New G42 stiff slide release

[willie]

The 42 and 43 have slide stop releases that, for example, since they are shorter in length compared to a CZ 75, 1911, or BHP, then they have less mechanical advantage when force is applied. The op's observation is very common, and many think that the pistol's slide release is defective when it is not.

[Beat Trash]

I owned both a Glock 42 and a 43 for a period. The slid releases on both guns were much more difficult to operate than any of my Glock 19's, 17's or 26.

I find the same to be sure with the M&P Shield vs. the full size M&P's, although not to the same extent. But then, the Shield has a bit larger of a slide than the G42 or G43.

My guess would be that it has something to do with the amount of spring tension vs the size/weight of the slide.

Personally I just consider it one of the quirks of the sub compact pistols and move on.