I’ve had the unique opportunity to get hands-on with two of the most talked-about concealed carry guns in the market: the SIG P365XL Vs Glock 43X.
I aim to figure out which of these two popular firearms reigns supreme. In this article, I will share my firsthand experiences, breaking down each gun’s performance, feel, and overall effectiveness.
| Feature | SIG P365XL | Glock 43X |
| Capacity | 12+1 (option for 15) | Standard 10 |
| Barrel Length | 3.7 inches | 3.41 inches |
| Weight (Empty Mag) | 20.7 ounces | 16.40 ounces |
| Sights | XRAY3 day/night sights, Optics-ready | Standard plastic target sights |
| Trigger | Flat-faced trigger | Standard Glock trigger |
| Overall Length | 6.6 inches | 6.5 inches |
| Height with Magazine | 4.8 inches | 5.04 inches |
Overview: SIG P365XL
The SIG P365XL elevates the original P365’s game with its larger size and enhanced features, making it a formidable choice for concealed carry.
Specs
- Capacity: 12+1 in 9mm
- Barrel Length: 3.7 inches
- Overall Width: 1.1 inches
- Overall Length: 6.6 inches
- Overall Height: 4.8 inches
- Sights: Optic-ready, equipped with iron night sights
- Weight with the empty mag: 20.7 ounces
Overview: Glock 43X
The Glock 43X, an extension of the classic Glock 43, offers a blend of compactness and increased capacity, making it a strong contender in the concealed carry arena.
Specs
- Capacity: 10 rounds
- Barrel Length: 3.41 inches
- Overall Length: 6.5 inches
- Height with Magazine: 5.04 inches
- Weight without magazine: 16.40 ounces
- Weight with empty magazine: 18.70 ounces
- Weight with loaded magazine: 23.07 ounces
Features Comparison: SIG P365XL VS Glock 43X
1. Ergonomics
SIG P365XL
The SIG P365XL is a marvel in ergonomics, offering a hand-filling experience that’s both comfortable and functional. Its grip, slightly extended compared to the original P365, allows for a full, firm hold, enhancing control and stability.
This is further complemented by the deep undercut under the trigger guard and the extended beavertail, which work together to offer superior handling.
These features are especially beneficial during rapid firing or when aiming for precision at longer ranges, making the SIG P365XL a top contender in ergonomic design.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X adheres to Glock’s iconic grip style, slimmed down for a more compact form factor. This thinner grip retains the familiarity and reliability expected of Glock designs.
Its enhanced beavertail design is a notable addition, preventing the discomfort of slide bite and enhancing the overall grip experience.
However, some shooters might find this grip a bit too blocky, which could impact handling comfort. Despite this, the grip of the Glock 43X provides solid control, making it a reliable choice for a range of shooters.
Winner
In the realm of ergonomics, the SIG P365XL stands out as the winner when compared to the Glock 43X. Its well-thought-out design, featuring a longer grip and ergonomic enhancements, contributes to a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience.
This is particularly evident in scenarios that demand rapid fire or precision shooting at a distance. The SIG’s design not only accommodates different hand sizes but also provides a natural and intuitive feel, making it the superior choice in ergonomic comfort and control.
2. Sights and Optics
SIG P365XL
The SIG P365XL is equipped with impressive XRAY3 day and night sights, which ensure outstanding visibility in various lighting conditions.
These sights are a significant advantage, providing a clear and bright sight picture in both daylight and low-light environments.
Additionally, the P365XL comes factory-milled for red dot optics, allowing for easy customization and increased precision. This feature is particularly beneficial for shooters who prefer the speed and accuracy of red dot sights, making the SIG P365XL a versatile and adaptable choice.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X comes standard with Glock’s plastic target sights, which are functional but often considered basic by experienced shooters.
Many users choose to upgrade these sights for better durability and precision. Additionally, the Glock 43X is not designed to be optics-ready, which limits its versatility in terms of sight customization. This absence of an optics-ready platform may be a drawback for shooters seeking more advanced sighting options.
Winner
In the category of sights and optics, the SIG P365XL clearly surpasses the Glock 43X. The inclusion of high-quality XRAY3 sights offers a significant advantage in both day and night conditions, providing superior visibility and target acquisition.
3. Finish and Durability
SIG P365XL
The SIG P365XL is coated with a matte greyish-black Nitron finish, renowned for its robustness and resistance to harsh conditions.
This coating excels in protecting the firearm from sweat, abrasions, and scratches, ensuring the pistol maintains its appearance and functionality even under strenuous use.
Its resilience in the face of regular holster wear makes it an ideal choice for everyday carry. The Nitron finish not only enhances the firearm’s durability but also contributes to its sleek and professional appearance.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X offers two distinct and durable finishes: the eye-catching Silver nPVD and the classic Black nDLC. Both finishes are designed to withstand the rigors of everyday carry, offering excellent resistance to holster wear and corrosion.
