Glock 43X – Why It's Still in the 2026 Glock Line Up

Gun owners concerned about their favorite concealed carry pistol can relax. The Glock 43X will remain in production through 2026 and beyond, with no plans for discontinuation announced by the company. While Glock has discontinued numerous models from its commercial lineup, the 43X is specifically excluded from these changes alongside the 43 and 48.

This decision makes sense when you look at the numbers. The 43X fills a specific role in the concealed carry market with its slim single-stack design and 10-round capacity. Recent updates like the addition of accessory rails and improvements to the MOS system show Glock's commitment to keeping this model competitive.

Understanding why the 43X stays in Glock's lineup for 2026 helps you make better decisions about your concealed carry setup. This guide covers the design features, recent upgrades, and market position that secure the 43X's place in Glock's future.

Key Takeaways

• The Glock 43X remains in production for 2026 with recent factory upgrades including accessory rails and improved MOS systems

• Its slim 1.10-inch width and 10-round capacity balance concealability with firepower for everyday carry

• Strong market demand and extensive aftermarket support ensure continued production beyond 2026

Glock 43X's Enduring Role in the 2026 Glock Line Up

The Glock 43X maintains its position in 2026 despite Glock's recent launch of sixth-generation pistols, with the compact 9mm continuing to serve concealed carry users who prefer its slim profile and proven design over newer duty-sized options.

Confirmation of Continued Production and Market Demand

Glock announced its Gen6 pistol lineup in December 2025, but the release focused exclusively on duty-sized models. The G17 Gen6, G19 Gen6, and G45 Gen6 represent Glock's update to full-size and compact service pistols chambered in 9mm Luger.

Your Glock 43X wasn't included in this generation update because it serves a different market segment. The Gen6 models target law enforcement and duty use with enhanced ergonomics like palm swells, extended thumb rests, and enlarged beavertails.

The Glock 43X remains a slimline pistol designed specifically for concealed carry. Its single-stack 9mm design delivers a thinner grip profile than the double-stack Gen6 models.

You can still find the Glock 43X and Glock 43X MOS on store shelves in 2026. The pistol continues production because it fills a concealed carry need that the larger Gen6 pistols cannot address.

Key Reasons Glock 43X Has Not Been Discontinued

The Glock 43X offers features that keep it relevant for your concealed carry needs:

Slim Profile: The single-stack magazine creates a grip width that's easier to conceal than double-stack alternatives. This matters when you carry inside the waistband or appendix position.

Capacity Balance: Your Glock 43X holds 10+1 rounds, which improved upon the original Glock 43 while maintaining concealability. The pistol uses a hybrid frame that combines the G19-length grip with the slimmer slide.

Proven Reliability: Glock's track record with striker-fired polymer pistols extends to the 43X platform. You get the same Safe Action System found in duty-sized Glock pistols.

MOS Variant: The Glock 43X MOS lets you mount red dot optics directly to the slide. This option arrived before the Gen6 optic-ready system and serves concealed carry users who want electronic sights.

The Glock 48 remains in the lineup alongside the 43X, giving you a longer slide option while keeping the slim single-stack frame.

Recent Trends and Shifts in Glock's Pistol Portfolio

Glock's Gen6 launch strategy shows the company's focus on its flagship duty pistols first. The December 2025 announcement targets law enforcement and military contracts with improved ergonomics and a new optic mounting system.

You'll see Gen6 models on shelves starting January 20, 2026, but these pistols don't replace your concealed carry options. The Gen6 line brings flat-faced triggers, deeper slide serrations, and enhanced grip textures to duty-sized frames.

Your Glock 43X exists in a separate product category. The slimline pistols including the 43X and 48 address concealed carry where thickness matters more than magazine capacity.

Current Glock 9mm Categories:

• Duty/Service: G17 Gen6, G19 Gen6, G45 Gen6

• Slimline Concealed Carry: G43X, G43X MOS, G48

• Subcompact: G26

Glock hasn't announced plans to update the slimline models with Gen6 features. The 43X platform continues serving users who prioritize a thin profile over the enhanced ergonomics found in the larger Gen6 pistols.

