Top 5 Smallest Glock Pistols for Concealed Carry and Personal Defense

Glock pistols have earned a reputation for reliability and performance across law enforcement and civilian markets. When it comes to concealed carry, size becomes a critical factor for comfort and discretion. Many gun owners seek the smallest Glock models that still deliver the brand's trusted functionality.

The smallest Glock pistols offer excellent concealment options while maintaining the durability and accuracy Glock is known for. These compact firearms range from ultra-slim single-stack designs to subcompact models that balance size with capacity. Each model brings specific advantages for different carrying preferences and hand sizes.

1) Glock 42 .380 Auto – Known for its compact size and deep concealability

The Glock 42 is the smallest pistol GLOCK has ever introduced, making it ideal for pocket carry. This .380 ACP pistol features a 3.25-inch barrel and slim frame design.

The G42 holds a standard 6-round magazine in its compact design. Its lightweight build makes it a popular choice for everyday concealed carry.

Glock introduced this pistol in 2014 specifically for concealed carry purposes. The slimline subcompact design allows it to fit easily in pockets or small holsters.

The pistol works well for shooters with smaller hands due to its reduced grip size. Its compact and reliable design maintains Glock's standard quality in a smaller package.

The G42 offers excellent concealability compared to larger pistols. Its ultra-compact dimensions make it suitable for deep concealment carry methods.

The pistol maintains reliability while offering maximum portability. Gun owners choose the G42 when they need a balance between firepower and concealability.

2) Glock 43X MOS – Slim profile with a longer grip for improved handling

The Glock 43X MOS features a slimline design that balances concealability with shooting comfort. This pistol combines the slim profile of the original G43 with an extended grip length.

The longer grip provides better handling than smaller models. It offers a Glock 19-length grip with a 3.41-inch barrel while maintaining its compact size.

The pistol holds 10 rounds in its magazine. This gives shooters more capacity than ultra-compact options without adding bulk.

People with smaller hands don't find the grip overwhelming, while those with larger hands appreciate the longer frame. The grip includes a built-in beavertail design for better control.

The MOS version comes ready for optics mounting. It features slide cuts designed for specific micro-optics and includes a slim mounting rail for accessories.

The 43X MOS maintains excellent concealability despite its longer grip. Its slim shape makes it fit easily in various holsters while providing improved shooting performance.

3) Glock 43 – Slimmest 9mm Glock with excellent concealability

The Glock 43 holds the title as the slimmest 9mm pistol Glock has ever produced. This single-stack 9mm was introduced in 2015 to meet demand for a narrow, lightweight handgun.

The G43 features a slim profile that makes concealed carry easy. Its compact size allows shooters to hide it without printing through clothing.

The pistol uses a single-stack magazine design instead of Glock's typical double-stack setup. This design reduces the grip width significantly while maintaining reliability.

The grip includes a built-in beaver tail that helps shooters get a high, tight grip. The trigger reach is shorter than larger Glock models, making it work well for people with smaller hands.

Weight and size make the Glock 43 one of the most concealable options in Glock's lineup. The pistol maintains the brand's reputation for reliability despite its compact dimensions.

The G43 works well for both new and experienced shooters who need a dependable concealed carry pistol. Its slim design solves the concealability problem many face with thicker handguns.

4) Glock 26 – Subcompact 9mm favored for concealed carry

The Glock 26 stands as one of the best compact pistols for concealed carry. Known as the "Baby Glock," this subcompact 9mm has earned its reputation since 1994.

Glock designed the G26 specifically for concealed carry. It shares some features with the larger Glock 17 and Glock 19 models.

The pistol offers a 10+1 round capacity in a compact frame. It weighs 21.69 ounces unloaded, making it easy to carry all day.

The G26 is similar in size to small-frame revolvers but fires 9mm rounds with minimal recoil. This allows for better accuracy and faster follow-up shots.

One key advantage is magazine compatibility. Larger 9mm magazines from the Glock 17 and 19 fit the G26, giving users more capacity when needed.

The Glock 26 delivers reliable performance in a small package. Its balance of size, firepower, and proven Glock reliability makes it a top choice for personal protection.

5) Glock 19 – Compact 9mm balancing size and firepower

The Glock 19 stands out as the most popular Glock model ever for good reason. It combines full-size firepower with compact versatility.

