Glock 43X Review: Best Concealed Carry Gun?
The Glock 43X is Glock’s best-selling single-stack 9mm for concealed carry — but is it actually better than the older 43 or the competing 48? Here’s our hands-on review after 500 rounds.
So, you’ve heard all about the Glock 43X and you’re wondering if it lives up to the hype?
We don’t blame you, we were in the same boat. So, we did what any normal gun enthusiast would do. We picked one up and put about 500 rounds through it.
And now we’re here to tell you the results.
We’ll give you a sneak peak—we think it’s awesome.
We’ll dive deeper into the Glock 43X, tell you what we liked, what drawbacks we have, and give you some recommendations.
By the end, you’ll know whether or not you would like to add this gun to your arsenal and whether or not we can be friends.
Let’s dive in!
Glock 43X
By the end, you’ll know whether or not you would like to add this gun to your arsenal and whether or not we can be friends.
Who is the Glock 43X For?
Glock made the G43X to be the go-to choice for concealed carry weapons.
The goal was to make it as small, lightweight, and easy-to-use as possible. It is petite compared to almost every other pistol on the market, but with the 15+1 mag capacity from Shield Arms, nothing else rivals it at this time.
The original Glock 43 was too small grip-wise, but with these improvements, the slim frame of the G43X makes it incredibly easy to conceal. The bulge is less pronounced, making it more comfortable in the waistband.
Bottom Line: The Glock 43X is the ideal concealed carry handgun for every day carry, off-duty law enforcement, women, and more.
Glock 43X Background
If you look back over several years, the dominant concealed carry champion was the Glock 26. It was subcompact, held 10+1 rounds, and could accept higher capacity mags from a G19 (15+1) or G17 (17+1).
But it had its shortfalls. While the short grip made it ideal for concealment, the short barrel paired with the grip made it difficult to hold, operators couldn’t get a full-handed purchase on the gun.
Fast forward to 2012, and Smith & Wesson introduced the M&P Shield, a single stack 9mm pistol which, although it wasn’t the first of its kind to hit the market, did usher in a new era of conceal carry firearms.
To compete with S&W, Glock released the Glock 43 in 2015, which took the market by storm. The G43 had the same length barrel, but its width was thinner than the G26, by almost 0.24 inches.
The reduced width and slightly extended grip of the G43 enhanced both its handling and concealability. It was a noticeable difference inside the waistband.
It was a less pronounced, errr….bulge. It was a more comfortable CCW weapon, and the market welcomed it with open arms.
But that’s not to say it was perfect. The grip was still considered relatively too small for most hands and operators had to find grip extensions for their mags to get a good hold on it.
Then Sig Saeur came out with the P365.
It held 10+1 rounds, with the ability to go up to 12, in a pistol roughly the same size as the G43. Thus, because of the higher mag count, it became the sexy option for concealed carry and Glock fell somewhat out of favor.
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The ‘X’ Factor
In 2019, Glock came storming back with the premier of the G43X at SHOT Show. It had the same dimensions as a G43 with a 6-inch length slide and 0.87-inch width, but now sported an additional 0.79-inches to the grip and weighed 16.4 ounces empty.
It made a big difference in grip space, allowing for a more full purchase without compromising that pinkie dangling past the mag. More grip = more control.
The longer grip allowed Glock to increase the magazine size by four rounds, which put them two ahead of Sig. Even better yet, a company called Shield Arms subsequently released a G43X mag that sported 15+1, now putting it on the playing field with the G19.
That’s a big step up!
In regards to the design, it’s on par with the other Gen 5 models released by Glock with one exception. Like the other Gen 5’s, there’s no finger grooves, it has forward and rear serrations, the Glock Marksman Barrel, the high visibility follower, and an extended beavertail.
It does not, however, have the ambidextrous slide lock, so it kind of stands alone in that regard.
