What’s the difference between the Glock 43X and the SIG P365? The Glock 43X offers a slim profile with Glock’s signature simplicity, while the SIG P365 packs more capacity into a smaller frame—making it a standout in the micro-compact category.
The 43X is known for its intuitive controls and shootability, favored by those who value grip length and Glock’s ecosystem. The P365 leans into innovation, offering 10+1 or higher capacity in a shorter barrel and smaller footprint—ideal for deep concealment without sacrificing firepower.
Both pistols are reliable, but their form factors serve different preferences. If you value consistency and straightforward handling, go with the 43X. If your priority is size-to-capacity ratio, the P365 delivers.
- Glock 43X and SIG P365 are top contenders for concealed carry, offering reliability, compact designs, and excellent performance tailored to different user preferences.
- The SIG P365 excels in deep concealment with its smaller size, higher capacity (up to 15 rounds), and ergonomic grip suited for smaller hands.
- The Glock 43X offers better shootability with a longer grip, reduced recoil, and compatibility with aftermarket accessories like Shield Arms S15 magazines for increased capacity.
- Both pistols deliver reliable accuracy and durability, but the Glock 43X has a slight edge in sight radius while the SIG P365 shines in rapid-fire scenarios due to its crisp trigger pull.
- Choosing between these firearms depends on personal priorities, such as concealment needs, hand size, shooting style, and daily carry requirements.
Similarities Between the Glock 43X vs SIG P365
Both the Glock 43X and the SIG P365 are purpose-built micro/compact 9mm carry pistols designed for the same mission: deep concealment with usable capacity and everyday reliability. They share striker-fired designs, low bore axes for controllable recoil, and controls and ergonomics optimized for quick, consistent draws and follow-up shots.
Both accept modern carry accessories — optics-ready variants or aftermarket cuts, compact holster ecosystems, and readily available magazines — so training, carry gear, and drills translate easily between the two. In practice, shooters who learn reloads, malfunction drills, and sighted fire on one will find the other feels familiar in handling and performance.
Finally, both prioritize practical trade-offs: minimal footprint, comfortable daily carry, and defensive-capable capacity in a package that balances shootability and concealability. They’re different in feel and detail, but functionally they occupy the same role for everyday concealed carry.
Quick Verdict — Which Gun is Better for You?
Choosing between the Glock 43X and SIG P365 depends on your priorities, as both excel in specific areas. Each model offers distinct advantages tailored to different concealed carry needs, shooting styles, and preferences.
1. Concealed Carry Suitability
The SIG P365's compact dimensions (5.8 inches long, 4.3 inches tall) make it easier to conceal under light clothing or in appendix carry positions. Its flush-fit magazine holds 10 rounds but extends to 12 or 15 with aftermarket options, offering flexibility without compromising concealment.
The Glock 43X measures slightly larger at 6.5 inches long and 5.04 inches tall but compensates with a slim profile that works well for IWB holsters.
2. Ergonomics and Grip Design
For shooters with smaller hands, the SIG P365 provides a more natural grip due to its narrower frame and shorter trigger reach.
The Glock 43X features an extended grip length, accommodating larger hands while maintaining control during rapid fire or defensive drills. Both models offer stippled textures for improved handling under stress or adverse conditions.
3. Capacity vs Size Trade-Offs
If capacity drives your decision-making process, the SIG P365 edges ahead with its higher round count in a smaller footprint.
But, the Glock 43X balances capacity (10+1 standard) with enhanced shootability from its longer sight radius and reduced muzzle flip during follow-up shots.
4. Performance Under Stress
Law enforcement professionals often favor Glocks for their proven reliability across decades of use in high-stress environments. Competitive shooters might prefer the SIG P365’s crisp trigger pull and modularity when fine-tuning performance matters most.
Evaluate your daily carry requirements—whether it's deep concealment, range accuracy, or ease of customization—to determine which firearm aligns better with your goals.
| Feature | Glock 43X | SIG P365 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 6.5 inches | 5.8 inches |
| Height | 5.04 inches | 4.3 inches |
| Barrel Length | 3.41 inches | 3.1 inches |
| Weight (unloaded) | 18.7 oz | 17.8 oz |
| Standard Capacity | 10+1 (15 with S15 mags) | 10+1 (up to 15 with extended) |
| Ergonomics | Better for larger hands | Ideal for smaller hands |
| Trigger Feel | Consistent, ~5.5 lb pull | Crisp, light pull with short reset |
| Best For | Shootability, longer grip, customization | Deep concealment, compact size, capacity |
Key Specs Breakdown
Design & Ergonomics
The Glock 43X and SIG P365 differ significantly in design, catering to varied hand sizes and grip preferences.
