I’ve had the pleasure of spending some quality time with two remarkable Glock models: the Glock 45 Vs Glock 43X.
Both are top-notch in their own right, but as a professional shooter, I wanted to delve deeper and really see what sets them apart. After some extensive field testing, I’m here to share my firsthand experiences and insights to help you decide which Glock might just be the perfect fit for you.
| Feature | Glock 45 | Glock 43X |
| Caliber | 9x19mm | 9x19mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 17 (up to 33) rounds | 10 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches | 3.41 inches |
| Weight (Empty Magazine) | 24.48 oz | 18.70 oz |
| Overall Length | 7.44 inches | 6.50 inches |
| Height (Incl. Magazine) | 5.47 inches | 5.04 inches |
Overview of Glock 45
The Glock 45 is a powerhouse in a compact package, combining efficiency and performance in a sleek design.
Specs
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- System: Safe Action®
- Magazine Capacity: Standard 17 rounds (optional 19 / 24 / 31 / 33 rounds)
- Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
- Weight with Empty Magazine: 24.48 oz
- Trigger Pull: 5.85 pounds (26 N)
- Overall Length: 7.44 inches
- Slide Length: 6.85 inches
- Overall Width: 1.34 inches
- Slide Width: 1.0 inch
- Height including Magazine: 5.47 inches
Overview of Glock 43X
The Glock 43X, a slimline and efficient model, is designed for everyday carry, blending concealability with performance.
Specs
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- System: Safe Action®
- Magazine Capacity: Standard 10 rounds
- Barrel Length: 3.41 inches
- Weight without Magazine: 16.40 oz
- Weight with Empty Magazine: 18.70 oz
- Weight with Loaded Magazine: 23.07 oz
- Trigger Pull: 5.31 pounds (24 N)
- Overall Length: 6.50 inches
- Slide Length: 6.06 inches
- Overall Width: 1.10 inches
- Slide Width: 0.87 inch
- Height including Magazine: 5.04 inches
Features Comparison: Glock 45 VS Glock 43X
1. Size and Concealability
Glock 45
The Glock 45, with its overall length of 7.44 inches and height of 5.47 inches, is a bit more substantial in size. This does impact its concealability somewhat.
During my field tests, it was noticeable that concealing the Glock 45, especially with an extended magazine, required more strategic planning in terms of clothing and holsters.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X shines in its compact design. With an overall length of 6.50 inches and a height of 5.04 inches, it’s notably smaller and slimmer than the Glock 45.
In my experience, this made a significant difference in its concealability. It was easier to conceal under light clothing and more comfortable for extended periods of carry.
Winner
When it comes to size and concealability, the Glock 43X takes the lead, especially compared to the Glock 45. Its compact design makes it a top choice for concealed carry, offering ease and comfort without sacrificing performance.
2. Weight and Ease of Carry
Glock 45
The Glock 45, weighing 24.48 oz with an empty magazine, is reasonably light yet solid. During my testing, I found that its weight contributed to a stable shooting experience.
However, when carrying for longer durations, the weight, especially with a fully loaded magazine, was more noticeable.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X, lighter than the Glock 45 at 16.40 oz without a magazine and 18.70 oz with an empty magazine, offers a distinct advantage in terms of ease of carry.
In my tests, carrying the Glock 43X was more comfortable for extended periods, and its lighter weight made it less cumbersome for quick movements and draw.
Winner
The Glock 43X is the clear winner in terms of weight and ease of carry when compared to the Glock 45. Its lighter frame makes it more suitable for those who need a gun that’s easy to carry all day without causing discomfort or fatigue.
3. Ergonomics and Shooter Comfort
Glock 45
The Glock 45 offers impressive ergonomics. Its grip size and angle fit naturally in the hand, providing a comfortable shooting experience. The texture on the grip ensures a secure hold, even in rapid-firing scenarios.
