Glock 48 vs 43x Key Differences, Pros and Cons Explained

When comparing the Glock 48 and Glock 43X, many shooters wonder which one offers the best balance for concealed carry and comfortable shooting. Both guns are compact 9mm pistols designed for easy everyday carry, yet they have a few important differences that can impact the choice for different users. The main difference between the Glock 48 and the Glock 43X is the slide length—while the 43X has a shorter slide, the Glock 48 offers a bit more sight radius and barrel length, making it slightly better for accuracy at longer distances.

The frame and magazine capacity are the same for both models, which means users get the same grip feel and 10-round magazine. Yet, the longer slide of the Glock 48 may make it a little less comfortable to conceal for some people, while the shorter Glock 43X is often easier to hide. For shooters focused on performance and shootability, the Glock 48's added length can be helpful, but for those who value maximum concealment, the 43X is a strong pick.

Key Takeaways

• Glock 48 has a longer slide, offering better accuracy.

• Both models share the same frame and magazine capacity.

• Glock 43X is easier to conceal for most people.

Core Differences Between Glock 48 and Glock 43X

Glock’s Slimline series features both the Glock 48 and Glock 43X, which offer similar reliability and safety. The two pistols have different overall sizes that affect how they carry and handle.

Design and Dimensions

The Glock 43X and Glock 48 are both slim 9mm handguns with a 1.1-inch width, fitting comfortably for concealed carry. However, the biggest difference is overall length and slide size. The Glock 43X measures about 6.5 inches in length, while the Glock 48 comes in at around 7.3 inches long.

Both guns have a 5.04-inch height and share the same grip length, so the feel in hand is almost identical. The longer slide of the Glock 48 makes it a bit heavier and gives it a slightly different balance on the hip. If space is a concern, the Glock 43X’s shorter slide is easier to conceal for some users. Both models weigh just under 18 ounces unloaded.

A quick comparison table:

See a more detailed size comparison.

Magazine Capacity

Both the Glock 43X and Glock 48 use the same type of magazines because they share the same frame and grip length. Each pistol comes standard with a 10-round capacity magazine in 9mm.

This identical capacity means users won’t notice a difference in reload frequency or firepower between the two models. Aftermarket magazines, like those from Shield Arms, can extend capacity if needed. The consistency in grip and magazine design makes switching between these pistols simple for current Glock owners.

Slide and Barrel Length

Slide and barrel length set these Glock Slimline models further apart. The Glock 43X features a shorter slide and a 3.41-inch barrel, which benefits quick draws from concealment. The Glock 48, on the other hand, sports a longer slide and a 4.17-inch barrel.

This increased length on the Glock 48 aids in better sight radius and may slightly improve accuracy and muzzle control. The longer barrel also gives a minor velocity boost for 9mm rounds. These differences play a role in how each pistol shoots at the range and how it feels during daily carry. For direct details, check out this Glock 43X vs 48 breakdown.

Performance and Shooting Experience

The Glock 48 and 43X feel very similar in the hand, but their performance at the range reveals small differences. Differences in barrel length, grip, and trigger function play a major role in how each pistol shoots, controls, and handles under recoil.

Accuracy and Control

The Glock 48 has a longer barrel and slide compared to the 43X. This extra length gives it a longer sight radius, which can result in better accuracy for many shooters, especially at distances past 10 yards. Its slightly heavier front end helps stabilize the muzzle, which some find makes follow-up shots a bit faster and more controlled.

The 43X has a shorter barrel and slide but retains the same frame and magazine capacity as the 48. Its compact size helps with fast target transitions and easier handling in tight spaces. At close range, the 43X holds its own in accuracy and is quick on target for defensive use. More on the matchup can be found by visiting this detailed Glock 48 vs 43X comparison.

Trigger and Ergonomics

Both pistols use the Glock marksman barrel and standard Glock trigger system, with a pull weight around 5.5 pounds. The trigger feel is crisp and predictable, with a short reset making double-taps straightforward. The frame shape is slim in both models, fitting most hands comfortably and supporting a full grip due to the shared frame size.

Textured grips improve control, especially during rapid fire. The trigger guard undercut allows a high grip, which aids in recoil management and keeps the shooting hand secure. Both pistols offer similar ergonomics, but some shooters feel the slightly longer front of the 48 provides a bit more leverage during rapid shooting.

Recoil and Muzzle Velocity

The Glock 48’s longer barrel increases muzzle velocity by a small margin, typically resulting in just a bit more speed—around 50 feet per second higher with most 9mm loads compared to the 43X. This can translate to slightly more energy on target and flatter shooting with certain ammunition.

Recoil is light and manageable in both pistols, but the 48's added weight and barrel length help reduce muzzle rise a bit further. The 43X, being lighter and shorter, may feel snappier, especially with +P loads. Neither is difficult to control, but new shooters may notice the softest impulse with the 48 during repeated strings of fire. For details about slide and barrel effects, see this in-depth Glock 48 vs 43X review.

Concealed Carry and Practicality

The Glock 48 and Glock 43X are both popular choices for concealed carry due to their slim profiles and reliable performance. Each model offers specific benefits for comfort, concealment, and daily carry options based on features like overall size, slide length, and how well they fit into different holster types.

Concealability and Comfort

The Glock 43X is slightly shorter in slide and barrel length compared to the Glock 48. This makes the 43X easier to conceal, especially in tight-fitting clothing or for those with smaller body frames. Its shorter slide also means less printing, which is when the shape of the pistol is visible through clothes.

