Glock 17 vs Glock 43x: Which Glock Reigns Supreme?
Choosing the right handgun can feel like navigating a minefield. With countless options, understanding the nuances between models is crucial. Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head showdown, pitting two popular Glocks against each other: the Glock 17 and the Glock 43X.
Both the Glock 17 and the Glock 43X have earned their place in the firearms world. The Glock 17, a full-size pistol, is a mainstay in law enforcement and a favorite among civilian shooters. Its larger frame offers advantages in certain areas.
Conversely, the Glock 43X presents itself as a compact, concealable option, perfect for everyday carry. Its slim profile makes it easy to conceal. This comparison aims to break down the key differences to help you decide which Glock is the better fit for your needs.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Glock 17 | Glock 43X |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9x19mm Parabellum | 9x19mm Parabellum |
| Capacity | 17+1 rounds (standard) | 10+1 rounds (standard) |
| Barrel Length | 4.49 inches | 3.41 inches |
| Overall Length | 8.03 inches | 6.26 inches |
| Height | 5.47 inches | 5.04 inches |
| Width | 1.18 inches | 1.06 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 22.22 oz | 18.70 oz |
| Action | Striker-fired | Striker-fired |
| Frame | Polymer | Polymer |
| Sights | Fixed Glock Sights | Fixed Glock Sights |
| Trigger Pull | Approximately 5.5 lbs | Approximately 5.5 lbs |
| Safety | Trigger, Firing Pin, Drop | Trigger, Firing Pin, Drop |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Size & Dimensions
- Glock 17: A full-size handgun with a longer barrel and grip, offering a larger overall profile. This translates to a more substantial feel in the hand and potentially better recoil management. However, its size makes it less ideal for concealed carry.
- Glock 43x: A slimline, compact pistol designed for easier concealment. It features a shorter barrel and grip, resulting in a smaller and lighter frame. This makes it more comfortable to carry but can lead to increased felt recoil.
- Winner: Glock 43x
Magazine Capacity
- Glock 17: Typically holds 17 rounds in its standard magazine, providing a significant advantage in terms of on-board ammunition. This allows for more shots before needing to reload. The higher capacity adds to the weight and size.
- Glock 43x: Holds 10 rounds in its standard magazine (or 15 with aftermarket magazines), a smaller capacity compared to the G17. This contributes to its slimmer profile, making it easier to conceal, but requires more frequent reloads.
- Winner: Glock 17
Weight (Unloaded)
- Glock 17: Heavier due to its larger frame and higher capacity magazine. This weight, around 25.06 oz (with empty magazine), can help absorb recoil, making it feel less snappy during firing.
- Glock 43x: Significantly lighter, weighing approximately 18.70 oz (with empty magazine). This contributes to its concealability but can result in more felt recoil.
- Winner: Glock 43x
Barrel Length
- Glock 17: Features a longer barrel, typically 4.49 inches. This longer barrel can contribute to slightly better accuracy at longer ranges and potentially higher muzzle velocity.
- Glock 43x: Has a shorter barrel, around 3.41 inches. This contributes to its compact size, making it easier to maneuver in close quarters, but might slightly reduce accuracy at longer distances.
- Winner: Glock 17
Grip & Ergonomics
- Glock 17: The larger grip may feel more comfortable for shooters with larger hands. Some find it easier to control due to the increased surface area. However, it might be less comfortable for those with smaller hands.
- Glock 43x: The slimmer grip is designed for easier concealment and may be more comfortable for shooters with smaller hands. The slimmer profile can be more challenging for larger hands to grip securely.
- Winner: Tie
Concealed Carry Suitability
- Glock 17: Less ideal for concealed carry due to its larger size and longer grip, which can be difficult to conceal effectively without printing. It may require larger clothing or specialized holsters.
- Glock 43x: Specifically designed for concealed carry, its slim profile and shorter grip make it much easier to conceal. It offers greater comfort and discretion.
- Winner: Glock 43x
Recoil Management
- Glock 17: The heavier weight and larger frame help to absorb recoil, making it easier to control during rapid firing. The longer barrel also contributes to reduced muzzle flip.
- Glock 43x: The lighter weight and smaller frame result in more felt recoil, which can make it more challenging to control during rapid firing. Recoil is more noticeable.
- Winner: Glock 17
Target Acquisition & Accuracy
- Glock 17: The longer sight radius (distance between front and rear sights) can contribute to potentially better accuracy, especially at longer ranges. The larger frame may also contribute to a steadier hold.
- Glock 43x: The shorter sight radius may make it slightly more challenging to acquire targets quickly, particularly at longer distances. However, its compact size allows for quick point-and-shoot scenarios.
- Winner: Glock 17
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Concealability | Glock 43X |
| Capacity | Glock 17 |
| Accuracy (Potential) | Glock 17 |
| Ease of Carry | Glock 43X |
| Home Defense | Glock 17 |
What They Have in Common:
- Caliber: Both firearms are chambered in the popular 9x19mm Parabellum, ensuring ammunition compatibility and availability.
- Striker-Fired Action: Both utilize a striker-fired action, which contributes to a consistent trigger pull and overall reliability.
- Polymer Frame: Both pistols feature a polymer frame, making them lightweight and resistant to corrosion.
- Glock Sights: Both come with standard Glock sights, which are simple and effective for quick target acquisition.
- Safety Features: Both incorporate Glock’s standard safety features, including trigger, firing pin, and drop safeties, for safe handling.
