for shooters with smaller hands or those who prefer a more compact grip.
The easier slide manipulation and more comfortable grip size make the Glock 42 more user-friendly, particularly for longer shooting sessions or for those who might struggle with the slightly larger and heavier Glock 43.
3. Ammunition Cost and Availability
Glock 42
The Glock 42 uses .380 Auto ammunition, which tends to be pricier and slightly less available compared to 9mm rounds.
In my experience, the cost of .380 Auto can be 25-40% higher per round, impacting the overall expenditure for regular training and shooting practice.
While .380 Auto rounds are sufficiently available in the market, they don’t match the ubiquitous presence of 9mm ammunition.
Glock 43
The Glock 43 uses the more common 9mm cartridges, renowned for being the most affordable centerfire handgun ammunition. In my experience, the widespread availability and affordability of 9mm rounds make them an ideal choice for regular training and practice.
For shooters who prioritize frequent practice or are on a tight budget, the Glock 43’s ammunition choice offers a practical and cost-effective solution, ensuring that training and proficiency development can be sustained without a significant financial burden.
Winner
When comparing ammunition cost and availability, the Glock 43 clearly excels over the Glock 42. The use of 9mm ammunition in the Glock 43 provides a substantial advantage in terms of both affordability and widespread availability.
Pros & Cons of Glock 42
Pros
- Lighter and more compact, ideal for concealed carry.
- Lower recoil, suitable for shooters with less hand strength.
- Smooth trigger mechanism, providing a comfortable shooting experience.
- Easier to handle for smaller hands or non-traditional carrying methods.
Cons
- .380 Auto ammunition is more expensive and less available.
Pros & Cons of Glock 43
Pros
- More powerful with 9mm ammunition.
- Wider range of aftermarket parts available.
- Affordable and readily available ammunition.
- Slightly larger size may benefit shooters with larger hands.
Cons
- Heavier and slightly larger, potentially less comfortable for concealed carry.
Similarities Between Glock 42 & Glock 43
- Both have a standard magazine capacity of 6 rounds.
- Feature the Safe Action® system.
- Similar ergonomic design with no removable backstraps.
- Gen 4 texturing on grips for secure handling.
- Both models allow for similar sight upgrades.
- Virtually identical slide lock and magazine release designs.
- Comparable overall build quality as Gen4 Glock designs.
Differences Between Glock 42 & Glock 43
- Glock 42 is chambered in .380 Auto, while Glock 43 uses 9x19mm.
- Glock 42 is lighter and more compact than Glock 43.
- Glock 42 has a smoother trigger mechanism compared to Glock 43’s stiffer trigger.
- Glock 42 has a lower recoil, making it easier for new shooters.
- Glock 43’s ammunition is more affordable and widely available.
- Glock 43 offers a broader range of aftermarket options.
- Glock 43’s slightly larger size gives it a different grip feel.
- Glock 43 might be more appealing for shooters preferring higher caliber power.
Final Verdict
As a shooter who has extensively tested both the Glock 42 and Glock 43, I’ve come to a conclusion that resonates with my experience and preferences.
Both guns have their unique strengths, making them suitable for different types of shooters and situations. However, in most of my comparisons, the Glock 42 emerged as the winner for its exceptional blend of comfort, ease of use, and shooting performance.
The Glock 42’s lighter frame and reduced recoil make it an outstanding choice for those who prioritize comfort and ease of handling, especially in concealed carry scenarios.
FAQ’s
Which is better, the G42 or G43?
The G42 is better for those who are recoil-sensitive, offering soft recoil with great ergonomics and trigger. The G43 is more powerful but not as easy to shoot.
Is Glock 42 good for concealed carry?
Yes, the Glock 42 is excellent for concealed carry, being ultra-compact and designed for deep concealment.
Will a Glock 42 holster fit a Glock 43?
Yes, some holsters are designed to fit both Glock 42 and 43, as well as the 43X and 48.
Is the Glock 42 drop safe?
Yes, like all Glocks, the Glock 42 is manufactured with a drop-safe feature, ensuring it doesn’t discharge if dropped.
Which is better, G43 or G43X?
The G43X generally wins for higher magazine capacity and better accuracy, but the G43 is better for concealability.
