I’m a professional shooter, and I’ve spent much time testing two of the most talked-about guns in the field: the SIG P365 Vs Glock 43X.
My goal? To figure out which one stands out as the winner. In this article, I will share my first-hand experience with these firearms, breaking down everything from specs to shooting performance. Let’s dive right in and see what these guns have to offer.
| Feature | SIG P365 | Glock 43X |
| Caliber | 9mm | 9x19mm |
| Length | 5.8″ | 6.5″ |
| Height | 4.3″ | 5.04″ |
| Width | 1″ | 1.10″ |
| Barrel Length | 3.1″ | 3.41″ |
| Weight (empty mag) | 17.8 oz | 18.70 oz |
| Sight Options | XRAY3 Day/Night | AmeriGlo |
SIG P365
The SIG P365 is a game-changer in the world of concealed carry. Compact yet capable, it’s a powerhouse in a small package.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Length: 5.8 inches
- Height: 4.3 inches
- Width: 1 inch
- Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
- Trigger Pull Weight: 6 pounds
- Sights: XRAY3 Day/Night Sights
- Weight: 17.8 ounces (with empty magazine)
- Slide Material: Stainless Steel
- Slide Finish: Nitron
- Magazine Capacity: Standard 10+1, Optional 12-round magazine available
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X brings a unique blend of compactness and capacity, making it a solid contender in the concealed carry market.
Specs
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- Length: 6.5 inches
- Height: 5.04 inches
- Width: 1.10 inches
- Barrel Length: 3.41 inches
- Weight with empty magazine: 18.70 ounces
- Trigger Pull: 24 N (approximately 5.39 pounds)
Features Comparison: SIG P365 VS Glock 43X
1. Size and Concealability
SIG P365
The P365 impresses with its compactness. Measuring just 5.8 inches in length and 4.3 inches in height, it’s notably smaller than the Glock 43X.
This size reduction significantly enhances its concealability, making it an excellent choice for covert carry or even pocket carry. Its diminutive stature doesn’t compromise its handling, maintaining a comfortable grip and ease of control.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X, with a length of 6.5 inches and a height of 5.04 inches, is slightly larger. This increased size, especially in the grip, offers a fuller hold, which some shooters may prefer.
While still suitable for concealed carry, its larger dimensions make it less ideal for extremely discreet carry options such as pocket carry, especially for those with smaller frames.
Winner
In terms of size and concealability, the SIG P365 takes the lead. Its compact design offers superior concealability and versatility without compromising on functionality, making it more adaptable for a variety of carry options compared to the Glock 43X.
2. Ergonomics
SIG P365
The P365 offers excellent ergonomics. Its high undercut and fine-grit sandpaper-like grip texture provides a secure and comfortable hold, allowing for better control and accuracy.
The grip design caters well to various hand sizes, offering a good balance between comfort and control, making it easier to manage recoil and maintain accuracy.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X features a longer grip that can comfortably accommodate all fingers, a significant advantage for shooters with larger hands.
Its Gen4 texture is less aggressive than the P365 but still provides adequate grip. The longer grip aids in recoil management, allowing for quicker follow-up shots and maintaining control during rapid firing.
Winner
The ergonomics round goes to the Glock 43X, particularly for shooters with larger hands. Its longer grip and adequate texturing offer a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience, particularly in rapid-firing scenarios, compared to the SIG P365.
3. Slide Operation
SIG P365
The SIG P365’s slide features aggressive serrations, providing a solid grip for slide manipulation.
However, its finish can be a bit slicker, which might be a slight disadvantage in wet or slippery conditions. The serrations are effective but don’t extend very high, which could be a limitation for some shooters.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X offers a choice between a black or silver slide, with the silver variant being less slick and easier to manipulate.
The forward and rear serrations are effective, and the slide’s texture offers a better grip compared to the P365, especially in adverse conditions.
Winner
When it comes to slide operation, the Glock 43X edges out the SIG P365. Its slide options and effective texturing provide a more reliable grip for slide manipulation, making it more user-friendly, especially under stress or in less-than-ideal conditions.
4. Sight Options and Visibility
SIG P365
The SIG P365 comes equipped with XRAY3 Day/Night Sights, which are highly effective in varied lighting conditions. The front sight is particularly notable for its bright ring, aiding in quick target acquisition.
