Glock Model 43 9mm Pistol: Worth the Wait?

[@raycobra6078]

I respect this man so much that if he doesn't have a review of a gun I'm interested in, or if he doesn't recommend it I don't even consider buying it.

[@RudiusSwagrid]

Sootch and Hickok. Both sign off? It's a safe choice.

[@phasar1]

If you're in need of a single stack 9mm, the Glock 43 is an excellent choice. Almost all 9mm single stack weapons carrying less than ten rounds have no distinct advantage over one another. That being said, if I'm ever in a self defense situation and limited to under a ten round mag, I damn sure hope the gun I'm carrying is a Glock. A lot of people feel the same way, that's why the 43 will sell in large numbers.

[@abc-wv4in]

Yes, it's very popular, but so is the M&P Shield, 7+1 and 8+1 in the box from the factory. S&W beat them to it on the single stack 9. I own two Glocks and three M&Ps, all great handguns.

[@phasar1]

@@abc-wv4in Glock was not in a race to put out a single stack 9mm, I don't think they cared what S&W was doing.

[@abc-wv4in]

@@phasar1 They may not have cared, but they missed a great opportunity for awhile. (They are in business to sell handguns.) The Shield was a top-selling gun for a long time, and still sells well. Rumor is they sold between one and two million Shields pretty quickly, so yes, I'm surprised Glock wasn't more on the ball sooner re a small single stack 9. Totally their call, though; doesn't matter to me. Both companies make great handguns.

[@phasar1]

@@abc-wv4in Glock has other obligations that they felt were more of a priority than producing a single stack 9mm. The Glock 43 sells as many pistols as the shield does, and already has more after market support. Not to mention the popularity and sales of the 43x. Glock does things in their own time, and that has proven to be an excellent formula for success.

[@ChrisPBacon741]

@@abc-wv4in Yeah I'll take the Glock 43 over the M&P Shield any day based on reliability alone. In fact, I would still carry the Glock 43 even if it was only 4+1

[@salty_terminal_civilian5374]

6 years later and I just bought one, I can always make it bigger, can't make the x and 48 smaller. When I buy a 48 I can mash them together to effectively make 4 different configurations. Plus shield mags.... The 43 is still great to this day. It beat out the high capacity micros for me because of reliability. I love my mag guts for my 43, +2 but very small increase in size. 12 Rd mag as backup.

[@lqgrxdeb]

I own all three of the "top three" compact 9mm's. The LC9 S Pro, the M&P Shield, and the Glock 43. All have Talon grips. Ameriglo I Dot's on the Shield, and XS Big Dots on the LC9. None of the pistols have thumb safeties. All of them shoot very well, with the Shield maybe being the best, but not enough to worry about. I choose the Glock 43 as my EDC simply because it feels best in my hand out of the three. My mods on it are 3.5 Ghost connector, Talon grips, and a Taran Tactical +2 mag extension. The reason for this post is to talk about the sights on the Glock. I replaced the rear sights with Glock OEM steel two dot night sights. On the front, I installed the XS Big Dot. This set up brings the front sight into play very quickly and focuses your eyes on the front sight instantly. In daylight or darkness. You see that "big dot" right in the middle of those two easy to see rear sights and it just stands out perfectly. For my 66 year old eyes, this is a great set up! I know everyone has their preferences, and this is mine. Try it...you'll like it!

[@solyolles9476]

faultroy ko

[@abc-wv4in]

Love my Shield, factory 8+1 and 7+1 in the box.

[@EAS573182]

Why do people thumbs down sootch00 reviews? I've yet to find someone do a more complete review on firearms than him.

[@alexmoore1506]

Maybe it could be their disproval of the product too.

[@armedrebellion47]

Alex Moore exactly, people know deep down inside glocks are the best especially the fan boys of sig, and smith.

[@nicholasb600]

Aneesh Sompalli Nutnfancy>

[@Brandonx-nb7rv]

Nick Bowers don't confuse "more complete" with "longer" lol.... i hate on nutnfancy's reviews, but if you look at my viewed history, there are a lot of them on there.

