Choosing a concealed carry pistol can be a daunting task. The market is saturated with options, each promising superior performance and reliability. Today, we’re pitting two popular subcompact contenders against each other: the FN 503 and the Glock 43.
Both the FN 503 and the Glock 43 are designed for discreet carry and ease of use. They are compact, lightweight, and chambered in 9mm, making them ideal for everyday carry. But which one is the better choice for you?
This comparison will dive deep into the features, performance, and overall value of the FN 503 and the Glock 43. We’ll examine everything from ergonomics and accuracy to reliability and price, helping you make an informed decision.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | fn 503 | Glock 43 |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 6+1 / 8+1 | 6+1 / 7+1 / 9+1 |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 23.8 oz | 17.95 oz |
| Overall Length | 6.0″ | 6.26″ |
| Height | 4.6″ | 4.25″ |
| Width | 1.1″ | 1.06″ |
| Barrel Length | 3.1″ | 3.41″ |
| Action | Striker-fired | Striker-fired |
| Sights | Fixed 3-dot | Fixed 3-dot |
| Frame Material | Polymer | Polymer |
| Grip | Textured Polymer | Textured Polymer |
| Trigger Pull | 5-6 lbs | 5.5 lbs |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Size and Weight
- Fn 503: The FN 503 is a compact, single-stack 9mm pistol designed for concealed carry. It has a slim profile and lightweight design, making it comfortable to carry. However, the small size can result in a less comfortable grip for some users.
- Glock 43: The Glock 43 is also a subcompact 9mm pistol, known for its small size and light weight. It’s slightly wider than the FN 503 but still easily concealable. The wider grip may offer a more comfortable hold for some shooters.
- Winner: Tie
Magazine Capacity
- Fn 503: The FN 503 typically comes with a 6-round magazine. Extended magazines are available. This capacity may be limiting for some.
- Glock 43: The Glock 43 also ships with a 6-round magazine, but aftermarket magazines are available, offering higher capacities.
- Winner: Tie
Trigger
- Fn 503: The FN 503 features a striker-fired trigger. The trigger pull is generally smooth and consistent but may not be as refined as some other pistols.
- Glock 43: The Glock 43 utilizes Glock’s Safe Action trigger system, known for its consistency and relatively short reset. Some users find the trigger pull a bit “mushy.”
- Winner: Tie
Sights
- Fn 503: The FN 503 comes with standard, low-profile sights. These sights are functional but may be difficult to acquire quickly in low-light conditions.
- Glock 43: The Glock 43 typically has Glock’s standard sights, which are also functional. Aftermarket sight options are widely available for improved visibility.
- Winner: Glock 43
Ergonomics
- Fn 503: The FN 503’s grip is slim due to its single-stack design, which can be advantageous for concealed carry. However, this may make it less comfortable for shooters with larger hands.
- Glock 43: The Glock 43 has a slightly wider grip than the FN 503. This may provide a more secure and comfortable hold for some shooters, although it can impact concealability.
- Winner: Glock 43
Reliability
- Fn 503: The FN 503 is generally considered reliable, but some early production models had issues. It is important to research the current production models.
- Glock 43: The Glock 43 is known for its excellent reliability. Glock pistols are renowned for their robust construction and ability to function in various conditions.
- Winner: Glock 43
Aftermarket Support
- Fn 503: The FN 503 has a smaller aftermarket compared to the Glock 43, limiting the availability of custom parts and accessories.
- Glock 43: The Glock 43 benefits from a massive aftermarket, providing a wide array of customization options, from triggers and sights to grips and holsters.
- Winner: Glock 43
Price
- Fn 503: The FN 503 is often priced competitively, making it a potentially attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Glock 43: The Glock 43 is priced slightly higher than the FN 503, but the cost is justified by its reliability, aftermarket support, and brand reputation.
- Winner: fn 503
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Concealability | Glock 43 |
| Ergonomics | Tie |
| Capacity | Glock 43 |
| Aftermarket Support | Glock 43 |
| Out-of-the-Box Features | Tie |
What They Have in Common:
- Caliber: Both the FN 503 and Glock 43 are chambered in the widely popular 9mm caliber, ensuring readily available ammunition and effective stopping power. They offer similar performance in terms of ballistic capabilities.
- Action: Both pistols utilize a striker-fired action, a common and reliable mechanism known for its simplicity and consistent trigger pull. This design contributes to their ease of use.
- Frame Material: Constructed with polymer frames, both pistols benefit from lightweight and durable construction, making them comfortable for concealed carry and everyday use. Polymer also helps with recoil management.
- Sights: Both pistols come equipped with basic, fixed 3-dot sights, offering a familiar and easy-to-acquire sight picture for quick target acquisition. These sights are functional for self-defense.
- Concealed Carry: Both are designed with concealed carry in mind, offering compact dimensions and a relatively lightweight design, making them easily concealable for everyday carry. Their slim profiles facilitate comfortable carry.
Fn 503 Vs Glock 43 Buying Guide
Concealability
Both the FN 503 and the Glock 43 excel in concealability due to their compact size. The FN 503 often boasts slightly thinner dimensions, making it potentially easier to conceal in certain carry positions, especially for those with smaller frames. The Glock 43, while slightly wider, offers a similar level of discreet carry. The choice here often depends on individual body type, carry style preferences, and the specific holster used. Both are excellent choices for everyday carry due to their compact nature. Consider how the gun feels in your hand and the ease with which you can draw it when making a decision.
