The Future of the Glock 43X and Glock V Series: Key Changes Ahead

The firearms industry is experiencing a major shift as Glock prepares to overhaul its entire pistol lineup. Recent announcements from the Austrian manufacturer reveal plans to discontinue most current models by November 30, 2025, while introducing a completely new V Series to replace them. The Glock 43X stands as one of only three models that will continue production unchanged, making it a crucial bridge between Glock's past and future.

Glock confirmed these changes after retailer leaks sparked widespread speculation throughout October 2025. The company stated this strategic decision aims to focus on products that will drive future innovation and growth. The timing coincides with new California legislation that effectively bans pistols vulnerable to illegal automatic conversion modifications.

The new V Series represents Glock's response to both legal pressures and technical challenges facing modern pistol manufacturers. These redesigned models will incorporate features specifically designed to prevent unauthorized modifications while maintaining the reliability Glock users expect. Understanding these changes helps gun owners make informed decisions about their current and future firearm purchases.

Key Takeaways

• The Glock 43X will remain in production while most other Glock models face discontinuation by November 30, 2025

• Glock's new V Series launches in December 2025 with anti-conversion features to address legal and regulatory concerns

• This product line overhaul represents Glock's strategic shift toward future innovation and regulatory compliance

Glock 43X: Current Status and Importance

The Glock 43X maintains active production while most other Glock pistols face discontinuation, making it one of only three models continuing beyond November 2025. This compact pistol has secured a critical position in both civilian concealed carry markets and law enforcement applications.

Production Continuity of the Glock 43X

The Glock 43X has not been discontinued and remains an active model in Glock's current catalog. Supply chain issues have created confusion about its availability, but production continues normally.

Recent industry changes highlight the 43X's importance. Only the Glock 43, 43X, and 48 will still be produced after November 2025 when most other models face discontinuation.

The 43X recently received significant updates. Glock introduced the Coyote Glock 43X MOS with an updated MOS footprint, addressing previous concerns about optics mounting.

This selective continuation demonstrates Glock's confidence in the 43X platform. While other pistols get replaced by the V Series, the 43X proves its design meets current market demands without major modifications.

Role Among Glock Pistols

The Glock 43X fills a specific niche in Glock's pistol lineup as a compact single-stack 9mm. It bridges the gap between the smaller Glock 43 and full-size models.

Key specifications make it stand out:

• Capacity: 10+1 rounds standard

• Barrel Length: 3.41 inches

• Overall Length: 6.5 inches

• Width: 1.1 inches

The pistol offers more grip length than the Glock 43 while maintaining the same slim profile. This design provides better control and higher capacity without sacrificing concealability.

Its MOS (Modular Optic System) variant accepts popular red dot sights. The updated footprint improves compatibility with modern optics, keeping pace with current trends.

Consumer and Law Enforcement Preferences

The 43X attracts both civilian shooters and law enforcement agencies seeking compact duty weapons. The 43X enjoys a massive aftermarket, with holsters, triggers, and other modifications commonly available.

Civilian users prefer the 43X for concealed carry applications. Its slim profile works well for appendix carry and inside-the-waistband holsters. The increased capacity over the Glock 43 provides more confidence for personal protection.

Law enforcement agencies choose the 43X as backup weapons or for plainclothes officers. The reliability and simplicity that define all Glock pistols make it suitable for professional use.

Market demand remains strong despite industry changes. The 43X is a top-tier choice for a compact single-stack 9mm pistol when priorities include reliability and concealability.

Discontinuation of Legacy Glock Models

Glock announced plans to discontinue most current pistol models starting November 30, 2025. Only the Glock 43, 43X, and 48X will remain in production from the existing lineup.

Which Glock Models Are Being Discontinued

The discontinuation affects nearly all current Glock pistols except three compact models. Legacy models being phased out include Generation 3, Generation 4, and select Generation 5 handguns.