[@nicholasb600]

Brandon_ 7.62x39 lol I knew I'd get a response x). Apples and oranges but honestly Sootch seems too positive even tho I agree with everything in this particular vid. 7.62x39 ;) oo la la

[@SkinnyMedic]

So far I have like carrying the G43 for a conceal weapon. I just stick the other mag in my pocket.

[@stevethomas4353]

I was disappointed that the magazine only holds 6 rounds, but small size is perfect-- and I keep another clip with me! Great concealed carry weapon!

[@bigchunk1]

I think you had the best Glock 43 review of all the ones I have seen. I like how you compared it to all the other Glocks and what advantages/disadvantages it has over other carry guns.

[@dylanc760]

Great review. Consistently one of the most enjoyable KZbin Gunners.

[@TheSoulMan11]

I was able to get mine for 499 brand new, and I am loving my choice, I conceal carry it on my motorcycle and can barely feel it.

[@tomaltieri1572]

Shot a two inch three round group at 25 yards offhand with it today. Love my 26, but the 43 is smaller and lighter.

[@JeremyMcCant]

Nice man!

[@dennisg.rhoads6621]

great review of the awesome GLOCK 43 Sootch

[@Baasicstuff]

my G26 shoots great but it is big for summer carry; hard to beat the Ruger LCP 380. The 26 is perfect for the camper and also gives you the option of high round capacity. Now if I didnt have the money for 2 guns that 43 looks like a great choice

[@gwidwock]

The video was very good. As a Glock guy with quite a few Glocks, I went with the M&P 9 Shield. 7+1 is a winner at a price of $399.00. A 6+1 with a price of $549 just doesn't make it. I don't know WHAT the hell Glock was thinking.

[@RichardGreene-b4t]

They don't cost that much at 440.00 bucks

[@lionelfalgout6795]

One plus is that the Shield does come with a 7 AND 8 round magazine...they are a little softer on recoil than the 43 also. I own both and love both though...

[@Bulwark1911]

G42 and G43 will out sell everything else, regardless of price. They are ideal CCW pieces.

[@abc-wv4in]

The G42 is big for a .380, though. To me the only advantage of carrying .380 is that you can get a tiny pistol that can always be carried when larger guns can't. The G42 is too big for a .380; might as well carry a small 9mm (much better caliber) if you're going to carry something that size. jmho

[@Brandonx-nb7rv]

The gun community logic: 1 year ago: Why doesn't glock make a single stack 9?? where's the single stack? now: Then the g43 arrives..... why did glock make a single stack? that's stupid. they wasted their time it's too late no matter what you do to please your customers, You can't win

[@sootch00]

Brandon_ 7.62x39 You hit the nail on the head. Thanks

[@IYHuckleberry]

Exactly. I heard rumors of Glock producing a defense shotgun within the next few years...but I suppose that makes them too late to the game as well. Something tells me a Glock shotgun would sell like crazy despite Remington and Mossberg having already established themselves in that market. I'm all for companies producing a new pistol for their brand, even if other companies have been doing it for years. It is never too late, especially IF it turns out to better than what's already out there.

[@FlyTour69]

Brandon_ 7.62x39 Not only a year ago, but years ago. Also a few months ago people were begging for it.

[@qwman68]

I think the glock 43 is a great handgun. Despite what people think there is a place and time for a small 9mm. Very easy to conceal and 6+1 is plenty of firepower especially if you carry another mag like I do. Mine is very accurate and so far 100% reliable. I would put it up against any single stack 9mm.

[@CeliaShadden]

Besides the 19 the 43 is my favorite Glock to date!! Cant stand the beveled muzzle on the 43X. I like my "boxxy" glock look!!

[@jc-vc7xq]

Great video. I'm only a little tempted to buy one, but I'll stick with my 26. In an age where facing multiple threats is common I'd rather have the capacity. Shoots great still very easy to conceal.

[@jeffomspaugh6691]

I have Pearce +1 mag extender on my 42 and 43 magazines but I also have all 3 calibers in the Shield. I live them all.

[@shanescott3168]

I still like the Glock 43 even with the G43X out now for the shorter grip. The S&W Shield is a great pistol and value. I have both and like them both.

[@ricktillis]

You just made me spend more money. love your vids Sootch!!

