Glock 43 Review – Slim, Reliable 9mm for Everyday Carry

The Glock 43 is a slim, single-stack 9×19mm subcompact designed for ultra-concealment. At roughly 6.26" long with a 3.39" barrel and a loaded weight near 20.6 oz, it pairs 9mm ballistics with a narrow profile that makes deep-carry practical.

The pistol uses Glock’s Safe Action striker system, a corrosion-resistant nDLC-finished steel slide, and a polymer frame with a built-in beavertail for a high, tight grip — a deliberate compromise of capacity for concealability and shootability.

Photo credits

What is the Glock 43 and why does it matter?

The Glock 43 arrived as Glock’s answer to the market demand for a true single-stack 9mm — a pocketable, slimline handgun that still delivers the ubiquitous 9×19mm cartridge. For many civilians and off-duty professionals, the G43 strikes a balance: better terminal performance than .380 pistols, a slimmer footprint than double-stack 9mm compacts, and Glock’s proven reliability.

Its relevance is practical: for deep concealment (inside the waistband, pocket, or purse) where larger pistols are impractical, the Glock 43 is one of the most popular, widely supported options on the market.

Glock Ges.m.b.H. built its reputation on simple, durable pistols. The 43 continues that lineage — compactified Glock internals, Safe Action safeties, and the same parts quality control that made earlier Glock models staples for law enforcement and armed citizens.

What are the Glock 43 specifications?

• Caliber: 9×19mm (9mm Luger)

• Barrel length: ~3.39 in (86.5 mm)

• Overall length: 6.26 in (159 mm)

• Slide length: 6.06 in (154 mm)

• Width: 1.06 in (27 mm)

• Height (with mag): 4.25 in (108 mm)

• Weight (unloaded): ~16.23 oz (460 g)

• Weight (loaded): ~20.64 oz (585 g)

• Magazine capacity: 6 rounds (commonly carried 6+1)

• Action: Safe Action® striker-fired

• Frame: Polymer with textured grip and built-in beavertail

• Slide finish: Steel with nDLC corrosion-resistant coating

• Sights: Fixed white-dot front, notch rear (aftermarket options available)

• Accessory rail: None (compact footprint)

Those numbers give a quick snapshot of why the G43 is chosen: it’s tiny by modern 9mm standards, but it keeps the cartridge that most shooters are comfortable training and carrying with.

How is the Glock 43 designed and built?

Glock’s philosophy is minimalism and robust function. The frame is polymer (light and corrosion-proof) while the slide and barrel use hardened steel finished in nDLC for wear and corrosion resistance.

The G43 is a stripped-down 9mm: no accessory rail, no modular slide optics (MOS not offered), and a single-stack magazine well. That simplicity is intentional — every pound and millimeter saved helps concealability.

Ergonomics: Glock shaped the grip with a shallow beavertail and a slim fore-to-aft profile to allow a higher grip on the frame — critical when you’re controlling a full-power 9mm from a small pistol. The grip texture on the Gen4 generation was improved over earlier slim Glocks; the result is predictable purchase without an aggressive bite. The short trigger reach and consistent reset (typical of Glock triggers) work well with the smaller grip geometry.

Controls are classic Glock: no external manual safety, an ambidextrous-friendly slide stop on later production runs, and a reversible magazine release (useful for left-handed shooters). The lack of an accessory rail eliminates the option for lights — a tradeoff many buyers accept for the slimmer profile.

How do Glock 43 variants and model differences compare?

The original G43 launched as a Gen4 design (improved recoil spring and grip texture). Glock later released the G43X and 43X MOS in family expansions, and then the slimmer G43 saw internal and minor ergonomic tweaks over time. Important distinctions:

• Glock 43 (single-stack) — the slender original (6+1), designed for maximum concealability.

• Glock 43X / 48 (cousins, not identical) — longer grip or longer slide variants aimed at consumers who want a better grip or longer sight radius while keeping a slim profile. (Note: the 43X/48 use a different magazine and frame length.) (Learn more: Glock 43 vs Glock 43X)

• Aftermarket options — sights, extended magazines (+1/+2 base plates), and magwell sleeves are common upgrades. There is no true threaded-barrel or factory MOS variant for the original G43 because of its compact slide.

For buyers comparing subcompacts, the Glock 43 trades capacity for width; competitors like the SIG P365 or Springfield Hellcat offer larger capacities in similar footprint, while the G43 keeps the classic Glock ergonomics and simplicity.

How does the Glock 43 perform on the range?

Accuracy: For a 3.39" barrel and a short sight radius, the G43 groups respectably at defensive distances. Expect tight, usable groups at 7–15 yards with decent ammo and a steady grip. The longer sight radius and heavier slide found on larger Glocks will be more forgiving, but the G43 will consistently put rounds where you aim inside typical defensive engagement ranges.

Recoil management: The 9mm cartridge in a 16–20 oz package produces a perceptible, snappy impulse, but not punishing recoil. The beavertail frame and slim grip enable a higher hand placement which reduces muzzle flip. Rapid strings are possible with practice; expect slower follow-ups than a full-size 9mm but still manageable.

Reliability: Glock’s core competency is reliability, and the G43 follows suit. Tests and broad user experience indicate high functioning across common FMJ and defensive JHP loads. Some very low-power or unusual bullet profiles can be picky in ultra-compact pistols — but complaints are the exception rather than rule.

Trigger: The factory trigger is a Glock-style pull around 5.5 lb. Travel and reset are consistent, which helps accuracy in short strings. Serious competitors change triggers, but the stock trigger is plenty serviceable for self-defense.

What ammunition works best in the Glock 43?

