Glock 48 vs 43x Compact 9mm Pistols Compared for Everyday Carry

The Glock 48 and Glock 43X MOS are both popular choices for concealed carry, but they’ve got a few key differences. The main one? Slide length—the Glock 48’s slide is longer, which can help with sight radius and recoil control, while the Glock 43X is shorter and may be easier to hide for some folks. Both have the same slim frame and 10+1 magazine capacity, so they’re appealing if you want something compact and easy to tote around.

Picking between the two really comes down to personal preference and how you plan to use it. Some shooters like the longer slide on the Glock 48 for better balance and accuracy. Others just want the 43X’s compact size for daily carry. The grip size is identical, so they’ll feel the same in your hand.

Both offer reliable performance and have extensive aftermarket support. If you’re curious about the differences and which one might best suit your needs, keep reading as we break down the pros and cons.

Key Takeaways

• The main difference between the Glock 48 and 43X is slide length.

• Both models offer the exact slim grip and 10+1 capacity.

• Choosing the right one depends on the user's needs and preferences.

Glock 48 vs 43x: Core Differences and Specifications

The Glock 48 and Glock 43x look similar, but a few important differences affect comfort, performance, and how you carry them. Both belong to Glock’s single-stack, slimline series built for concealed carry.

Dimensions and Weight

The most significant difference is the length of the slide and barrel. The Glock 48’s slide and barrel stretch out to about 6.85 inches overall, while the 43x is a little shorter, at roughly 6.5 inches.

Both pistols have the same width—1.1 inches—which makes them easy to conceal. Their height stays almost the same, too, since they share the same frame and grip length.

The Glock 48 weighs a bit more due to that longer slide and barrel, but we’re talking about an ounce or so—most people barely notice it while carrying. 

Capacity and Magazines

Both use the same single-stack magazines. The standard capacity is 10 rounds of 9mm, but you can find aftermarket mags that bump that up a bit.

You can swap magazines between the Glock 48 and 43x since the grip frames match. Ammo capacity is the same, so there’s no tradeoff there—just a slim, easy-to-carry package either way.

Barrel, Slide, and Grip Comparisons

The Glock 48 really stands out due to its barrel and slide length. Its 4.17-inch barrel gives it a more compact pistol vibe, kind of like a Glock 19 in terms of sight radius and muzzle velocity.

The 43x’s barrel is 3.41 inches—shorter, so it’s a little quicker to draw but gives up a bit of velocity and sight radius. That extra slide length on the 48 might help with accuracy on follow-up shots.

Both have the exact grip length, so they’ll feel identical in your hand. The main difference is up front with the barrel and slide, which is more about performance than handling.

Similarities between the Glock 48 and 43x

Both are chambered in 9mm and use Glock’s Safe Action System for consistent, safe firing. They share frames, grip dimensions, magazine compatibility, and trigger setup.

The slim, single-stack profile makes concealment a breeze. The height, grip texture, and frame width are the same, so most holsters for one will fit the other.

With all these similarities, choosing between them usually comes down to how you feel about slide and barrel length, not capacity or function. If you want more detail, here’s a Glock 43X vs Glock 48 review.

Performance, Ergonomics, and Concealed Carry

The Glock 48 and 43X share a lot as slim, lightweight subcompacts. Still, their differences in slide length and overall size affect accuracy, comfort, concealability, and how each one feels at the range or on your hip.

Shooting Experience and Accuracy

The Glock 48’s longer slide and barrel give it a longer sight radius, which makes accurate shooting at the range a bit easier. The extra weight up front helps with muzzle rise so that you can get back on target a little quicker.

Plenty of shooters say the Glock 48 just feels more balanced. That longer slide helps with target transitions and can tighten up your groups on repeated shots. A longer slide means more stability, especially if you like a bit more heft up front.

The 43X is still comfy and easy to control, but it’s not as precise if you’re stretching out your shots. For close-range defense, it’s excellent, but if you’re after more accuracy at distance, the Glock 48 has the edge.

