Glock 42 Review – Lightweight, Reliable, and Built for Everyday Carry

The Glock 42 is a subcompact, striker-fired pistol chambered in .380 ACP, designed for shooters who need ultimate concealability without compromising reliability. Measuring just under 6 inches in overall length and weighing barely 16 ounces loaded, this lightweight handgun is engineered for discreet everyday carry and effortless handling.

With its Safe Action® system, polymer frame, and 6+1 round capacity, the Glock 42 combines Glock’s proven dependability with a micro-sized form factor suitable for pocket, purse, or deep concealment carry.

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Why Is the Glock 42 Still a Popular Choice for Concealed Carry?

When Glock introduced the G42 in 2014, it was the company’s first-ever pistol chambered in .380 ACP, designed to meet demand for a true “slimline” Glock that balances control, accuracy, and comfort for concealed carry users. It arrived at a time when pocket-sized .380 pistols were popular, but few could match Glock’s legendary reliability.

Manufacturer Overview

Glock Ges.m.b.H., the Austrian firearms manufacturer renowned for revolutionizing modern pistols, developed the G42 to fill a gap in its lineup — providing a smaller, softer-shooting alternative to the Glock 26 (9mm).

The design incorporates Glock’s Safe Action® System, corrosion-resistant nDLC finish, and polymer frame durability, hallmarks of the brand trusted by military and law enforcement worldwide.

Intended Market and Purpose

The Glock 42 is tailored for:

• Everyday concealed carry where minimal size and weight matter most

• Backup or secondary carry for professionals

• New shooters or those sensitive to recoil who prefer the mild .380 ACP

• Discreet personal defense, including pocket or purse carry

It is not meant for competition or extended range sessions — this is a defensive tool optimized for concealability and reliability under pressure.

What Are the Glock 42 Specifications?

Specification	Detail
Caliber	.380 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol)
Action	Safe Action® striker-fired
Barrel Length	3.25 inches (82.5 mm)
Overall Length	5.94 inches (151 mm)
Slide Length	5.75 inches (146 mm)
Height (with magazine)	4.13 inches (105 mm)
Width	0.98 inches (25 mm)
Unloaded Weight	12.17 oz (345 g)
Loaded Weight	15.87 oz (450 g)
Magazine Capacity	6 rounds (6+1 capacity)
Frame Material	Polymer
Slide Material/Finish	Steel with nDLC corrosion-resistant coating
Sights	Fixed white-dot front, notched rear (Ameriglo & GNS optional)
Trigger Pull	~5.5 lbs
Accessory Rail	None
Manufacturer	Glock Ges.m.b.H., Austria
Year of Release	2014

How Is the Glock 42 Designed and Built?

The Glock 42 uses the brand’s reinforced polymer frame, which keeps the pistol extremely light while maintaining structural strength. Its steel slide is finished with Glock’s corrosion-resistant nDLC coating, making it ideal for everyday carry where sweat and moisture are factors.

Ergonomics and Grip Feel

The slim frame and 0.98-inch width make the Glock 42 comfortable to conceal and handle. The grip texture (similar to Gen4 models) provides a secure hold without being abrasive. Many shooters note that the G42 feels more ergonomic than other .380s due to its full two-finger grip and slightly elongated frame.

Controls and Safety

The G42 employs the Safe Action® System, which includes:

• A trigger safety that prevents unintended discharge

• A firing pin safety

• A drop safety ensuring security even if dropped

Its controls — magazine release and slide stop — are proportioned for the pistol’s compact design. The trigger pull averages around 5.5 lbs, smooth and predictable.

Accessory Compatibility

Unlike larger models, the Glock 42 lacks a traditional rail system, which limits attachment of tactical lights or lasers. However, numerous aftermarket grip lasers and trigger-guard-mounted accessories exist for it.

What Are the Glock 42’s Variants and Alternatives?

The Glock 42 essentially exists in a single configuration, though its production incorporates Gen4-level ergonomics with textured grip panels and improved recoil spring assemblies. There is no Gen5 or MOS (optic-ready) version due to its micro-frame size.

Internal Comparisons

Model	Caliber	Barrel Length	Purpose
Glock 42	.380 ACP	3.25 in	Ultra-concealable EDC
Glock 43	9mm	3.41 in	Slimline 9mm for carry
Glock 26	9mm	3.43 in	Subcompact, higher capacity
Glock 48	9mm	4.17 in	Slimline, full grip carry

Comparable Pistols

If you’re considering alternatives:

• Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 – lighter, but snappier recoil

• Sig Sauer P238 – excellent trigger, but heavier and pricier

• Ruger LCP Max – higher capacity (10+1) but less refined

• Springfield 911 .380 – smoother trigger, similar size

The Glock 42 stands out for reliability and shootability, outperforming many competitors in consistency and control.

