G19 vs G43

[thvigil11]

Been carrying full size for a while. While it works for me, been thinking about toning it down. I've got experience with the 19 but just a little with the 43. I'd like to hear real world experience from anyone here who carries one or the other. I fully understand the size and capacity differences, I'm more interested in unique carry experiences (comfort, concealability issues, etc). Don't really care for the subcompact glocks, but the thinner 43 does seem to work for me.

I'm set on the Glock, so no need to tell me about other models, (or Toyotas). Also chances are I'm probably going to get both eventually, after all, blue label makes it pretty affordable to have both.

[ray1970]

I love my 43. Points and shoots like the rest of the Glock lineup for me at least. It's about the only handgun I own that I find really comfortable to carry. Although, honestly the 26 is darn near as easy to carry. Overall length and height of the 26 and the 43 are pretty much identical. Obviously, the 26 is a bit wider. I do have to make a conscious effort to adjust my grip ever so slightly on the 43 or I find my thumb riding the slide stop and it won't lock back on empty. I don't have that issue with the 26 or 19.

[Monky]

While I haven't carried a 43, nor do I own one, I have played with one. I wasn't a fan. Sure as a pocket gun, I'm sure it's fine. I just honestly don't like how it feels when I shoot it. I have shattered my hand before and when I grip it the small size just doesn't feel right.

I don't have the same issues with any of the standard guns. 17, 19, 26... 23, 27. They all feel just fine and dandy, but I didn't like the 42 or 43. Had a 42.

It's not just the size as my sig 238 feels fine. It's something about the ergonomics on their single stacks


Sent by a free-range electronic weasel, with no sense of personal space.

[HoneyBadger]

Preface: I typically carry IWB at 4:30-5 o'clock position with either a crossbreed supertuck or a aliengear cloak 3.0.

I carried the 19 for a few years, before getting a 26, and now I mostly carry the 26 (with a grip extension that makes it feel more like a 19 grip without adding length to the butt of the grip). Now, I only carry the 19 around if I feel the need for more capacity. The weight is the biggest factor here, which I'm sure transfers over the to 19 vs 43 argument even better. 2nd biggest factor is the grip length, which is easier to conceal with the 26 (or 43).

I would love the chance to shoot a 43 and see how it compares. Just don't forget the physics of the equation: less mass in the gun means that it isn't going to be fun to shoot. I have tried similar sized 9mm pistols and have reverted back to the G26. Now my Kahr PM9 and Kel Tec PF9 sit in the safe. I sold the Diamondback DB9 because that was just a POS gun.

[hurley842002]

Really kind of hard to compare the two. About the only thing similar is the name stamped on the pistol, and the caliber. Even carrying them yields a completely different experience IMO. I've carried the 43 and 26 extensively, and can say those two are quite similar. I can't just throw the 26 in a pocket holster and put it in a pocket. The 43 can be carried just about any way you can think of, even in gym short pockets. Not the info you were looking for, but there is my two.

[kwando]

I've always carried a 19.... Until I bought a 43. Now I carry the 43 prob 6-7 days a week. When I go back to a 19, it is significantly more bulky and heavy.

So for me size, weight, comfort is what stands up. The cons would be the ammo capacity, but i always carry at least one spare mag (even with the 19).

I shoot the 43 just fine, i find it fits my smaller hands better (let the jokes flow in).

[Dave_L]

While I don't have a 43, I do have a Kahr PM9 which is very similar in size. I also have a 19 that I rotate in. The pm9 is VERY easy to carry. I don't even notice it. But usually it's my attire that dictates what I'm carrying. I have a smart carry holster for the pm9 on days I'm wearing gym shorts/sweat pants/etc. Now that we're approaching winter, I'll probably go with the 19 as hoodie season is here and makes the 19 easier to conceal. If I can, I like having the 19 but the PM9 is a great option to have. I really like it for summer and dress attire.

I think you'll like having a 43 as another option. Just a matter of how you shoot with it.

[SouthPaw]

I have grown to prefer my 26 over my 19 over the last year. I love that all my holsters are interchangeable between the two. I have only shot the 43 one time, but for me the difference was negligible between the 26. A big positive for me is the spare G17 mags I carry in my truck will interchange between the 26/19.