However, in bright daylight, the front sight’s visibility isn’t as pronounced as I would prefer. The overall design is streamlined, contributing to the gun’s sleek look.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X offers more flexibility in sights. It comes with basic plastic slot fillers, allowing customization.
The optional AmeriGlo sights provide a bright orange front sight that is highly visible in daylight, surpassing the SIG’s visibility. This customization feature is appealing for shooters who are particular about their sight preferences.
Winner
The Glock 43X takes the lead in sight options and visibility.
The AmeriGlo sight’s bright orange front sight is more visible in daylight compared to the SIG P365’s XRAY3 Sights. The ability to customize the sights right out of the box gives the Glock 43X an edge for shooters who value adaptability.
5. Trigger Mechanism and Feel
SIG P365
The trigger of the SIG P365 is smooth with a unique feel. It offers light take-up followed by a noticeable wall, leading to a rolling break.
This feature ensures a controlled and precise shot. The reset is short and positive, which I found advantageous for quick follow-up shots. The trigger feel is consistent, making it easier to master with practice.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X has a distinct trigger mechanism with a light take-up leading to a firm wall and a definitive break. The reset is short, allowing for rapid successive shots.
Some shooters might find the hard wall a bit challenging initially, but it provides a clear indication of when the gun is about to fire, which is essential for controlled shooting.
Winner
In terms of trigger mechanism and feel, the SIG P365 is the winner. Its rolling break and consistent trigger pull offer a more intuitive shooting experience.
The smooth action contributes to better control and accuracy, especially for rapid firing scenarios. The Glock 43X’s trigger, while reliable, doesn’t provide the same level of finesse as the P365’s.
Pros & Cons of SIG P365
Pros
- Exceptional compactness for easy concealment.
- Lightweight, enhancing portability.
- Good ergonomics with a high undercut for grip.
- XRAY3 Day/Night Sights for varied lighting conditions.
- Versatile with optional higher capacity magazines.
Cons
- Front sight visibility can diminish in bright daylight.
- Smaller grip may be less comfortable for shooters with larger hands.
Pros & Cons of Glock 43X
Pros
- Larger grip aids in control and comfort, especially for larger hands.
- Diverse sight options, including highly visible AmeriGlo sights.
- More textured slide offers better manipulation.
- Extensive aftermarket support for customization.
- Good balance between size and shootability.
Cons
- Heavier compared to SIG P365, potentially affecting comfort in extended carry.
Similarities between SIG P365 & Glock 43X
- Both are chambered in 9mm.
- Each has a standard magazine capacity of 10 rounds.
- Designed with concealed carry in mind.
- Feature reversible magazine releases.
- Have no slide bite, even with high grips.
Differences between SIG P365 & Glock 43X
- SIG P365 is more compact and lighter.
- Glock 43X has a longer grip and barrel.
- SIG P365 offers XRAY3 Day/Night Sights; Glock 43X has optional AmeriGlo sights.
- The Glock 43X’s slide texture is less slick than the SIG’s.
- SIG P365’s trigger mechanism has a rolling break; Glock 43X has a hard break.
- Glock 43X has more aftermarket options compared to SIG P365.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and consideration, I’ve reached a verdict between the SIG P365 and the Glock 43X. Both firearms exhibit excellent qualities, but the Glock 43X has edged out as the superior choice for my needs.
The deciding factor comes down to a blend of ergonomics, versatility, and overall shooting experience.
The winner, in my opinion, perfectly balances the demands of concealed carry with the practicalities of everyday use, providing a seamless integration into various shooting scenarios.
FAQ’s
Which gun is better, Glock 43X or SIG P365?
The better choice depends on your needs. The Glock 43X offers easier handling and shooting with its larger size, while the SIG P365’s smaller size makes it more convenient for daily carry.
What Glock compares to SIG P365?
The Glock that compares to the SIG P365 is the Glock 43. Both are micro-compact pistols with similar sizes, though the Glock 43 has a slightly longer slide.
Is the P365 still the best?
Yes, the Sig P365 remains one of the best options for a concealed-carry pistol, offering reliability, good capacity, and versatility at a competitive price.
Why choose Glock 43X?
The Glock 43X is chosen for its accuracy in up-close defensive shooting, making it a strong contender for concealed carry with its sub-compact design and manageable size.