[@SigGuy320]

The best channel on KZbin! Thank you for another great review. I was looking forward to this one for a while, and, as always, you did not disappoint.

[@jgharts4949]

This is one of the best reviews that I have watched on the G-43. Add the Pierce 2 extra bullets and I'm sold. I like my G-26 but the G-43 would be a great hot weather(summer clothing) handgun. Thanks Sootch!👍

[@bertraminc9412]

I think this is my favorite Glock in inventory. Great compact Austrian made, tank of a gun!

[@fishlanding]

Always enjoy a sootch00 tree-stump review !

[@alvinbigdog]

Very good insight. The most comprehensive look at the 43 I've seen anywhere. Thanks for the effort and time you spent.

[@graptharshammer8273]

FYI: The Shield ships with a 7 round and an 8 round magazine.

[@eljones3954]

A most excellent review. Thank you. I emailed Glock just before SHOT and told them if they didn't release the single stack 9mm at SHOT I was going to buy a Shield. They didn't, so I did. I may end up with the 43, but I'm not in a rush. I've been incredibly happy with the Shield for CC.

[@skankhunt-vw8xr]

You know you want it.

[@eljones3954]

Yes...but I have self-control.

[@skankhunt-vw8xr]

I went out and spent $600 on the PPS. Imagine how I feel. It's an awesome gun, but I'm getting the 43 sometime next week. Whatever.

[@AOD-tr7nd]

Went to the range today which was very hard since 9mm ammo is so expensive to get right now. Brought my normal 9mm that I’ve put 1000 rounds through and shot about average since it’s been over a year since my last range trip. A friend let me shout his Glock 43 and my first 5 shots were dead center. Could be coincidence but either way I’m sold. I’ll be getting a 43 as soon as the gun buying paranoia is over and prices come back down. Excellent gun that just felt great and natural in my hand

[@ediot6969]

I like how the glock 26 and the shield were some of the deepest concealment pistols available. Now glock comes out with the 43 which is 1/2 inch smaller from top to bottom and all the sudden the 26 or the shield are irrelevant for carry. Yeah right!

[@michaelmezzanotte1073]

Key words..."for a Glock"... Your review on the Heckler & Koch HKP30SK LEM V1 also in 9mm, left me with a more positive feeling that it was a better EDC in the category.

[@darrenhenderson746]

One thing I *REALLY* dislike on the compact and subcompact Glocks (except for the U.S. built G42) is the serrated trigger. I know that Glock has to use that trigger based on the ATF import "points" system it uses, but that trigger makes for a miserable shooting experience in a very short amount of time. As always, thanks for the excellent review, Sir. Hope to bump into you at the 2015 Blade Show.

[@dc68781]

I find the 43 interesting but the price of it compared to comparable pistols ex. The shield is probably the biggest problem at the moment. It it is like the G30 compared to the G36 difference being. 45 but how people said why buy 36 when the 30 would hold 10 rounds vs 6 of. 45!

[@ritesideofthefence5857]

Thanks again for another great video. yourself , Hickok and Nutnfancy really do bring some great information. Maybe do one on the grip extensions you mentioned

[@garageguy879]

This is the best G43 video I've seen here on YT so far.I've got nothing against Glocks,I've shot the 43,it's an a alright little pistol but my time I've invested with the Shield is more than enough to over shadow the need for me to switch to another model cc weapon,,plus I think the Shield is the better gun.Also as of today 4/30/15 Bud's Gun Shop has the 43 listed at $474,,M&P Shield $369.

[@rlsoutdoors997]

Glock 43 + vickers tactical plus 2 mag extension = perfection !!!

[@MemphisMojo15s]

I carry a 43 with the standard 6 round magazine in my pocket and the 6 round pinky extension mag in the gun. I carry a 10 round Pro magazine in a pouch eith a G17 mag and my G17 on my side. They just compliment each other in so many ways

[@stevekatz4372]

I went to my local gun shop last week to trade my 2 .380 guns for another smith revolver but something strange happened to me as I looked at the G 43 in the show case. Yes, I picked it up and bought it instead of that revolver. As a 4 glock owner, I am now a 5 glock owner. Great gun!

