Manufacturer: Glock
Model: 43
Serial Number: ZGX###
Test Fire Date: 04/14/2015
On the web: http://singlestack9.com/
Source
This G43 was obtained from a Glock LE distributor at LE pricing of ~$358.00, paid by me.
Unboxing
The Glock 43 ships in the same hard plastic Glock branded box like others. Included in the case are the gun itself, two magazines, promotional and safety literature, a trigger lock, and fired casing(s). Its diminutive size is its greatest distinction from the rest of the line and there is little else noteworthy about it externally. Unloaded, the G43 with empty magazine inserted weighs ~18oz.
The upper is detail stripped in the same manner as other Glocks. The serrations on the slide are shallower and have less bite when grasping than the larger guns. The RSA is the same type of captive dual spring assembly found on other gen4 Glocks. The sights are a downsized version of the plastic ball-and-bucket type most Glocks ship with. The rear sight is 6.1mm in height, and the front is the standard OEM front. The firing pin safety and corresponding machining in the slide is unique to the G42 and G43. The balance of the slide internals are mostly just reductions of larger Glocks.
Detail stripping of the G43 lower is similar to other Glocks, and identical to the G42. There is only the single trigger pin (“first pin”) to remove above the trigger, along with the trigger mechanism housing pin at the rear. The locking block must be removed to remove the slide stop lever. The slide stop lever has a captured coil spring attached to it. The slide lock lever receives its tension from a coil spring beneath it, rather than the leaf spring of the larger Glocks. The trigger spring is a combination of a captured coil spring and leaf bar on top. It attaches to the interior of the trigger mechanism housing. Disassembly of the trigger mechanism housing is unique to the G42 and G43. The grip texture of the lower receiver is the same raised polygonal surface as found on other gen4 models, but less pronounced. It’s not particularly grabby, but there is some slip resistance. The trigger face is serrated on the G43, unlike the smooth face of the G42.
The magazine catch is the standard gen4 size and type, and is fully reversible.
The slide stop lever, slide lock lever, and firing pin safety share the same coil spring.
Two magazines are included, one with a flush fit base plate and the other with pinky extension. Both magazines have six round capacity. The witness holes are correct to the number remaining. The spring has 11 coils.
Comparisons
The most frequent comparison for the G43 is to the G26. They are nearly identical in overall height and length. The width of grip and slide is more obvious. It is readily apparent on view, and even more-so in the hand.
In all other physical attributes, the G43 is simply another Glock.
Dry Handling
Trigger pull is typical Glock and this sample feels to be about ~6-7 pounds. It is heavier than several larger Glocks on hand but lighter than a comparison G42. Over-travel is typical of other Glocks. Trigger reset was distinct and audible. Grip issues that I had with the G42 are less prevalent with the G43 but still noted. My strong hand middle finger makes contact with the bottom of the magazine release and my thumbs rest along the side of the slide. The meat of my hands interfere with ejecting and inserting magazines unless I reposition my grip. Reloads can be slow, and painful.
The G43 is flat and conceals well. As a pocket gun it is tall though, and may be too much so to draw from many pants in a firing grip. It draws easily from various vest, purse, and shoulder bag sleeves. The gun disappears in OWB carry and there is a feel of having more holster than gun. When IWB, it feels buried. It carries light and easily on the ankle in many cuts of pants. Regardless of carry location, getting a firing grip on the gun when holstered can be challenging and will take some adjustment.
Shooting
Live fire testing is underway with a wide assortment of ammunition. Comprehensive results will be added soon.
Should you have any requests for particular photos, data, or other information please feel free to post them within the thread and I will attempt to accommodate them.
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, I kid. I kid. I know the 5 are really civilians.
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