43X Variants
Not long after Glock released the 43X they soon came out with the 43X MOS (Modular Optic System) variant. It includes the slide cuts needed for micro-optic upgrades and the Slim Mounting Rail for mounting accessories like a weapon light.
Glock 43X MOS
Not long after Glock released the 43X they soon came out with the 43X MOS (Modular Optic System) variant. It includes the slide cuts needed for micro-optic upgrades and the Slim Mounting Rail for mounting accessories like a weapon light.
A key difference with the MOS version is the one-slot pic rail. This allows you to attach a weapon light like a Streamlight TLR-7 SUB.
The standard 43X doesn’t include this pic rail, but you can still find a weapon light for it, such as the TLR-6, which attaches to the trigger guard. It doesn’t get nearly as much output as the TLR-7, but it’ll get the job done in most home defense situations.
A lot of operators will want to mount an optic system such as a red dot on top of the slide. If that’s you, you’ll want to go with the MOS ready configuration. If you’ve already purchased a G43X you can have it altered in the aftermarket, though you can expect to pay a hefty price for it.
First Impressions
My first thought when holding the 43X is that I can understand what all of the fuss was about. It looks and feels like a Glock should, but it’s very petite and I could see immediately how all of my trips to the movie theater were suddenly going to be more comfortable.
Compared to my G19, which is my personal go-to carry weapon, I could tell right away it would be easier to conceal.
My second thought was, “This thing fits 15+1?” I’m amazed that such a small handgun could fit that many rounds in the mag without using one of the large, somewhat impractical extended mags on the market.
43X at the Range
To get a good idea of how well the 43X handled at the range, I called a couple of buddies over to lay down some lead with me at my home range.
We kept it simple ammo-wise, opting for some standard 9mm 124-grain FMJ’s.
My goals were to spend some time pulling the trigger and reloading, getting an idea for how the grip felt, and practicing some drawing and shooting drills.
After a good bit of time in the sun and a number of empty mags, here are my takeaways.
As far as performance goes, I could not be more satisfied with this gun. It works and feels like a Glock should. It was very easy to shoot and with the short slide, it’s easy to track the front sights and get back on target quickly.
It just felt smooth going through the paces.
I was a little concerned about the grip prior to handling the 43X, as I often have problems with my pinky dangling off the end with smaller guns like this.
I’m very happy to say the grip did not let me down when it came to shooting. I was able to hold it securely and felt I had maximum control. The bigger grip may take away from the ability to conceal compared to the G43, but it makes it a lot easier to draw from concealment, which is a tradeoff I’m willing to make.
All that to say, when it came to reloading, I had to loosen my grip a little more than I preferred for dropping the magazine. It took some practice dropping the mag smoothly with the different grip, but eventually it wasn’t an issue.
Aside from that, we ran through a number of shooting drills, practicing with a PACT Club Timer III. Our standard drill was to draw, shoot two rounds, reload, and shoot two more rounds from 7 yards.
We repeated this game a couple of times before we switched to target practice.
Pulling the trigger of the G43X will feel slightly different than a normal Glock. Because it’s a slimline model it will have a shorter pull than standard-sized Glocks, making it feel more crisp than usual. Once it breaks the muzzle rise is minimal, and resetting is rather easy.
Overall, I was very satisfied with my experience shooting the Glock 43X. With the 15+1 mag, I can see why it has become the concealed carry weapon of choice for many. Its slim, easy to conceal, offers a fuller grip purchase, and shoots reliably.
Breakdown of the G43X Features
Glock Marksman Barrel
With the Gen 5 43X, Glock introduced the Glock Marksman Barrel. These barrels feature “an enhanced polygonal profile with a right-hand twist and a small rifled profile on either side of the main polygonal field impression.”
Traditionally, previous generations only utilized polygonal rifling, which was deemed superior because it created a tighter seal around the bullet, resulting in higher muzzle velocities. It also extended the barrel’s life and made it easier to clean.