The Glock 43X features a slimline frame with a longer grip that accommodates larger hands comfortably. Its textured polymer surface ensures a secure hold during rapid fire or adverse conditions. The SIG P365, on the other hand, offers a more compact profile with an ergonomic grip module designed for smaller hands. Its undercut trigger guard enhances control by allowing higher placement of your shooting hand.
Caliber & Barrel Length
Both pistols chamber 9mm Luger rounds, making them suitable for self-defense and range training. This caliber balances manageable recoil with effective stopping power, appealing to new gun owners and experienced shooters alike. The Glock 43X has a barrel length of 3.41 inches, slightly longer than the SIG P365’s 3.1-inch barrel.
The marginally extended barrel on the Glock provides improved muzzle velocity and accuracy at greater distances compared to the P365. But, the shorter barrel of the SIG contributes to its compact size, enhancing portability without sacrificing close-range precision.
Both firearms support standard pressure and +P ammunition loads, ensuring versatility across various defensive scenarios.
Capacity & Magazine Options
Magazine capacity is one of the most notable differences between these two models. The SIG P365 ships with flush-fit magazines holding either 10 or 12 rounds depending on configuration; extended magazines increase this capacity up to 15 rounds while maintaining concealability.
In contrast, the Glock 43X comes standard with a magazine holding ten rounds but benefits from aftermarket solutions like Shield Arms S15 magazines that expand capacity to fifteen rounds without altering dimensions.
For daily carry users prioritizing maximum round count in minimal space, the P365 may be advantageous out-of-the-box. If you prefer factory reliability over third-party accessories or value compatibility with existing Glock platforms used by law enforcement agencies worldwide, then sticking with OEM magazines for the 43X might appeal more.
Trigger Performance & Safety Features
The Glock Safe Action system includes three passive safeties integrated into its consistent five-to-six-pound trigger pull—ideal for users seeking simplicity and reliability during dynamic engagements.
The SIG P365 features a lighter trigger pull averaging around five pounds combined with short reset travel for faster follow-up shots—a feature appreciated by competitive shooters aiming for speed and precision drills at ranges.
While both designs lack manual thumb safeties (unless specified), their internal safety mechanisms ensure drop-safe operation when carried loaded inside quality holsters.
Shooting Performance in the Field
Accuracy & Grouping
The Glock 43X and SIG P365 both deliver commendable accuracy for compact concealed carry pistols. The Glock 43X, with its slightly longer barrel at 3.41 inches, provides a marginal edge in sight radius, aiding precision during slow-fire drills or target shooting at extended distances. Its factory sights are functional but benefit from aftermarket upgrades like fiber optics or night sights for enhanced visibility.
The SIG P365 features a shorter 3.1-inch barrel yet maintains tight groupings due to its crisp trigger pull and well-designed grip angle.
This pistol excels in rapid-fire scenarios where quick follow-up shots are necessary, such as defensive shooting drills. For shooters with smaller hands, the ergonomic design of the P365 ensures consistent alignment, contributing to improved shot placement under stress. Both models perform reliably out to typical self-defense ranges of 7-15 yards when paired with quality ammunition.
Reliability & Durability
Both firearms exhibit high reliability under field conditions, making them trusted choices for daily carry and professional use. The Glock 43X leverages Glock’s reputation for durability, handling thousands of rounds without significant wear or malfunctions when properly maintained. Its polymer frame resists corrosion and damage from environmental exposure, while the Safe Action system minimizes mechanical failure risks.
The SIG P365 has proven dependable even though its compact size, though early production models faced minor issues that have since been resolved through updates. Its stainless steel chassis enhances structural integrity compared to traditional polymer-only designs.
Competitive shooters often praise the P365's ability to cycle various ammunition types smoothly, including hollow points commonly used in self-defense scenarios. Regular cleaning and lubrication ensure peak performance for either firearm during extended range sessions or adverse weather conditions.
Recoil and Handling for Different Use Cases
Recoil management differs between these two pistols due to their dimensions and weight distribution. The Glock 43X weighs approximately 18.7 ounces unloaded and offers a longer grip surface that accommodates larger hands comfortably, reducing felt recoil during sustained fire sequences like tactical training exercises or home defense simulations.
