Glock 42 vs 43: A Detailed Comparison for Concealed Carry

Choosing the right concealed carry pistol is a deeply personal decision, influenced by factors like hand size, preferred carry position, and desired balance between concealability and shootability. For many, the Glock 42 and Glock 43 represent compelling options in the single-stack 9mm market. This article provides a comprehensive comparison of the Glock 42 vs 43, delving into their features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you make an informed choice. We’ll explore everything from their dimensions and ergonomics to their performance and suitability for different users. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which Glock best fits your individual needs and preferences for everyday carry.

Understanding the Glock 42 and Glock 43

The Glock 42 and Glock 43, both subcompact pistols, cater to the concealed carry market, but they occupy slightly different niches. The Glock 42, chambered in .380 ACP, is the smaller and lighter of the two, prioritizing ease of concealment. The Glock 43, chambered in 9mm, offers more stopping power in a package that’s still remarkably compact. Understanding these core differences is crucial to evaluating which pistol is right for you.

Glock, an Austrian manufacturer, has been a leader in the firearms industry for decades, known for its polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols. The Glock 42 and 43 maintain this tradition, offering the reliability and simplicity that Glock is famous for. Glock pistols have become a standard for law enforcement and civilian firearm owners alike. Both models were designed with concealed carry in mind, addressing the growing demand for smaller, more easily concealed handguns. The Glock 42 was introduced first, aiming for maximum concealability, while the Glock 43 followed, providing a 9mm option with minimal increase in size.

Choosing between the Glock 42 and 43 often boils down to a trade-off between concealability and caliber. The .380 ACP cartridge, while less powerful than the 9mm, offers advantages in recoil management, making it easier for some shooters to control. The 9mm, on the other hand, is a more widely accepted self-defense round, offering greater energy and penetration. Both pistols share Glock’s characteristic simple design, making them easy to learn and maintain. Their popularity stems from their reliability, ease of use, and suitability for concealed carry, solidifying their place in the market for personal defense firearms.

Key Features of the Glock 42 and Glock 43

The Glock 42 and Glock 43 share many similarities, but their differences are crucial to consider for concealed carry. Let’s examine the key features of each pistol:

Glock 42: Compact .380 ACP

The Glock 42 is a .380 ACP pistol known for its slim profile and lightweight design, making it one of the most easily concealed Glocks available.

• Caliber: .380 ACP
• Capacity: 6+1 rounds
• Overall Length: 5.94 inches
• Width: 0.94 inches
• Height: 4.13 inches
• Weight (unloaded): 13.76 oz
• Sights: Fixed Glock sights (can be upgraded)
• Frame: Polymer
• Slide: Steel

Glock 43: Single-Stack 9mm

The Glock 43 is a 9mm pistol designed for concealed carry, offering a balance of manageable size and increased firepower compared to the Glock 42.

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 6+1 rounds
• Overall Length: 6.26 inches
• Width: 1.02 inches
• Height: 4.25 inches
• Weight (unloaded): 17.95 oz
• Sights: Fixed Glock sights (can be upgraded)
• Frame: Polymer
• Slide: Steel

Detailed Feature Analysis

Let’s break down the key features of the Glock 42 and Glock 43, analyzing their functionality and benefits:

1. Size and Weight

The Glock 42 excels in concealability due to its smaller size and lighter weight. The .380 ACP cartridge allows for a more compact design, making it easier to carry in various positions without printing. The Glock 43, while still compact, is slightly larger and heavier, which can impact its concealability, especially for smaller individuals. The user benefit is clear: the Glock 42 is more comfortable for all-day carry, while the Glock 43 offers a more substantial feel.

2. Caliber and Ballistics

The Glock 42’s .380 ACP cartridge is known for its manageable recoil, making it easier to shoot accurately, especially for novice shooters or those with weaker hands. The Glock 43’s 9mm cartridge offers significantly more stopping power, making it a more effective self-defense round. The 9mm is a more widely accepted and tested self-defense caliber. The user benefit is a trade-off between ease of shooting and terminal ballistics. The Glock 43 is the clear winner when it comes to caliber.

3. Grip and Ergonomics

Both the Glock 42 and Glock 43 feature a slim grip design, making them suitable for individuals with smaller hands. However, the Glock 43’s slightly larger grip can provide a more secure and comfortable hold for some shooters, leading to better control. The grip texture on both models is standard Glock, providing adequate grip without being overly aggressive. The user benefit is improved control and comfort during shooting, which translates to better accuracy and faster follow-up shots.

4. Sights

Both pistols come standard with Glock’s fixed sights, which are functional but not particularly noteworthy. Many users choose to upgrade to aftermarket sights, such as night sights or fiber optic sights, for improved visibility and accuracy. The sight picture is similar on both models, allowing for easy transition between the two. The user benefit is improved accuracy and faster target acquisition, especially in low-light conditions.

5. Trigger

The trigger pull on both the Glock 42 and Glock 43 is typical of Glock pistols: a consistent pull with a noticeable break. The trigger weight is generally around 5.5-6.5 pounds. Some users find the Glock trigger to be somewhat spongy, while others appreciate its predictability. The user benefit is a consistent trigger pull that aids in accuracy, especially with practice. Aftermarket triggers are available for those seeking a lighter or crisper trigger pull.

6. Reliability

Both the Glock 42 and Glock 43 are known for their reliability, a hallmark of the Glock brand. Their simple design and robust construction contribute to their ability to function reliably under various conditions. The user benefit is peace of mind knowing that the pistol will function when needed most. Glock’s reputation for reliability is a significant selling point for both models.