This pistol measures longer than subcompact models but remains highly concealable. The Glock 19 Gen5 offers a balance of size, capacity, and control that appeals to many shooters.

The Gen5 version features a redesigned frame without finger grooves. Users can customize the grip with different back straps to fit any hand size.

Standard capacity holds 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition. This provides more firepower than smaller Glock models while maintaining a manageable size for concealed carry.

The pistol includes ambidextrous controls for both left and right-handed shooters. A reversible magazine catch and ambidextrous slide stop lever enhance usability.

Law enforcement agencies widely adopt the Glock 19 for duty use. Its proven reliability and balanced dimensions make it suitable for both professional and civilian applications.

The 4.02-inch barrel length contributes to decent accuracy while keeping overall length reasonable for concealment.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Small Glock

Small Glocks require careful evaluation of three main factors: how well they hide under clothing, their shooting performance, and ammunition capacity. These elements work together to determine which model best fits individual needs.

Concealability and Comfort

The Glock 42 measures just 5.94 inches long and 4.13 inches tall, making it the smallest Glock pistol available. Its compact size works well for deep concealment situations.

Frame width affects how easily a pistol hides under clothing. Single-stack models like the Glock 43 offer slimmer profiles than double-stack versions. This reduces printing through fabric.

Weight impacts daily carry comfort. Lighter pistols cause less fatigue during extended wear periods. However, they also produce more felt recoil when shooting.

Grip length determines how much of the pistol extends below clothing lines. Shorter grips hide better but may not fill the shooter's hand completely. The Glock 43X combines a slim profile with enhanced handling through its longer grip design.

Holster compatibility varies between models. Popular small Glocks have more holster options available. This gives users better choices for their specific carry preferences.

Caliber and Performance

Small Glocks typically come in three calibers: .380 ACP, 9mm, and .45 ACP. Each offers different benefits for concealed carry use.

The .380 ACP provides the lightest recoil and smallest cartridge size. This allows for very compact pistol designs. However, it delivers less stopping power than larger calibers.

9mm cartridges offer a good balance between size and effectiveness. Most law enforcement agencies choose 9mm for duty use. The round provides adequate stopping power while remaining manageable in small frames.

.45 ACP delivers maximum stopping power but creates more recoil in lightweight pistols. The Glock 30S represents this caliber option in a compact package.

Barrel length affects both accuracy and velocity. Shorter barrels reduce overall pistol size but may decrease bullet speed slightly. Most small Glocks maintain adequate performance despite compact dimensions.

Magazine Capacity

Single-stack magazines hold fewer rounds but create slimmer pistol profiles. The Glock 43 holds 6 rounds in its standard magazine. This design prioritizes concealability over capacity.

Double-stack magazines increase ammunition capacity while adding width to the frame. The Glock 26 holds 10 rounds in a compact package. This model offers more capacity than single-stack alternatives.

Extended magazines provide additional rounds but increase grip length. They may affect concealment depending on body size and clothing choices.

Standard capacities for small Glocks:

• Glock 42 (.380): 6 rounds

• Glock 43 (9mm): 6 rounds

• Glock 26 (9mm): 10 rounds

• Glock 30S (.45): 9 rounds

Backup magazine availability matters for extended situations. Smaller magazines reload faster but require more frequent changes during practice sessions.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Compact Pistols

Compact pistols offer a middle ground between full-size and subcompact handguns, providing better shootability than smaller guns while remaining easier to conceal than larger models. However, they come with trade-offs in both concealment and capacity compared to their counterparts.

Advantages for Concealed Carry

Compact Glocks are designed to be smaller and more compact than full-size handguns, making them easier to conceal on the body. This size reduction allows carriers to hide their firearm more effectively under clothing without printing or creating obvious bulges.

Improved Grip and Control

Compact pistols tend to have longer barrels, larger frames, and more capacity. The larger frame provides a fuller grip that accommodates most shooters' hands completely. This results in better weapon control during firing and faster follow-up shots.

Enhanced Accuracy

The longer barrel length in compact pistols increases sight radius compared to subcompact models. This extended distance between front and rear sights makes precise aiming easier. Compact handguns offer better control and accuracy, especially during rapid fire.