Glock 17 Vs Glock 43X Buying Guide
Size and Concealability
The Glock 17, being a full-sized handgun, offers a larger frame and longer barrel, making it more challenging to conceal. It’s best suited for open carry or situations where concealment isn’t a primary concern. Conversely, the Glock 43X is a subcompact pistol, designed with concealed carry in mind. Its thinner profile and shorter grip make it significantly easier to conceal under clothing, offering greater discretion for everyday carry scenarios. This difference is pivotal for those prioritizing discreet carry.
Ergonomics and Handling
The Glock 17, with its larger grip, often feels more comfortable and secure in the hands of shooters with larger hands, providing a more natural grip. This can translate to better recoil management and more accurate follow-up shots. The Glock 43X, while still comfortable, has a smaller grip, which might feel less secure for those with larger hands. However, its slim profile can be advantageous for shooters with smaller hands, offering improved reach and control. Both pistols share the Glock’s familiar ergonomics.
Magazine Capacity
The Glock 17 typically holds 17 rounds in its standard magazine, providing a significant advantage in terms of firepower and fewer reloads in a self-defense situation. Extended magazines can increase this capacity even further. The Glock 43X, designed for concealability, has a smaller magazine capacity, usually holding 10 rounds with the standard magazine, though extended magazines are also available. The choice depends on the balance between firepower and the need for a smaller, concealable package.
Accuracy and Performance
The longer barrel of the Glock 17 can contribute to potentially better accuracy at longer distances, due to a longer sight radius and increased bullet velocity. The Glock 43X, with its shorter barrel, may be slightly less accurate at extended ranges, although it remains accurate at typical self-defense distances. Both Glocks are known for their reliability and consistent performance, provided the shooter practices regularly. The shooter’s skill is a key factor.
Price and Availability
The Glock 17 and Glock 43X are generally available at similar price points, making the cost a less significant factor in the decision. However, prices can fluctuate depending on the retailer and any included accessories. Both models are widely available, with the Glock 17 being a very common and popular choice, and the Glock 43X gaining popularity as a concealed carry option. Availability of aftermarket parts and accessories is also widespread for both models, although more so for the Glock 17.
Intended Use and Purpose
The primary intended use should dictate the choice. The Glock 17 excels as a duty pistol, home defense firearm, or for range use where size and concealability are less critical. The Glock 43X, on the other hand, is specifically engineered for concealed carry, offering a balance of firepower and portability for everyday self-defense. Consider your daily activities and the environments you frequent to determine which pistol best suits your needs, considering aspects such as carry method and comfort.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Glock 17 If…
- You prioritize a full-size pistol with a larger magazine capacity for home defense or duty use.
- You prefer a longer sight radius for improved accuracy at longer distances.
- You want a proven platform with a wide range of aftermarket accessories.
- You have larger hands and find the full-size grip more comfortable.
Buy Glock 43X If…
- You want a more concealable pistol for everyday carry.
- You prefer a lighter and more compact firearm for ease of carry.
- You prioritize a smaller grip size for better concealment and comfort.
- You want a pistol that is still reliable and easy to handle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for concealed carry?
The Glock 43X is the superior choice for concealed carry. Its slimmer profile and smaller size make it significantly easier to conceal under various clothing types. The Glock 17, being a full-sized pistol, is more difficult to conceal effectively, especially in warmer climates or with lighter clothing. The 43X’s design prioritizes discreet carry.
What is the magazine capacity of each pistol?
The Glock 17 typically comes with 17-round magazines, providing a larger capacity. The Glock 43X usually has a 10-round magazine. Both pistols have various aftermarket magazine options available to increase capacity. Consider your need for more rounds versus the desire for a smaller, more concealable frame.
Which Glock is better for beginners?
Both pistols are user-friendly, but the Glock 17 might be slightly easier for beginners due to its larger grip and reduced recoil, which can make it easier to control. However, the Glock 43X is also an excellent choice, and its smaller size can be advantageous for those with smaller hands. Proper training is the most important factor.
How do the recoil characteristics compare?
The Glock 17 generally has less felt recoil due to its larger size and heavier frame. This makes it easier to manage and allows for quicker follow-up shots. The Glock 43X, being lighter and smaller, will have more felt recoil, which might require more practice to control effectively. Proper grip and stance are crucial.
What are the size differences between the Glock 17 and Glock 43X?
The Glock 17 is significantly larger than the Glock 43X. The Glock 17 is a full-sized pistol, while the 43X is a subcompact. This means the 43X is shorter, thinner, and has a shorter grip, making it easier to conceal and carry. The Glock 17 offers a larger frame for more comfortable grip for some users.
Are the Glock 17 and Glock 43X reliable?
Yes, both the Glock 17 and Glock 43X are known for their high reliability. Glock pistols are renowned for their robust construction and consistent performance in various conditions. Regular maintenance and proper ammunition are crucial for maintaining optimal reliability in both models. The brand’s reputation speaks for itself.
What are the main differences in terms of features?
The Glock 17 has a longer barrel and larger frame, allowing for more rounds. The Glock 43X features a smaller frame and is designed for concealed carry. Both have similar trigger mechanisms, sights, and overall Glock design. The primary differences lie in size, capacity, and intended use, with one favoring duty and the other concealed carry.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the Glock 17 and the Glock 43X depends heavily on the intended use. The Glock 17 is a solid choice for duty, home defense, and range use, prioritizing capacity and shootability. The Glock 43X excels as a concealed carry option, offering a balance of size, firepower, and ease of concealment. Both are reliable and accurate, but the intended purpose is the deciding factor.
Winner: Glock 43X