[lex137]

I would like to carry a full size but since I'm a small guy it's to much weight to be carrying appendix and the handle/butt of the gun would poke out the side to much. So I carry a g43 and have the tti extended mag plates and its no issue, and I don't notice it cause it weights close to the cm9. It's easy to conceal and I'm not as skinny as I use to be, wear shirts that aren't baggy. I carry an extra mag so I get another 8 tries. Would like to get a different holster not liking the blade tech one that much. For the price with blue label mine as well buy a 43!

[Zundfolge]

Seems to me that if its a choice between G19 and G43 the answer really is G26.

[hurley842002]

Seems to me that if its a choice between G19 and G43 the answer really is G26.

That was my answer...

[thvigil11]

Seems to me that if its a choice between G19 and G43 the answer really is G26.

Understand your reasoning, but like I said, I don't really like the glock subcompacts. For some reason, with the thinner grip, the 43 is more than tolerable to me. Also like I said, I'm probably going to have both (G19 and G43) eventually. Really was wanting the carry experience so I know what to expect.

I appreciate all the responses so far. Thanks everybody.

[TFOGGER]

Seems to me that if its a choice between G19 and G43 the answer really is G26.


That was my answer...

Hey, y'all are cheating off my paper...[ROFL1]

[hurley842002]

Hey, y'all are cheating off my paper...[ROFL1]

If you are going to cheat, cheat off of the smart kids.

[ray1970]

Understand your reasoning, but like I said, I don't really like the glock subcompacts.

Then you aren't going to like the 43. The 43 is essentially a thinner 26 in my opinion. For me, the 43 and the 26 shoot about the same. The 43 does carry a little nicer because it's thinner and lighter but I really think they shoot the same and feel a lot alike in the hand.

[Zundfolge]

Understand your reasoning, but like I said, I don't really like the glock subcompacts. For some reason, with the thinner grip, the 43 is more than tolerable to me.
Along those lines I like the feel of the Walther PPS over the G43 (haven't shot either though)

[davsel]

I recommend the G19.
If you want to be limited to only 6 rounds, get a G36. Sure, it won't sit comfortably in your shorts pocket, but keeping it in a holster prevents you from shooting yourself in the leg.

I've carried the G36 for six years or so. Recently picked up and started carrying a G19 for the capacity.

[Lex_Luthor]

I carry a 26 (it's actually a 27 with 9mm conversion barrel & G26 mags). I am a smaller / average sized guy & don't have big hands either. I've put mine right up next to a G43 and the width difference is pretty negligible. If you don't like the subcompact Glocks, are you sure you'd like the G43? If that's your reasoning, go with the 19. I eventually want a G19 too. And sometimes I want a G43, but to be perfectly honest, my 26/27 is nearly the same thing with 3 more rounds. I carry a G19 mag as a spare, so that's 26 rounds vs 15.

The way I look at the weight difference is this: you're carrying a gun, not a water gun. It doesn't have to weigh 10 lbs, but it's not going to be THAT much weight difference to reduce your capacity to that extent.

Ultimately, go shoot both & see which one you like better.

[thvigil11]

I feel we have gotten a little off track here. My title may be messing things up. I have shot the 19 a lot. I have also shot the 43, just not alot. For the record I have also shot many subcompact glock models. I am comfortable shooting the 43 and 19. I am not comfortable shooting the 26. My real question is about concealed carry impressions and issues with both the 19 and 43, as I have no experience carrying either of these models. Not really which is better, but I wanted honest impressions of the plusses and minuses of cc of either of those models.

[hurley842002]

I just feel that the 19 and 43 are such world's apart as it pertains to carry, that it's hard to give opinions. The 43 carries tons better than the 19, with a wider array of options. Anything beyond that, and you get into capacity, capability etc.

[thvigil11]

I just feel that the 19 and 43 are such world's apart as it pertains to carry, that it's hard to give opinions. The 43 carries tons better than the 19, with a wider array of options. Anything beyond that, and you get into capacity, capability etc.

That's why I'm trying to rein this in. Let's make it simple.

Who here carries a G43? What are the high and low points of carry?

For those who carry a G19. What are the highs and lows of carry?

By getting both of these questions answered, I will have a decent idea of what I am in for with both of these firearms. I say both because I will eventually own them both and probably carry them both.

[ray1970]

I am pretty new to carrying anything but I have carried the 19 and the 43. Honestly, I seldom carry the 19.

