When debating the merits of Glock models for concealed carry, the Glock 26 and Glock 43 often emerge as top contenders. The Glock 26, affectionately known as the "Baby Glock," and the Glock 43, a slimline model, are designed for discreet carry and quick deployment. Their compact frames make them favored choices among self-defense enthusiasts and law enforcement personnel.

The Glock 26 is renowned for its slightly higher capacity, making it a dependable choice for those prioritizing ammunition availability in a compact form factor. The Glock 43, on the other hand, offers a slimmer profile that may be preferred by individuals seeking maximum concealability and comfort. Each model presents its unique balance of size, capacity, and handling, thus making the selection a matter of personal preference and intended use.

Key Takeaways

• The Glock 26 and Glock 43 are suitable for concealed carry, and their design choices cater to different user preferences.
• Differences in magazine capacity and dimensions directly influence the handling and performance of each model.
• Choosing between the Glock 26 and Glock 43 will largely depend on an individual's specific capacity, size, and comfort needs in a concealed carry pistol.

Design and Dimensions

The Glock 26 and Glock 43 are subcompact pistols designed for concealment, but they differ significantly in size, weight, and dimensions, which affect grip ergonomics and barrel length significantly. Understanding these differences is critical for the potential user to make an informed decision.

Size and Weight Comparisons

The Glock 26, known as the "Baby Glock," has a length of 6.41 inches, a width of 1.18 inches, and stands 4.17 inches in height. In contrast, the Glock 43 is slimmer, with a length of 6.26 inches, and typically sports a narrower grip width. As for weight, the Glock 26 is noticeably heavier due to its increased ammo capacity.

Pistol	Length	Width	Height	Weight (unloaded)
Glock 26	6.41 inches	1.18 inches	4.17 inches	~21.71 ounces
Glock 43	6.26 inches	1.02 inches	4.25 inches	~17.95 ounces

Grip and Ergonomics

Regarding grip and ergonomics, the Glock 26 provides a more substantial feel in the hand thanks to its wider polymer frame, which allows for a double-stack magazine. This translates to a firmer and more comfortable hold for users with larger hands. The Glock 43, with its single-stack magazine design, offers a slimmer profile, which may be more comfortable for shooters with smaller hands or those looking for maximum concealability.

Barrel and Slide Differences

Both pistols have comparable barrel lengths, with slight variances that do not significantly affect concealment. The slide of the Glock 26 is broader to complement the double-stack design, which may lead to a slight bulge when concealed. In contrast, the slimmer slide of the Glock 43 not only reduces the print when carrying concealed but contributes to the lighter weight of the overall firearm.

Performance and Handling

Performance and handling are critical components for users to consider when evaluating the Glock 26 and 43. These factors directly influence the shooting experience, from manageability during firing to comfort while carrying.

Recoil and Accuracy

The Glock 26, with its wider grip and double-stack magazine design, typically offers shooters a more manageable felt recoil. Due to its slightly heavier frame, the G26 tends to have less muzzle flip, which can aid in accuracy when firing multiple rounds in quick succession. On the other hand, the Glock 43 is a single-stack model, resulting in a slimmer profile and lighter weight, which may translate to more perceived recoil; however, its ergonomic design still allows for precise shot placement for experienced shooters.

Trigger Mechanics

Both models feature the Glock Safe Action system, known for its consistent trigger pull. The Glock 26 and 43 have similar trigger mechanics, providing a clear, crisp break and short reset. Trigger pull is typically measured between 5.5 and 6 pounds for both models. The consistent nature of the trigger mechanics in Glock 26 and 43 allows for predictable performance, contributing to overall handling.

Carry Comfort and Concealment

• Glock 26: Known for its balance between size and capacity, the G26 offers comfort and concealed carry potential. The double-stack magazine allows for a higher capacity, making the grip wider, which may be more comfortable for larger hands.
• Glock 43: As a single-stack, the G43 is generally more comfortable to carry for extended periods due to its lighter weight and slimmer profile. It excels in concealment, as its more petite frame can easily be hidden under clothing.

When considering carry comfort and concealment, one must evaluate personal clothing choices and concealment requirements, as they are essential in determining the suitability of each model for everyday carry.

Capacity and Ammunition

When assessing the Glock 26 and Glock 43, their capacity and the types of ammunition they support are vital considerations. These aspects are fundamental to evaluating each model's suitability for concealed carry and self-defense.

Magazine Capacity Comparisons

The Glock 26 boasts a double-stack magazine, typically holding ten rounds of 9mm ammunition. These magazines contribute to the firearm's width, with the Glock 26 measuring approximately 1.26 inches in overall width. In contrast, the Glock 43 is designed with a single-stack magazine, which holds six rounds of 9mm ammunition. This design leads to a slimmer profile for the Glock 43 at the expense of reduced ammunition capacity.