Design Features and Ergonomics That Set the Glock 43X Apart

The Glock 43X combines a slim single-stack frame with a full-length grip and precision engineering features that make it stand out in the concealed carry market. These design choices directly impact your shooting experience and everyday carry comfort.

Slim Profile and Concealability

The 43X maintains a width of just 1.10 inches, making it one of the slimmest options available for concealed carry. This ultra-slim frame design prevents printing under light clothing while remaining comfortable against your body throughout the day.

The compact dimensions work well for appendix carry or inside-the-waistband positions. You get a pistol that disappears under a tucked shirt or light jacket without sacrificing grip length.

The slide measures 0.87 inches wide and features precision-milled front serrations for improved grip during press checks and manipulations. These slide serrations give you better control in wet conditions or when wearing gloves.

Extended Grip and Magazine Capacity

The 43X features a grip length of 5.04 inches, matching the Glock 19's grip size. This extended grip allows for a full-hand hold, which significantly improves your control during rapid fire.

The built-in beavertail design helps manage recoil by positioning your hand higher on the frame. This feature reduces muzzle flip and keeps follow-up shots on target faster than shorter grip alternatives.

Your 10-round magazine provides adequate capacity while maintaining the slim profile. The magazine features an orange follower for quick visual confirmation during loading and inspection.

The frame includes a reversible magazine catch that accommodates both right and left-handed shooters. The short trigger distance of 2.64 inches makes the pistol accessible for shooters with smaller hands.

Marksman Barrel and Shooting Accuracy

The Glock Marksman Barrel represents a significant upgrade in accuracy compared to previous generations. The match-grade barrel features enhanced rifling that improves bullet stabilization from the moment it leaves the chamber.

Your 3.41-inch barrel delivers impressive accuracy for its compact size. The barrel's precision manufacturing reduces dispersion at typical defensive distances of 7 to 15 yards.

The improved rifling pattern creates a tighter seal with the bullet, which increases velocity consistency and reduces flyers. You'll notice better groupings during range sessions compared to older Glock models.

The combination of the Marksman Barrel with the extended grip creates exceptional shootability for a concealed carry pistol. Your line of sight measures 5.24 inches with polymer sights, providing adequate sight radius for accurate shot placement.

Modern Versatility: Glock 43X MOS, Upgrades, and Aftermarket Support

The Glock 43X MOS brings factory optic readiness and strong aftermarket support that keeps it competitive in 2026. You can mount micro red dots, upgrade magazines for higher capacity, and customize nearly every component to match your needs.

Optic-Ready MOS Models and Compatibility

The Modular Optic System on the 43X MOS gives you a factory-milled slide that accepts micro red dot sights without custom machining. The slide uses the Shield RMSC footprint, which works with popular optics like the Holosun 407K.

You can mount these optics directly or use adapter plates for other footprints. The system works with Trijicon RMRcc, Shield RMS, and similar compact red dots built for slim pistols.

Co-witnessing with backup iron sights is possible when you select the right sight height. Many shooters keep their polymer sights or upgrade to night sights for low-light backup.

The MOS version adds versatility without making the gun bulky. Your holster needs to accommodate the optic, but most manufacturers now make MOS-compatible options.

Aftermarket Magazines and Accessories

Shield Arms S15 magazines are among the most popular upgrades because they increase capacity from 10 to 15 rounds in the same size frame. These steel magazines require a metal magazine catch for best results.

Extended magazine base plates add one or two rounds and give you more grip surface. Aluminum base plates are more durable than plastic factory parts and help balance the gun.

Weapon lights like the Streamlight TLR-7 Sub attach to the single-slot rail. These compact lights add 500 lumens without much bulk.

A magwell improves reload speed by guiding magazines into place. The Tyrant Designs magwell is a common choice that doesn't add much size to your concealed carry setup.

Customization Options and Popular Modifications

Aftermarket slides let you change the look and sometimes reduce weight. Optics-ready slides come with various cuts, finishes, and front serrations for better manipulation.

Trigger upgrades like a Glock Performance Trigger reduce pull weight and improve the break. This makes follow-up shots faster and more accurate.

The slide release can be swapped for an extended version that's easier to reach. Grip tape or stippling adds texture without changing the frame's size.

