Glock 42 Concealed Carry Handgun Review

Glock 42 Concealed Carry Handgun Review

The Glock 42 was designed with one primary goal in mind: maximum concealability with Glock’s signature reliability. It is one of the smallest pistols Glock has ever produced, making it especially appealing to those who prioritize comfort, discretion, and ease of carry above all else.

This review focuses on how the Glock 42 performs specifically as a concealed carry handgun—not as a range toy, collector’s piece, or competition pistol.

Reliability and Simplicity

Like all Glock pistols, the Glock 42 benefits from Glock’s proven operating system and reputation for reliability. It uses the same general internal design philosophy as its larger counterparts, which means it retains the brand’s hallmark simplicity.

There are no external safeties to manipulate, no complicated controls, and no unusual manual of arms. For concealed carry, this simplicity matters. Fewer controls and fewer steps reduce the chances of user error under stress.

The Glock 42 is designed to function consistently in real-world conditions with minimal maintenance, which is exactly what a defensive handgun should do.

Size and Concealability

The defining characteristic of the Glock 42 is its size.

It is slim, lightweight, and easy to hide under almost any type of clothing. This makes it especially well-suited for:

  • Smaller-framed individuals

  • Light or fitted clothing

  • Warm-weather carry

  • Deep concealment needs

For many people, the Glock 42 disappears where larger pistols simply cannot. This is a significant advantage for those who struggle with concealment.

Grip Fit and Ergonomics

Because of its compact dimensions, the Glock 42’s grip will feel small in many hands. Some shooters find this comfortable and natural, while others may feel that it lacks enough surface area for a fully secure grip.

Grip fit is highly subjective. If your hands are smaller, the Glock 42 may feel excellent. If your hands are larger, it may feel undersized.

What matters is whether you can:

  • Maintain a secure grip

  • Reach the trigger comfortably

  • Control the pistol naturally

If those conditions are met, the Glock 42 can be very pleasant to carry and shoot.

Capacity and Trade-Offs

The Glock 42 trades capacity for concealability. That trade-off is intentional.

Its design philosophy prioritizes comfort and discretion over maximum round count. This makes it ideal for people who know they are unlikely to carry a larger pistol consistently.

The key question is not whether it holds fewer rounds than larger models—it does. The real question is whether it allows you to carry every day without discomfort.

For many, the answer is yes.

Comfort for Daily Carry

Comfort is where the Glock 42 truly shines.

Because of its small size and low weight, it is easier to carry for long periods without fatigue, discomfort, or printing through clothing. It does not dig into the body, create pressure points, or require extensive wardrobe adjustments.

For people who struggle with consistency, the Glock 42 often solves that problem.

Who the Glock 42 Is Best For

The Glock 42 is best suited for:

  • People who prioritize maximum concealment

  • Those who dress lightly or professionally

  • Smaller-framed individuals

  • Anyone who values comfort above all else

It is not designed to be a do-it-all handgun. It is designed to be an easy-to-carry defensive tool.

Conclusion

The Glock 42 excels in one area: discreet, comfortable concealed carry.

It offers Glock reliability in a package that is easy to live with every day. While it sacrifices capacity and grip size compared to larger models, it makes up for it in comfort and concealability.

If your top priority is carrying consistently without discomfort, the Glock 42 deserves serious consideration.