Glock G43: A Top-Selling Handgun In 2020

by
posted on March 3, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
g43-mos.jpg
The Glock G43 was the second-fastest selling semi-automatic pistol on GunBroker.com during 2020. Combined with the company’s G19, which claimed top honors, it was a 1-2 finish for the manufacturer that took polymer-framed handguns mainstream.

Moving up from the No. 4 position in 2019, the G43 a single-stack 9 mm—the company’s smallest—and ideal for concealed carry. Overall length is 6.26", and the barrel measures 3.41". Palm texturing ensures a solid grip under stress, in poor weather or when wearing gloves. Magazine capacity is six rounds.

The pistol tips the scales at only 20.64 ozs. when loaded. B. Gil Horman tested one for American Rifleman and reported, “As a Glock fan, I found that the G43 rang all of the reliability and ease-of-use bells that keep me going back to the company for more.”

This year the company made a good thing even better with the introduction of a pair of increased capacity models. The G43X Black features a Slimline frame ideal for concealment, but its black slide features an nDLC finish. Magazine capacity is up to 10 cartridges. “The G43X combines a compact-size grip length, a built-in beavertail and a subcompact-slim slide for a comfortably balanced, versatile grip that’s ideal for a variety of users,” the company explains on its web page. It comes in at 23.06 ozs. when loaded, has the same length barrel and measures 6.5" in length.

The G43X Mos is Glock’s other introduction for 2021. It’s an optics-ready solution for self-defense. Specifications are identical to the Black version, with the exception of the nDLC finish. Instead, its stainless steel slide has been CNCd for fast and effortless mounting of today’s popular red-dot sights.

Glock doesn’t list MSRPs on its website, although shop around and you’ll likely find a few original G43s for slightly below $700. Expect the G43X Mos to set you back around $800 and the G43X Black to run about the same.

Latest

Galactic Pistol Alliance 1
Galactic Pistol Alliance 1

The Galactic Pistol Alliance: An Entry Point For New Competition Shooters

Galactic Pistol Alliance jettisons rule confusion and offers a much more relaxed model for newcomers to competition shooting, all while keeping cool shooting stages and an emphasis on safety.

Keepin’ It Simple: Chiappa Wildlands 92 Field & Core Models

Chiappa USA is returning the Wildland series of lever-action rifles to its roots with the 92 Field and Core, designs that keep it simple while still offering modern features.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 5, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Gunsite Marks 50 Years With Alumni Shoot in Paulden

More than 400 competitors gathered at the Arizona academy founded by Lt. Col. Jeff Cooper, as elected officials urged turnout ahead of the midterms.

I Have This Old Gun: Standard Arms Model G

There is an adage that goes something to the effect of, “just because one can do something doesn’t mean it necessarily should be done.” This thought may aptly be applied to the short-lived Standard Arms Model G rifle.

NRA Partners with Guidefitter to Support Industry Professionals

The new alliance between NRA and Guidefitter provides VIP access to the company’s exclusive gear benefits from more than 300 leading outdoor brands, educational opportunities and community tools. 

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.