A Look at the Glock 42
General Specifications
When introduced, the Glock 42 was a significant step for the company. It was Glock’s first venture into the .380 ACP (Auto Colt Pistol) chambering, a caliber often associated with smaller, more easily concealed handguns. This subcompact pistol was designed with a focus on discreet carry and ease of use, making it an appealing option for individuals prioritizing concealment above all else.
Design and Features
The Glock 42 adheres to the characteristic Glock design philosophy. The frame is constructed from a durable polymer, offering a lightweight yet robust platform. The pistol features the Glock Safe Action system, a series of three independent safety mechanisms that contribute to its user-friendliness and safety. The absence of external manual safeties appeals to many, who appreciate the quick and intuitive nature of drawing and firing. The Glock 42 also has a simple, streamlined design, with minimal controls, which is beneficial for new shooters.
Target Audience and Ideal Use
Regarding specifications, the Glock 42 is undeniably compact. It boasts a single-stack magazine, which directly contributes to its slim profile, making it a breeze to conceal. The Glock 42 has a relatively short barrel length. This combination creates a pistol that can be comfortably carried in a variety of concealed carry positions. The standard sights on the Glock 42 are the typical Glock sights: a white dot front sight and a white outline rear sight. These sights are functional, although many shooters opt for aftermarket upgrades such as night sights or fiber optic sights, which can enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
Exploring the Glock 43
General Specifications
The ideal user for the Glock 42 is someone who prioritizes concealment above all else. The .380 ACP chambering provides reduced recoil, potentially making it a comfortable option for those who are new to handgun shooting. The small size and easy handling of the Glock 42 also make it attractive to individuals with smaller hands, who may struggle with larger framed handguns. It is a very popular choice for concealed carry in environments that demand discrete carrying options.
Design and Features
The Glock 43 followed the success of the Glock 42 and, in many ways, took the subcompact concept a step further. Unlike the 42, the Glock 43 is chambered in the more potent 9x19mm Parabellum, also known as 9mm Luger. This chambering change was a significant shift, as it offered shooters a more powerful cartridge in a platform that remained relatively compact.
Target Audience and Ideal Use
Like the Glock 42, the Glock 43 embraces the familiar Glock design principles. It has a polymer frame, a testament to Glock’s commitment to lightweight yet durable construction. The Glock Safe Action system provides the same level of safety and ease of operation that has become synonymous with the brand. The Glock 43’s design is, in essence, a scaled-down version of its larger siblings, maintaining the characteristic simplicity and reliability that Glock is known for.
A Head-to-Head Comparison
Size and Dimensions
In terms of specifications, the Glock 43 maintains a subcompact footprint, though it is slightly larger than the Glock 42. The single-stack magazine design is another key feature, which aids in keeping the pistol’s width manageable for concealed carry. The barrel length is somewhat longer than the Glock 42, contributing to improved accuracy and a slight increase in muzzle velocity. The sights are similar to those of the Glock 42, offering the same white dot front and white outline rear sight configuration. As with the 42, many users choose to replace these with aftermarket options.
Caliber and Performance
The target audience for the Glock 43 is broader. It is a strong option for experienced shooters looking for a reliable and concealable 9mm pistol. Its more powerful cartridge makes it a viable choice for self-defense situations. Furthermore, the Glock 43 often appeals to those who prefer the handling characteristics of a Glock but desire a smaller, more easily concealed package than Glock’s standard-sized offerings.
Magazine Capacity
The core of understanding the differences between the Glock 42 and the Glock 43 lies in a direct comparison of their key attributes. These differences are crucial in making the correct choice for your needs.
Ergonomics and Handling
In terms of size and dimensions, the Glock 42 holds a clear advantage in terms of pure concealability. Its smaller dimensions, including its narrower profile, make it easier to conceal in a variety of carry positions and under different clothing styles. The Glock 43 is just a tad larger, but the difference is slight, which means its concealability is still excellent. Consider your carry style and environment when assessing these differences.