[@rElliot09]

What's nice about the G43, and handguns like it in size, is when it's hot and humid down here in South Texas and thin shirts are a must, they fit and hide well. So I've been wearing my new G43 (700+ rounds through it) with ease. Other carries are my XDs 4.0 45 ACP and the mighty G19. Just another option. Oh, btw, excellent review!!!

[@eddiet204]

I bought a G43 as a secondary gun, CCW gun, and stash gun. Unlike ALL of my Glocks, this G43 JAMMED at least 10% of the time. It's a FTE leaving me with a round jammed into the spent case left in the chamber. Our Range Master has a G43 and has experienced the same failure. I know a retired officer who also has the same issue. No, I'm not limp writing it nor am I using cheap ammo or reloads. Federal Red Box 124 gr and Winchester 115 gr White Box. Not only does it jam, when it does, the mag is stuck and cannot be removed. So a failure in the real world will leave me shit out of luck. I have a Shield 40 and have put over 2k rounds through it with ZERO failures. What alarms me most is that I see reviews that show this gun to be totally reliable, when it is not. Being a Glock, I would expect near flawless performance out of all of their guns.

[@tk423b]

The advantage the 43 over say the CM9 or other small 9s is it has a 3.4” barrel. That little extra length provides an important increase in velocity.

[@bc_usa]

I enjoy watching your videos. Great reviews.

[@JoseGDiaz-ih2xu]

love the intros of your videos, keep it up !

[@muffinman8365]

The width of the grip is important, but so is the depth of it from back to trigger: for those with smaller hands. From what I can tell from the video, the 42 and 43 looks like a good option for people with small hands.

[@rodneydavis8454]

Great video awesome gun just fabouls advice everytime keep the awesome videos coming.

[@xjetpilot]

Nice review Sootch!

[@robertbrodeur4290]

Don, nice review. I forwarded to my brother Bill in Florida, who has one of these puppies. He modified it and its a sweet shooter.

[@kennethwise5707]

I have one and I love it....To each his own.

[@theARMORYchannel]

LIKED! awesome video great little 9

[@PewLife]

42 or 43... Decisions decisions...great video man

[@ericharrington2673]

Definitely going to buy that Glock have always been a Glock fan

[@jawjww]

you make the best reviews. I've done lots of research and learned a lot from your videos. thanks.

[@mattym5835]

I *love* my G43! Only problem ... its weight & size have spoiled me. Now even my G27 feels like a "beast". That's OK tho ... thx Sootch!!

[@Flyboy737]

Excellent Review! I especially liked the comparison's between the 43 and the Shield.

[@silencermartin1556]

Sootch you really know what your sayin, right there are so many mag extension for 43

[@jrodeck]

I love all of your videos Sootch! I heard the Glock 43 is a little snappy, is that true?

[@amsmith170]

Thanks for a fair and honest review of the Glock 43. I've been thinking about a single stack 9 to replace my Makarov as a CCW weapon, and I was not very comfortable with theM&P Shield.. I already have 2 other Glocks (17, 19) and like that it has very similar mechanics. I think that I will be purchasing a G43 as soon as demand for them settles.

[@shoghisanchez376]

love mine!!! just bought mine last week along with a Sticky brand CCW holster! Fit's like a glove!

[@Hunter.686]

Good video!! But the shield does come with an extra magazine that adds an extra round. Just thought I'd mention that since you were talking about the mag extender for the glock.

[@Mike82ARP]

My local shop had one with the price at $520.00. Maybe the price will drop when they become more available. With the S&W Shield priced at $399.00, I'd have to go with the S&W at this time.

[@PBuffdaddy00]

I love your reviews. I agree with The2ndPatriot on this one. For those of us not invested in Glock, I see the Shield as the more attractive option. My dad's came with a 7 round mag and an 8 round mag. I understand your argument about the extensions, but you get those round counts right out of the box with the S&W. Great review, though.

[@tuebor1837]

Looks like a perfect back-up to a G23. Can't wait for mine!

[@Scorpiuszeroone]

Shield 9mm comes with a 7 round and 8 round magazine. M&p9 compact will give you 12+1 for those of us in free states. Also the Pearce extension for the Shield is only for your pinky, it's not an additional round capacity.