Discontinued Models Include:

• Glock 17 (all generations)

• Glock 19 (all generations)

• Glock 21, 22, 23, 26, 27

• MOS variants of popular models

• Competition models like the Glock 34 and 35

The three models continuing production are the Glock 43, 43X, and 48X. These compact handguns remain popular for concealed carry applications.

Glock cited the need to focus on products that drive future innovation as reasoning for the cuts. The company wants to streamline its commercial portfolio and concentrate resources on relevant market solutions.

Timeline for Availability

Current Glock models will remain in production through November 30, 2025. Production stops at the end of November for discontinued pistols.

The new V Series will launch in December 2025. Initial V models include the G17 V, G19 V, G19X V, G45 V, and G26 V in the first wave.

Distributor exclusive models will also become available. These include compensated versions like the G19C V and G45C V.

Glock confirmed that parts and service support will continue for legacy models after discontinuation. Owners of discontinued Glock handguns will still receive manufacturer support.

Impact on Collectors and Dealers

The discontinuation creates immediate market pressure on existing inventory. Dealers report increased demand for popular models before they become unavailable.

Collectors view this as an opportunity to acquire final production runs. Generation 4 and Generation 5 models may gain collectible status once production ends.

Gun stores face inventory decisions about stocking discontinued models versus waiting for V Series availability. The transition period between November and December creates a supply gap.

Multiple sources confirmed that distributors received notice about the November 30 cutoff date. Dealers must plan purchases accordingly to maintain Glock pistol availability for customers.

Introducing the Glock V Series

Glock has launched its new V Series to replace most existing pistol models while addressing legal challenges related to illegal switch conversions. The V Series begins shipping in December 2025 with improved triggers, upgraded barrels, and enhanced finishes.

Purpose and Development of the V Series

The V Series represents Glock's response to mounting legal pressure and internal improvements. Several states have sued Glock over pistols easily convertible to machine guns through illegal glock switch installations.

Chicago, New Jersey, and Seattle have filed lawsuits against the company. California has banned future Glock sales entirely.

The timing of the V Series launch directly correlates with these legal challenges. Glock designed the new models to prevent unauthorized modifications while maintaining reliability.

Glock describes the V Series as part of its commitment to future innovations. The company aims to simplify internal processes while addressing regulatory concerns.

External and Internal Upgrades

The V Series features significant mechanical improvements over previous generations. Trigger upgrades represent the most notable change for shooters.

Many Glock users replace the factory trigger as their first modification. The V Series addresses this common complaint with an enhanced trigger system straight from the factory.

Internal components include:

• Upgraded barrel design

• Improved finish quality

• Enhanced reliability features

External modifications focus on preventing illegal conversions. The new design makes it harder to install automatic switches without proper authorization.

Law enforcement agencies will benefit from these security features. The changes help prevent unauthorized modifications while maintaining performance standards officers require.

Commercial and Exclusive V Series Models

Glock will discontinue most commercial pistol models as of November 2025. Only the Glock 43, 43X, and 48 remain in production alongside the new V Series.

The V Series will replace discontinued Gen 4 and Gen 5 pistols across multiple calibers. Commercial availability starts in December 2025 through authorized dealers.

Model availability includes:

• Full-size V Series pistols

• Compact V Series options

• Subcompact variants

Law enforcement agencies receive priority access to certain V Series models. Exclusive features may be available for government contracts and military applications.

Dealers should communicate clearly with customers about which models remain in active production. The transition affects inventory planning and customer expectations significantly.

Parts compatibility between V Series and older models remains unclear. Glock has not released detailed specifications about interchangeable components.

Key Technical Innovations and Legal Drivers

The Glock V-Series represents a direct response to mounting legal pressure over illegal switch conversions while introducing standardized optic compatibility. These changes address both regulatory compliance requirements and market demands for enhanced modularity.

Anti-Switch Internal Redesign

The most significant change in the V-Series centers on preventing illegal glock switch installations. Government lawsuits from Chicago, New Jersey, and Seattle have accused Glock of manufacturing pistols that are "too easily" converted with auto-sear devices.