The high points for the 43 for me is the thinness of it and the light weight. I've carried it in a pocket holster ocassionaly and it didn't pull my pants down. I've carried it in the appendix position frequently. I've carried it in a traditional IWB holster in shorts with no belt. As far as low points I really can't think of one.

As far as the 19, I don't find it as flexible for me as far as carry positions. I also really notice the weight of it. Obviously, having 16 rounds on tap without a reload is mentally comforting but since I've fired a total of zero rounds in self-defense in the last 45 years I really don't feel under gunned with the 43 instead.

Not to muddy things, but I love carrying my 30S. It's closer to the size of the 19 but having 11 rounds of 45 ACP on tap is very comforting. So much so that I don't hardly notice the size and weight.

[lex137]

I like carrying the 43 it's not uncomfortable and easy for me to conceal, I have carried a subcompact and didn't like it. Not a lot of rounds but I carry an extra mag. I feel like it was more reliable than my cm9 and about the same weight and feel but the 43 is better.

[hurley842002]

I've carried both, here are my thoughts :

The 19, excellent pistol, but I just can't get used to carrying (concealed) that size of a pistol. I know many people can, unfortunately I'm not one of them, and I think it's the weight that kills it for me.

The 43, conceals amazingly, and shoots quite well. I can't get comfortable with the capacity, plain and simple.

Unfortunately I'm in a position where I have to "choose just one" for my ccw, and for all the reasons above, the 26 is perfect for me.

[alan0269]

Here's my $.02

Since you have shot both, and feel comfortable doing so, it comes down to the carry aspect of each. I've owned both, shot both, and carried both. Either one is a good choice for concealed carry, however the determining factor on which to get first would most likely come down to your daily attire and how you plan to carry. If you don't have the luxury of having a loose(r) cover garment or want to have the ability to pocket carry, I would say go with the 43. It is slimmer and will fit in a pocket if need be, and with the shorter grip, it is easier to conceal without a loose/baggy shirt or jacket over it. If you are able to throw on a jacket, loose shirt, or other cover garment without looking out of place, the 19 could be the better choice as if you can conceal it easily the extra capacity and longer sight radius is nice to have.

Positives of each over the other:
43
- Slimmer, making it more IWB and pocket carry friendly.
- Short grip is easier to conceal IWB and OWB, and the only one of the two to be a viable pocket carry option.
- Lighter.
- As accurate and reliable as any other Glock model. (not really an advantage over the 19, just a comment that despite its size, it is still accurate and reliable)

19
- Higher capacity.
- Longer sight radius.
- More comfortable to shoot on long range trips (the 43 is not bad though).
- Seems to always be highly ranked in the discussion of "if you could only have one pistol for all around use..."

As I said, it all depends on how you intend to carry and your daily attire. In my thoughts, I would probably go with the 19 now since it is getting colder out and it will be easier to have a jacket/whatever as a cover garment then pick up the 43 later, but if we were going into spring or summer I would lean towards the 43 first and then pick up the 19 later.

[hurley842002]

Here's my $.02

Since you have shot both, and feel comfortable doing so, it comes down to the carry aspect of each. I've owned both, shot both, and carried both. Either one is a good choice for concealed carry, however the determining factor on which to get first would most likely come down to your daily attire and how you plan to carry. If you don't have the luxury of having a loose(r) cover garment or want to have the ability to pocket carry, I would say go with the 43. It is slimmer and will fit in a pocket if need be, and with the shorter grip, it is easier to conceal without a loose/baggy shirt or jacket over it. If you are able to throw on a jacket, loose shirt, or other cover garment without looking out of place, the 19 could be the better choice as if you can conceal it easily the extra capacity and longer sight radius is nice to have.

Positives of each over the other:
43
- Slimmer, making it more IWB and pocket carry friendly.
- Short grip is easier to conceal IWB and OWB, and the only one of the two to be a viable pocket carry option.
- Lighter.
- As accurate and reliable as any other Glock model. (not really an advantage over the 19, just a comment that despite its size, it is still accurate and reliable)

19
- Higher capacity.
- Longer sight radius.
- More comfortable to shoot on long range trips (the 43 is not bad though).
- Seems to always be highly ranked in the discussion of "if you could only have one pistol for all around use..."

As I said, it all depends on how you intend to carry and your daily attire. In my thoughts, I would probably go with the 19 now since it is getting colder out and it will be easier to have a jacket/whatever as a cover garment then pick up the 43 later, but if we were going into spring or summer I would lean towards the 43 first and then pick up the 19 later.

