Glock 43X Review: Is This Better Than the Glock 43?

Looking at the Glock 43X for the first time, you might scratch your head and wonder – why mess with the already popular Glock 43? That exact thought crossed many minds when this pistol debuted. The Glock 43 had established itself as a go-to single-stack 9mm for concealed carry. But as subcompact pistols with higher capacity started gaining popularity, many Glock fans wanted the 43 to evolve. The 43X – and especially the 43X MOS – answered that call and quickly became the new go-to for Glock carriers. 

Does this new version actually improve on the original formula? Or is it just a marketing gimmick to sell more guns? Let's put both models side by side and see what the 43X brings to the table.

Glock 43X at a Glance

The Glock 43X made its debut at SHOT Show 2019, arriving alongside its sibling, the Glock 48. Both appeared to be Glock's answer to the hugely successful SIG P365, which had set a new standard for capacity in micro-compact pistols.

This handgun maintains the short 3.41-inch barrel of the original G43 but adds a longer grip for improved control and increased magazine capacity. At first glance, the most noticeable difference is the extended grip - it's taller than the G43 but maintains that signature slim Glock profile.

Weighing in at 18.7 ounces empty, it's not exactly a heavyweight. The gun measures 6.5 inches in overall length and stands 5.04 inches tall. One of its most appealing attributes? A super slim 1.06-inch width that makes it easy to conceal.

Glock 43 vs Glock 43X: What's the Difference?

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty. How exactly does the 43X differ from its predecessor?

Size Comparison:

• Barrel Length: Both guns feature the same 3.41-inch barrel
• Grip Length: The 43X grip is significantly longer
• Overall Height: G43: 4.25" vs G43X: 5.04"
• Width: Both maintain the same 1.06" slim profile
• Weight: G43: 16.23 oz vs G43X: 18.7 oz (empty)

Magazine Capacity:

The original G43 comes with 6-round magazines. The 43X steps up with 10-round magazines straight out of the box - a 66% increase in capacity without changing the width of the gun.

Ergonomic Changes:

The 43X features an extended beavertail, preventing that painful slide bite some users experienced with the G43. The longer grip accommodates all fingers for most hand sizes - no more dangling pinky finger!

Visual Differences:

When first released, the 43X came with a silver/stainless steel slide option (now discontinued), giving it a distinct two-tone look compared to the all-black G43. Current models come in the traditional black finish.

Feature	Glock 43	Glock 43X
Barrel Length	3.41 inches	3.41 inches
Overall Height	4.25 inches	5.04 inches
Grip Length	Shorter grip (2-finger)	Longer grip (full hand)
Width	1.06 inches	1.06 inches
Weight (Empty)	16.23 oz	18.7 oz
Magazine Capacity	6 rounds	10 rounds (15 with S15)
Beavertail	None	Yes, extended
Slide Finish Options	Black only	Black, formerly stainless
MOS Option	No	Yes (G43X MOS)
Red Dot Compatibility	Not compatible	Shield RMSc, Holosun, etc.
Picatinny Rail	No	Yes (MOS version)
Magazine Compatibility with G43	Not compatible with 43X	Not compatible with G43
Standard Sight Type	Polymer sights	Polymer sights
Extended Capacity Options	Limited options	S15 (15), ETS (19)
Field Strip Method	Standard Glock process	Standard Glock process

Features Breakdown

Let's dig deeper into what makes the G43X tick:

Slide and Barrel:

The 3.41-inch barrel keeps the slide compact and easy to conceal. With an overall length of 6.5 inches, it's still compact enough for comfortable everyday carry.

Gen 5 Influences:

Though not officially designated as Gen 5, the 43X borrows several Gen 5 features:

• Front and rear slide serrations
• Marksman barrel for improved accuracy
• Extended beavertail design
• Removal of finger grooves from the grip
• High-visibility magazine follower

Interestingly, the 43X lacks the ambidextrous slide lock found on other newer Glock models. It seems these slimline pistols exist in their own category within the Glock lineup.

Magazine Details:

The standard 10-round magazines are single-stack designs. However, Shield Arms changed the game with their S15 magazines that somehow cram 15 rounds into the same grip space. ETS also offers clear extended magazines with 19-round capacity.

One important note: G43X magazines don't work with the G43, and extended G43 magazines won't function in the 43X. This breaks from Glock's usual commitment to magazine compatibility across models.

Sights:

Like most Glocks, the 43X comes with basic polymer sights that most users quickly replace. These plastic sights get the job done but lack durability and visibility in low-light conditions.