The new design is supposed to improve the greater accuracy benefits of polygonal rifling, while providing some savings on production costs.
Studies show that the new barrel is indeed more accurate.
But personally, testing the 43X from 7 yards away from target, I couldn’t really tell the difference. I hit the targets just fine.
The improved accuracy could be a significant advantage for shooting at longer distances, but the G43X is designed for personal defense, where such distant targets are less likely.
Slimline Trigger
The trigger distance of these slimline models is reduced compared to standard Glocks.
If you have a lot of experience firing Glocks, you know that their triggers have an initial slack that must be overcome before the trigger reaches the breaking point, leading to an inconsistent feel during the squeeze. People refer to this as a “mushy” trigger.
The G43x, however, will feel a little different. It’s the same look with the trigger safety mechanism, but it offers a shorter trigger pull than its standard-size counterparts, requiring less force.
The trigger pull on a 43X is 24N (Newtons of force), compared to 26N for a G17.
This slightly reduced force required to pull the trigger contributes to a crisper and more user-friendly experience, in my opinion, making me love it all the more.
Slimline Beaver Tail
My first thought of the Slimline Beaver Tail was that the contour blends seamlessly with the frame, maintaining the pistol’s compact profile. It extends far enough that I didn’t have to worry about the slide biting my hand when fired.
Overall, it provided a more comfortable grip, allowing the shooter to acquire a high and tight grip, and thus, better control of the firearm.
It’s the little things that count.
Slide Stop
The G43X has one slide stop, on the left hand side, which stops the slide in the rearward position after the last round in a magazine has been fired. Sorry, Southpaws!
I liked that it was closer to the grip and easy to reach with my thumb. With some handguns it’s further away and harder to reach.
Slide Options
The Glock 43X is updated from the 43. It’s the same size, but the 43X has front serrations. I like it more than the 43 as it provides an additional tactile surface to do a fast press check before and after firing.
You have two options for the slide—the standard black slide with the nDLC coating, or the Silver Slide made from stainless steel. The Silver option has a nPVD surface refinement which makes it nonreflective. It’s also surface treated to prevent corrosion.
Personally, I like the look of the black more, but you do you.
Iron Sights
The G43X comes with standard Glock polymer sights. They’re not really worth writing home about and Glock knows that they’re probably going to be replaced anyways.
I upgraded to the Trijicon night sights with 3 dots. These help increase visibility in dim lights and quickens front site acquisition over the OEM sights from Glock.
Magazine Release
The magazine catch of the slimline frame is reversible and made from plastic.
I’m going to highly recommend that you upgrade to a metal one so that you can use the Shield Arms mags, which are made of metal. If you don’t, the metal will wear out the plastic rather quickly.
While the slide stop is only located on the left side, the mag release can be positioned to accommodate for both lefties and righties.
G43X Upgrades and Accessories
The G43X is the most popular CCW firearm in history, so there is going to be no shortage of aftermarket upgrades.
Magazines
The Glock magazines straight from the factory only carry 10 rounds. That is done to comply with states with magazine restrictions.
For everyone else, upgrading the magazines will significantly enhance the capacity and performance. There are a plethora of options, like a 30 round stick or 50 round drum if you just want to have some fun at the range, but I would highly recommend you look at the Shield Arms 15 round metal magazine when carrying.
This is the one upgrade I would say is an absolute requirement. By upgrading the capacity to 15+1, Shield Arms has single handedly made the G43X the best selling pistol for CCW. The slimline frame already made it more comfortable and concealable to carry, but now it has the same capacity as a Glock 19? It’s a no brainer.
Shield Arms S15 Glock 43X Magazines
This is the one upgrade I would say is an absolute requirement. By upgrading the capacity to 15+1, Shield Arms has single handedly made the G43X the best selling pistol for CCW. The slimline frame already made it more comfortable and concealable to carry, but now it has the same capacity as a Glock 19? It’s a no brainer.