Concealment and Comfort

The Glock 43X’s shorter slide makes it a touch easier to conceal. Less length means it hides better under light clothing and feels more comfortable inside the waistband. Since the grip is the same on both, the main difference in concealment comes down to overall length.

For many folks, the 43X just disappears when worn all day. It’s lighter, and the compact slide helps with comfort, especially if you’ve got a more petite frame. The size difference isn’t huge, but if you want the lowest profile possible, it matters.

The Glock 48’s longer slide can poke a bit more, especially when you’re sitting or bending. Honestly, though, the difference is pretty minor, and with a good holster, both are easy to carry.

Reliability and Control

Glock’s reputation for reliability holds for both the 48 and 43X. Malfunctions are rare, so that you can count on either for self-defense or daily carry. Field stripping and cleaning? Basically identical—super simple.

The Glock 48’s longer slide gives you a little more control over recoil and stability when firing fast. That extra weight up front soaks up some of the snap, which helps a lot in stressful situations.

The 43X handles recoil well for its size, but you might feel it more during long practice sessions. If you’ve got bigger hands, the Glock 48’s balance and length might feel better. If you want something lighter and super easy to hide, the 43X is a strong pick—even if you give up a bit of control. 

Features, Upgrades, and Carry Options

The Glock 43X and 48 share many parts but have some unique differences in carry, shooting feel, and customization. Both use Glock’s reliable trigger system and basic sights and benefit from a huge aftermarket community.

Trigger and Sights

Both pistols come with Glock’s familiar trigger, usually around 5.5 pounds. It’s safe, predictable, and easy to get used to. Some folks swap in aftermarket triggers for a smoother pull or a different break, but it’s pretty solid out of the box.

Factory sights are basic polymer, though you’ll sometimes find steel or Glock’s basic night sights on specific models. Many shooters upgrade to aftermarket sights—tritium, fiber optic, or whatever helps them see better in different lighting. That’s one of the first upgrades people make.

Both use the Glock Marksman Barrel, which gives you good accuracy for a compact. Some people swap barrels for more precision, but the stock barrel works fine for carry.

MOS Variants and Optic Compatibility

Glock makes both the 43X and 48 in MOS (Modular Optic System) versions. These come pre-cut for micro red dots—think Shield RMSc or Holosun 507K, that sort of thing.

Red dots can speed up your shooting and boost accuracy, at least for some people. The MOS slides also come with front serrations, making it easier to rack the slide when you’ve got an optic mounted.

The regular 43X and 48 don’t have the optic cut, and adding one later isn’t cheap or risk-free. If you know you want a red dot, just go with the MOS version. This comprehensive review has more info.

Aftermarket Support and Customization

Aftermarket support is enormous for both pistols. You’ll find everything from slides, triggers, and sights to mag releases and high-visibility followers.

Night sights, better triggers, and extended mag baseplates are all popular upgrades. Some folks also go for aftermarket barrels for a suppressor-ready setup or just to squeeze out more accuracy.

Customization lets you tweak the gun to fit your needs. Tons of holster and grip companies make stuff for these models because they’re so popular. Whether you want to improve comfort or performance, there’s an upgrade out there.

Holsters and Carry Methods

The slim profile of both the Glock 48 and 43X makes them easy to carry in all sorts of holsters. Inside-the-waistband (IWB), appendix, and outside-the-waistband (OWB) are all fair game.

Appendix carry is especially popular since the short length and slim design make them easy to hide, even under light clothes. Lots of holster brands make models for the 43X and 48, including ones that fit the MOS versions with optics.

Some holsters offer adjustable retention, sweat guards, and even compatibility with accessories. You’ll find Kydex, leather, and hybrid options, so there’s something for every style and budget. For more, here’s a detailed Glock 48 vs 43X guide.