Good post Alan, and I agree, just didn't articulate it as well. I'll add, I had a 19 and 43 at the same time, and found I was leaving the 43 behind more often than not, the capacity just killed it for me.

[ray1970]

Good post Alan, and I agree, just didn't articulate it as well. I'll add, I had a 19 and 43 at the same time, and found I was leaving the 43 behind more often than not, the capacity just killed it for me.
I currently have a 43, a 26, and a 19. I find myself carrying the 43 about 98% of the time.

[TEAMRICO]

I started to carry my 43 this past weekend. I love it. Slim, light and hides in a shirt with IWB holster easily. I shot it this weekend and is enjoyable. The fist 6 rounds were Brass, 4 inch group at 12 yards! Next was cheap aluminum Federal. All shots were 6 inches to the left of target. Weird but brass was dead on and aluminum was always to the left even, even when supported.
I have the +1 pinky extension so 8rds total with the smaller mag carried in my pocket.
I have had a G27 and that was the Baby Glock as they called it. Nice but HEAVY.
Also own a G42 all the pluses of the 43 except the caliber.
I like the ability to put it my fleece jacket quickly or pocket.
Im hooked on my 43 and am glad I bought one.
Keep in mind I'm 6'3" and the 43 is a nice fit even in larger hands.

[Zundfolge]

I currently have a 43, a 26, and a 19. I find myself carrying the 43 about 98% of the time.
I too have both high capacity and low capacity options for carry. It always seems like within a few days of me switching to my low capacity option I see some news story (like a mass shooting or I'll read some account of armed self defense) and then I don't feel comfortable with only 6 (or back when I had a J frame, 5) rounds and I go back to my high capacity option.

Yes this is probably foolishness on my part (hell, statistical probability says I'll NEVER need to use my CCW) but since psychology is a big part of self defense I find myself not wanting to tempt fate.

It seems to me pretty obvious if you want comfortable to carry go with the 43 if you want comforting to carry go with the 19. Noting that the biggest advantage of comfortable to carry is that you will carry more and remember the first rule of a gun fight is; have a gun.

[buffalobo]

You guys are making this too hard. Get both and carry as needed.

I have several different hammers for different "pounding" jobs.

ETA - I carry G19 more than any other. Daily utility hammer.



Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[HoneyBadger]

I've carried both, here are my thoughts :

The 19, excellent pistol, but I just can't get used to carrying (concealed) that size of a pistol. I know many people can, unfortunately I'm not one of them, and I think it's the weight that kills it for me.

The 43, conceals amazingly, and shoots quite well. I can't get comfortable with the capacity, plain and simple.

Unfortunately I'm in a position where I have to "choose just one" for my ccw, and for all the reasons above, the 26 is perfect for me.
This sums up my thoughts pretty well. Unfortunately, OP doesn't like the 26. :-/
I really like that the 26 can use my 19 mags and holsters, and it carries 10rds, which is a nice statistical compromise for most situations. When I carry my PM9, it is certainly not to win a gunfight - it is simply to secure an escape for myself from that situation.

One additional point: I shoot the 19 MUCH more accurately than any other pistol, including other Glocks. Obviously, YMMV.

[TFOGGER]

Simple solution: 19 on your hip, 43 in an ankle holster. [LOL]

[davsel]

1911

[thvigil11]

Screw it, I'm just gonna stick with carrying full size.

http://img.izismile.com/img/img8/20150917/1000/daily_gifdump_911_14.gif

[Alrigh]

[sellersm]

1911

LOL! <close thread>


Sent from my fat fingers using Tapatalk

[thvigil11]

1911

Actually, one of the things I am currently carrying.

[thvigil11]

Now this is fascinating.

http://www.strikeindustries.com/shop/index.php/products/new-products/si-enhanced-magazine-plate-for-glock43.html#.VjI3HStQQg5

May reduce concealability but certainly something to consider for the second or third magazine.

[Big E3]

^^^I would like that for range work, may have to get one to try.

[DireWolf]

Just to add my .02 cents, Haven't tried a 42/43 yet, but I've found that my G26 with minimalist kydex holster/clip completely dissapears under or into just about anything, and I can almost triple my carry capacity with a single spare G17 mag in a pocket (11 to 28)

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[Lex_Luthor]

I think I like the +2 from Taran Tactical better. It's just enough to get your pinky on it, but not so much that it changes the shape of the pistol by a lot.

