Introduction
The Glock name is synonymous with reliability, simplicity, and a legacy of service. From law enforcement agencies around the globe to civilian personal defense, Glock pistols are a cornerstone of the firearm industry. Their robust design, ease of operation, and consistent performance have solidified their position as a top choice for many. A significant portion of Glock’s popularity stems from its subcompact offerings, purpose-built for concealed carry. These smaller pistols allow for discreet and comfortable carry, providing peace of mind without the bulk of a full-sized firearm. This article will delve into a detailed comparison of two popular subcompact Glock models: the Glock 43 and the Glock 42. We’ll examine their specifications, features, and performance to help you determine which Glock pistol best suits your needs and lifestyle.
A Closer Look at the Glock 42
The Glock 42 entered the market as Glock’s first venture into the .380 ACP caliber. This diminutive pistol embraced the principles of concealability, emphasizing a sleek and compact design. The Glock 42 is a testament to how a pistol can be small yet retain the core characteristics that make Glock firearms so dependable.
When it comes to size and dimensions, the Glock 42 truly shines. It’s remarkably slim, making it exceptionally easy to conceal. The overall length is noticeably shorter than the Glock 43, and the weight is similarly minimized. These compact dimensions contribute significantly to its discreet nature, allowing for comfortable inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry, appendix carry, or even pocket carry for those with the right holster and clothing choices. The Glock 42’s small size does come with a tradeoff, but more on that later.
The .380 ACP cartridge is the foundation of the Glock 42. This caliber, although less powerful than the more common 9mm, offers a manageable recoil impulse. The .380 ACP, sometimes referred to as a 9mm short, can still be a viable choice for personal defense, especially when paired with modern defensive ammunition. The lighter recoil is a significant advantage, making the Glock 42 easy for shooters of all experience levels to control and maintain accurate shot placement. This characteristic makes it an appealing option for those new to firearms or those who find the recoil of larger caliber pistols to be uncomfortable.
The magazine capacity of the Glock 42 holds a reasonable number of rounds, which is standard for a pistol of its size. The capacity can be an important consideration, especially in potential defensive situations. While not as high as its 9mm counterpart, it still provides a sufficient number of rounds for most self-defense encounters.
The key advantages of the Glock 42 are centered around its concealed carry profile. Its diminutive size, along with its lightweight construction, makes it incredibly comfortable for everyday carry. The reduced recoil impulse is a great benefit for shooters, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
One minor downside is the .380 ACP round. While it offers manageable recoil, it’s generally less potent than the 9mm. There’s also the inherent trade-off of smaller ammunition. Another factor to consider is the potential for greater ammunition costs and availability compared to the more common 9mm Luger.
Understanding the Glock 43
The Glock 43, introduced later, is a more conventional option in the subcompact realm, embracing the popular 9mm Luger caliber. This pistol takes the already proven design principles of Glock and scales them down to provide a highly concealable platform with a more powerful and versatile ammunition option.
The Glock 43, while compact, is slightly larger than the Glock 42. This small increase in size translates to a slightly larger grip and overall frame. The Glock 43 is still very easy to conceal, and the minor increase in dimensions is often offset by the advantages it offers in other areas. The difference is subtle enough that the Glock 43 remains a strong contender for anyone seeking a concealable firearm.
The choice of 9mm Luger caliber is the heart of the Glock 43’s appeal. The 9mm Luger, also known as 9x19mm, is a widely popular and effective cartridge. It’s known for its better performance. This round offers increased stopping power and is a favorite among law enforcement agencies and civilian shooters. The ammunition is readily available, making this firearm a more practical choice for those interested in self-defense.
Magazine capacity in the Glock 43 offers a good balance. The higher capacity magazine translates to a potential increase in defensive capacity.
The strengths of the Glock 43 are largely defined by its caliber and design. The use of 9mm provides a significantly greater degree of stopping power when compared to the Glock 42, and the larger magazine provides an additional advantage in potentially defensive encounters.