Reliability and Durability
The most significant difference lies in the caliber and the resulting performance. The Glock 42 is chambered in .380 ACP, a cartridge that is generally less powerful than the 9mm Luger used in the Glock 43. The 9mm offers greater stopping power and potential for over-penetration. The recoil of the Glock 42 is typically lighter, making it easier to manage for new shooters. The Glock 43 has more recoil, especially for a subcompact. The availability and cost of ammunition also vary. 9mm is generally cheaper and more readily available than .380 ACP, a factor worth considering when choosing a firearm.
Aftermarket Support and Customization
Magazine capacity differs slightly between the two. Both models have single-stack magazines, but the Glock 43 typically holds more rounds. This difference can be crucial in a self-defense situation, where every round counts.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Glock 42
Ergonomics and handling also present subtle distinctions. Both pistols are comfortable to handle due to their design. The narrower grip of the Glock 42 can be a benefit for those with smaller hands. The slightly larger grip of the Glock 43 may feel more natural for those with larger hands. In addition, the recoil impulse affects the grip of each firearm, making the 42 easier to manage.
Glock 43
Reliability and durability are hallmarks of the Glock brand. Both the 42 and the 43 benefit from Glock’s reputation for producing reliable firearms. However, like any mechanical device, potential issues can arise. Both pistols will function well as long as they are properly maintained and using quality ammunition.
Aftermarket support and customization is a key consideration, and both pistols are well-supported by the aftermarket. Holsters, sights, and other accessories are readily available. The ability to customize your pistol with different sights, trigger upgrades, and other modifications gives you the ability to tailor the gun to your needs.
Making the Right Choice
Considerations Based on Your Needs
Each model has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these pros and cons is crucial for making an informed decision.
Recommendations for Specific Users
The Glock 42 offers significant advantages in concealability. Its compact size makes it very easy to conceal and comfortable to carry. It has light recoil, which is ideal for new shooters. The downside is that the .380 ACP cartridge is less powerful, and the magazine capacity is limited.
The Glock 43 excels in several areas. Its 9mm chambering provides more stopping power, and the magazine capacity is generally higher. The downside is that it is slightly larger, and the recoil can be more significant.
Selecting the right handgun is a personal decision that hinges on your specific needs and circumstances. Consider the following factors when making your choice.
Concealed carry requirements are paramount. If maximum concealability is your primary concern, the Glock 42 might be the better choice. However, if a slightly larger profile is acceptable, the Glock 43’s advantages may outweigh any minor inconveniences in concealment.
Your shooting experience is another key factor. If you are new to shooting, the Glock 42, with its lighter recoil, might be easier to handle. More experienced shooters may prefer the Glock 43 for its more powerful cartridge and expanded capabilities.
Hand size also influences your decision. If you have smaller hands, the Glock 42 may offer a more comfortable grip. The grip on the Glock 43 is slightly larger, so you will need to test both to determine which feels best.
The desired level of stopping power is a critical consideration. If you prioritize stopping power, the Glock 43, with its 9mm chambering, offers a clear advantage.
Budget is also important. The initial cost of each pistol is similar, but ammunition costs will vary over time, with 9mm generally being more affordable and readily available.
Conclusion
For those new to shooting, the Glock 42 offers a gentler introduction to handgun ownership. For experienced shooters prioritizing 9mm in a compact package, the Glock 43 is often the preferred option. Individuals with smaller hands may find the Glock 42 more comfortable, while those prioritizing stopping power may choose the Glock 43.
Both the Glock 42 and the Glock 43 are exceptional concealed carry handguns, each with its own set of strengths. The Glock 42 prioritizes ultimate concealment and ease of use, while the Glock 43 offers a more potent cartridge in a manageable package. The “better” choice is purely subjective, and depends entirely on the shooter’s individual priorities and preferences. Choosing the right handgun is not about picking the “best” option, but rather the one that best aligns with your specific needs, skill level, and lifestyle. The Glock 42 and the Glock 43 are both strong contenders in the subcompact arena, and it is impossible to make the wrong choice between them.
