I took the Gen 5 back out on Sunday and had similar results as my first experience.
Both the 124 +p Gold Dots and 147gr HST’s work well. I would choose one or the other based on your preferred hold or availability/price. The 147gr HST’s tend to impact a little higher at 25 yards (than the +p Gold Dots) and have slightly less recoil. I tend to gravitate towards the lower recoil option for subcompacts and airweight j-frames, so I’ll be using the HST’s.
I may try to clean a Dot Torture at 10 yards the next time out, in addition to several 25 yard groups with the 147gr HST’s. So far we are 700 rounds through without a single hiccup (as expected).
Is there a huge difference in concealability and shootability between the 43 and gen 5 26?
I don’t own a G43, so can’t comment on concealability.
I have shot a few boxes through a rental G43, and I own a G26.5 which is my primary EDC.
Unsurprisingly to me, I found the G43 grip size and texture to be problematic. The gun felt very slippery in my hand. I felt it was difficult to shoot.
My G26 feels much bigger (duh) and much more like my G19.5. I found the 26 easy to shoot accurately, especially with the Factory +2 extension. I carry it in an RCS Perun.
I put another 300 rounds through tonight and tried this LAPD SWAT Qualification Course that I came across earlier in the week. I scored 100% both times with my Gen 5, using an 8” Circle and a 3x5 index card.
I enjoyed the various drills and went much faster than the allotted time for each drill.
I shot a nice 10 round group from 25 yards; but, I felt that one push top right on me. I used 147gr HST and plan to shoot another full box the next time out. I really enjoy trying to push my groups with the 26.
I may slide the rear a hair to the left, but I want to work through the gun and trigger a little more first.
So far so good, really pleased with the accuracy and trigger.
I find the thinner profile of the 43 to be an easier carry. The 26 is certainly doable, though - it if all I have is an untucked shirt, my 43 gets the nod.
I shoot them pretty much the same, but I’ve always had a thing for skinny single stacks. They both feel good to me and are secure under recoil. I run GeePlates on both.