Choosing the right handgun for concealed carry is a deeply personal decision, heavily influenced by individual factors like hand size, build, and comfort level. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Glock 43 and the Glock 19. This article provides a detailed comparison of Glock 43 vs Glock 19 size, helping you make an informed choice. We'll delve into dimensions, weight, capacity, and practical implications for concealed carry.
Understanding the Key Differences in Size
The most significant difference between the Glock 43 and Glock 19 lies in their overall size and capacity. The Glock 43 is a single-stack, subcompact pistol, designed for deep concealment. The Glock 19, on the other hand, is a compact pistol offering a larger grip and higher magazine capacity.
Glock 43 Dimensions: Small and Discreet
- Overall Length: 6.26 inches
- Height: 4.25 inches
- Width: 0.87 inches (single-stack magazine)
- Weight (empty): 17.9 ounces
The Glock 43's slim profile (0.87 inches wide) is its defining feature, making it exceptionally easy to conceal. This thinness is a result of its single-stack magazine. However, this comes at the cost of lower magazine capacity.
Glock 19 Dimensions: Balanced Size and Capacity
- Overall Length: 7.36 inches
- Height: 4.99 inches
- Width: 1.18 inches (double-stack magazine)
- Weight (empty): 23.6 ounces
The Glock 19 is significantly larger than the Glock 43 in every dimension. Its double-stack magazine allows for a higher ammunition capacity. This added size, while making concealment slightly more challenging, offers improved ergonomics and shootability for many users.
Size Comparison Table: Glock 43 vs Glock 19
| Feature | Glock 43 | Glock 19 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 6.26 inches | 7.36 inches |
| Height | 4.25 inches | 4.99 inches |
| Width | 0.87 inches (single-stack) | 1.18 inches (double-stack) |
| Weight (empty) | 17.9 ounces | 23.6 ounces |
| Magazine Capacity | 6+1 rounds (standard) | 15+1 rounds (standard) |
Practical Implications for Concealed Carry
The size difference directly impacts concealed carry.
Concealability: The Glock 43's slim profile excels in concealment, especially under light clothing. The Glock 19, while concealable, requires more careful clothing choices and body positioning to avoid printing.
Shootability and Comfort: The Glock 19's larger grip offers a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience. The longer sight radius contributes to improved accuracy. The smaller Glock 43's grip may be uncomfortable for users with larger hands. This can significantly affect accuracy and shooting comfort.
Recoil: Both pistols use the same 9mm cartridge. However, the Glock 43's lighter weight can translate to more noticeable recoil for some shooters.
Capacity: The Glock 19's higher magazine capacity (typically 15 rounds vs 6 for the Glock 43) is a substantial advantage in self-defense situations.
Choosing the Right Glock: Consider Your Needs
The best choice depends entirely on your priorities.
- Prioritize Concealability: If ultimate concealability is paramount, the Glock 43's superior thinness is unmatched.
- Prioritize Shootability and Capacity: If you prioritize comfort, control, and ammunition capacity, the Glock 19 is the better option.
- Hand Size Matters: Individuals with smaller hands may find the Glock 43 more manageable, while those with larger hands may prefer the fuller grip of the Glock 19.
Case Study: Comparing User Experiences
Many online forums discuss the Glock 43 and Glock 19. A common theme is the trade-off between concealability and shootability. Users with smaller hands frequently praise the Glock 43's concealability but report discomfort after extended shooting sessions. Conversely, users with larger hands often find the Glock 19 more comfortable and controllable, even if it presents a slightly greater challenge for concealment.
Ultimately, the "better" gun is subjective. It's essential to handle both pistols, if possible, and assess which fits your hand and body type better, and aligns with your concealed carry requirements. Consider going to a shooting range to rent both before purchasing to make a fully informed decision.