Rear slide plates from companies like NDZ Performance give you custom colors and designs. Sights can be upgraded to metal night sights with tritium inserts for better visibility in all conditions.

Comparisons, Use Cases, and Future Outlook

The Glock 43X competes directly with other slim 9mm pistols while serving specific roles in concealed carry and home defense. Its continued production through 2026 reflects proven performance in real-world applications and competitive advantages over alternatives.

Head-to-Head with Key Competitors: Sig P365, Hellcat, Glock 43 & 48

The Sig Sauer P365 offers higher capacity in a similar footprint with 10+1 or 12+1 rounds standard. However, the Glock 43X maintains a slimmer 1.1-inch width and benefits from Glock's reputation for reliability.

The Springfield Hellcat provides micro-compact dimensions with impressive capacity. One key advantage the Hellcat holds is superior factory sights, while Glock continues shipping pistols with frequently replaced sights.

Comparing the Glock 43 vs 43X reveals four main differences:

• Capacity: 43X holds 10+1 rounds versus 6+1 in the G43

• Grip length: 43X offers more control surface

• Recoil management: Longer grip reduces felt recoil

• Optics compatibility: 43X MOS variants accept red dots

The Glock 48 shares the 43X's grip and capacity but adds a longer 4.17-inch barrel. Your choice between these models depends on whether you prioritize maximum concealability or slightly improved accuracy.

Against full-size options like the Glock 19, the 43X sacrifices capacity (15+1 standard in the G19) for easier concealment. The Glock 26 offers similar capacity to the 43X but with a shorter, harder-to-control grip.

Shield Arms magazines extend 43X capacity to 15+1 rounds, matching the Glock 19 in a slimmer package.

Everyday Carry, Home Defense, and Practical Applications

Your everyday carry needs determine whether the 43X fits your lifestyle. The slim profile works exceptionally well for appendix carry and inside-the-waistband positions without printing through clothing.

The 10+1 capacity provides adequate ammunition for most defensive scenarios. The 43X's compatibility with Glock 43 magazines gives you backup ammunition sources and versatility.

For home defense, the 43X serves as a viable option though larger pistols typically perform better. The reduced capacity compared to full-size models means you have fewer rounds available during high-stress situations. However, the 43X's manageable size allows quick access from bedside safes.

Law enforcement officers choose the 43X as backup weapons or for plainclothes assignments. The reliability Glock provides makes it suitable for professional applications where your life depends on the firearm functioning.

The price range for a Glock 43X typically falls between $500-$600 new, making it competitive with the Sig P365 and slightly more expensive than the standard Glock 43. Used models and police trade-ins occasionally offer savings.

Why the Glock 43X Still Makes Sense for 2026 and Beyond

The Glock 43X remains in production as one of only three models continuing beyond November 2025. This decision proves Glock's confidence in the design meeting current market demands without requiring V Series modifications.

Your investment in a 43X carries less uncertainty than discontinued models facing supply constraints. Continued production means consistent availability, stable pricing, and ongoing aftermarket support. You won't face the premium prices that discontinued Glock models may command.

The massive aftermarket supporting the 43X includes holsters from every major manufacturer, trigger upgrades, sights, and other modifications. This ecosystem won't disappear as it might for discontinued platforms.

Glock's decision to keep producing the 43X alongside the new V Series indicates the platform doesn't require anti-conversion redesigns. You get a proven concealed carry pistol without waiting for V Series availability or dealing with first-generation issues.

The updated 43X MOS with improved optics mounting addresses previous compatibility concerns. You can mount popular red dot sights without aftermarket milling work.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Glock 43x received factory rail additions starting in 2024 and remains one of three models continuing production while most other Glock pistols face discontinuation. The pistol's slim single-stack design and proven reliability keep it competitive against newer micro-compact options.

What updates have been made to the Glock 43x in the latest Glock lineup?

Glock added factory rails to all new 43x models, which represents a significant upgrade from previous versions. This change started appearing in early 2024 and allows you to mount weapon lights and other accessories directly to your pistol.

The company also introduced an improved MOS system that addresses mounting concerns from earlier versions. The updated design features better recoil lug strength and enhanced sealing against moisture.

