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

Steiner Predator: 4S 4-16X 44 mm
Steiner Predator: 4S 4-16X 44 mm

Review: Steiner Predator: 4S 4-16X 44 mm

The benefit of a lightweight rifle is lost the moment you top it with a clunky, overweight optic, particularly a lengthy one. To that end, we are starting to see an emphasis on riflescopes that are less cumbersome when mounted, such as Steiner’s Predator 4S.

A Carry-Ready Classic: Outfitting A Ruger Speed-Six Revolver

Already a fan of Ruger’s long-discontinued double-action Security-Six, Police Service-Six and Speed-Six revolvers, I simply couldn’t pass up the opportunity to acquire one of the latter in 9 mm Luger when an unfired, 42-year-old example turned up at a gun show.

Old Glory Bank Sponsors 2025 National Youth Shooting Sports Conference

Old Glory Bank, which provides banking services to NRA-affiliated clubs and associations, served as the presenting sponsor for the National Youth Shooting Sports Conference in October.

Shooters, Listen Up! Take Hearing Health Seriously

When it comes to the five senses, hearing is one of the most susceptible to damage from the shooting sports. Now, the latest electronic technology gives compromised ears a new lease on life—and protects them from further harm.

The Armed Citizen® Nov. 17, 2025

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

NRA Supports Hunters For The Hungry Programs

In 2025, Hunters for the Hungry programs across the United States will have extra support from the National Rifle Association, thanks to NRA Foundation donors.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.