The Glock 43 has earned a solid reputation among concealed carry enthusiasts and law enforcement professionals alike. This subcompact pistol offers a blend of reliability, concealability, and manageable recoil, making it a popular choice for personal defense. But what do real-world users say? This in-depth review dives into various aspects of the Glock 43 based on extensive user feedback, exploring its pros, cons, and overall suitability for different users.
Key Features and Specifications of the Glock 43
Before delving into the reviews, let's outline the Glock 43's core features:
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Capacity: 6 rounds (standard magazine), 6+1 (with one in the chamber)
- Barrel Length: 3.39 inches
- Overall Length: 6.26 inches
- Weight: 17.95 ounces (unloaded)
- Action: Safe Action (striker-fired)
- Sights: Three-dot sights (adjustable rear sights are available aftermarket)
- Frame: Polymer
- Finish: Typically black, but other finishes are available.
What Users Love About the Glock 43: The Pros
Positive reviews consistently highlight several key advantages:
Concealability: Perfect for Everyday Carry (EDC)
The Glock 43's small size is its biggest selling point. Its slim profile and lightweight design make it incredibly easy to conceal, even under light clothing. Many users praise its ability to disappear comfortably beneath a t-shirt or tucked into a waistband holster.
- User quote: "I carry it IWB (inside the waistband) every day, and I completely forget it's there. The comfort level is amazing."
Reliability: A Glock Standard
Glock pistols are renowned for their reliability, and the 43 lives up to that reputation. Users rarely report malfunctions, making it a dependable choice for self-defense. This reliability stems from its simple, robust design and the use of high-quality components.
- Case Study: Numerous online forums and gun reviews demonstrate a low incidence of malfunctions across a large number of Glock 43 users, pointing to its consistent performance.
Shootability: Surprisingly Comfortable Despite its Size
Despite its small size, many users find the Glock 43 surprisingly comfortable to shoot. The relatively manageable recoil allows for accurate shots, even for smaller-framed individuals or those new to firearms.
Ease of Maintenance: Simple and Straightforward
Glock pistols, including the 43, are known for their easy maintenance. Field stripping is simple, and cleaning is straightforward, making it easy to maintain the pistol in optimal condition.
Areas for Improvement: Addressing the Cons
While overwhelmingly positive, some criticisms of the Glock 43 emerge consistently:
Limited Magazine Capacity: Six Rounds Only
The Glock 43's six-round magazine capacity is often cited as a drawback. Many users prefer higher-capacity magazines for increased self-defense capability. While extended magazines are available aftermarket, they can affect concealability.
Trigger Pull: Can Be Stiff for Some Users
The Glock 43's trigger pull can be perceived as stiff by some users, especially those accustomed to lighter trigger pulls on other firearms. This stiffness is a function of the pistol's safe action system, designed to enhance safety. However, this can be mitigated through practice and trigger work.
Recoil: Can Be Snappy for Sensitive Shooters
While manageable for many, the recoil can be felt more noticeably in the Glock 43 than in larger-frame pistols. This is primarily due to its small size and lightweight nature. However, this can be improved with appropriate shooting techniques.
Sight Radius: Shorter Than Full-Size Pistols
The shorter sight radius, a consequence of the small size, can make precise aiming slightly more challenging compared to larger pistols. Aftermarket sights can help improve accuracy for some shooters.
Glock 43 vs. Competitors: A Quick Comparison
The Glock 43 frequently faces competition from other subcompact 9mm pistols, such as:
| Feature | Glock 43 | SIG Sauer P365 | Springfield Hellcat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 10 rounds (standard) | 11 rounds (standard) |
| Weight | 17.95 oz | 17.8 oz | 17.1 oz |
| Size | Subcompact | Subcompact | Subcompact |
| Price | Mid-range | Mid-range | Mid-range |
This comparison highlights that the Glock 43 offers a reliable, easy-to-conceal option, but other competitors often provide higher magazine capacity as a key differentiator.
Conclusion: Is the Glock 43 Right for You?
The Glock 43 is a highly-rated subcompact pistol, especially suitable for concealed carry. Its reliability, concealability, and relatively easy-to-manage recoil make it a strong contender. However, the limited magazine capacity and potentially stiff trigger pull should be considered. Ultimately, the best way to determine if it's right for you is to handle the firearm, if possible, and weigh its pros and cons based on your personal needs and preferences. Remember to always practice safe gun handling techniques and follow all local laws and regulations.