The SIG P365 is lighter at around 17.8 ounces unloaded but incorporates an efficient recoil spring assembly that mitigates muzzle rise effectively even though its smaller profile. This makes it ideal for appendix carry users who prioritize concealment without sacrificing control during emergency draws or close-quarters engagements.
For new gun owners seeking manageable recoil characteristics, both options provide excellent controllability within their respective categories
Concealed Carry & Practical Use
Comfort for Daily Carry
The Glock 43X and SIG P365 both excel in concealed carry applications, but their designs cater to different preferences. The Glock 43X features a longer grip that provides a secure hold for larger hands, reducing fatigue during extended wear.
Its slim profile fits comfortably inside waistband (IWB) holsters, making it suitable for all-day carry without excessive bulk. Popular options like Alien Gear Holsters offer durable Boltaron materials that enhance comfort and retention.
The SIG P365's compact dimensions make it ideal for smaller-framed users or those prioritizing deep concealment. Its shorter grip reduces printing under light clothing, an advantage in warmer climates or professional settings requiring discretion.
Appendix carry enthusiasts often favor the P365 due to its minimal footprint and compatibility with low-profile holsters. If you prefer pocket carry or ankle rigs, the P365’s size offers greater versatility compared to the slightly larger Glock 43X.
Draw Speed & Accessibility
Both pistols provide efficient draw capabilities when paired with appropriate holster setups. The Glock 43X benefits from its longer grip, which allows quicker acquisition during stress-induced scenarios like defensive draws.
The SIG P365 compensates for its smaller grip by offering textured surfaces that improve control during rapid presentations. For appendix carriers, the shorter barrel length of the P365 facilitates smoother reholstering while maintaining accessibility in seated positions—ideal for vehicle use or long commutes.
Competitive shooters might appreciate aftermarket enhancements such as extended magazine baseplates on either model to improve handling speed without compromising concealability.
Final Thoughts — Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Glock 43X and SIG P365 eventually comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Both firearms excel in their own ways, offering reliability, performance, and practicality for concealed carry.
Consider factors like hand size, preferred capacity, concealment requirements, and shooting style when making your decision. Whether you prioritize the slim profile of the Glock 43X or the compact versatility of the SIG P365, either option can serve as a dependable everyday carry firearm.
Your choice should align with what feels most comfortable and effective for your daily routine. Take time to handle both pistols if possible, test them at a range, and evaluate how they fit into your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which pistol is better for concealed carry, the Glock 43X or SIG P365?
Both are excellent for concealed carry, but the SIG P365's compact size makes it easier to conceal, especially in warmer climates or professional settings. The Glock 43X offers a slim profile and longer grip, making it comfortable for larger hands while still being suitable for all-day carry.
2. How does magazine capacity compare between the Glock 43X and SIG P365?
The SIG P365 has a higher magazine capacity out-of-the-box, holding up to 12+1 rounds standard. The Glock 43X holds 10+1 rounds but can match the P365’s capacity with aftermarket magazines.
3. Which firearm is more ergonomic: Glock 43X or SIG P365?
Ergonomics depend on hand size. The Glock 43X suits users with larger hands due to its longer grip, while the SIG P365 caters to smaller hands with its compact design and textured surfaces for added control.
4. Is one pistol more reliable than the other?
Both pistols are highly reliable under field conditions. However, Glocks are renowned for their robust construction and reliability under stress, making them a favorite among law enforcement professionals.
5. Does barrel length affect accuracy between these two models?
Yes, slightly. The Glock 43X has a longer barrel than the SIG P365, which provides marginally improved accuracy during shooting sessions.
6. Which gun has better recoil management?
Recoil management depends on user preference and hand size. The Glock 43X is more comfortable for larger hands, while the SIG P365 features an efficient recoil spring assembly that aids in control despite its smaller frame.
7. What type of holsters work best for each model?
For the Glock 43X, IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) holsters offer great concealment without sacrificing comfort. For the SIG P365, pocket holsters or appendix carry options work well due to its compact dimensions.
8. Are there differences in trigger performance between these pistols?
Yes! The Glock’s Safe Action system prioritizes reliability and consistency under stress, while the SIG P365 offers a lighter trigger pull favored by competitive shooters seeking precision.
9. Which pistol is better suited for quick defensive draws?
The Glock 43X excels in quick acquisition during defensive draws thanks to its longer grip and slim profile. However, the textured surface of the SIG P365 enhances control during rapid presentations as well.
10. How should I choose between these two firearms?
Your choice should depend on your daily carry needs and personal preferences—consider factors like hand size, desired magazine capacity, preferred concealment style, and shooting priorities when deciding between these two excellent options!