Internal modifications likely include redesigned trigger bars and rear plates. These components traditionally provided mounting points for illegal conversion devices.

The exact specifications remain undisclosed. However, early reports suggest the external geometry will stay largely unchanged to maintain holster compatibility.

Key Internal Changes Expected:

• Modified rear plate geometry

• Altered trigger bar specifications

• Updated frame rails

• Changed firing pin channel dimensions

Parts compatibility between Gen 4/Gen 5 models and V-Series remains uncertain. Enthusiasts are watching for internal changes that could affect parts compatibility with existing accessories and aftermarket components.

Non-MOS vs Modular Optic System

The V-Series introduces a standardized approach to the modular optic system across all models. Previous generations offered both MOS and non-MOS variants, creating inventory complexity.

All V-Series pistols will feature integrated optic cuts from the factory. This eliminates the need for separate product lines and simplifies manufacturing.

The updated MOS design promises improved mounting reliability. Enhanced recoil lugs and refined machining tolerances address common mounting issues from earlier MOS generations.

MOS Improvements Include:

• Deeper recoil lugs for enhanced durability

• Tighter machining tolerances

• Standardized mounting plate system

• Improved sealing against moisture ingress

This shift means traditional non-MOS buyers must adapt to optic-ready platforms. The change reflects market trends toward red dot adoption in both competition and defensive applications.

Regulatory and Legislative Influences

California's AB 1127 law will ban new retail sales of "machinegun-convertible" pistols starting July 1, 2026. This legislation directly targets Glock's current designs and forces immediate compliance measures.

The timing of V-Series introduction aligns with these regulatory deadlines. Glock frames the change as streamlining product offerings while addressing conversion concerns.

Legal experts view this as proactive compliance strategy. Creating clearly marked V-Series models provides documentation of design changes for regulatory review.

Regulatory Timeline:

• November 30, 2025: Most legacy models discontinued

• December 2025: Initial V-Series availability

• July 1, 2026: California ban takes effect

Second Amendment advocates express concern about design restrictions limiting constitutional rights. The industry watches whether other states will adopt similar legislation targeting specific firearm features.

Market Implications and Future Prospects

The transition to Glock's V Series and discontinuation of popular models creates significant shifts in pricing, availability, and collector interest. Shooters face immediate purchasing decisions while the aftermarket adapts to support both legacy and new platforms.

Impacts for Shooters and Collectors

The Glock 43X remains one of the few models continuing production, making it a stable choice for new buyers. However, discontinued Glock models may see increased resale value among collectors as availability shrinks.

Current shooter priorities include:

• Securing preferred discontinued models before stock depletes

• Evaluating whether to wait for V Series improvements

• Understanding which accessories remain compatible

Law enforcement agencies must reassess contracts and training programs. Many departments standardized on specific Glock models that face discontinuation.

Collectors view this as a pivotal moment. Gen 4 and Gen 5 models previously considered common may gain historical significance. Serial numbers from final production runs carry particular interest.

The timing creates pressure for immediate purchases. Clearance deals may appear as dealers move inventory, but popular models could disappear quickly from retail channels.

Aftermarket Accessories and Support

Glock confirmed that service and parts support will continue for discontinued models. This commitment protects existing owners from obsolescence concerns.

The 43X benefits from its continued production status. The pistol enjoys a massive aftermarket with holsters, triggers, and modifications readily available.

Key support areas:

• Holster compatibility remains strong for 43X

• Trigger upgrades continue from major manufacturers

• Sight options expand with ongoing production

V Series models may require new holster designs and accessory modifications. Manufacturers typically develop products for new platforms, but initial availability often lags behind pistol releases.

Existing Glock handguns maintain value through continued parts availability. Owners can confidently invest in upgrades knowing long-term support exists.

