Glock 43 in 2023

[Cool Breeze]

This is going a bit off topic here, but I think the P365x is in a whole different class in terms of capacity and shoot ability for its size. I consider a 365x to be 85% of a Glock 19 whereas the 43 is more like 60%.

I think this is an important point especially when you think about the 43. For me the 43 is a j-frame replacement type of gun. If I start comparing it to G19 (or even a 26) - I start getting disappointed in what those larger guns offer vs. what the 43 offers. However, there are circumstances I need or want that 43/j-frame gun and I am willing to accept those trade offs. The problem starts when you get into guns that are between them like the Shield Plus, 365XL, G48, G43X - am I trying to get a smaller G19 or a slightly larger more capable 43? At that point - prioritization of what is most important to you is going to be very important. I think psychologically, we are always trying to get a smaller G19 and there are a lot of options there.

I always want an option in my safe of the "smallest gun I can carry anywhere at anytime". At this time, the G43 falls into that niche. Its not a compact gun replacement. Its a j-frame replacement.

[fatdog]

G43 falls into that niche. Its not a compact gun replacement. Its a j-frame replacement.

or Colt D frame, 100% in my case

[ASH556]

I think this is an important point especially when you think about the 43. For me the 43 is a j-frame replacement type of gun. If I start comparing it to G19 (or even a 26) - I start getting disappointed in what those larger guns offer vs. what the 43 offers. However, there are circumstances I need or want that 43/j-frame gun and I am willing to accept those trade offs. The problem starts when you get into guns that are between them like the Shield Plus, 365XL, G48, G43X - am I trying to get a smaller G19 or a slightly larger more capable 43? At that point - prioritization of what is most important to you is going to be very important. I think psychologically, we are always trying to get a smaller G19 and there are a lot of options there.

I always want an option in my safe of the "smallest gun I can carry anywhere at anytime". At this time, the G43 falls into that niche. Its not a compact gun replacement. Its a j-frame replacement.

100%

I pocket carried a 642 with the small Crimson Trace grips for a couple years. It wasn’t bad and I could perform well with the laser on speed and 25yd accuracy. The irons were a different story. Mine were apparently clocked off a couple degrees. The 43 for me replaces the J frame with the added benefits of caliber commonality and better sights.

[PNWTO]

Quoting myself from another thread.

I really liked my G43, combined with a TLR-6 it was a "good enough" item and shot very well. Like others have said, it wasn't the most enjoyable/easiest shooter but was quite accurate and workable.

My father in law has it now. For a variety of reasons I decided the G42 did everything the G43 did in a smaller package and he didn't have a subcompact in his inventory.

I do mildly miss the G43 and I had no issues with it; preferences just changed.

If I were to come across a good deal on a G43, new or used, I would probably pick it up just for the S&G factor. Since my wife gave up her G42 I have been really impressed with it. Should note that I’m primarily toting my LCRs around but the G43 is a solid option and both DSG and Tenicor holsters made carrying very comfortable.

I don’t know if I would ever want to pocket it, but I also haven’t played with many G42/G43 class pocket holsters. Just more inclined to toss a DAO in the pocket.

[Cool Breeze]

Quoting myself from another thread.



If I were to come across a good deal on a G43, new or used, I would probably pick it up just for the S&G factor. Since my wife gave up her G42 I have been really impressed with it. Should note that I’m primarily toting my LCRs around but the G43 is a solid option and both DSG and Tenicor holsters made carrying very comfortable.

I don’t know if I would ever want to pocket it, but I also haven’t played with many G42/G43 class pocket holsters. Just more inclined to toss a DAO in the pocket.

Everyday dedicated pocket carry is where the gun probably doesn't shine its brightest. A snubby probably snags less and is easier to draw. I'm not in the pocket carry camp on a regular basis so I can't speak to those particulars well. In the rare case I need that capability, its a fall or winter coat situation and it can be done with a G43 even if its not optimal.

[rainman]

The early guns did have some feed problems.One of Glocks' fixes was the 02 magazine.It has a much stronger spring.
I would get a new 02 and try it.
All new mags being sold now are 02.

@rainman

Not sure, but Glock may exchange the old mags for new ones if you contact them. Worth a phone call or email, probably.

Thank you both for the advice!


-Rainman

[41magfan]

Thank you both for the advice!


-Rainman

There's a WARRANTY FORM you can download on the FAQ's page. They'll do a one for one exchange for the newest iteration.

https://us.glock.com/en/FAQs

[littlejerry]

Took some photos today of my 43 as it currently sits.

Gets carried a lot in the summer. Some minor surface rust. The finish doesn't seem as good as some of my other Glocks.

[rainman]

There's a WARRANTY FORM you can download on the FAQ's page. They'll do a one for one exchange for the newest iteration.

https://us.glock.com/en/FAQs

This (and other replies) are why I hang out on PF rather than in "front of the drugstore" (a la Cheech & Chong / Sister Mary Elephant)!

Mags will be off to GI today.


-Rainman

[TGS]

Took some photos today of my 43 as it currently sits.

Gets carried a lot in the summer. Some minor surface rust. The finish doesn't seem as good as some of my other Glocks.

Which baseplate is that?