Market Position, Alternatives, and Value

The Glock 48 and 43X are both part of the slimline series and have a lot in common, but their main differences affect price, handling, and which shooter they best suit. Buyers often compare them to other Glocks or similar compact carry pistols, weighing value and practicality.

Price and Availability

The Glock 43X and Glock 48 usually sit in the mid-range for Glock handguns. Most shops and online retailers price them close, though you might see a slight bump for features like MOS (Modular Optic System).

Glock 48 MOS models tend to cost a bit more because you can add accessories. Standard versions of both pistols typically cost between $400 and $550.

You’ll find these pistols in stock at most gun shops and online. Their popularity keeps supply steady, so tracking one down—new or used—isn't much of a hassle. Used models might shave off $50-$100, depending on wear and tear.

Comparisons with Other Glock Models

The 43X and 48 both have slim frames, but the 48 stretches out the slide and barrel. That longer sight radius brings it closer to the Glock 19, but the 43X stays more compact.

They share the exact grip and magazine. If you compare them to the Glock 26, which feels chunkier and weighs more, the 43X and 48 definitely win for concealment and comfort, especially if your hands are on the smaller side.

Neither model matches the size of a Glock 17 or Glock 19, but the 48 has its fans who want a longer slide for better accuracy, all in a slim package.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Both pistols are slim and tuck away easily.

• Lightweight frames with a standard 10-round mag.

• MOS versions let you add optics for better aiming.

• Some shooters swear the 48’s longer barrel helps with accuracy.

• Classic Glock reliability and straightforward operation.

Cons:

• The 43X’s shorter slide can mean a bit more felt recoil.

• They don’t pack as many rounds as a Glock 19 or a Sig P365 XL with extended mags.

• The slim grip might feel too small if you’ve got big hands.

• Aftermarket sight options are limited compared to bigger Glock models.

Final Thoughts

If you want deep concealment and easy carry, the Glock 43X nails it. The Glock 48 gives you more control and a longer sight picture. Some folks even own both and swap slides since the frames match up.

Price isn’t a huge factor here—it really comes down to what feels right and fits your needs. Both are reliable and super popular in the slimline and concealed carry scene. They’ve got broad appeal, and honestly, you can’t go too wrong with either.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Glock 48 and 43X look pretty similar on the outside, but their slide length, concealment, and shooting style set them apart. Accessories, optics, and magazine options matter, too, depending on your needs.

What are the significant differences in dimensions between the two models?

The Glock 48 has a longer slide and barrel than the 43X. They share the same frame and grip size, though. That extra length on the 48 gives you a longer sight radius, which can help with aiming. Slide thickness? It's the same for both.

Can magazines be interchanged between the Glock 48 and 43X?

Yep, the mags fit both. Since they use the same frame and mag design, you can swap them around. Even most aftermarket mags made for one will work just fine in the other.

What are the specific features that distinguish the Glock 48 from other Glock models?

The Glock 48 stands out with its slim profile, way slimmer than standard double-stacks. It runs a single-stack mag, so it’s lighter and easier to conceal. The slide is about as long as a Glock 19, but the grip stays thinner.

Is there a difference in the concealability between the Glock 48 and the 43X?

The Glock 43X is a touch easier to hide than the 48 thanks to its shorter slide. The grip’s the same on both, so they’ll print about equally under a shirt. Really, the slide length mainly changes how comfy it feels in the holster and how well it disappears when you’re carrying.

How does the shooting performance of the Glock 48 compare to the 43X?

The Glock 48’s longer slide helps many shooters manage recoil and line up sights. That can mean better accuracy, especially at the range. The 43X is a little easier to carry, but plenty of folks think the 48 feels more balanced if you’re shooting for a while—see for yourself in guides like this one.

What options are available for optics readiness in the Glock 48 and 43X models?

Glock offers the 48 and 43X in MOS (Modular Optic System) versions, which come with slides already cut for red dot sights. With these MOS models, you can mount optics straight out of the box—there is no need to mess with custom slide milling or extra gunsmithing.