Glock 43X / Glock 43X MOS Concealed Carry Handgun Review
The Glock 43X was designed to solve a specific problem: how to maintain slim concealability while offering a more secure and comfortable grip. It builds on the Glock 43 platform by extending the grip length, allowing for a fuller hand purchase without significantly increasing overall bulk.
The Glock 43X MOS adds optic-ready capability, but in terms of size, balance, and concealed carry characteristics, it remains fundamentally the same pistol.
This review focuses on how the Glock 43X and 43X MOS perform specifically as concealed carry handguns.
Reliability and Operating Consistency
Like all Glock pistols, the 43X and 43X MOS are built around Glock’s core operating system. Their internal design, trigger consistency, and simplicity mirror the rest of the Glock lineup.
From a reliability standpoint, these pistols are no different from their larger siblings. They are built to function under adverse conditions, tolerate neglect, and operate consistently with minimal maintenance.
For concealed carry, consistency matters. The Glock 43X provides the same predictable feel and behavior that Glock users expect.
Size and Concealability
The Glock 43X is slim, but its longer grip makes it more noticeable under clothing than the Glock 42 or Glock 43.
This longer grip is a trade-off: it improves control and comfort, but it may print more depending on clothing and body type.
For many people, this trade-off is worthwhile. The 43X often feels easier to shoot well than smaller pistols while still being significantly easier to conceal than compact or full-size models.
The 43X MOS does not meaningfully change concealability—it simply adds mounting capability for optics.
Grip Fit and Ergonomics
Grip comfort is where the Glock 43X shines.
The longer grip allows most people to get a full, natural grip without dangling fingers or feeling cramped. This makes it easier to maintain control, manage recoil, and shoot consistently.
For those who find the Glock 42 or Glock 43 too small, the 43X often feels like the ideal middle ground.
The grip is still slim, but it provides more surface area and stability.
Capacity and Balance
The Glock 43X is designed to balance capacity with concealability.
It offers more rounds than the smallest Glock models without jumping to the bulk of double-stack pistols. This makes it attractive to those who want more on-board capacity without carrying a thick or heavy handgun.
This balance is what makes the 43X one of Glock’s most popular concealed carry models.
Comfort for Daily Carry
Despite its longer grip, the Glock 43X remains comfortable for all-day carry.
Its slim profile prevents the pressure points and bulk associated with thicker pistols. For many people, it disappears under clothing more easily than compact double-stack models.
The extra grip length can also make seated carry more comfortable, as it distributes pressure more evenly.
Who the Glock 43X Is Best For
The Glock 43X and 43X MOS are best suited for:
-
People who find smaller pistols too cramped
-
Those who want a slim pistol with better grip control
-
Individuals who want a balance between concealability and shootability
-
Users who value comfort without stepping into compact-size bulk
Conclusion
The Glock 43X occupies a highly practical middle ground.
It offers better grip comfort than ultra-compact pistols while remaining slimmer and more concealable than compact models. It maintains Glock’s reliability and simplicity while improving ergonomics for many shooters.
If you want a slim concealed carry Glock that feels substantial in the hand, the Glock 43X deserves serious consideration.