You can now choose between standard and MOS versions depending on whether you want to mount a red dot optic. Both versions come with the accessory rail as standard equipment.

The manufacturer continues refining quality control processes to improve reliability. These updates help address occasional jamming issues that some users experienced with earlier production runs.

How does the Glock 43x compare to other models in the new V Series?

The Glock 43x remains in active production as one of only three models continuing beyond November 2025 while most other Glock pistols face discontinuation. The V Series represents Glock's new product line focused on future innovation and regulatory compliance.

Your 43x uses a proven single-stack design that has been refined over several years. The V Series models incorporate newer manufacturing techniques and design approaches that differ from traditional Glock platforms.

The 43x maintains compatibility with existing holsters and accessories due to its established design. V Series models may require new accessories as they enter the market.

You get a mature platform with extensive aftermarket support when choosing the 43x. The V Series offers newer technology but lacks the proven track record and accessory availability of the 43x.

What has contributed to the sustained popularity of the Glock 43x?

The 43x offers a 10-round magazine capacity compared to 6 rounds in the standard Glock 43 while maintaining a slim 1.1-inch width. This balance of capacity and concealability makes it ideal for everyday carry.

Your 43x provides better control than ultra-compact models due to its extended grip length. The longer grip accommodates more fingers and reduces felt recoil during shooting.

The pistol weighs just 18.7 ounces unloaded, which reduces carry fatigue throughout the day. Its lightweight design combined with adequate capacity appeals to concealed carry users who want comfort and firepower.

You benefit from Glock's reputation for reliability and simple manual of arms. The 43x requires minimal maintenance and functions with various ammunition types.

The extensive aftermarket support gives you access to holsters, sights, and modifications from numerous manufacturers. This ecosystem strengthens the 43x's position even as newer pistols enter the market.

What are the differences between the Glock 43x and the discontinued models?

Many discontinued Glock models featured double-stack magazine designs that increased width and bulk. Your 43x uses a single-stack configuration that keeps the pistol slim at 1.1 inches wide.

Some discontinued models lacked accessory rails for mounting lights or lasers. The current 43x includes a factory rail as standard equipment on all new production units.

Older Glock models often used larger frames designed for duty use rather than concealed carry. The 43x was specifically engineered for concealment with its compact dimensions and lightweight construction.

You get modern features like MOS compatibility in the 43x that many discontinued models never received. This keeps your pistol relevant as red dot optics become more popular.

The 43x represents Glock's commitment to the concealed carry market segment. Discontinued models often served niche purposes that no longer align with current market demand.

What are the features that make the Glock 43x remain competitive in the current market?

Your 43x measures just 6.5 inches in overall length with a 3.41-inch barrel. These compact dimensions allow easy concealment while maintaining adequate accuracy for defensive distances.

The extended beavertail design protects your hand from slide bite during shooting. This feature enhances comfort during extended training sessions or defensive situations.

You get aggressive grip texturing that maintains control even with wet or sweaty hands. The textured surface ensures a secure hold under stress without requiring additional modifications.

The pistol includes front slide serrations that improve manipulation during press checks or malfunction clearances. These serrations give you better control when operating the slide with one hand.

Your 43x offers compatibility with both standard and extended aftermarket magazines. This flexibility allows you to choose between maximum concealability and increased capacity based on your specific needs.

The proven 9mm chambering provides adequate stopping power with manageable recoil. You can find defensive ammunition readily available from multiple manufacturers at reasonable prices.

Has the introduction of the Glock V Series affected the production of the Glock 43x?

The 43x maintains its position despite V Series introduction because it serves a different market segment than the new models. Glock continues investing in the slimline platform while developing the V Series simultaneously.

Your 43x benefits from established manufacturing processes that make production cost-effective. The pistol shares components with other slimline models, which supports continued production efficiency.

Glock treats the 43x as a core product rather than a model facing replacement. The company has added features like factory rails instead of discontinuing the platform in favor of V Series options.

You can expect continued parts availability and service support for the 43x well beyond 2026. Official sources confirm its active production status despite the strategic shift toward V Series development.

The strong sales performance of the 43x in the concealed carry market justifies maintaining both product lines. Glock recognizes that proven