During my field tests, I noticed that the slightly larger frame of the Glock 45 allowed for a more relaxed grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended shooting sessions. This ergonomic design, combined with the gun’s balanced weight distribution, made for an exceptionally comfortable shooting experience.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X, while smaller in size, doesn’t compromise on ergonomics. Its slim design is a boon for shooters with smaller hands or those who prefer a more compact grip.
In my testing, I found that the Glock 43X was extremely easy to handle, especially in situations requiring quick movement or drawing the firearm. The grip texture, similar to the Glock 45, provides adequate friction for a secure grip.
However, its smaller size might be less comfortable for shooters with larger hands during prolonged use.
Winner
When it comes to ergonomics and shooter comfort, the Glock 45 edges out slightly ahead of the Glock 43X, particularly for shooters with larger hands or those who prioritize comfort in extended shooting sessions.
Its design provides a natural, comfortable grip and excellent weight distribution, making it a pleasure to shoot.
The Glock 43X, while excellent in its own right for its compactness and ease of handling, might be less comfortable for some shooters over long periods. So, in this aspect, the Glock 45 takes the win, especially when compared to the Glock 43X.
Pros & Cons of Glock 45
Pros
- Higher magazine capacity with options for 17, 19, 24, 31, or 33 rounds.
- Longer barrel length of 4.02 inches aids in accuracy.
- Weight with an empty magazine (24.48 oz) provides stability.
- Safe Action® system ensures consistent trigger pull.
- Overall dimensions provide a comfortable grip for larger hands.
Cons
- Heavier weight then Glock 43X.
Pros & Cons of Glock 43X
Pros
- Compact design with a barrel length of 3.41 inches, ideal for concealed carry.
- Lighter weight without magazine (16.40 oz) enhances ease of carry.
- Slim profile (width of 1.10 inches) makes it comfortable for smaller hands.
- Safe Action® system ensures reliability.
- Adequate magazine capacity of 10 rounds for its size.
Cons
- Smaller size might be less comfortable for shooters with larger hands.
Similarities Between Glock 45 & Glock 43X
- Both chambered in 9x19mm caliber.
- Utilize Glock’s Safe Action® system.
- Have similar trigger pull weights (26 N for Glock 45 and 24 N for Glock 43X).
- Feature polymer frames known for durability.
- Designed for ease of use and reliability.
Differences Between Glock 45 & Glock 43X
- Glock 45 has a higher standard magazine capacity (17 rounds) than Glock 43X (10 rounds).
- Glock 45 is heavier (24.48 oz with empty magazine) compared to Glock 43X (18.70 oz).
- Glock 45 has a longer barrel (4.02 inches) versus Glock 43X (3.41 inches).
- Overall length of Glock 45 (7.44 inches) is greater than Glock 43X (6.50 inches).
- Glock 45 is wider (1.34 inches) compared to Glock 43X (1.10 inches).
- Slide width of Glock 45 (1.0 inch) is wider than Glock 43X (0.87 inch).
- Height including magazine of Glock 45 (5.47 inches) is greater than Glock 43X (5.04 inches).
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing both the Glock 45 and Glock 43X, it’s clear that each gun has its unique strengths tailored to different needs and preferences.
My personal choice, based on the majority of comparisons, leans towards the Glock 45. Its versatility, combined with its ergonomic design and higher magazine capacity, makes it a more suitable option for a range of scenarios, from tactical use to recreational shooting.
While the Glock 43X is undoubtedly a strong contender in its class, the Glock 45’s overall performance and adaptability give it a slight edge in this comparison.
FAQ’s
Is a Glock 45 easy to conceal?
Yes, the Glock 45 can be easily concealed, especially with the right holster, due to its compact slide and frame.
Does the Glock 43X have a break-in period?
No, the Glock 43X doesn’t require a break-in period. A few rounds of carry ammo and FMJ are sufficient for initial use.
How reliable is a Glock 43X?
The Glock 43X is highly reliable, known for its simplicity and effectiveness, especially in concealment and ease of shooting.
Does the Glock 43X have a trigger safety?
Yes, the Glock 43X comes with a trigger safety as part of its three independent, automatic mechanical safeties.