[@MSSynsyterGates]

Sootch how did you overlook the fact that the M&P shield already comes with a 7 and 8 rd magazine standard. Seems like an odd thing to neglect. Didn't mention it once when comparing round count and you own that shield. Seems like a weird oversight.

[@SingleCoilVoodoo]

Great review/demo, Sootch. You never disappoint

[@Mrgunsngear]

Great review----I concur on almost all points!

[@ThePNWRiderWA]

I looked at the 43 and it was meh. Not anything special. The shield fit my hand better.

[@duroisgawd]

***** LOL. You could of just bought the 9mm barrel for your shield.

[@carminemurray6624]

I had a Colt Mustang .380 acp as a BUG long before these countless fruitless arguments, and it was Hella concealable.

[@wpherigo1]

Thanks for the review. I went out and rented the 43 at the range I go to and really liked it. The trigger was better than some other Glocks I have tried. It was easy to shoot and comfortable. I normally carry and shoot an XD Subcompact 9mm, so the size was "familiar".

[@tomtomlinsonppg2756]

Great review as always. I picked one up the other day and really like it. Keep up the great work.

[@badjujuR6]

I am going to wait to pick up the G43. Just so the supply can catch up to the demand, the price can go down, and to wait for extended mag kits, and sights and holsters to become available.

[@JoeyP322]

I think you make the best review videos... You should have you're own TV show. Thanks again for the video...

[@AtWarSessions]

I tease myself constantly. I love California but not the roster. Awesome video sir!

[@mikesalmon9945]

Holy cow sootch,you could cut the video down by 10 minutes for how many times you said "glock did it right the first time".Man after 2:50 I was done

[@gph9674]

Good to see it is not just a skinny G26. Hopeful someone I know will get one so I can compare it to my XDs 9mm. The XDs has turned into a great shooter. A lighter, thinner Glock would be preferable once someone gets an extension on the round count. Hard to give up that extra round and the XDs shoots so good but 18 ounces, If the trigger is better on the G43, that would probably do it.

[@johnnyroastbeef3048]

I know this is an old video and I bought my g43 about when this video came out. Now you got a plus two plus one on your magazines and you could do whatever you want. I just saw a Lenny was selling a plus-4 for this particular g43 and his GlockStore. I'm real happy just carrying the plus two because I carry Ampex at about 12 a clock and I don't want that showing too much in a T-shirt other than that thanks for the great old video

[@gfpd2722]

I always love the tactical duck face in the intro.

[@hawkeyescorner2559]

Excellent video. I went ahead and pre-ordered a holster mold for the G43.

[@jsweatt6302]

What I've noticed about the G43 as well as the 42, the fit of the magazines no longer look like an afterthought.

[@lastactionmedic5677]

My first handgun I ever bought was a glock and I'm used to the trigger. I shot the shield, and god did it feel wonky. I wouldn't mind having either, but if price wasn't too big of an issue I'd go with the glock. I wouldn't have any issues with the trigger under stress. I'd have to shoot the shield a lot to understand it.

[@looseunit1615]

I live in Louisiana. I'm looking at buying my first pistol. My other consideration...open or conceal carry. I like full size guns. They feel right in my big hands.

[@xj53pq7]

Maybe consider a 26 or an m&p 9c

[@armedrebellion47]

Its a lot of haters up here. Glocks are the best, it's simple it all has to do with its design perfection, not too mention reliability. Can't wait for the 15 to 20 round glock factory magazine.

[@kirk189]

Really enjoy your videos Sootch!

[@jona5517]

Great gun. I still carry it with the pearce plus one grip. Reliable with all ammo. Unlike when I tried the shield mags. Reliable with ball ammo but not jhp. Especially on the last couple of rounds. I’ve had bad luck with the shield mags. Super light when carrying 90gr underwood defenders.

[@douglasphillips24]

Even after the introduction of all the new carry guns & having the 43X & 48 I find myself carrying the little 43 with a 7 Rd mag more & more. Plus I can pocket carry the 43 & the 43X I can't.

[@nmr3352]

I was never tempted to buy ANY other pocket 9mm. I had no problem waiting for the Glock 43. My friends who bought other CCPs have sold or stored them in favor of the Glock.

