Glock 42 vs Glock 43 - Which Is Better?

When you think of polymer-frame striker-fired pistols, you think of Glock. Glock is probably most famous for its full-sized G17 pistol that has been embraced by law enforcement and civilians alike.

Glock doesn’t just develop full-sized guns. They have also made great advancements in manufacturing subcompact sized polymer-framed pistols. These guns are perfect for concealed carry due to their sizes and slim dimensions. Perhaps their best subcompact pistols, the G42, and G43 are fierce choices for gun owners looking for a quality subcompact striker-fired pistol.

If you’re unsure of which subcompact Glock to choose for your everyday carry needs, each gun has its own unique characteristics.

Glock 42

Before pitting these two guns against each other, you should be familiar with the specs of both pistols. The primary difference between these two guns is that the G42 chambers .380 auto ammunition. The G42 is also famous for being the smallest possible Glock available for purchase. It is incredibly slim, and all considerations are taken into account to make the gun as small as possible while also retaining power and performance.

The G42 still retains the classic and timeless features that make all Glocks fantastic firearms, just in a much smaller frame. This gun can withstand the same wear-and-tear that full-sized Glocks are capable of enduring.

Through any environment and conditions, the G42 will still shoot accurately and reliably. Similar to other models the G42 retains the Glock Safe Action System and other integrated safety features that make it an excellent weapon and a joy to shoot.

One of the primary concerns for subcompact pistols is if they are easy to shoot. Thanks to Glock’s ergonomic and iconic design, the pistol is as easy to shoot as any other model. With an aggressive grip that allows shooters to get a sightline on targets faster, the G42 is a great self-defense weapon. The grip is still comfortable and easy to manage for most gun owners.

The standard magazine capacity of the G42 is six rounds, and the weight of the gun when fully loaded is 15.87 oz. With an ultralight trigger pull of 24N, the G42 is a breeze to shoot. The overall length of the pistol is 5.94-inches and the width is 0.98-inches.

Glock 43

Similar to the G42 in many ways, the G43 differs in two areas. It has a slightly larger frame and chambers 9mm rounds rather than .380 auto. This incredible firearm has garnered a lot of success and is regarded as one of Glock’s best single-stack 9mm pistols.

Many praise the gun for remaining slim and comfortable to carry, while still packing an impressive 9mm punch. Another major bonus is that this gun remains easy to handle, which can be an issue for 9mm subcompacts.

Design-wise, there aren’t many other subcompact guns that can compare to the expert craftsmanship of the G43. The grip integrates a beavertail design that allows shooters to retain a high grip, despite the gun’s small dimensions. Featuring an aggressive grip pattern, the G43 can be operated for long lengths of time and still feel comfortable and secure in the shooter’s hand.

Other features such as the large and easily accessible magazine catch make operating this gun easy and effective. Like all other Glock models, the G43 is incredibly accurate and durable. It can be dropped, slammed, submerged, and exposed to heat and cold, and it will still operate just like new. The combination of concealability and power is what really makes this gun special.

The G43 chambers 9mm rounds and has a Safe Action trigger system. Its magazine holds six rounds and the gun weighs 20.64 oz. when fully loaded. It has a light trigger pull of 24N, allowing for quick fire without fatigue. The total length of the pistol comes out to be 6.62-inches. The total width is 1.06-inches.

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G42 vs. G43

One of the first things to take into consideration with these guns is their concealment potential. Both guns are subcompact, so they are easily concealed and comfortable to carry. However, the G42 does slightly beat out the G43 in that department. It really is the smallest Glock available and can easily fit inside a pocket. The slim dimensions make it a very low-key self-defense weapon and optimal for concealed carry.

Another important consideration is the other primary difference between the two guns, which is  their caliber. The .380 auto and 9mm rounds feature the same diameter, but 9mm rounds are longer. The result is that .380 ammunition produces lighter recoil, but doesn’t exhibit as much power as 9mm ammunition. This has some interesting implications for a subcompact pistol.

Due to their size, if a subcompact pistol generates considerable recoil, then accuracy becomes a problem. However, recoil from a 9mm round isn’t great enough to drastically alter accuracy, though an argument could be made that for a subcompact pistol, .380 is more accurate. The design of the G43 also takes this into account and makes adjustments for the recoil resulting in a more accurate pistol.

The G42 is less powerful but is potentially more accurate than the G43. Some argue that you can’t beat the balance of power and manageability that comes with 9mm rounds, but some shooters may disagree. Regardless, the G42 is smaller than the 43 making it undeniably more suitable for concealed carry. So as a concealed carry pistol the G42 has to take the win against the G43. Both guns are great and some gun owners may end up preferring a 9mm punch.

Holsters For Subcompact Pistols

While it may be tempting to pocket carry and concealed-carry gun, there are a few reasons why this isn’t a good idea. Simply carrying your gun in your pocket makes the chances of your firearm being dropped much higher. In a self-defense situation, you may have to move a lot, and if your gun isn’t secure, you run the chance of losing it.

Carrying your firearm in your pocket also doesn't offer the gun itself much protection. If you fall and your gun is in your pocket, the contact could impact the gun’s trigger, potentially throwing off the gun’s quality of fire. A  good holster will also guard your gun against inclement conditions and corrosive agents. A holster will also prevent the trigger from being pressed and accidentally discharging the gun.

Reaching into your pocket to grab your gun could result in a great deal of fumbling. If you or someone else’s life is on the line there is no time for that. You need to be able to rely on quickdraw that you can only get when you have your gun paired with the right holster. Luckily, finding the right holster for the 42 and 43 doesn’t have to be a chore.

Incognito Concealment Holsters

Incognito Concealment makes high-quality holsters for Glock and a wide range of other gun brands. We use Kydex, an incredibly durable thermoplastic, in all of our holster shells. All of Incognito’s holsters are molded specifically for different gun models, meaning they offer a perfect fit every time. Our holsters are slim and space-conscious, making them the perfect companion for the G42 and G43.

Incognito Concealment holsters come in three different variants: OWB, IWB, and paddle-style. Since more of the gun is kept out of sight,  IWB holsters are optimal for concealed carry, but an OWB holster can be concealed too with a long shirt or jacket. Paddle holsters employ a small plate that rests in between the actual holster and the carrier’s body for maximum comfort.

Final Thoughts

The Glock 42 and Glock 43 are both high-quality pistols that are perfect for concealed carry. However, great guns deserve great holsters. Your Glock will be safe and secure in an Incognito Concealment Kydex holster. Browse our online inventory today, and check out the many styles, colors, and patterns we offer.