As I’ve mentioned before, if you go with a metal magazine, you should also upgrade the mag release to a metal one to prevent wear and tear.
Tyrant CNC Glock Upgrades
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Magwell
If you’re upgrading the magazines, you’ll likely want to upgrade the magwell as well. Most people upgrade the magwell to improve reload speed and consistency, but they also produce an ergonomic shape that complements the natural hold of your hand, allowing for better grip.
I didn’t upgrade the magwell on my G43X, but you may want to on yours.
Tyrant CNC Glock 43x/48 Magwell
I didn't upgrade the magwell on my G43X, but you may want to on yours.
Iron Sights
As I mentioned before, the iron sights from the factory leave much to be desired and I upgraded them right away. A brighter sight like orange or neon green is easier to identify against low light conditions. It really stands out against the black rear sight. This will help you get on target quicker and aim better.
There are a lot of routes you can go with sights. You also have the options of something more low-profile or XL.
The most popular options on the market are from Trijicon. They make quality sights, though they can poke holes in your shirt if you’re conceal carrying.
Trijicon HD Night Sights Orange Front Outline
The most popular options on the market are from Trijicon. They make quality sights, though they can poke holes in your shirt if you're conceal carrying.
Holsters
There are also a plethora of holster options for the G43X. When it comes to holsters, it really is all about personal preference and comfort.
Is the holster comfortable? Does it allow you to easily draw your weapon? Is it durable?
These are all questions left to be answered by you.
With that being said, I’m a big fan of We The People holsters.
We The People IWB Holster for Glock 43/43X
With that being said, I’m a big fan of We The People holsters.
Ammunition
The G43X is intended to be a personal carry/self-defense firearm. With that, you want maximum stopping power, which is why we recommend you carry hollow point bullets in it.
Hollow point bullets, if you are not familiar, expand on impact, creating more shock to the body and a bigger wound. Thus, it is considered the “Self-Defense Ammo.”
SIG SAUER ELITE PERFORMANCE V-CROWN 115 GR JHP 9MM AMMO
Hollow point bullets, if you are not familiar, expand on impact, creating more shock to the body and a bigger wound. Thus, it is considered the “Self-Defense Ammo.”
Best Way to Buy a Glock 43X?
Though you can probably pick up a Glock 43X at a local gun store, they are likely to charge the MSRP price, which is significantly higher than buying it online, having it shipped to an FFL, and then paying the pickup fee.
Many online retailers offer G43X’s with upgraded sights/optics already installed or in a bundle with magazines. Here are some deals for you to check out.
Final Thoughts on the Glock 43X
If you’re wondering if it might be time for you to pick up a Glock 43X, all I can say is that after putting 500 rounds through it, my personal experience has been superb.
In some respects, it really is a revolutionary CCW pistol. When you consider the reliability of Glock handguns, the thin profile, and the 15+1 mag capacity, there really is nothing like it on the market.
As the saying goes, a Glock is a Glock is a Glock. It’s easy-to-use and it just works.
If you’re looking for a thin 9mm pistol with a solid grip for concealed carry, the G43X is a solid choice. Be safe and happy shooting.
Keep the research going.
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The 43X runs in most single-stack holsters, but not all of them clear the slim-double-stack frame cleanly. Our Glock holster roundup covers the IWB and OWB options that actually fit.
Justin Trump is the managing editor and owner of CAT Outdoors. The son of a Vietnam veteran, he’s a Certified Glock Armorer, an avid gun enthusiast and 2A advocate. He holds two firearm patents for the CAT M4 and Talon tools. When not managing CAT Outdoors, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends, rooting for Michigan sports teams, and serving his church.
I would recommend a magazine extension that has a curved end to help the little finger control the grip. I also have this accessory on my 42. It doesn’t help on larger models.
Now that the 43x comes standard with 15 round magazine and rail — with sights it may be in competition with the 19 for “the” ccw