Top 5 Differences Between Glock 19 vs 43x: Features, Size, and Performance Compared

Choosing between the Glock 19 and the Glock 43X can be challenging, especially since both models are popular choices for personal defense and concealed carry. Understanding the main differences between these pistols helps buyers make a decision that fits their needs and lifestyle.

Many people look at factors such as size, capacity, and comfort before making a selection. This article covers the top five differences that set the Glock 19 and Glock 43X apart, making it easier to see which one stands out for a specific purpose.

1) Size and Dimensions: Glock 43X is more compact and slimmer than Glock 19, ideal for easier concealment.

The Glock 43X stands out for being slimmer and more compact compared to the Glock 19. Its reduced thickness means it can be tucked closer to the body, making it less likely to print under clothing.

The Glock 43X’s overall length is about 6.5 inches, which is shorter than the Glock 19’s length of 7.28 inches. The grip on the 43X measures roughly 1.04 inches wide, while the Glock 19’s grip is noticeably thicker.

Because of its thinner and lighter design, many people find the 43X comfortable for carrying daily, especially in an inside-the-waistband holster. This smaller profile makes it a popular pick for those with smaller hands or anyone who wants easier concealment.

The Glock 19 is still a compact handgun, but its dimensions are larger in every direction. Its extra width and length can make it more challenging to hide, especially under lighter outfits. The size difference between the two models is a main reason why people choose the 43X for concealed carry. More details about their dimensions can be found on this Glock G19 vs Glock G43X comparison.

2) Magazine Capacity: Glock 19 uses a double-stack magazine with 15 rounds, while 43X has a single-stack capacity of 10 rounds.

One of the key differences between the Glock 19 and the Glock 43X is magazine capacity. The Glock 19 comes with a double-stack magazine that holds 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition. This design lets it carry more rounds without fully increasing the gun’s size.

The Glock 43X uses a single-stack magazine. This limits its capacity to 10 rounds of 9mm. Its magazines are narrower, helping keep the gun slim for easier concealed carry.

The double-stack magazine in the Glock 19 is wider, resulting in a grip that feels fuller in the hand. The 43X’s slim single-stack profile will feel better for users needing a smaller grip.

This difference makes the Glock 19 popular among people who want higher capacity, such as for home defense or duty use. The Glock 43X appeals to those who prioritize comfort and easier concealment, even with fewer rounds. More details about magazine types and capacities can be found in this Glock magazine guide.

3) Weight: Glock 43X weighs approximately 16.4 ounces unloaded, significantly lighter than Glock 19's 23.7 ounces.

The Glock 43X has an unloaded weight of about 16.4 ounces. This makes it much lighter than the Glock 19, which weighs around 23.7 ounces when unloaded.

This difference is important for those who carry a handgun for long periods. Many people find a lighter pistol more comfortable for daily concealed carry. The lower weight of the 43X can make it easier to wear on a belt or inside the waistband.

For users who are concerned about printing or bulk, the lighter Glock 43X often feels less noticeable throughout the day. It is also a better fit for smaller frames or those who prefer a more compact option.

In comparison, the Glock 19 is heavier but offers a bit more stability while shooting. Those who want a balance between comfort and shooting performance may consider this aspect when choosing between the two models.

You can see the specific weight comparison at this comprehensive Glock 43X vs Glock 19 article.

4) Barrel Length: Glock 43X features a 3.41-inch barrel, slightly shorter than the Glock 19's 4.02-inch barrel.

The Glock 43X has a barrel length of 3.41 inches. This is shorter than the Glock 19, which uses a 4.02-inch barrel. The shorter barrel of the 43X makes the gun slightly more compact and may help with concealment for everyday carry.

The Glock 19’s longer 4.02-inch barrel offers a bit more sight radius, which can help with aiming accuracy. A longer barrel can also allow for slightly higher bullet velocity because the bullet stays inside the barrel a bit longer before exiting.

Shooters may notice a difference in recoil and handling between the two models. The shorter 3.41-inch barrel on the Glock 43X paired with its compact size is designed for ease of carry, while the Glock 19’s size balances concealment and control.

Both handguns use 9mm ammunition and perform well, but the difference in barrel length is a key factor to consider. Barrel length can impact accuracy and how comfortable the gun feels during use, especially for those with different grip preferences.

5) Trigger Pull: Glock 43X has a lighter trigger pull of around 5.5 lbs compared to Glock 19's 6.29 lbs.

The Glock 43X has a trigger pull weight of about 5.5 pounds. This makes it lighter to pull than the Glock 19, which typically has a trigger pull closer to 6.29 pounds.

Many shooters find that a lighter trigger pull needs less effort to fire each shot. This can help some people keep the sights steady and avoid jerking the gun.

Trigger pull weight affects both comfort and accuracy. A small difference in weight can make the Glock 43X feel easier to shoot for those with smaller hands or less grip strength.

Both pistols offer smooth and consistent trigger action. However, the lower pull weight on the 43X can be helpful for quick follow-up shots.

It is worth noting that some shooters may not notice a big change between them. But for those who do, even this slight difference can improve overall shooting experience, especially during long practice sessions.

