Glock 43X: The Ultimate Guide to Features, Performance & Upgrades

Introduction to the Glock 43X

The Glock 43X is a highly popular firearm designed for concealed carry and self-defense. As part of Glock’s Slimline series, it offers a compact frame with an increased magazine capacity compared to its predecessor, the Glock 43. First introduced in 2019, the Glock 43X was designed to combine the best aspects of the Glock 43 and Glock 48, delivering a balanced shooting experience with improved handling and ergonomics.

One of the reasons the Glock 43X stands out is its ability to provide a full grip while maintaining a slim profile, making it comfortable for users with different hand sizes. The handgun’s lightweight polymer frame and durable slide construction contribute to its reliability and ease of use, making it a top choice for personal protection. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner looking for a dependable firearm, the Glock 43X presents an appealing option.

With its 10-round magazine capacity, the Glock 43X offers more firepower than the original Glock 43 while maintaining a concealable size. This makes it a compelling option for those who prioritize both capacity and concealability. The Glock 43X has gained a reputation as a versatile and dependable firearm, often compared to other industry favorites like the Sig Sauer P365 and Springfield Hellcat.

Design & Features of the Glock 43X

Frame Construction and Ergonomics

The Glock 43X features Glock’s signature polymer frame, which provides a lightweight yet sturdy build. Unlike some compact firearms that may feel uncomfortable in hand, the Glock 43X boasts an ergonomic grip that accommodates a full hand purchase, reducing recoil and improving control. The frame includes a built-in beavertail, which helps prevent slide bite and enhances comfort during prolonged shooting sessions.

Slide and Barrel

The Glock 43X’s slide is coated with an nDLC finish, improving corrosion resistance and durability. This makes it well-suited for daily carry, as it withstands sweat, humidity, and rough handling. The 3.41-inch barrel ensures accuracy at close and mid-range distances, making it effective for self-defense situations.

Magazine Capacity and Compatibility

A significant advantage of the Glock 43X is its 10-round magazine capacity, which is an improvement over the Glock 43’s 6-round capacity. The pistol is also compatible with Shield Arms S15 magazines, allowing users to extend the capacity to 15 rounds while maintaining a flush fit. This gives users more flexibility in choosing their preferred magazine setup.

Trigger System and Safety Features

Glock’s Safe Action System is incorporated into the 43X, ensuring a consistent trigger pull and multiple safety features. The firearm includes a trigger safety, firing pin safety, and drop safety, preventing accidental discharges while maintaining readiness.

Performance & Handling

The Glock 43X is known for its smooth performance and excellent handling. The extended grip ensures better recoil management, making follow-up shots more precise and controlled. Compared to the Glock 43, which has a shorter grip, the 43X allows shooters to achieve a more secure hold, reducing muzzle flip and improving overall accuracy.

The 3.41-inch barrel contributes to the handgun’s accuracy, allowing shooters to maintain tight shot groups at self-defense distances. The factory-installed sights provide a decent sight picture, but many users opt for aftermarket night sights or fiber optic upgrades for better low-light visibility.

Another notable aspect of the Glock 43X is its reliability. Glock handguns are renowned for their ability to function flawlessly under various conditions, and the 43X is no exception. Whether using standard factory ammunition or self-defense hollow points, the Glock 43X cycles smoothly without failures, making it a dependable choice for everyday carry.

Customization & Aftermarket Upgrades

Sight Upgrades

One of the most common upgrades for the Glock 43X is swapping out the stock sights for high-visibility options. Night sights, fiber optic sights, and red dot optics can significantly enhance target acquisition and shooting accuracy, particularly in low-light conditions.

Trigger Upgrades

Although the factory trigger is reliable, some shooters prefer aftermarket options for a crisper break and shorter reset. Upgrading the trigger can improve overall performance, making it more responsive for defensive shooting scenarios.

Grip Modifications

Adding Talon grips, stippling, or undercuts can enhance grip texture and control. This customization option is ideal for those who want a more secure hold in various shooting environments.

Magazine Extensions

Magazine extensions allow users to increase their ammunition capacity without compromising concealability. While Shield Arms’ 15-round magazines are a popular choice, baseplate extensions for the standard 10-round magazines can also provide extra rounds.

Holster Options

Choosing the right holster is essential for comfortable carry. Popular options include inside-the-waistband (IWB), outside-the-waistband (OWB), and appendix carry holsters. Each option provides different levels of accessibility and concealment based on personal preference.

Glock 43X vs. Competitors

When comparing the Glock 43X to its closest competitors, such as the Glock 43, Glock 48, Sig Sauer P365, and Springfield Hellcat, several factors come into play. The Glock 43X offers a balanced blend of size, capacity, and reliability, making it a strong contender in the concealed carry market.

While the Sig Sauer P365 has a slightly higher capacity with a similar size profile, some users prefer Glock’s simpler design and aftermarket support. The Springfield Hellcat also boasts a higher round count, but the Glock 43X is praised for its superior ergonomics and consistent performance.

Maintenance & Care Tips

Regular maintenance is key to keeping the Glock 43X in optimal condition. Cleaning the firearm after every range session helps prevent buildup and ensures smooth operation. Applying proper lubrication to key components like the slide rails and barrel enhances longevity and reliability.

Checking for wear on parts such as the recoil spring assembly and trigger components is also important for long-term durability. Using factory-approved cleaning solutions and following Glock’s maintenance guidelines ensures the pistol remains in top shape for years to come.

Conclusion

The Glock 43X stands out as a reliable, concealable, and high-performing handgun ideal for everyday carry. With its increased capacity, ergonomic design, and customization potential, it caters to a wide range of shooters. Whether for self-defense, home protection, or professional use, the Glock 43X remains a solid choice in the concealed carry market.

FAQs

Is the Glock 43X a good gun for beginners? Yes, its simple operation and reliability make it a great choice.

Can the Glock 43X use Glock 43 magazines? No, the magazine sizes differ and are not interchangeable.

What is the best holster for the Glock 43X? IWB holsters are preferred for concealed carry, while OWB holsters offer easy access.

How many rounds can a Glock 43X hold? The standard magazine holds 10 rounds, but aftermarket options allow up to 15.

Is the Glock 43X legal in all states? Some states have magazine capacity restrictions; check local laws before purchasing.

Does the Glock 43X have a rail for attachments? No, it does not have a Picatinny rail for accessories.

What are the best self-defense rounds for the Glock 43X? Hollow point rounds such as Federal HST and Speer Gold Dot are recommended.

How does the Glock 43X compare to the Glock 19 for everyday carry? The Glock 43X is slimmer and more concealable, while the Glock 19 offers higher capacity.