I’ve put two popular handguns through their paces: the Taurus 709 Slim Vs Glock 43.
Both guns are celebrated for compactness, reliability, and suitability for concealed carry, making them hot contenders for anyone looking to pack a discreet but powerful sidearm.
My goal is to compare these two firearms by testing them in real-world conditions to see which emerges as the top pick.
| Feature | Taurus 709 Slim | Glock 43 |
| Caliber | 9mm | 9x19mm |
| Overall Length | 6.25 inches | 6.26 inches |
| Overall Height | 4.5 inches | 4.25 inches |
| Width | 0.95 inch | 1.06 inches |
| Barrel Length | 3.0 inches | 3.41 inches |
| Weight (Empty) | 19 oz. | 16.23 oz. (without magazine) |
| Capacity | 7 + 1 rounds | Standard: 6 rounds |
Overview of Taurus 709 Slim
The Taurus 709 Slim, often lauded for its sleek design and effective performance, stands out as a top choice for concealed carry enthusiasts. Its compact size doesn’t compromise on firepower, offering a reliable option for self-defense.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Overall Length: 6.25 inches
- Overall Height: 4.5 inches
- Width: 0.95 inch
- Barrel Length: 3.0 inches
- Weight: 19 oz. (empty)
- Capacity: 7 + 1 rounds
Overview of Glock 43
A marvel of engineering, the Glock 43 brings Glock’s unparalleled reliability and ease of use in a subcompact frame, making it an ideal candidate for those prioritizing stealth and efficiency.
Specs
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- Overall Length: 6.26 inches
- Overall Height: 4.25 inches
- Width: 1.06 inches
- Barrel Length: 3.41 inches
- Weight: 16.23 oz. (without magazine)
- Capacity: Standard: 6 rounds
Features Comparison of Taurus 709 Slim VS Glock 43
1. Safety Mechanism
Taurus 709 Slim
The Taurus 709 Slim offers the traditional benefits of a compact firearm and distinguishes itself with a manual safety feature.
This addition is particularly beneficial for those new to carrying firearms or who have concerns about firearm safety in various environments.
Coupled with a unique keyed lock system, the Taurus 709 Slim provides an added layer of security. This system ensures the firearm remains inoperable when engaged, a feature that resonates with individuals looking for controlled access to their weapon.
Glock 43
The Glock 43, in contrast, showcases its commitment to simplicity and reliability through its Safe Action® System.
This system, while omitting traditional manual safety, incorporates multiple internal safeties designed to prevent accidental discharge.
The Glock’s approach is to ensure the firearm is safe to carry yet immediately ready for use, catering to those who value a seamless transition from holster to hand.
Winner
When it comes to the safety mechanisms of the Taurus 709 Slim and the Glock 43, declaring a clear winner is challenging, as each firearm caters to different user preferences and safety philosophies.
For users who prefer manual safeties and additional security features, the Taurus 709 Slim may be the preferred choice.
For those who prioritize readiness and a minimalist approach to safety, the Glock 43 stands out. In this light, the comparison ends in a tie, with both firearms excelling in their approaches to ensuring user safety.
2. Trigger System
Taurus 709 Slim
Featuring a trigger system that boasts a notably short pull, the Taurus 709
Slim enhances the shooting experience by offering responsiveness and ease of operation that is hard to match.
The reduced trigger pull distance allows for rapid follow-up shots, making the Taurus an appealing choice for both self-defense and sport shooting enthusiasts who prioritize speed and precision.
Glock 43
The Glock 43 remains faithful to its brand’s ethos with the Safe Action® trigger system, characterized by its consistent pull from the first shot to the last.
This consistency is a cornerstone of the Glock experience, offering predictability that can enhance a shooter’s control and precision.
While it may present a slightly longer pull compared to the Taurus, this feature is designed to promote deliberate action, reducing the likelihood of accidental discharge and ensuring that each shot is intentional.
Winner
In the realm of trigger systems, the Taurus 709 Slim edges out the Glock 43 for those who favor a quick, responsive trigger pull.
Its design caters to shooters looking for an immediate response with minimal effort, making it particularly suited for scenarios where speed is of the essence.
3. Ergonomics and Handling
Taurus 709 Slim
The Taurus 709 Slim’s design philosophy centers on user comfort and ease of carry, boasting a slim profile that makes it an ideal candidate for concealed carry.
Its lightweight frame, combined with a streamlined design, offers unparalleled comfort and discretion, without compromising on grip or control.
The ergonomic grip is textured to enhance handling, even in adverse conditions, ensuring the shooter maintains firm control over the firearm at all times.
Glock 43
The Glock 43, while maintaining a compact size, offers a slightly more robust grip that some shooters may find provides a more secure hold.
This design choice reflects Glock’s commitment to balance and reliability, ensuring that the firearm feels solid and dependable in hand.
The ergonomic considerations extend to the overall balance of the weapon, which, when combined with its reliable construction, offers a comfortable shooting experience that has come to be expected from the brand.
Winner
For those prioritizing slim design and lightweight comfort without sacrificing grip quality, the Taurus 709 Slim takes the lead in ergonomics and handling.
Its thoughtful design ensures ease of carry and discreetness, making it especially suitable for concealed carry users who demand both comfort and performance.
Pros & Cons of Taurus 709 Slim
Pros
- Manual safety feature for added security.
- Lightweight and slim design for comfortable carry.
- Short trigger pull for quicker response.
Cons
- Some shooters may prefer a more robust build.
Pros & Cons of Glock 43
Pros
- Reliable Safe Action® system.
- Wide aftermarket support for customization.
- Durable polymer frame for long-term use.
Cons
- Stock sights often considered for early upgrade.
Similarities Between Taurus 709 Slim & Glock 43
- Both chambered in 9mm.
- Comparable in overall size and concealability.
- Designed for personal defense and concealed carry.
- Support for aftermarket customization.
- Both have polymer frames for lightweight durability.
Differences Between Taurus 709 Slim & Glock 43
- Glock 43 has a slightly longer barrel length.
- Taurus 709 Slim is slightly lighter than the Glock 43.
- Glock 43 has a higher weight with a loaded magazine.
- Taurus offers a key lock security feature; Glock does not.
- Glock’s aftermarket support is more extensive than Taurus’s.
- Taurus 709 Slim has a shorter trigger pull compared to Glock 43.
- Magazine capacity differs, with Taurus 709 Slim holding more rounds.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and careful consideration of both the Taurus 709 Slim and the Glock 43, it’s clear that each firearm has its strengths, making this decision a challenging one.
However, based on the comprehensive comparison across various features such as safety mechanisms, trigger systems, and ergonomics, the Taurus 709 Slim slightly edges out as my preferred choice.
This decision does not come lightly, as both guns performed admirably in field tests.
FAQ’s
Is a Taurus 709 Slim a good pistol?
Yes, the Taurus 709 Slim is a good pistol, offering surprising accuracy for its size, a lightweight frame, and a responsive trigger system.
What is comparable to a Glock 43?
The Sig P938 is comparable to the Glock 43, with both being extremely close in size, though the Glock 43 is slightly longer and lighter due to its polymer construction.
Is Taurus a quality gun?
Yes, Taurus is known for producing affordable, workmanlike firearms that have gained a reputation for good performance over the years.
Are Taurus better than Glocks?
While Taurus offers certain advantages such as adjustable rear sights, the comparison largely depends on individual preferences and specific firearm models, with Glock generally praised for its accuracy and reliability.