People who need maximum discretion often prefer the Glock 43X because avoiding printing is a top priority. The lighter weight of the 43X can also mean more comfort during long periods of wear.

In contrast, the Glock 48 has a longer slide and barrel. While this can make it slightly harder to hide, it brings improved balance at the range and a little more comfort when shooting. Both pistols are part of Glock’s Slimline series and are well-suited for everyday concealment.

Carry Methods

Owners of the Glock 43X and 48 often use inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters due to the thin frames of both pistols. Appendix carry is common with these subcompact models and works well thanks to their short overall length and slide height.

The Glock 43X, being shorter, works especially well with IWB and appendix carry. Those who use outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters may notice a slight difference, as the longer barrel of the 48 is more likely to peek out or print.

A table comparing carry methods:

Everyday Usability

For daily use, both the Glock 43X and 48 offer dependable function and smooth handling. The main difference is that the 48’s longer slide gives better sight radius, helping with accuracy during practice at the range. This can be important for people who want a compact pistol for both CCW and regular shooting.

In busy or active situations, the lighter Glock 43X might be more practical—it’s easier to carry all day and more comfortable to sit or move with. The real-world comparison highlights that the decision depends on whether the user values concealment or a bit more performance.

Both models are strong options in the concealed carry market. Holster options and accessories are widely available, making either pistol easy to adapt for personal needs.

Features, Upgrades, and Aftermarket Support

When comparing the Glock 48 and Glock 43X, it’s important to focus on how both models offer modularity and adaptability for personal preferences. Owners can take advantage of a broad range of sights, magazines, and add-ons designed to fit these slimline pistols.

MOS and Red Dot Compatibility

The Modular Optic System (MOS) variants of the Glock 48 and 43X let shooters install red dot sights directly onto the slide. This capability is becoming a standard for concealed carry pistols.

Both pistols are available in MOS configurations, allowing compatibility with micro red dots such as the Shield RMSc and Holosun 507K. These sights make targeting faster and easier, especially in stressful situations. The MOS cut slides feature mounting plates to support different optics, but users should double-check which red dots fit without extra adapters.

Front slide serrations are also included on MOS models, offering better grip for press checks or slide manipulations. While not every owner chooses an optic, those that do will appreciate this built-in flexibility. For those wanting to install red dots, MOS variants offer simple upgrades.

Sights and Aftermarket Options

Both the Glock 48 and 43X come standard with polymer sights, which some shooters prefer to upgrade quickly using aftermarket support. There is a wide range of aftermarket sights for both models, including fiber optic, night sights, and suppressor-height sights that can co-witness with red dots.

High visibility followers and upgraded front sights can offer better aiming in low light. Many brands make replacement Glock sights, so customizing for accuracy or visual preference is straightforward. Installation is usually simple since the Glock sight cut is standard across these models.

The MOS versions help users take advantage of even more sight choices, including cowitnessing iron sights with mounted optics. The rich aftermarket ensures users are not limited to factory options, and upgrades are widely available and easy to install.

Accessory and Magazine Choices

Accessory support for these pistols is strong. Both have a slim frame that fits most holsters designed for subcompact Glocks, and MOS models are compatible with many optic-ready holsters. Some versions feature an accessory rail to mount lights or lasers, though it's best to confirm compatibility because not all holsters and lights work with the slim rail format.

Magazine compatibility is key for these models. The 48 and 43X both accept 10-round single-stack magazines. Polymer construction with a reversible magazine release makes magazine changes smooth and user-friendly. There are also aftermarket magazines offering higher capacities, and high visibility followers can help with reliability.

Upgrades such as extended magazine releases, improved triggers, or grip enhancements are easy to find for these Glocks, thanks to their widespread popularity and extensive aftermarket support. This allows owners to personalize their pistol’s performance and handling based on their own needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Glock 43X and Glock 48 are both popular for concealed carry but have differences in size, magazine compatibility, features, and handling. Legal restrictions and model options like the MOS version also affect user choice.

What are the size comparisons between the Glock 48 and the Glock 43X?

The Glock 48 has a longer slide, measuring about 6.85 inches in overall length, while the Glock 43X is around 6.5 inches. The barrel on the Glock 48 is also longer, which can help with accuracy. Both pistols have the same width and height.

Can the Glock 48 use magazines from a Glock 43X?

Yes, the Glock 48 and the 43X use the same magazines. They both accept the standard 10-round magazine designed for the slim frame. Aftermarket magazines with higher capacity also fit both models.

What distinctive features does the Glock 48 have?

The Glock 48 stands out with its longer slide and barrel. This feature offers a better sight radius for improved aiming. The slim profile makes it easy to carry for most people, and its overall design helps with balanced shooting. Some users find it offers slightly better recoil control than the 43X. For more details, visit this Glock 48 comparison guide.

Are there MOS options available for Glock 48 and 43X?

Both the Glock 48 and Glock 43X come in MOS (Modular Optic System) versions. These MOS models make it possible to add red dot sights and other optics, offering greater customization. Find more about their optic options and differences at this Glock 48 vs 43X MOS guide.

What are the handling differences between the Glock 48 and the 43X?

The longer slide on the Glock 48 gives it a bit more recoil control and a more balanced feel. The 43X, with its shorter slide, is lighter and a little quicker to draw. Some users may find the 43X easier to conceal under tighter clothing.

Why might a Glock 43X be restricted in certain areas?

Certain states or cities have magazine capacity limits. Because the Glock 43X standard magazine holds 10 rounds, it is often allowed, but aftermarket magazines that hold more can make it restricted. Ownership laws also vary, so it’s important to check local regulations before carrying or purchasing.