How Does the Glock 42 Perform on the Range?

Accuracy

Despite its small size, the Glock 42 achieves solid defensive accuracy. Groupings under 2 inches at 10 yards are common, and shooters can maintain effective shot placement at 15–20 yards.

Recoil and Control

The .380 ACP round generates mild recoil, and the G42’s locked-breech design further mitigates muzzle rise. Compared to many blowback-operated .380s, it feels noticeably smoother and more controllable.

Reliability

Reliability is where the Glock 42 shines. Numerous reviewers report flawless operation across hundreds or even thousands of rounds. Early production models (2014) saw rare feeding issues with certain low-powered ammo, but modern G42s have resolved this entirely.

Trigger Quality

The trigger offers the typical Glock feel — a bit of take-up, a clean break, and a short, audible reset. For a carry gun, it strikes the right balance between safety and responsiveness.

What Ammo Works Best in the Glock 42?

Ideal Bullet Weights

The Glock 42 performs best with 90–100 grain bullets, the standard range for .380 ACP.

Recommended Defensive Loads

• Federal HST Micro 99gr JHP – optimized expansion for short barrels

• Hornady Critical Defense 90gr FTX – reliable feeding and penetration

• Speer Gold Dot 90gr JHP – consistent performance in FBI gel tests

• Winchester Train & Defend 95gr FMJ/JHP – ideal for matched training and defense

Known Issues

Most users report perfect function with factory brass ammunition. Avoid weak, steel-cased, or underpowered range loads, which may fail to cycle fully.

How Suitable Is the Glock 42 for Different Roles?

Concealed Carry and EDC

This is the Glock 42’s main strength. Its slim profile, light weight, and reliable operation make it one of the best pocket-carry pistols available. While capacity is limited, its comfort and ease of carry encourage consistent use — a critical factor in real-world defense.

Home Defense

Though reliable and accurate, the G42’s small frame and .380 ACP chambering make it less ideal for primary home defense. It serves better as a backup or secondary firearm in that role.

Competition or Range Use

The Glock 42 isn’t designed for competition. Its limited capacity and compact sight radius make it less suited for timed stages. However, it performs well for defensive shooting drills or accuracy practice.

Outdoors or Hiking Utility

The G42 can serve as a lightweight backup pistol for hikers or campers, particularly in non-bear country. It’s reliable in various weather conditions and easy to carry in a chest or belly holster.

What Are the Best Glock 42 Holsters?

Choosing the right Glock 42 holster enhances comfort and accessibility. The following options offer tailored solutions for everyday carry and outdoor use.

Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster

This Glock 42 holster provides deep concealment under shirts or jackets. It balances comfort with retention, allowing adjustable ride height and cant for a perfect fit.

Belt Holster

A belt-mounted Glock 42 holster keeps the pistol secure and quickly accessible, ideal for open carry or range use where comfort and stability are priorities.

OWB Paddle Holster

The OWB paddle Glock 42 holster is designed for fast draw and simple on-off attachment, favored by those who practice frequently.

Swivel Drop Leg Holster

This Glock 42 holster positions the firearm lower on the thigh, providing quick access when wearing vests or outdoor gear.

Chest Holster

A chest-mounted Glock 42 holster offers easy reach while hiking or biking, distributing weight evenly and keeping the gun protected.

Hook & Loop Holster

This Glock 42 holster can mount inside bags or vehicles using hook-and-loop surfaces for secure, discreet access.

Belly Band

The belly band Glock 42 holster offers flexibility for workout or casual wear, providing concealment without a belt.

Appendix Holster

An appendix Glock 42 holster prioritizes speed and front-of-body access, ideal for experienced carriers who want rapid draw times.

What Are the Pros and Cons of the Glock 42?

Pros

• Ultra-compact and lightweight for deep concealment

• Reliable and consistent performance with most ammo

• Manageable recoil and excellent shootability for a .380

• Comfortable grip and natural pointability

• High-quality Glock craftsmanship and corrosion resistance

Cons

• Limited 6-round magazine capacity

• No accessory rail for lights or lasers

• .380 ACP offers less stopping power than 9mm

• Short grip may feel small for larger hands

Final Verdict — Is the Glock 42 Still Worth Buying in 2025?

Who It’s For

The Glock 42 is ideal for those prioritizing concealability, comfort, and reliability — especially new shooters, smaller-framed users, or those sensitive to recoil. It’s also a perfect backup gun for professionals or an easy-to-carry summer firearm.

Value and Longevity

At roughly $400–$475, the Glock 42 remains an excellent investment. Parts, magazines, and holsters are widely available, and Glock’s customer support ensures long-term serviceability.

Bottom Line

The Glock 42 remains one of the most reliable and shootable subcompact .380 pistols ever made. It’s small enough to carry every day yet large enough to shoot comfortably — a rare balance in the micro pistol category.