Ergonomics and Handling
The Glock 43 typically provides a slightly more comfortable grip for many shooters due to its fuller grip profile, though this advantage is minimal given the size of both pistols. The FN 503 features a more streamlined grip, which some find advantageous for concealment. Both pistols are designed to be easy to handle, even for shooters with smaller hands. The Glock 43 may feel more natural in larger hands, while the FN 503 can be a bit more forgiving for those with smaller hands. Ultimately, handling preference is very subjective, and it’s best to try both before buying. (See Also: Nest Cam Vs Ring )
Trigger Performance
Trigger feel is a crucial aspect of any firearm. The Glock 43 is known for its consistent, though arguably less refined, trigger pull. The trigger on the FN 503 offers a smoother and more defined reset, which many shooters prefer. The trigger pull on the FN 503 is typically lighter than the Glock 43, which can improve accuracy. Consider the trigger pull weight and reset characteristics when making your decision, as this can greatly influence your shooting performance and comfort. Experimenting with both trigger pulls is highly recommended.
Accuracy and Sighting Systems
Accuracy depends on several factors, including the shooter’s skill and the sighting system. The Glock 43 typically comes with standard Glock sights, which are functional but can be upgraded. The FN 503 comes with more modern sights that are easier to see. Both pistols are capable of decent accuracy at typical self-defense distances. Consider whether the sights are easy to acquire and align quickly. Upgrading the sights on either pistol can significantly improve accuracy and target acquisition speed, which is a common practice among shooters.
Reliability and Durability
Both the FN 503 and the Glock 43 are renowned for their reliability and durability. Glock’s reputation for reliability is well-established. The FN 503 is designed and manufactured to meet high standards of quality. Both firearms are constructed with high-quality materials and undergo rigorous testing. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for ensuring the long-term reliability of either pistol. Both pistols are built to withstand the rigors of daily carry and use, making them dependable choices.
Price and Value
Price is an important consideration for many buyers. The Glock 43 often has a slightly lower price point than the FN 503, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, the FN 503 offers features and a level of refinement that may justify the slightly higher cost for some. Consider the features, included accessories, and overall value proposition when comparing prices. The cost of ammunition and accessories, such as holsters, should also be factored into the overall cost of ownership. Evaluate your budget and the features you need. (See Also: Lose It Vs Weight Watchers )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy fn 503 If…
- You prefer a slightly more comfortable grip texture.
- You want a pistol with a more robust feel.
- You value the FN brand’s reputation for quality.
- You prioritize a slightly wider grip for better handling.
Buy glock 43 If…
- You prioritize a lighter and more compact pistol.
- You prefer the Glock platform and its established aftermarket support.
- You want a pistol with a slightly longer barrel for potentially improved accuracy.
- You are familiar with the Glock manual of arms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caliber are the FN 503 and Glock 43 chambered in?
Both the FN 503 and the Glock 43 are primarily chambered in 9mm Luger, a popular and effective cartridge for self-defense. This caliber offers a good balance of stopping power and manageable recoil in a compact handgun. The 9mm Luger is also widely available, making ammunition easy to find. This commonality makes the choice between the two easier as it relates to ammunition availability.
What is the magazine capacity of each pistol?
The Glock 43 typically comes with a standard magazine capacity of 6 rounds, though extended magazines are available. The FN 503 usually ships with magazines that hold 6 or 7 rounds, depending on the magazine baseplate. Consider the magazine capacity in relation to your self-defense needs and the availability of extended magazines. Both offer reasonable capacity for their size, but the Glock 43’s aftermarket options offer a significant advantage.
How do the sights compare on these two pistols?
The Glock 43 typically features Glock’s standard sights, which are functional but can be upgraded. The FN 503 often comes with more modern sights that can be easier to acquire in a hurry. Consider whether the sights on each pistol are easy for you to acquire quickly. Many shooters opt to upgrade their sights on both pistols to improve target acquisition speed and accuracy, which is common in pistol shooting.
Which pistol is easier to conceal?
Both the FN 503 and the Glock 43 are designed for concealed carry, making them easy to conceal. The FN 503 often boasts slightly thinner dimensions, which may offer a slight advantage in certain carry positions, especially for those with smaller frames. The Glock 43, while a bit wider, is still easily concealed. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your body type, carry style, and holster preference. (See Also: Bose Quiet Comfort Vs Airpods Pro )
What are the key differences in trigger feel?
The Glock 43 is known for its consistent trigger pull, while the FN 503 offers a smoother pull and a more defined reset. The FN 503’s trigger pull is often lighter. Consider which trigger feel you prefer. Many shooters prefer a lighter, crisper trigger for better accuracy. The best way to make a decision is by trying both triggers yourself before making a purchase.
How do the ergonomics of each pistol compare?
The Glock 43 typically provides a slightly more comfortable grip for some shooters due to its fuller grip profile. The FN 503 has a more streamlined grip, which some find beneficial for concealment. Both pistols are designed to be easy to handle. The best way to decide is to try holding both pistols. The choice depends on hand size and personal preference.
Which pistol is more reliable?
Both the FN 503 and the Glock 43 are known for their reliability. Glock has a strong reputation for durability and reliability. The FN 503 is also designed to be dependable. Both are constructed from quality materials and are built to withstand the rigors of daily carry. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for ensuring long-term reliability for both pistols.
Final Verdict
Both the FN 503 and the Glock 43 are excellent choices for concealed carry, offering compact size, reliability, and ease of use. The choice between them often comes down to individual preferences regarding grip, trigger feel, and sight picture. The FN 503 might appeal to those seeking a slightly more refined package, while the Glock 43 remains a popular choice due to its established reputation.
Winner: Tie