As a professional shooter who has extensively tested the Glock 48 Vs Glock 43X, I’m here to share my insights.
While similar in many aspects, these two firearms offer distinct experiences to their users. My goal is to help you understand the nuances of each based on real-world testing and experience.
Let’s dive into the specifics to see which one emerges as the winner in different scenarios.
| Specification | Glock 48 | Glock 43X |
| Caliber | 9x19mm | 9x19mm |
| System | Safe Action® | Safe Action® |
| Magazine Capacity | Standard: 10 rounds | Standard: 10 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.17 inches | 3.41 inches (87 mm) |
| Weight (Empty Mag.) | 20.74 ounces | 18.70 ounces (530 g) |
| Trigger Pull | 24 N | 24 N |
| Overall Length | 7.28 inches | 6.50 inches (165 mm) |
| Slide Length | 6.85 inches | 6.06 inches (154 mm) |
| Overall Width | 1.10 inches | 1.10 inches (28 mm) |
| Slide Width | 0.87 inches | 0.87 inches (22 mm) |
| Height (Incl. Mag.) | 5.04 inches | 5.04 inches (128 mm) |
Overview of Glock 48
The Glock 48 presents a sleek and balanced design, combining ease of use with performance.
Specs
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- System: Safe Action®
- Magazine Capacity: Standard: 10 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4.17 inches
- Weight with empty magazine: 20.74 ounces
- Trigger Pull: 24 N
- Overall Length: 7.28 inches
- Slide Length: 6.85 inches
- Overall Width: 1.10 inches
- Slide Width: 0.87 inches
- Height including Magazine: 5.04 inches
Overview of Glock 43X
The Glock 43X is a compact and efficient choice, offering reliability and ease of concealment.
Specs
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- System: Safe Action®
- Magazine Capacity: Standard: 10 rounds
- Barrel Length: 3.41 inches
- Weight with empty magazine: 18.70 ounces
- Trigger Pull: 24 N
- Overall Length: 6.50 inches
- Slide Length: 6.06 inches
- Overall Width: 1.10 inches
- Slide Width: 0.87 inches
- Height including Magazine: 5.04 inches
Features Comparison: Glock 48 vs Glock 43X
1. Ergonomics and Comfort
Glock 48
The Glock 48 offers a slightly longer frame and barrel, which contributes to a more balanced feel in hand. During my testing, this extra length provided a more natural grip, especially for shooters with larger hands.
The standard Gen4 Glock texturing ensures the firearm stays secure, even with sweaty hands. Its ergonomic design is reminiscent of the Glock 19, making it familiar and comfortable for those already accustomed to Glock’s lineup.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X, being more compact, caters to shooters who prioritize concealability and ease of carry. Its shorter frame and barrel mean a snug fit for those with smaller hands, though it might feel a bit cramped for shooters used to larger firearms.
The texturing and grip are identical to the Glock 48, maintaining a secure hold. Its compactness is advantageous for concealed carry, but it might compromise comfort for extended shooting sessions compared to its larger counterpart.
Winner
Compared to the Glock 43X, the Glock 48 takes the lead in ergonomics. The longer barrel and slide offer a more balanced grip and a natural point of aim.
This is especially noticeable during prolonged shooting sessions, where the Glock 48’s dimensions provide a more comfortable and steady hold. For those who value a more traditional Glock feel and have larger hands, the Glock 48 is the superior choice in ergonomics.
2. Concealed Carry and Weight
Glock 48
The Glock 48, despite being slightly longer and heavier than the 43X, performs surprisingly well in concealed carry scenarios. Its slim profile, coupled with the extra length, distributes the weight more evenly, especially when carried with a belt.
During my field tests, the Glock 48’s extra ounces proved advantageous in stabilizing the firearm, particularly when carrying inside the waistband.
The extra length also didn’t hinder concealment significantly, making it a viable option for those who don’t mind the slight increase in size.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X shines in the realm of concealed carry. Its compact size and lighter weight make it ideal for those who prioritize ease of concealment and comfort.