These finishes add not only to the Glock 43X’s aesthetic appeal but also to its longevity and resilience. The choice between the two finishes allows users to select a style that suits their personal preference, all while ensuring the firearm’s durability and reliability.
Winner
Choosing a winner in finish and durability between the SIG P365XL and the Glock 43X is challenging, as both offer commendable qualities.
However, the Glock 43X slightly edges out with its two finish options, providing versatility in aesthetics and consistent durability. The nPVD and nDLC coatings are both rugged and resistant, ensuring the firearm’s longevity and maintaining its appearance over time.
4. Trigger Quality
SIG P365XL
The SIG P365XL’s flat-faced trigger is a standout feature, reflecting a thoughtful design that enhances shooting dynamics. This modern trigger design significantly reduces trigger reach, making the shooting experience more comfortable, especially for those with smaller hands.
In field testing, the trigger’s smooth pull and crisp break were consistently impressive, contributing to greater shot precision and control. This upgrade in the trigger mechanism not only improves accuracy but also adds to the overall shooting experience, making the SIG P365XL a joy to shoot.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X, while maintaining the brand’s reputation for reliability, features a standard trigger that doesn’t bring much innovation to the table.
It provides a consistent feel that Glock users are familiar with, offering a reliable performance that has been the brand’s hallmark.
In field tests, the trigger performed as expected – reliable and steady, but it lacked the enhanced comfort and control offered by more modern designs. While it’s functional and dependable, the trigger doesn’t elevate the shooting experience in the way more advanced triggers do.
Winner
When it comes to trigger quality, the SIG P365XL clearly surpasses the Glock 43X. The flat-faced trigger in the SIG P365XL offers tangible benefits in terms of comfort, control, and precision, making it a superior choice for shooters who value a refined shooting experience.
This feature is particularly beneficial in scenarios requiring precise shot placement, such as competitive shooting or tactical scenarios.
The SIG’s advanced trigger design provides a noticeable improvement over the Glock’s standard trigger, setting a new standard in handgun trigger mechanisms.
Pros & Cons of SIG P365XL
Pros
- Larger grip for better control and comfort.
- XRAY3 day and night sights for improved visibility.
- Optics-ready for additional sight options.
- A flat-faced trigger enhances shooting precision.
- Nitron coating for durability and resistance to wear.
Cons
- Heavier than the Glock 43X, potentially affecting carry comfort.
Pros & Cons of Glock 43X
Pros
- Lighter weight for more comfortable carry.
- Reliable Glock Safe Action System.
- Familiar Glock ergonomics for brand enthusiasts.
Cons
- Standard plastic sights may require replacement for durability.
Similarities Between SIG P365XL & Glock 43X
- Both are 9mm caliber handguns.
- Striker-fired systems.
- Similar overall width at 1.1 inches.
- Designed for concealed carry.
- Comparable length and height dimensions.
Differences Between SIG P365XL & Glock 43X
- SIG P365XL has a slightly longer barrel (3.7 inches) than Glock 43X (3.41 inches).
- SIG features XRAY3 sights; Glock uses standard plastic sights.
- SIG has a flat-faced trigger; Glock uses a standard trigger.
- SIG offers a 12+1 capacity; Glock has a 10-round standard capacity.
- Glock is lighter without the magazine (16.40 oz) compared to SIG (20.7 ounces).
- SIG’s higher magazine and accessory costs compared to Glock.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and analysis of both the SIG P365XL and the Glock 43X, it’s time to draw a conclusion.
Both the SIG P365XL and the Glock 43X are outstanding in their own rights, offering a blend of reliability, comfort, and efficiency. However, based on overall performance, ergonomic design, and adaptability, the P365XL gun stands out.
The winner, in this case, balances the fine line between size, capacity, and shootability, proving to be a game-changer in the concealed carry market.
FAQ’s
Which is better Glock 43x or SIG P365?
The SIG P365 is often considered superior due to its higher magazine capacity, offering 12 and even 15-round options, providing an edge over the Glock 43X’s standard 10-round capacity.
What Glock is comparable to P365XL?
The Glock model comparable to the Sig sauer P365XL is the Glock 43X, both being similar in size, weight, and classified as sub-compact 9mm handguns.
What pistol compares to the Glock 43x?
The SIG P365 is a close comparison to the Glock 43X, with both capable of 10-round factory magazines, though the Glock 43 can upgrade to a 15-round Shield S15 magazine.
Is the P365XL better than the P365X?
Choosing between the P365XL and P365X depends on personal preference; the P365XL offers a longer slide, barrel, and sight radius, while the P365X provides more concealability with a shorter barrel.