7. Magazine Capacity

Both the Glock 42 and Glock 43 have a standard magazine capacity of 6+1 rounds. While this is relatively low compared to some other concealed carry pistols, it contributes to their slim profile. Aftermarket magazines with extended capacity are available for both models, but they can increase the overall size and potentially compromise concealability. The user benefit is a balance between capacity and concealability. The limited capacity may be a concern for some users, while others find it acceptable for a primary concealed carry pistol.

Advantages, Benefits, and Real-World Value

The Glock 42 and Glock 43 each offer distinct advantages that cater to different needs and preferences. Understanding these benefits is key to making the right choice.

Glock 42: Advantages and Benefits

• Superior Concealability: Its smaller size and lighter weight make it incredibly easy to conceal, even in light clothing. This is a significant advantage for individuals who prioritize comfort and discretion.
• Reduced Recoil: The .380 ACP cartridge produces less recoil, making it easier to control and shoot accurately, especially for those with smaller hands or less shooting experience.
• Ease of Use: Its simple design and straightforward operation make it easy to learn and maintain, even for novice shooters.
• Comfortable for All-Day Carry: Its lightweight design minimizes discomfort, making it ideal for extended periods of concealed carry.
• Ideal for Smaller Individuals: Its slim grip and compact size make it well-suited for individuals with smaller hands or those who prefer a smaller pistol.

Glock 43: Advantages and Benefits

• Increased Stopping Power: The 9mm cartridge offers significantly more stopping power than the .380 ACP, making it a more effective self-defense round.
• Wider Ammunition Availability: 9mm ammunition is more widely available and generally less expensive than .380 ACP ammunition.
• Greater Versatility: The 9mm cartridge is suitable for a wider range of applications, including self-defense, target shooting, and competition.
• Improved Ballistics: The 9mm cartridge offers better penetration and energy transfer compared to the .380 ACP.
• More Substantial Feel: Its slightly larger size and weight provide a more substantial feel in the hand, which can improve control and confidence for some shooters.

The real-world value of both pistols lies in their ability to provide reliable and effective self-defense in a compact and concealable package. The Glock 42 excels in situations where maximum concealability is paramount, while the Glock 43 offers greater stopping power in a package that’s still relatively easy to conceal. The choice ultimately depends on individual priorities and preferences.

Comprehensive Review

Both the Glock 42 and Glock 43 are well-regarded concealed carry pistols, but they have their strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth assessment of each model.

Glock 42 Review

The Glock 42 is a standout in the .380 ACP market, offering exceptional concealability and ease of use. Its slim profile and lightweight design make it incredibly comfortable for all-day carry. The reduced recoil makes it easy to shoot accurately, even for novice shooters. However, the .380 ACP cartridge is less powerful than the 9mm, which may be a concern for some users.

User Experience & Usability: The Glock 42 is incredibly easy to use, with a simple design and straightforward operation. Its slim grip makes it comfortable to hold, even for those with smaller hands. The controls are easy to reach and manipulate. The pistol is easy to disassemble and clean.

Performance & Effectiveness: The Glock 42 delivers reliable performance, with consistent accuracy and manageable recoil. However, the .380 ACP cartridge’s stopping power is a subject of debate. While it can be effective for self-defense, shot placement is critical.

Pros:

• Exceptional Concealability
• Reduced Recoil
• Ease of Use
• Lightweight and Comfortable for All-Day Carry
• Ideal for Smaller Individuals

Cons:

• Lower Stopping Power Compared to 9mm
• Limited Magazine Capacity (6+1)
• .380 ACP Ammunition Can Be More Expensive
• Sights Are Basic and May Need Upgrading

Ideal User Profile: The Glock 42 is best suited for individuals who prioritize concealability and ease of use, especially those with smaller hands or those who are recoil-sensitive.

Glock 43 Review

The Glock 43 is a popular choice for concealed carry, offering a balance of manageable size and increased firepower. Its 9mm cartridge provides significantly more stopping power than the .380 ACP, making it a more effective self-defense round. While slightly larger and heavier than the Glock 42, it’s still relatively easy to conceal.

User Experience & Usability: The Glock 43 is easy to use, with a simple design and straightforward operation. Its slightly larger grip provides a more secure hold for some shooters. The controls are easy to reach and manipulate. The pistol is easy to disassemble and clean.

Performance & Effectiveness: The Glock 43 delivers reliable performance, with consistent accuracy and increased stopping power. The 9mm cartridge is a proven self-defense round with a wide range of ammunition options.

Pros:

• Increased Stopping Power
• Wider Ammunition Availability
• Greater Versatility
• Improved Ballistics
• More Substantial Feel

Cons:

• Slightly Larger and Heavier Than Glock 42
• Recoil Can Be More Noticeable Than Glock 42
• Limited Magazine Capacity (6+1)
• Sights Are Basic and May Need Upgrading

Ideal User Profile: The Glock 43 is best suited for individuals who prioritize stopping power and versatility in a concealed carry pistol.

Key Alternatives

The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield is a popular alternative to both the Glock 42 and Glock 43, offering similar features and performance. The Sig Sauer P365 is another strong contender, offering a higher magazine capacity in a compact package.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation: Both the Glock 42 and Glock 43 are excellent choices for concealed carry, but the best choice depends on individual priorities. If concealability is paramount, the Glock 42 is the clear winner. If stopping power is the primary concern, the Glock 43 is the better option. Consider your individual needs and preferences carefully before making a decision.

Deciding Which Glock is Right for You

Choosing between the Glock 42 and Glock 43 requires careful consideration of your individual needs and preferences. Both pistols offer reliable performance and are well-suited for concealed carry, but they cater to different priorities. The Glock 42 excels in concealability and ease of use, while the Glock 43 offers greater stopping power and versatility. Ultimately, the best choice depends on what you value most in a concealed carry pistol.

Share your experiences with the Glock 42 and Glock 43 in the comments below. Your insights can help others make an informed decision.