While the 43X offers a slight edge in control and sight alignment over the 43, upgrading to better sights can make a dramatic difference on either model. Our best Glock sights review breaks down the top options for faster target acquisition and improved accuracy.

Glock 43X Variants

The G43X family has a few different members:

Standard Black Model:

The classic black-on-black version represents the most common 43X you'll encounter.

Stainless Steel Slide Version:

Initially released with a silver/stainless steel slide paired with a black frame, this two-tone version has been discontinued.

Glock 43X MOS (Modular Optic System):

This variant takes the 43X platform to the next level with:

• A slide cut for mounting micro red dot sights
• Compatible with Shield RMSc footprint optics (works with Shield, Holosun, Swampfox, Riton, and SIG optics)
• A single-slot Picatinny rail for mounting lights like the TLR-7 SUB

Now considered the go-to choice in the industry, the MOS version transforms the 43X from a simple concealed carry pistol into a more capable defensive tool with modern accessories. 

Who Should Consider the Glock 43X?

The G43X hits a sweet spot for several types of gun owners:

New Concealed Carriers:

Its longer grip makes the 43X easier to shoot than many micro-compacts, but the slim profile keeps it concealable. This balance of shootability and concealability makes it ideal for those new to carrying.

Folks With Larger Hands:

If you found the original G43 too small to grip comfortably, the 43X solves that problem without adding much bulk.

People Who Value Comfort Over Ultimate Concealability:

Yes, the 43X is slightly taller than the G43, but that extra grip length translates to substantially improved comfort and control. For many, this tradeoff is worth it.

Home Defense Users (MOS Version):

With a light and red dot mounted, the 43X MOS becomes a legitimate home defense option that's also easy to carry daily.

Range Testing

According to feedback from users who've spent time with both the G43 and G43X, the difference in shootability is substantial.

Many users report that the G43 can be uncomfortable to shoot, especially for those with larger hands. The short grip often leads to pinky fingers dangling off the bottom, and some experience painful slide bite where the slide cuts into the web of the hand during recoil.

The 43X addresses these issues with its longer grip and extended beavertail. Users consistently report more comfortable shooting sessions with better control.

Testing with various ammunition types shows the 43X handles everything from standard 115-grain FMJ to heavier 147-grain subsonic loads and even spicy 124-grain +P defensive ammunition with relative ease. The longer grip provides leverage that helps manage recoil.

One unexpected benefit of the longer grip is the magazine changes. With smaller pistols like the P365 and Hellcat, users with larger hands often need to shift their grip during reloads because their pinky can block the magazine from dropping free. The 43X's longer grip eliminates this issue, allowing for faster, more efficient reloads.

In side-by-side drills like the El Presidente, many users find they can complete the drill faster with the 43X compared to smaller pistols, largely due to improved reloads and better recoil management.

Accuracy and Trigger Performance

Out of the box, some users report their 43X rear sights being slightly off-center, requiring adjustment for optimal accuracy. This appears to be a common issue with Glock pistols in general.

Once the sights are properly aligned, the 43X delivers respectable accuracy for a compact pistol. At 25 yards, users report consistently hitting 4-8 inch targets - more than adequate for a defensive handgun.

The trigger is pure Glock - with all the pros and cons that entails. It features:

• A somewhat stiff pull (around 5.5 pounds)
• A short travel distance
• A consistent break
• A tactile and audible reset

For those familiar with Glock triggers, it feels right at home. For newcomers, it's a serviceable trigger that prioritizes safety and consistency over match-grade performance.

Both the Glock 43 and 43X feature Glock’s familiar factory trigger, which is serviceable but leaves room for improvement. If you’re considering an upgrade, our guide to the best Glock triggers explores options that can enhance pull weight, reset, and overall feel.

Must-Have Accessories

The aftermarket has embraced the 43X with numerous upgrades:

Shield Arms S15 15-Round Magazines:

These magazines have become legendary in the 43X community. They somehow pack 15 rounds into a flush-fitting magazine that maintains the same dimensions as the factory 10-round mags. This transforms the 43X's capacity to match or exceed competitors like the P365 and Hellcat.

Important note: If you use S15 magazines regularly, you'll need to install Shield's metal magazine catch to prevent premature wear on the factory polymer catch.

Tyrant Designs Magwell:

This aluminum magwell helps guide magazines into place for faster reloads and adds a bit of weight to help with recoil management. It also provides a textured surface for your hand to push against, enhancing grip stability.

