Talk me into (Or out of) a Glock 43

[davidjinks]

This would be a "Summer pocket gun" and it would be replacing a 642.

I like the 642 (No lock -1) but I also like me some Glock.

Convince me, either for or against.....

[thebarracuda]

I have one with a few hundred rds through it. I like it ok. Use it for summer carry. Small enough to conceal easily (thin) but not so small that it is too hard to shoot well, but I definitely prefer shooting g19/17 over the 43. No issues with my 43. Upgraded sights to ameriglo spartans. Added vickers +2 bases to get capacity to 8. Very happy with the upgrades. However, once carrying with +2 extensions on mag, you are basically at g19 grip length. Therefore, buying one means you need it for the thinner profile, because the grip length advantage is voided with the extension, or just rock a six shot and keep the shorter grip. I prefer having the extra two rds. I pretty much carry the 43 only in summer months for this reason.

[SiGfever]

I too use mine for summer carry or when I have to dress with tighter fitting clothes. Mine has Trijicon HD sights (Lime green front) and has been 100% since new. I find it very easy to shoot and damn accurate for such a small pistol. I also have the mag extensions but prefer carrying with the flat base plate. I got a Hogue Handall Jr. grip for mine which gives me a better grip.

[Biggy]

This would be a "Summer pocket gun" and it would be replacing a 642.

I like the 642 (No lock -1) but I also like me some Glock.

Convince me, either for or against.....

Here is a review of the G43 and some words of wisdom from LAV about the smaller 9 mm pistols. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdYH2M7CJN4

[3ACR_Scout]

There have been several lengthy discussions of the G43 here that might be useful to read through. This one is a good starting point:

Glock 26 vs. Glock 43 vs. Glock 42: which do you prefer?

Another lengthy but interesting one:

WHAT’S SHIPPING: Glock Model 43, 9x19mm

I’ll try to post some others, but the search function isn’t cooperating with me at the moment. The bottom line for me is that it fits a role where you want deep concealment, easier concealment with light or more formal clothing, or something less bulky when doing physical activities. However, test it thoroughly with your carry ammunition and any aftermarket accessories (mag extensions) that you want to use, because I’ve seen a wide mix of results in terms of reliability. Lastly, I’d recommend shooting both the G43 and the Shield to see which is more comfortable for you. Both are great pistols but fit differently people differently.

[Gary1911A1]

I shoot mine in GSSF Pocket Division and carry mine with Dawson Sights in an Alabama Pocket Holster. It disappears in all my pant's front pocket. https://www.alabamaholster.com/produ...ocket-holster/

[PLCedeno]

Certainly great for concealment. Firing it with accuracy requires lots of practice given its small size and weight.

[davidjinks]

Thank you. I've read both of those linked threads. Kinda why I'm here now.

There have been several lengthy discussions of the G43 here that might be useful to read through. This one is a good starting point:

Glock 26 vs. Glock 43 vs. Glock 42: which do you prefer?

Another lengthy but interesting one:

WHAT’S SHIPPING: Glock Model 43, 9x19mm

I’ll try to post some others, but the search function isn’t cooperating with me at the moment. The bottom line for me is that it fits a role where you want deep concealment, easier concealment with light or more formal clothing, or something less bulky when doing physical activities. However, test it thoroughly with your carry ammunition and any aftermarket accessories (mag extensions) that you want to use, because I’ve seen a wide mix of results in terms of reliability. Lastly, I’d recommend shooting both the G43 and the Shield to see which is more comfortable for you. Both are great pistols but fit differently people differently.

[EzGoingKev]

I run the Taran Tactical +1 base plates on mine. Just a tiny bit longed than the stock mags. You get the additional round but no real extra length in the grip area.

[WillBrink]

This would be a "Summer pocket gun" and it would be replacing a 642.

I like the 642 (No lock -1) but I also like me some Glock.

Convince me, either for or against.....

If you like Glock ergos, trigger, etc, go for it. If not, I'd take a Shield any day, perhaps with some Apex upgrades. My Shield is stock, but one can get a much better trigger and such. Not sure I'd view a 43 or Shield as a pocket gun myself however.