• Glock 26: 10 rounds (standard), double-stack
• Glock 43: 6 rounds (standard), single-stack

For users who prioritize increased magazine capacity, the Glock 26 offers extended magazine options, further increasing its firepower.

Caliber and Ammunition Types

The Glock 26 and Glock 43 are chambered for the highly popular 9mm caliber, favored for its balance between recoil management and stopping power. The choice of 9mm caliber also means various ammunition types are available, including standard FMJ for practice and hollow points for self-defense. Regardless of their magazine capacity differences, both pistols take advantage of the versatility and availability of 9mm ammunition, maintaining consistent caliber across models for user convenience.

Practical Applications and Preferences

When choosing between the Glock 26 and Glock 43, concealed carriers weigh factors such as ease of concealment, firepower, and personal lifestyle. Each pistol serves specific applications and suits different user preferences.

Concealed Carry Considerations

Glock 26:

• Carry Options: Suitable for IWB (Inside-The-Waistband) and OWB (Outside-The-Waistband) holsters.
• Capacity: Offers a higher capacity with a double-stack magazine, typically 10+1 rounds, which can be extended.

Glock 43:

• Concealability: Excelling at deep concealment, it's a prime choice for pocket carry or use with an IWB holster due to its slim profile.
• Weight: It is lighter, at around 16.23 ounces, aiding in comfort for all-day carry.

Self-Defense Scenarios

Glock 26:

• Role: Favored by some law enforcement and security personnel as a backup weapon due to its higher capacity.
• Firepower: More rounds mean potential for longer engagements without the need to reload.

Glock 43:

• Maneuverability: Its compact size allows quick and discreet access, which is essential in urgent self-defense situations.
• Ease of Use: Lighter weight contributes to handling, especially in high-stress scenarios where agility is crucial.

Personal Preference and Lifestyle

Glock 26:

• Adaptability: It's preferred by those who want a balance between firepower and concealability in a compact form factor.
• Purpose: Well-rounded for everyday carry (EDC) and home defense, adaptable to various holsters and carrying styles.

Glock 43:

• Lifestyle Fit: Ideal for individuals prioritizing ultimate concealment with minimal imprinting for everyday personal defense.
• Application: A top pick for casual or formal attire when minimal disruption to clothing lines is desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Potential buyers commonly inquire about size, weight, capacity, concealability, handling, durability, and accuracy when choosing between the Glock 26 and the Glock 43. This section addresses those questions with precise details.

What are the size and weight differences between the Glock 26 and the Glock 43?

The Glock 26 is a subcompact firearm with a slightly heavier and bulkier build due to its double-stack magazine, weighing in at approximately 19.4 ounces without a magazine. In contrast, the Glock 43 is a slimline, single-stack pistol that weighs around 16.23 ounces without a magazine, making it lighter and more slender.

How does the ammunition capacity vary between the Glock 26 and Glock 43?

The Glock 26 offers a standard magazine capacity of 10 rounds, with the option to use extended magazines that can hold more. The Glock 43's standard capacity is lower, typically accommodating six rounds, reflecting its more concealable, single-stack pistol design.

What are the concealability distinctions between the Glock 26, 43, and 43X?

The Glock 43's more petite frame and lighter weight give it superior concealability over the Glock 26. Its slim profile is particularly advantageous for discreet carry. The Glock 43X, while sharing similar height and length dimensions with the Glock 26, has a grip width akin to the slimmer 43, which also aids concealment.

Can you compare the handling and shootability of the Glock 26 versus the Glock 43?

The Glock 26 and Glock 43 can vary in handleability due to their different grips and frame sizes. The Glock 26's thicker grip may offer a more substantial hold, especially with extended magazines, which could improve shootability for those with larger hands. The Glock 43's slimmer profile might be more comfortable for shooters with smaller hands but can also result in more perceived recoil.

In terms of durability and reliability, how do the Glock 26 and Glock 43 compare?

The Glock 26 and the Glock 43 maintain Glock's reputation for durability and reliability. They are built with high-quality materials and are designed to withstand rigorous use. The performance between the two models in adverse conditions is consistently reliable, with no significant differences.

What has been the user experience regarding the accuracy of the Glock 26 compared to the Glock 43?

Users generally find that both the Glock 26 and the Glock 43 exhibit excellent accuracy for subcompact handguns. However, due to the Glock 26's slightly longer sight radius and the potential for a more stable grip, some shooters may experience improved accuracy with the Glock 26, especially at longer distances.