[@ctdvargas]

sootch you gotta smile more when you are shooting!

[@SuperCutter2]

I purchased the new Glock 43 and nearly sold it the same day. I own a number of Glocks and this has the worse trigger of all of them. I also own the M&P Shield and Ruger LC9s Pro which both have great triggers. If up you end buying the Glock 43 you'll need Talon Grips, Ghost Pro Connector and Taran Extension +1 or +2. they are great. Most gun stores I visit have told me most people aren't buy the Glock 43 just because of the trigger.

[@kylestarfaux]

I'm really considering grabbing one of these. I tend to carry a 26 and I really love that gun but it definitely does start to get a little cumbersome from time to time just because of it's thickness. I think I'd really enjoy having a 43 to just strap on for quick trips and such.

[@bosco358]

I just paid $ 350 for a brand new s&w m&p shield , my local gun shop has about 5 or 6 new Gock 43 in stock but he won't sell em , has a raffle one at a time for each gun at $20 a chance and the proceeds go to his nephew who got injured as a soldier in iraq , problem is that the first raffle went big but now nobody is buying chances for the rest because they just wanna buy the damn gun , we tell the owner to sell the guns and just give the profit to his nephew but he's not the smartest guy you would meet . So now we gotta wait cause nobody else around here has the new Glock 43 in yet but hopefully soon .

[@kdtool9437]

Glock 43 is in point, 4 years of ccw and I believe it’s a very good choice for 95% of situations anyone would face in their lifetime. Added a hogue grip and a +2ext. Forget your carrying and shoots nice!

[@hacktheplanet76]

im sticking with my g27 but thumbs up because these reviews are so damn good

[@Motorcyclewindtherapy]

Crazy to watch this 8-9 years later. The G43 is the number selling Glock and overall firearm in the world, lol. (In all it's iterations)

[@cloudnyn460]

Good as concealed edc but needs a +4 extension to play with double stacks. If you can't end a situation with 15/17/19 rounds , as a backup 7 more won't do it .

[@Aleks9x19]

Taren Tactical already makes +1 and +2 base plates for the G43

[@Guns_and_Outdoors_Channel]

Great review as always. I like that's it's skinny for ccw. I am thinking that I would still plan on going with the Glock model G30s. More rounds and larger round with 45acp and CCW capable.

[@MrKoolusername]

Sir, Taran Tactical is already manufacturing and selling the +1 and +2 Base Pads for the Glock 43.

[@thewolfhunter]

I have one and I love it... and at $358.95 I like that also. Just waiting on extra mags to come out. I know it come with two but more the better. I use Speer Gold Dot 124gr. +P JHP ammo. Now my wife carries a Glock 26,She likes it better than the 43. She also uses Speer Gold Dot 124 +P ammo.

[@tonyramirez2731]

Great video just like most if not all I've seen from sootch, appreciate the insight coming from a Glock fan and still keep it honest and neutral as much as possible but in the end I go to my Shield 9 everytime. I also own the m&p 9 first responder version and is also a sweet shooter. From someone who was born and raised in Puerto Rico and has lived in the mainland since age 17, can't beat made in good old USA and best warranty/customer service in the industry, maybe second to Ruger, no Glock perfection in my book specially after the gen 4 and g 42. A bit arrogant if you ask me, sorry but had to bring it up!! Still, Glock makes great guns, can't take that away, period. Good job sootch!

[@THutch556]

Great review! Nicely done!

[@Willy2Gunz]

just picked 1 up, love it. i also ordered a +2 baseplate from teran tactical... so now im 8 +1. shield what? lol

[@MatthewGarciaxUndeadx14]

Did it make the gun harder to conceal?

[@richardpittman1078]

very good review. I have Glock 42,26,19 and m&p shield. And planning to Glock 43 soon. I carry the 42 and shield in the summer and my 26 winter and 19 is range gun. I have more handguns but I find myself all ways going back to Glock's they are just a good gun.

[@jsilvidi9490]

VG review! Looking forward to purchasing the 43. TY

[@Sam.Eliæson]

Wow. The recoil looks massive!

[@Cross_Hat]

What is massive is Caillou