Glock 43 or 43X: Which is Better for Defensive Carry?

By: Mitch Eckler

Glock 43 or 43X: Which is Better for Defensive Carry?

Glock has long been a leader in the concealed carry market, known for making reliable, no-frills handguns that function flawlessly when you need them most. The Glock 43 and Glock 43X are two of their most popular subcompact pistols for everyday carry, but which one is better for defensive use?

The truth is, neither choice is “wrong”—both are excellent firearms. The decision ultimately comes down to which fits your hands, shooting style, and carry method best. As someone who’s 6’1” and 245 lbs, I naturally lean toward the 43X, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. In this article, we’ll break down the differences, explore who each gun is best suited for, and discuss critical considerations like optics, holsters, and training.

Mechanical Differences: Glock 43 vs. Glock 43X

At first glance, the Glock 43 and Glock 43X seem almost identical, but they have a few key differences that impact handling and usability.

• Size & Weight: The Glock 43 is smaller and lighter, making it ideal for deep concealment. The 43X has a slightly longer grip, which improves handling but may be a little harder to conceal.
• Magazine Capacity: The 43 has a 6+1 capacity, while the 43X holds 10+1 rounds. In a defensive situation, that extra capacity could be crucial.
• Grip Frame: The 43X has a longer, more ergonomic grip that better fits medium to large hands, whereas the 43 can feel small and harder to control for some shooters.
• Shootability: The larger grip of the 43X makes it easier to shoot accurately under stress. The 43 is still manageable, but those with larger hands may struggle to get a full grip.

Both guns share the same slim profile, making them easy to carry, but the 43X’s grip makes a significant difference in comfort and control—especially during rapid fire.

Grip, Comfort, and Shootability

If you have smaller hands or prioritize deep concealment, the Glock 43 might be the better choice. Its compact size makes it easier to hide in tighter clothing or ankle carry setups. However, for most shooters, the 43X is the more comfortable option. The larger grip improves recoil control, provides a more natural hold, and allows for easier follow-up shots.

For those who have shot both models, the difference in grip size alone makes the 43X far more enjoyable to shoot. If your hands are on the larger side, the 43 may feel like gripping the base of a soda can—functional but not ideal. When it comes to defensive firearms, comfort and control are key factors in fast, accurate shooting under stress.

The Glock 48: The “Big Brother” of the 43X

Before making a decision, it’s worth considering the Glock 48, which is essentially a 43X with a longer barrel. The 48 retains the same slim frame and 10+1 capacity but offers a longer sight radius, making it easier to shoot accurately. The slightly increased barrel length also improves ballistics and reduces muzzle rise.

If you’re carrying inside the waistband (IWB), the extra barrel length is unlikely to affect concealability. For those who don’t mind a slightly longer pistol, the Glock 48 can be a strong alternative, providing the best of both worlds: better accuracy and the same comfortable grip as the 43X.

Optic-Ready Options: MOS vs. COA

Glock has embraced the optics revolution with their MOS (Modular Optic System) and COA (Compact Optic Attachment) platforms, allowing shooters to mount red dot sights for improved accuracy.

MOS (Modular Optic System)

• Available on both the Glock 43X and Glock 48.
• Comes with a removable optic plate, allowing you to install your preferred red dot sight.
• More affordable and widely available in stores.

COA (Compact Optic Attachment)

• A newer factory-installed optic option with enhanced durability.
• Pre-installed and warrantied by Glock.
• More expensive than the MOS models.

For defensive carry, optics can be a game-changer—especially for shooters with vision challenges. If you plan on adding a weapon-mounted light (WML), pairing it with an optic can help you get on target faster in low-light scenarios.

Holster & Safety Considerations

One thing all Glock pistols share is the lack of a manual safety. While Glock’s internal safeties make accidental discharges unlikely, holster selection and reholstering techniques are crucial to safe carry.

A rigid, well-fitted holster that completely covers the trigger guard is a must. Avoid soft holsters that collapse when empty, as they can allow the trigger to be pressed unintentionally. When reholstering, caution is key—garments can easily slip inside the trigger guard and cause an accidental discharge. The best practice is to re-holster slowly and deliberately to ensure nothing interferes with the trigger.

It’s also essential to thoroughly test any holster before committing to daily carry. Make sure it retains the firearm properly, allows for a smooth draw, and keeps the trigger fully covered at all times. The Glock 43 and 43X are both fantastic defensive tools, but their simplicity means the shooter must take extra responsibility for safe handling.

Practice Until You Can’t Get It Wrong

Regardless of which pistol you choose, consistent training is essential to becoming confident with your firearm. Dry fire practice is one of the best ways to build muscle memory and improve trigger control without expending ammunition. Incorporating a shot timer into your training can also help measure your progress and ensure you’re improving speed and accuracy under pressure.

Attending defensive shooting classes is another invaluable investment. Professional instruction can help refine your skills, correct bad habits, and expose you to new techniques. Many shooters make the mistake of focusing solely on equipment—when in reality, training is what makes the difference in a defensive situation.

I always tell students: Don’t just practice until you get it right—practice until you can’t get it wrong.

Choose What’s Right for You

Both the Glock 43 and 43X are excellent concealed carry guns, but the best choice depends on your hand size, carry style, and personal preferences.

The Glock 43 is ideal for those with smaller hands or those who prioritize deep concealment. It’s easy to carry, but the 6+1 capacity and smaller grip may not be ideal for every shooter.

The Glock 43X, on the other hand, offers a more comfortable grip, better recoil control, and a 10+1 capacity. It’s a better choice for those with medium-to-large hands or anyone who values shootability over extreme concealability.

If you’re on the fence, try both at a range before making your final decision. Your everyday carry firearm should feel like an extension of yourself—comfortable, reliable, and second nature to operate.

In the end, the most important factor isn’t which gun you choose—it’s how well you train with it. So whether you go with the Glock 43, 43X, or even the 48, make sure you put in the work to master it. Your life could depend on it.

Shoot Safe

-Mitch Eckler
Find me on Instagram @the_bad_gunsmith
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