Overview of Glock 19 and Glock 43X

The Glock 19 and Glock 43X are popular 9mm pistols in the Glock lineup. They each offer different strengths in size, magazine capacity, and everyday usability to fit specific needs.

Design and Dimensions

The Glock 19 is a compact pistol, but it is larger than the Glock 43X. The Glock 19 measures about 7.28 inches in length and weighs around 23.63 ounces when unloaded. It uses a double-stack magazine, which gives it a width of about 1.26 inches.

The Glock 43X is slimmer and a bit shorter. It is 6.5 inches long and weighs about 18.7 ounces unloaded. Its single-stack magazine results in a thinner profile at about 1.10 inches wide. Both pistols share a similar height of 5.04 inches.

Comparison Table:

The overall build shows that the Glock 19 is bulkier, which can matter for concealed carry or comfort. More design details are covered in this size comparison.

Intended Use and Market Position

The Glock 19 is often chosen as an all-purpose pistol. Many use it for home defense, duty use, and concealed carry. Its higher magazine capacity and balanced size make it appealing for those who want versatility and reliable firepower. It is a favorite among police, security, and civilian shooters who want one gun for different roles.

The Glock 43X is designed primarily for concealed carry. Its slim profile and lighter weight are aimed at users who place a high value on discreet carry and daily comfort. The reduced magazine capacity is a trade-off for improved concealability. It appeals most to people looking for a dedicated concealed carry pistol and those who need a grip that suits smaller hands.

For more details considering their roles and user needs, see this detailed comparison.

Performance and User Experience

Both the Glock 19 and Glock 43X offer reliable shooting but feel different in the hand. Size and magazine design affect capacity, control, and comfort during use.

Ergonomics and Handling

The Glock 19 features a larger frame, making it easier for shooters with bigger hands to get a full and stable grip. Its extra girth often results in better control, especially during follow-up shots. The 19's weight helps manage recoil, keeping the muzzle flatter during rapid fire.

The Glock 43X is slimmer and lighter, which is helpful for concealed carry but can make it feel less stable for those with larger hands. Its thinner profile may cause increased felt recoil, especially for new or smaller shooters. However, the 43X is easier to conceal and carry all day due to its reduced size. For more detail on handling and real-world scenarios, visit this comparison of Glock 43X and 19.

Magazine Capacity Differences

The Glock 19 uses a double-stack magazine that holds 15 rounds. This is a key benefit for users who prioritize higher capacity, whether for personal defense or time at the range. The thickness is greater because of the wider magazine, but it brings three to five extra rounds over many compact options.

The Glock 43X carries a 10-round single-stack magazine. This makes the grip noticeably slimmer and more comfortable for some shooters, but the lower capacity could require more frequent reloading. The single-stack design is what allows the 43X to remain so compact. For a breakdown and specs table, check this Glock G19 vs Glock G43X size comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key points about the Glock 19 and Glock 43X include differences in size, capacity, weight, barrel length, and trigger pull. Knowing these details helps buyers choose which model best fits their needs.

What are the size comparisons between Glock 19 and Glock 43X?

The Glock 43X is more compact than the Glock 19. It measures about 6.5 inches long and is slimmer, with a grip almost three-sixteenths of an inch thinner than the Glock 19.

In contrast, the Glock 19 is 7.28 inches long, making it larger overall. These differences make the 43X easier to conceal and carry daily learn more about Glock size comparisons.

How does the accuracy differ between Glock 19 and Glock 43X?

Both pistols are known for good reliability and can provide accurate shooting for most users at self-defense distances.

The Glock 19 has a slightly longer barrel, at 4.02 inches, which helps with sight radius and may aid in more precise shots. The Glock 43X has a barrel length of 3.41 inches, so its shorter sight radius could affect longer-range accuracy for some people.

Which is better for concealed carry: Glock 43X or Glock 19?

The Glock 43X is slimmer and lighter, making it easier to conceal under clothing. Its reduced weight adds to comfort during all-day carry.

While the Glock 19 is also popular for concealed carry, its larger size and greater width may be harder to hide, especially in warm weather or with lighter clothing. For those who prioritize concealment, many consider the 43X to be a better choice for everyday carry.

Are there significant difference in the handling of Glock 19 vs Glock 43X?

The Glock 43X features a lighter overall weight, which can impact recoil management. Its slimmer grip suits users with smaller hands.

The Glock 19, being heavier and bulkier, provides more grip surface and generally less felt recoil. Some users may find the 19’s larger frame offers easier control during rapid fire.

How do the magazine capacities compare between the Glock 19 and Glock 43X?

The Glock 19 uses a double-stack magazine, providing a 15-round capacity. This gives shooters more rounds before needing to reload.

The Glock 43X has a single-stack design and holds 10 rounds. This lower capacity is the tradeoff for the slimmer profile and lighter weight get more details on magazine capacity.

Can you detail the weight differences between Glock 19 and Glock 43X?

Unloaded, the Glock 43X weighs about 16.4 ounces. By comparison, the Glock 19 comes in at around 23.7 ounces when empty.

This difference in weight is important for those who prioritize comfort, especially for extended carry. The lighter weight of the 43X can be easier on the belt and body during daily use.