During testing, the 43X was notably easier to carry without a belt, offering flexibility in various carry positions. However, its top-heaviness when loaded can be noticeable, especially when carried inside the waistband without additional support.
For users who carry for shorter periods or prefer maximum concealability, the 43X is an excellent choice.
Winner
Compared to the Glock 48, the Glock 43X emerges as the better option for concealed carry. Its compact size and lighter weight offer more versatility and comfort, particularly for those who carry for shorter durations or prefer minimalistic setups.
While the Glock 48 is still a strong contender, the 43X’s design caters more effectively to the concealed carry market, providing a balance of firepower and discretion that is hard to beat for everyday carry.
3. Shooting Performance and Accuracy
Glock 48
In terms of shooting performance, the Glock 48 impresses with its slightly longer sight radius, which enhances accuracy, particularly at longer ranges.
During my field tests, the Glock 48 demonstrated superior precision and control, making it easier to land consistent shots at distances beyond 12 yards.
The extra weight at the muzzle helps manage recoil, contributing to a smoother shooting experience. For those who frequent the range or require more precise shot placement, the Glock 48 proves to be a reliable and accurate firearm.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X, with its shorter slide, offers a distinct advantage in rapid-fire situations and close-range engagements. During testing, I noticed less sight movement, allowing for quicker target acquisition and follow-up shots within 12 yards.
Winner
The Glock 43X is a winner in this category with its shorter slide which are an advantage for close range engagements.
Pros & Cons of Glock 48
Pros
- Longer sight radius improves accuracy at distance.
- Slightly less recoil due to more weight.
- More balanced design for better handling.
- Extensive aftermarket support.
Cons
- Larger size than 43X.
Pros & Cons of Glock 43X
Pros
- Compact size ideal for concealed carry.
- Lighter weight enhances comfort.
- Good ergonomics for a range of hand sizes.
- Extensive aftermarket options available.
Cons
- Shorter sight radius limits long-range accuracy.
Similarities Between Glock 48 & Glock 43X
- Both chambered in 9x19mm caliber.
- Utilize Safe Action® system.
- Standard magazine capacity of 10 rounds.
- Trigger pull rated at 24 N.
- Overall width of 1.10 inches.
- Slide width of 0.87 inches.
- Height including magazine at 5.04 inches.
Differences Between Glock 48 & Glock 43X
- Glock 48 has a longer barrel length (4.17 inches) compared to the 43X (3.41 inches).
- Glock 48 is heavier with an empty magazine (20.74 ounces) than the 43X (18.70 ounces).
- Glock 48 has a longer overall length (7.28 inches) versus the 43X (6.50 inches).
- Glock 48’s slide length is longer (6.85 inches) compared to the 43X (6.06 inches).
- Glock 48’s design is more balanced, resembling a 1911, whereas the 43X has a shorter muzzle.
- Glock 48 better for longer distance shooting, while 43X excels in close-range scenarios.
- Glock 48 offers slightly more flexibility for slide modifications due to its length.
- Glock 43X is more convenient for concealed carry due to its compact size.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and comparison of the Glock 48 and Glock 43X, my verdict is clear. Both firearms exhibit remarkable qualities, but one emerges as the more versatile choice. The winner, in my experience, is the Glock 48.
It strikes an ideal balance between size, functionality, and shooting comfort, making it suitable for a wide range of applications from personal defense to range shooting.
FAQ’s
Which is better, Glock 48 or 43X?
The Glock 48 is generally better for accurate, rapid shooting with total control, thanks to its larger size and balanced design.
Is the Glock 48 frame the same as 43X?
Yes, the Glock 48 and 43X share the same frame size, but they have different slide lengths.
Is Glock 48 as good as Glock 19?
The Glock 48 is comparable to the Glock 19 in reliability but excels in ease of concealment and light weight.
Are Glock 43X and 48 sights the same?
Yes, sights for the Glock 43, 43X, and 48 are compatible due to their similar slide width and geometry.
Do Glock 48 mags fit Glock 43x?
Yes, Glock 43X and 48 magazines are compatible.