[lex137]

^^^ I really like mine, I think they look nicer and with the added weight the fly out when you hit the mag release.

[Chief_of_Scouts]

I think I like the +2 from Taran Tactical better. It's just enough to get your pinky on it, but not so much that it changes the shape of the pistol by a lot.

Taran Tactical makes great products. Because we are all about bargains and getting the best we can for our $$$, I picked up some Glock Store (Lenny Magills) G43 mag extensions to compare. The Glock Store extensions are less expensive. http://www.glockstore.com/glock-43-custom-parts/g43-magazine-extension

[thvigil11]

So I've got myself a brand new 43. (Thanks Neves) My better half had some good points that helped my decision. First off, I can still pack a 17 (or 1911) during the winter time, been doing it so far. (although I have been considering chopping down a spare 17 I have to 19 size in the grip). Besides, she reminded me that there are better firepower options usually kept in our vehicles. I also have spent a lot of time carrying in my briefcase/ satchel so there is always still that option to keep a larger piece. The staff at Neves also recommended the Q-series minimalist holster, so I'm giving that a go for now, I'm not entirely sold, but we'll see how it wears. Thanks everyone for their input.

Now, what shoes do I need to wear for carrying a 43?

And does anyone have a chainsaw I can borrow so I can chop down my G17?

[Rucker61]

My wife just bought a G43 yesterday. She likes the feel of it better than her LC9, and I hope she shoots it better ;). Looking at these base plate extensions: http://www.pearcegrip.com/Products/GLOCK/PG-43%2B1

Anyone familiar with them?

[ray1970]

My wife just bought a G43 yesterday. She likes the feel of it better than her LC9, and I hope she shoots it better ;). Looking at these base plate extensions: http://www.pearcegrip.com/Products/GLOCK/PG-43%2B1

Anyone familiar with them?

Dont know anything about them but they appear to be in stock locally. Well, locally for us Denver area guys.

http://www.rockyourglock.com/custom/PEAPG431.htm

[lex137]

I've bought Pearce grips for my cm9 and they were perfect fit and finish. If you just want an extension and not the +1 I have an extra factory one you can have.

[3beansalad]

My wife just bought a G43 yesterday. She likes the feel of it better than her LC9, and I hope she shoots it better ;). Looking at these base plate extensions: http://www.pearcegrip.com/Products/GLOCK/PG-43%2B1

Anyone familiar with them?
I ordered 3 from Buds, they arrive tomorrow. I've got +0 Pearce extensions on my 42. And grip plugs in my other Glocks. Every Pearce part has been of excellent quality. I'll let you know how the +1s work out if you like. Won't be able to get to the range with them for ac while, but can cycle dummy rounds.

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[HoneyBadger]

My wife just bought a G43 yesterday. She likes the feel of it better than her LC9, and I hope she shoots it better ;). Looking at these base plate extensions: http://www.pearcegrip.com/Products/GLOCK/PG-43%2B1

Anyone familiar with them?
I have Pearce grips on my G26 and love them. Mine don't add any capacity, but they improve my shooting significantly.

[thvigil11]

I got some pearce plus 1s for my new gun. They are working out great so far. Hardly any bigger than the factory pink extension.

[TEAMRICO]

I got some pearce plus 1s for my new gun. They are working out great so far. Hardly any bigger than the factory pink extension.
Plus 1!

I Plan to get them for all my mags. Fit and finish is top notch and an extra round don't hurt.
I think the factory extension looks weak IMO.

[mahkcod]

I've carried both extensively, keeping in mind your question is about comfort, concealability issues, etc. The G43 is much lighter and easier to conceal obviously than the G19. I carry the G43 now daily at work or just running around town and really you forget it is there. I have worn tucked in shirts and slacks to brief in meetings no one has seen it print at all, it is so small it really disappears easy. When I carried the G19, for me the larger handle would catch on my shirt and pull upward sometimes exposing itself or fall behind the handle and pinch printing and sometimes could print e if I moved certain ways. I like the higher round count of the G19 if I feel I'm traveling someplace where it is more likely I may have an issue, but I think the bottom line is the G43 I don't have to dress for the gun the same way I do when I carry the G19.

just my $0.02 hope it help you out.