One disadvantage of the Glock 43, compared to the Glock 42, is the slightly increased size and weight. This difference might make it a less comfortable choice for those seeking the absolute smallest and lightest concealed carry option. Because the 9mm generates a larger recoil, the recoil of the Glock 43 is slightly more noticeable than that of the Glock 42.
A Detailed Head-to-Head: Glock 43 vs. Glock 42
When we delve into a direct comparison, the distinctions between these two subcompact Glocks become clearer. Each pistol is suitable for concealed carry, but their differences make them better for different circumstances.
The size and concealability debate highlights the core difference between these two firearms. The Glock 42, being smaller in all dimensions, offers a slight edge in ease of concealment. It can be comfortably concealed in a wider variety of carry methods and with different types of clothing. However, the Glock 43, while not as small, is still readily concealed and does so without a significant increase in size. Both models are very suitable for IWB carry, and the right holster can ensure comfortable concealment.
The ammunition performance represents the critical difference between the two firearms. The 9mm Luger in the Glock 43 offers a distinct advantage in terms of ballistic performance. This translates to increased stopping power. On the other hand, the .380 ACP in the Glock 42 offers lighter recoil. The specific performance is best determined by the ammunition chosen. The 9mm is generally preferred as a defensive round, due to increased availability and generally lower cost. The .380 ACP offers its own set of advantages.
The recoil experience is worth evaluating. The Glock 42 will have noticeably lighter recoil. This is important for shooters of all levels and is one of the reasons it’s a great option for new shooters. However, the 9mm in the Glock 43 results in greater recoil. This can make it less comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
Magazine capacity is a significant factor. While both pistols are equipped with standard magazines, the Glock 43, due to its dimensions, offers a higher capacity. A larger magazine capacity provides a potential advantage in any defensive situation. Aftermarket magazines for both models can be found, offering capacity increases.
The trigger and ergonomics of both models are similar to other Glock firearms. The Glock 42 shares the same general design of other Glocks, with a similar grip angle. The Glock 43 is also similar. The Glock design, although sometimes called blocky, is known for its reliability and ease of use. Both models are comfortable to hold.
The Glock design has a strong aftermarket support. Numerous companies offer holsters, sights, and other accessories. Many holsters are designed for both models. This makes either Glock a great option for customization.
Choosing the Right Glock: Making the Best Decision
The decision of which Glock is the best for you comes down to your personal requirements. Consider how you will be using the firearm, how much experience you have, and what’s important to you in a concealed carry pistol.
If your priority is an ultra-compact, easy-to-conceal handgun, the Glock 42 is a strong option. The small size makes it a great option for pocket carry, ankle carry, or any situation where minimizing the footprint of your firearm is paramount. If recoil sensitivity is an important consideration for you, then the 42 may be the better option. If you’re a new shooter, the Glock 42 can be easier to handle due to the lower recoil.
If the 9mm Luger caliber is your priority, then the Glock 43 is the obvious choice. The 9mm provides a higher level of stopping power, offering an additional advantage in defensive situations. The higher magazine capacity also provides a potential benefit. If you’re familiar with the Glock platform and confident in your ability to manage the increased recoil, the Glock 43 is an excellent choice for concealed carry.
Ultimately, the best approach to choosing between the Glock 43 and the Glock 42 is to handle both pistols and, if possible, shoot them. This will give you a direct understanding of their feel, recoil, and how well they fit your hands. Assess your personal preferences, your experience with firearms, and your intended use case to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
The Glock 43 and Glock 42 are both successful examples of the subcompact firearm. Both are great for concealed carry. While the Glock 42 offers a smaller, more concealable package with a more manageable recoil, the Glock 43 provides the more powerful 9mm Luger round with a higher magazine capacity. The best Glock for you depends on your priorities. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this article, you can choose the subcompact Glock that best aligns with your needs and shooting preferences. Remember to prioritize safety and responsible gun ownership. Whichever you choose, you’ll be carrying a reliable firearm backed by the legendary Glock name. Consider visiting a local gun shop to handle both firearms and make an informed decision.
