Glock showcased their Slimline series at this year’s SHOT Show and we were happy to get some first-hand experience with the new single-stack pistols. We got to shoot the 43X and it delivered.
The Glock 43X has a longer grip that allows for a full four-finger grip and a significant increase in capacity. While the Glock 43 has a standard capacity of 6+1 rounds of 9mm Luger, the 43X bumps it up to 10+1. The extra grip adds less than an ounce to the gun unloaded.
Glock manages to fit 10 rounds of ammo in the 43X magazine by going with a slightly wider design. The difference in width is bare noticeable and adds just .06 inches to the frame. Glock 43X magazines aren’t compatible with Glock 43 pistols.
Overall the grip length is the same as a Glock 19 at 5.04 inches tall. But with its slimmer profile and lighter weight, it’s much easier to carry and conceal. The extra length makes it easier to handle and shoot than the original Model 43.
The slide assembly is the same with a 3.4-inch barrel. The only change is that the 43X comes with a nickel physical vapor deposition finish, and the X-model has forward slide serrations. These PVD finishes have proven to be excellent for guns, with great wear- and rust-resistant properties.
All factory and aftermarket Glock 43 slide parts work with the 43X, so anyone with extended, threaded barrels can drop them right in, and the slides work other existing components including sights.
Glock is offering the 43X in three different packages at different price points. The standard model comes with polymer sights and is a good option for people looking to save money or swap out the sights right away.
The 43X will also be offered with steel sights as an option as well as with factory night sights. Pricing starts at $580 with in-store and online pricing starting in the mid-$400 range. The guns are currently shipping and available now.
For more information on the Glock 43X and the new Glock 48 check out the updated Slimline series.
I just bought a block 43x black in color and I love it .It’s everything I could imagine it’s great to shoot and very accurate bids very well.I mean it’s got it all
Because I want to know their merits
I definitely want to try it and the 48 but I have the glocks I like.the new ones are aimed at those who haven’t yet bought a glock due to its incompatiblity with small hands.they’ll sell a bunch.
Long-time Glock carrier here, so, why the gaudy slide/frame contrast in a carry weapon?
*yawn*
I’m sure someone out there has a good reason for these single stacks, (XDm, Glock etc…). Maybe for girly hands? I sure as hell can’t figure it out, seems like a step backwards. Who ever got into a gunfight wishing they had less ammo….?
Manufacturers are hedging their bets if a Feinstein gets her new “Assault Weapons” Ban passed this year or next and the dark days of the 10-round national magazine limits return.
As the current owner of a G43 (and other Glocks) I can appreciate the additional round count of the 43X.
Probably hides in the waistband as easily as the original. I don’t think I’ll be giving this new one a try though. Glock pistols have never been pointed at for their intrinsic beauty and granted, they’re mostly prized for their reliability but I saw the new slide finish at my LGS and it’s about as ugly as 7 miles of bad muddy road. If they ever offer the 43X with the original black nitride finish I’ll consider if the additional round count and grip length/width are worth giving it a shot.
What am I missing… seems like my extended mags give me a similar grip, and more options because i have a choice.
I really don’t get the need for a 43 with a 19 length grip.
“The standard comes with Polymer sights”. Nuf said