Top 7 Glock 43x MOS Slide Options for Enhanced Performance and Customization

Glock 43X MOS owners have more choices than ever for upgrading their slides. With so many aftermarket options out there, it’s honestly a bit overwhelming to figure out which ones actually deliver on reliability, performance, and style.

Picking the right Glock 43X MOS slide can boost accuracy, make optic mounting a breeze, and give your firearm a custom vibe. Here’s a rundown of seven standout slide options, so you can weigh your choices before your next upgrade.

1) Zaffiri Precision Stainless Steel Slide

Zaffiri Precision machines its Glock 43x MOS slide from a single billet of 17-4 stainless steel, which is tough and built to last. The tight tolerances help the slide cycle reliably and keep things running smooth.

People seem to appreciate that it’s made in the USA, and each slide passes through some pretty strict quality checks. Zaffiri aims to improve accuracy by reducing unnecessary movement during shooting.

This model is optic-ready right out of the box, so adding a red dot is straightforward. The Black Cerakote finish looks sharp and adds another layer of protection. Zaffiri Precision has a reputation for high standards in its aftermarket parts.

For specs and options, check out the Zaffiri Precision Stainless Steel Slide for Glock 43x.

2) Axiom Optic Cut Slide

The Axiom Optic Cut Slide, made for the Glock 43 and 43X, uses a precision-machined optic cut that fits RMS, Shield RMS, Holosun 407K, and RomeoZero red dots. Owners can mount these popular compact optics directly—no adapters or plates needed.

True Precision builds this slide from solid materials and coats it in Black DLC, which holds up well to wear and gives it a slick look. Aggressive front and top cuts shave off weight without sacrificing strength.

Side and top windows help keep the barrel cool during longer sessions. If you’re not running a red dot, the slide comes with a cover plate. You can swap it in as a direct replacement for your factory slide.

This slide only works with certain optics, so if you’re eyeing something else, you might need extra milling or an adapter. For more details or to order, visit the Axiom Optic Cut Slide for Glock 43 & 43X page.

3) Glock OEM Tritium Front Slide

The Glock OEM Tritium Front Slide is a reliable factory choice for the 43X MOS. It comes with tritium night sights already installed, making it much easier to see in low light or after dark.

With the sights built in at the factory, you get proper alignment and a hassle-free upgrade. The OEM slide keeps that classic Glock fit and feel, just with better sight visibility. If you want night sights without the fuss, this is a strong pick.

You can find new or used Glock OEM slides with tritium night sights from reputable sellers. Some even come complete with a silver finish and tritium night sights, so installation is a breeze.

Going OEM means everything fits—internal parts, holsters, you name it. It’s a solid option for anyone who trusts factory reliability and wants to shoot better at night.

4) Ameriglo Front Sight Slide

The Ameriglo Front Sight Slide is made for Glock 43X MOS pistols and focuses on giving you an upgraded front sight that stands out in all kinds of lighting.

Ameriglo’s specialty front night sights come in fiber optic, painted dot, or black metal options. You can pick what works best for you—including tritium for better night shooting. If you’re running a red dot, Ameriglo has optic-compatible sights for co-witnessing.

High-contrast front sights help with precise aiming. Some models add a luminescent paint ring around the tritium dot, so you can pick up the sight fast, whether it’s bright or dim.

For more information, check out Ameriglo’s specialty front night sights for Glock pistols and optic-compatible sights for Glock pistols. There’s plenty of variety to tailor your setup for the range or defensive use.

Swapping or upgrading sights is pretty straightforward with Ameriglo’s simple design.

5) C&H Precision Optic Milling Service

C&H Precision offers custom optic milling for Glock 43X MOS slides. If you want to add a red dot with a secure, precise fit, they’ll handle the job.

They use precise machines to mill the slide so your optic sits low and locks in tight. You pick the optic cut, so it’ll fit models like the Holosun 507K or Shield RMSc just right.

Most jobs last about four weeks, which isn’t bad. They focus on accuracy, making sure your optic mounts correctly every time.

If you want, they’ll refinish the slide after milling, so it stays protected and looks clean.

For quick and precise slide milling, C&H Precision is a name a lot of Glock owners trust.

6) Glock Slimline MOS Slide

The Glock Slimline MOS Slide fits the 43X and other slim models in Glock’s lineup. It is coated in a tough DLC finish for extra durability and wear resistance.

This slide comes with an integrated MOS (Modular Optic System) cut, so you can mount specific micro red dots without needing extra adapter plates. It’s compatible with the Glock Slim Mounting Rail, making accessory installation easy.

The all-black look blends in with the frame and keeps things professional. It also has the same tough protection as Gen5 models, which helps it withstand daily use and rough handling.

The Slimline MOS is a reliable choice if you want a factory-quality slide that fits your Glock 43X perfectly.

7) Holosun 507K Compatible Slide

A Holosun 507K compatible slide lets you mount this popular red dot without extra machining. Since the 507K doesn’t fit the standard Glock MOS cut, a slide built for direct compatibility saves you time and hassle.

Some slides are made specifically for the 507K footprint, allowing you to mount it directly, without extra plates or adapters. 

If you’ve already got a standard Glock 43X MOS slide, you can use an adapter plate like the DPP Titanium Adapter Plate. It fits Glock 43X/48 MOS slides and makes mounting the Holosun 507K easy.

Going with a slide made for the 507K gives you better reliability and keeps the optic lower on the slide, which can make aiming easier and speed up target acquisition. A direct fit also means fewer worries about screws loosening while shooting.