ETS Magazines:

These transparent polymer magazines offer extended capacity (19 rounds) at an affordable price point. They're excellent for range sessions when you want to spend more time shooting and less time reloading.

For MOS Users:

• Holosun 507K or Shield RMSc red dot sights
• Streamlight TLR-7 SUB weapon light
• Upgraded iron sights that co-witness with red dots

By the Numbers

Based on extensive user feedback, here's how the Glock 43X rates in key categories:

Dependability: 5/5

The 43X continues Glock's tradition of creating guns that go bang every time you pull the trigger. Users report excellent function across different ammunition types and even with aftermarket magazines.

Accuracy: 4/5

Once the sights are properly aligned, the 43X offers good accuracy for its intended purpose. The slightly longer sight radius compared to some competitors helps with precision, though the factory plastic sights leave room for improvement.

Ergonomics: 4/5

The extended grip dramatically improves handling compared to the G43. Some users report the slide release gets pinned down by their thumbs during firing, but this is a common issue with many Glock models and depends on your grip style.

Customization: 5/5

As a Glock, the 43X benefits from massive aftermarket support. From triggers to sights, magazine releases to barrels, you can modify practically every aspect of this pistol.

Value: 3.5/5

At around $450, the 43X sits in the same price range as the P365 and Hellcat but doesn't offer the same out-of-box features like night sights or higher capacity. However, its simplicity, dependability, and upgrade potential help justify the price.

Field Strip & Maintenance

Maintaining the 43X follows the standard Glock procedure:

1. Remove the magazine and clear the chamber
2. Pull the trigger (after verifying the gun is unloaded)
3. Pull the slide back slightly
4. Pull down on both frame tabs
5. Push the slide forward off the frame
6. Remove the recoil spring assembly and barrel

This simple design makes cleaning quick and straightforward - a process that takes just minutes once you're familiar with it.

Reassembly is equally simple - just reverse the steps above. The 43X maintains Glock's reputation for easy maintenance and cleaning.

Verdict: Is the Glock 43X Better Than the Glock 43?

For most people, yes - the Glock 43X represents a significant improvement over the original G43.

The 43X addresses the main complaints about the G43 (grip size and capacity) without sacrificing much in terms of concealability. The slightly larger grip makes shooting more comfortable and improves control, especially during rapid fire. The increased capacity from 6 to 10 rounds (or 15 with Shield mags) represents a huge tactical advantage.

The only people who might prefer the G43 are those who prioritize absolute concealability above all else, or those with very small hands who find the 43X grip too large.

What makes the 43X special is that it occupies a unique middle ground between tiny, hard-to-shoot pocket pistols and larger compact handguns. It's small enough to disappear under light clothing but large enough to shoot comfortably.

Add in the MOS version's ability to mount modern accessories, and you have a truly versatile platform that can serve multiple roles from deep concealment to home defense.

The Glock 43X may have seemed like an odd addition to the lineup when first announced, but time has proven it to be one of Glock's most thoughtful designs - a gun that balances the competing demands of concealability, capacity, and shootability better than almost anything else on the market.

For many shooters, the Glock 43X strikes the best balance between concealability and shootability. If you decide the 43X is right for you, make sure to pair it with the right holster—our Glock 43X holster review highlights the best options for comfortable and secure carry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use Glock 43 magazines in the Glock 43X?

No, despite their similar appearance, G43 magazines are not compatible with the 43X due to differences in the grip design and magazine catch location.

2. Do I need to change the magazine release if I use Shield Arms S15 magazines?

Yes, Shield Arms strongly recommends installing their metal magazine catch when using S15 magazines regularly. The steel magazines can wear down the factory polymer catch over time.

3. Is the Glock 43X good for shooters with small hands?

The 43X has a slightly larger grip than the G43, but its slim width (1.06") makes it manageable for most hand sizes. Those with very small hands might prefer the original G43.

4. What red dots fit the Glock 43X MOS?

The 43X MOS accepts optics with the Shield RMSc footprint, including the Shield RMSc, Holosun 407K/507K, Swampfox Sentinel, SIG Romeo Zero, and Riton MPRD 2.

5. How does the 43X compare to the SIG P365 in terms of size?

The 43X is slightly larger than the P365, particularly in grip length. The 43X is about 5.04" tall compared to the P365's 4.3", but both have similar width measurements.

6. Can the Glock 43X be safely carried with a round in the chamber?

Yes, like all Glocks, the 43X features multiple passive safety mechanisms including the trigger safety, firing pin safety, and drop safety. When properly holstered, it can be safely carried with a round chambered.