Ideal grain weights: For a defensive load, typical 115–124 grain 9mm JHP offerings work well. 115 gr FMJ is economical for practice. Heavier 124–147 grain JHPs can reduce felt recoil slightly and often penetrate differently; test your chosen defensive rounds in your particular G43 for reliability and point-of-impact.

Defensive loads: Modern 9mm hollow points (Hornady Critical Defense, Federal HST, Speer Gold Dot, etc.) routinely perform well in the G43 when fired from a short barrel. Expect slightly different expansion and velocity numbers than from a full-length barrel; that’s why testing is essential.

Feeding/extraction notes: Some users report occasional sensitivity to certain flat-nosed or very light recoil profile rounds in ultra-compact pistols; if you plan to carry a particular defensive round, run several hundred rounds of that exact load to validate function. Otherwise, mainstream JHPs are reliable.

Where does the Glock 43 fit use-case wise?

Is the Glock 43 good for concealed/self-defense?

Yes — the G43 is designed for concealed carry above all. Its slim profile excels for appendix carry, strong-side IWB with minimal printing, pocket carry (with proper holster), or purse carry. For users prioritizing minimal printing and maximum concealability, it’s an excellent pick.

Is it suitable for home defense?

It can be, particularly as a backup or “go bag” gun. For home defense, some prefer larger pistols with greater capacity, optics, and lights. The G43’s lack of accessory rail and limited rounds means it’s less ideal as a primary home defense platform for those who value volume of fire and lighted optics on a bedside gun.

Is it viable for competition (IDPA/USPSA)?

Not as a primary competition pistol. The short sight radius and limited capacity hamper competitive advantage. It can be used in specific divisions or for practice, but shooters pursuing competitive shooting typically favor longer-slide, optics-ready platforms.

Hunting or outdoors?

No — the G43 is not intended for hunting. For outdoors or bear country, larger calibers and longer barrel lengths are advisable.

Workhorse or range toy?

For daily carry and practical self-defense training, the G43 is a workhorse: reliable, straightforward, and easy to train with. It’s not a competition race gun, but it is a serious EDC tool.

What are the best holsters for a Glock 43 holster?

These Glock 43 holsters are polymer (Boltaron) made and engineered for secure retention and comfort with slim handguns.

IWB (Cloak Tuck 3.5)

Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB is a popular IWB option for deep concealment. A Glock 43 holster of this style rides low and tight, tucks behind the belt, and minimizes printing under a T-shirt. It offers good retention and allows a natural drawstroke while keeping the gun close to the body.

Belt Holster

A traditional belt holster carries the G43 on the hip for fast access. A slim, low-profile belt Glock 43 holster keeps the pistol secure while reducing bulk, and pairs well with a reinforced belt for stability. Good retention and smooth draw geometry are priorities for belt carry.

OWB Paddle Holster

An OWB paddle Glock 43 holster is fast to don and comfortable for range sessions or duty use where concealment is not required. It’s a good choice for open-carry contexts, offering adjustable retention and easy reholstering without removing a belt.

Drop-Leg Carry

A swivel drop-leg Glock 43 holster positions the pistol on the thigh for certain tactical or recreational uses. It provides quick access while seated or in vehicles and keeps the gun from interfering with body armor. It's less common for everyday carry but useful in specific operational roles.

Chest Holster

A chest holster keeps the G43 accessible while wearing outer layers and is favored by hikers or off-road drivers. It’s stable during movement and keeps the pistol out of the way of other gear. Choose a chest Glock 43 holster with adjustable straps and good retention.

Hook & Loop (Velcro)

A hook & loop Glock 43 holster offers flexible mounting inside a bag or on a belt and is lightweight for travel. These holsters are simple, economical, and allow quick configuration for left or right carry positions. Ensure the hook & loop patterns are high quality for secure retention.

Belly Band Holster

A belly band Glock 43 holster wraps around the torso, allowing multiple carry positions (small of back, appendix, strong side). It’s highly concealable under layers and useful for those without belts. Look for breathable fabric and a secure retention pocket to prevent shifting.

Appendix Holster

Appendix carry Glock 43 holsters are designed for a straight, natural draw while minimizing printing. A slim, wedge-style holster with solid retention and a reinforced mouth for reholstering is ideal. Because the G43 is slim, appendix carry is comfortable for many users.

What are the Glock 43’s pros and cons?

Pros

• Extremely slim and easy to conceal.

• Uses 9mm — widely available, affordable, and effective.

• Lightweight and comfortable for all-day carry.

• Proven Glock reliability in a small package.

• Simple, durable construction with broad aftermarket support.

Cons

• Low factory capacity (6+1) compared to modern compacts.

• No accessory rail or factory MOS variant on the original G43.

• Smaller grip may be cramped for shooters with larger hands.

• Short sight radius — requires solid fundamentals for fast accuracy.

• Some competitors offer higher capacity in similar footprints.

What is the final verdict on the Glock 43?

The Glock 43 is a focused tool: it prioritizes concealability and reliability over capacity and modularity. For users whose primary metric is “how well will this carry under everyday clothes?” the G43 is an excellent choice. It’s a compact 9mm that’s easy to train with, hard to break, and supported by an enormous ecosystem of holsters, magazines, and sight upgrades.

Who should buy it? Concealment-first carriers, new shooters seeking a manageable 9mm, and anyone wanting a discrete backup or off-duty gun. Who might look elsewhere? Users who need higher capacity, lights/optics, or full-size sight radii for competitive work.

Value for money: The Glock 43 sits squarely in the sweet spot for reliability and resale value. While some modern designs beat it on raw capacity, few match its record for durability and aftermarket choice in the slim single-stack 9mm niche.

Long-term ownership: Parts support is excellent — magazines, springs, sights, and holsters are plentiful. For most buyers the G43 will be a reliable daily carry companion for years with minimal maintenance beyond routine cleaning and wear part replacement.