Key Features of Glock 43X MOS Slides

Glock 43X MOS slides balance strength, accuracy, and customization. You can mount various red dots, and the finishes help fight rust and wear.

Material and Durability

Most Glock 43X MOS slides use high-quality stainless or carbon steel. This material protects against bending, breaking, or wearing down from regular use. Manufacturers heat-treat the steel to make it harder and more durable, so it stands up to thousands of rounds.

Some slides add reinforced locking surfaces or thicker rails, especially where the most stress happens during shooting. That extra strength helps prevent cracks or damage. Good slides keep tight tolerances so everything fits and runs smoothly.

OEM Glock slides meet strict factory standards, but plenty of aftermarket slides hold up just as well—or better. Paying attention to details like fit and finish means your slide will last and perform reliably.

Optics Compatibility

The big draw of the Glock 43X MOS slide is its optics-ready design. Glock mills the slide at the factory with cutouts for popular micro red dots, like the Trijicon RMRcc or Shield RMS. You can mount an optic directly; no custom gunsmithing is needed.

Some optics might need mounting plates or adapters, but many brands make sure their products fit these slides. Factory mounting holes are placed and sized for secure attachment, so your optic stays put and holds zero under fire.

Having an optics-ready slide can speed up aiming and boost accuracy. A secure, flat surface lets you use modern red dots for quick target acquisition—handy for self-defense or competition. For more details on slide design and optic setups, check the Glock 43X MOS product page on the Glock official site.

Finishes and Coatings

Finishes and coatings protect the Glock 43X MOS slide from daily wear and tear. Most factory slides use a tough nDLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) finish to fight rust, scratches, and chemical wear. That matters if you carry your gun every day or use it in rough weather.

Aftermarket slides come in a bunch of colors or coatings—think Cerakote or PVD—for extra style and durability. Some are matte, others glossy, and you’ll even find patterns or special textures here and there. Each finish has its perks, but they all aim to shield the steel and help your slide last longer.

A good finish also makes cleaning easier and keeps the slide moving smoothly. If you want the best look and durability, it’s worth comparing finish types before picking a new slide.

Installation and Compatibility Considerations

Glock 43X MOS slides need careful attention to fit and installation. Matching slides with sights, optics, and frames can affect reliability and ease of use.

Fitting With Aftermarket Parts

Most aftermarket Glock 43X MOS slides stick to Glock’s standard dimensions, but slight differences in manufacturing can affect how they fit with barrels, recoil springs, and frames.

Some slides come pre-cut for optics like the Trijicon RMRcc or Shield RMS, while others need adapter plates. Not all red dot footprints match up, so double-check compatibility before you buy. Depending on the brand, some aftermarket slides might also need matching extractor depressor plungers or different firing pins.

Tight tolerances can mean you’ll need to do extra fitting, especially if you’re mixing parts from different makers. Using all parts from the same brand usually makes installation smoother.

Required Tools and Basic Installation Steps

Swapping out a Glock 43X MOS slide? You’ll really just need a handful of basic hand tools. Here’s what you’ll want to have nearby:

• A reliable Glock armorer's tool or a 3/32-inch punch

• Non-marring bench block

• Small hammer

• Optic mounting screws (if you’re adding a red dot)

First things first: pop out the magazine and check that the gun’s unloaded. Then, using Glock’s usual field-stripping steps, take apart the frame and slide. Finally, pull out the barrel and recoil spring.

To install the new slide, work backward through those steps. Line up the slide rails with the frame so everything fits together. If you’re mounting an optic, tighten the screws to the manufacturer's recommended torque spec. Some plates, like the ones for the Holosun 507K, might need an adapter plate to sit right.

Before heading to the range, run a quick function check. Try all your magazines, and make sure the slide cycles smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

The aftermarket for Glock 43X MOS slides is honestly huge. You’ll see tons of styles, finishes, and features—optic-ready cuts, improved grip work, and even slide-and-barrel combos for folks who like to tinker.

What are the top-rated aftermarket slides for the Glock 43X MOS?

The Zaffiri Precision Stainless Steel Slide and the Axiom Optic Cut Slide are highly praised. People like them for their optic compatibility, solid build, and fit.

Can I purchase a complete slide assembly for my Glock 43X MOS?

Absolutely. Plenty of companies sell complete assemblies—internals, sometimes barrels, and sights too. It’s a time saver if you’d rather not hunt for extra parts.

Are there any notable differences between stripped and complete Glock 43X MOS slides?

A stripped slide doesn’t come with internals, sights, or a barrel. It’s great if you want to customize every little detail, but it means more assembly and extra shopping. A complete slide, on the other hand, just snaps onto your frame—no fuss.

Where can I find a slide and barrel combination for the Glock 43X MOS?

You’ll find slide and barrel sets at several aftermarket shops. Zaffiri Precision, for example, has a solid reputation for its matched combos.

Which manufacturers are known for producing the highest quality custom slides for Glock models?

Zaffiri Precision and C&H Precision consistently turn out top-notch slides. They focus on quality milling, tight tolerances, and durable finishes. Glock’s own OEM slides are still a safe bet if you want that factory fit and reliability.

What upgrades are recommended to improve the performance of a Glock 43X MOS?

You’ve got some solid options here. Many folks add a red dot optic, which really sharpens up target acquisition. Swapping in a tritium front sight, like the Glock OEM Tritium Front Sight, makes a noticeable difference in low light. Some shooters go for beefier iron sights, too—Ameriglo’s Front Sight Slide is a popular pick. If you want to get fancy, companies like C&H Precision will mill the slide for optic cuts, opening up even more choices. Want more ideas? Here’s a list of must-have upgrades worth a look.