Resale Value and Long-Term Availability

Discontinued Glock models face a supply-demand shift that typically increases values. Popular variants like certain Gen 4 configurations may command premiums as new production ceases.

The 43X holds advantages in this environment. Continued production maintains steady availability and competitive pricing. Buyers avoid the uncertainty surrounding discontinued alternatives.

Market dynamics affecting values:

• Limited production runs create scarcity premiums

• Regional regulations impact availability differently

• Collector interest drives demand for specific generations

Some states with restrictive handgun rosters may see dramatic price increases. California's regulations particularly affect which models dealers can sell, making discontinued variants potentially more valuable.

Dealers report increased interest in securing inventory of popular discontinued models. Smart buyers monitor clearance opportunities while discontinued stock remains available.

What to Watch for in 2026 and Beyond

The V Series launch timeline remains unclear, but Glock plans to replace discontinued models with improved versions. Enhanced triggers and upgraded barrels represent rumored improvements.

Key developments to monitor:

• V Series feature announcements and pricing

• Aftermarket adaptation speed for new models

• Law enforcement adoption patterns

• Collector market stabilization

The exclusive Aimpoint agreement expires in early 2026, potentially opening new optic partnerships. This could influence V Series optic-ready configurations.

Glock handguns historically maintain strong market positions through transitions. The company's reputation suggests V Series models will offer genuine improvements over discontinued versions.

Shooters should expect a transitional period where old and new models coexist. Patient buyers may benefit from waiting for V Series availability and initial reviews.

Market analysts watch for broader industry responses. Other manufacturers may capitalize on Glock model gaps or rush competing products to market.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Glock V series brings specific changes to prevent illegal modifications while maintaining core Glock reliability. The 43X remains separate from the V series launch, with unique considerations for its future integration.

What enhancements have been made in the new Glock V series compared to previous generations?

Glock designed the V series to prevent switch conversions that allow illegal automatic fire. The company has not released detailed specifications about the internal changes.

Reports suggest Glock may pre-install performance triggers in V series models. However, Glock has not confirmed this enhancement officially.

The V series aims to simplify manufacturing processes. This could mean standardized parts across different models.

What are the specific differences between the Glock V series models?

The commercial V series includes G17 V, G19 V, G19X V, G45 V, and G26 V models. Several models feature MOS optic mounting systems.

Distributor-exclusive models include compensated versions. The G19C V, G45C V, and G17C V will have limited availability.

MOS models in the V series include the G20 V MOS, G23 V MOS, and G21 V MOS. These allow direct optic mounting without modification.

When is the release date for the latest Glock V series pistol?

Glock plans to discontinue current models after November 30, 2025 to make way for V series production. The V series launch should follow shortly after.

Glock has not announced specific release dates for individual V series models. Production will likely begin in December 2025.

The rollout may happen in phases. Popular models like the G19 V and G17 V will likely arrive first.

How will the Glock 43X improvements be incorporated into the future Glock V series?

The Glock 43X remains in current production and is not part of the initial V series launch. Glock has not announced plans for a 43X V model.

The 43X uses different manufacturing processes than full-size pistols. This may delay its integration into the V series platform.

Future 43X models may adopt V series anti-conversion features. However, no timeline exists for this transition.

Can we expect any dimensional or ergonomic changes in the Glock 43X with the introduction of the Glock V series?

Current 43X models will continue unchanged for now. The pistol maintains its slim profile and 10+1 capacity.

Glock typically avoids major dimensional changes between generations. Any future 43X V model would likely keep the same external size.

Internal modifications for switch prevention may not affect external dimensions. The grip frame and slide profile should remain consistent.

What has been the biggest challenge in developing the Glock 43X within the Glock V series platform?

The 43X uses a different frame construction than full-size Glocks. This creates unique engineering challenges for anti-conversion features.

Maintaining the pistol's thin profile while adding security features presents design constraints. The compact frame offers less space for modifications.

Glock has not publicly discussed specific development challenges. The company continues evaluating how to integrate the 43X into future V series plans.