Higher Capacity

Most compact Glocks hold 15 rounds in their standard magazines compared to 10 rounds or fewer in subcompact models. This additional ammunition capacity provides more defensive options without requiring a reload.

Potential Limitations in Use

Concealment Challenges

The larger size that improves shootability also makes compact pistols harder to hide than subcompact alternatives. Carriers may need larger holsters, looser clothing, or different carry positions to effectively conceal the weapon.

Weight Considerations

Compact pistols weigh more than their smaller counterparts due to increased frame size and barrel length. This extra weight can cause discomfort during extended carry periods and may require stronger belts or holster systems.

Printing Issues

The increased grip length and overall dimensions make compact pistols more likely to print through clothing. Tight-fitting shirts or thin fabrics may reveal the outline of the weapon, compromising concealment.

Limited Deep Concealment Options

Unlike subcompact models that work well for ankle carry or pocket carry, compact pistols typically require belt-mounted holsters. This limitation reduces carry options for certain clothing styles or situations requiring maximum discretion.

Frequently Asked Questions

These questions address common concerns about compact Glock specifications, handling characteristics, and practical considerations for concealed carry. The answers provide detailed comparisons between models and highlight specific features that make each pistol suitable for different users.

What are the specifications of the Glock 43 and how does it compare to other compact models?

The Glock 43 measures 6.26 inches in length, 4.25 inches in height, and 1.02 inches in width. It weighs 17.95 ounces unloaded and holds 6+1 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

Compared to the Glock 26, the 43 is slimmer but holds fewer rounds. The 26 offers 10+1 capacity but measures 1.18 inches wide.

The Glock 43 stands out for concealability due to its single-stack design. This makes it easier to hide under clothing than double-stack models.

Which Glock models are considered best for individuals with smaller hands?

The Glock 42 works well for shooters with smaller hands due to its reduced grip circumference and lighter weight. It measures only 4.13 inches tall and weighs 13.76 ounces.

The Glock 43 also suits smaller hands with its slim profile and manageable grip size. Its single-stack magazine creates a narrower grip than double-stack models.

Both pistols offer less reach to the trigger and controls. This makes them more comfortable for users who struggle with larger frame pistols.

What features does the Glock 43X have that make it stand out among subcompact pistols?

The Glock 43X combines the slim profile of the 43 with an extended grip that holds 10+1 rounds. This gives shooters more ammunition capacity while maintaining concealability.

The MOS version accepts popular red dot sights directly on the slide. This feature allows users to add optics without gunsmithing or adapter plates.

The 43X MOS offers incredible slim profile characteristics that make it highly concealable despite the 9mm caliber. The longer grip improves control during shooting.

How does the Glock 42's size and caliber affect its suitability for concealed carry?

The Glock 42 measures 5.94 inches long and 4.13 inches tall, making it extremely compact for deep concealment. Its .380 ACP caliber produces less recoil than 9mm options.

The smaller cartridge allows for a more compact frame design. This makes the pistol easier to conceal in ankle holsters, pocket carry, or as a backup weapon.

However, .380 ACP offers less stopping power than 9mm ammunition. Users must balance the benefits of smaller size against reduced ballistic performance.

Can you describe the differences between the Glock 26 and other Glock subcompact firearms?

The Glock 26 earns the nickname "Baby Glock" due to its compact dimensions and 10-round capacity. It measures 6.41 inches long and 4.17 inches high.

Unlike single-stack models, the 26 uses a double-stack magazine for higher capacity. This makes the grip wider than the 43 or 42 but shorter than full-size pistols.

The 26 accepts full-size Glock magazines for extended capacity. This versatility makes it popular among users who want multiple magazine options.

What advancements are seen in the Glock 19 Gen 5 that might appeal to users looking for a compact Glock?

The Glock 19 Gen 5 features an improved trigger with a smoother pull and shorter reset. The pistol also includes an ambidextrous slide stop for left-handed shooters.

The barrel uses enhanced rifling for better accuracy and longer life. Glock removed finger grooves from the grip to fit more hand sizes comfortably.

The frame includes a flared magwell for faster reloads during competition or defensive use. These updates make the 19 more versatile while maintaining its proven reliability.