Which Subcompact Glock is Best? Glock 43, 43X, or 48?

In this episode of TFBTV, James goes over the pros and cons of 3 of his favorite pistols: The Glock 43, the Glock 43X, and Glock 48. More importantly, James, Brannon, and Ryan test these three compact Glocks against each other at 10 feet, 20 feet, and 30 feet to see which performs the best in "real life" distances.
««« GUN AND GEAR GIVEAWAYS »»»
PLEASE check out our Patreon and Subscribe Star pages if you enjoy our program, and consider helping us at TFBTV out! We give away hundreds of dollars of gear a month to our supporters!
/ tfbtv
www.subscribestar.com/tfbtv
NOTE: These giveaways are not affiliated with, associated with, or in any way endorsed by KZbin and TFBTV is solely responsible for the giveaways mentioned in this video and this description. No purchase required for gear worth over $250.
««« FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA »»»
/ thefirearmblogtv
/ tfbtv
/ tfbtv
««« SPONSORS »»»
Please Support Them! They help make our videos possible.
- Ventura Munitions
- Federal Premium - Building the industry's widest variety of ammunition and offering leading products for every facet of the shooting sports.
www.federalpremium.com/
-Blue Alpha Gear: bluealphagear.com
- Top Gun Supply
««« TFB CHAT ROOM »»»
Want to join the TFBTV chat room? Use our Discord Invite: / discord
#TFBTV

[@timscott7136]

Came here just to hear James justify my 43x purchase, was not disappointed.

[@lerp5555]

It’s like you typed my thoughts.

[@edwarddjorgensen4848]

Exact same thing😂

[@ozysjahputera7669]

Same here. Have both 48 and 43x, carrying 43x more now.

[@EastCoastMan603]

I’m doubling down - have 43 current carry - wife is about to get a 43x or 48 which ever she prefers. And then I’m keeping the other. Not logical but what can I say.

[@redrega]

Same

[@armorers_wrench]

"I'm here with the best pistol shooter in all of Louisiana" *JERRY MICULEK HAS ENTERED THE CHAT*

[@greasegun34]

Max Michel shouldn't be far behind.....

[@Auburnfan2008]

@@greasegun34, Does Max still live in Louisiana?

[@greasegun34]

@@Auburnfan2008 Honestly, I'm not 100% sure, but last I'd heard, he was still in New Orleans.

[@natesmith8020]

​@@Auburnfan2008 Yes, he does.

[@Mosiert93]

James glad you like the 43x, it’s my personal carry gun for the past year or so. One thing you forgot to touch on was the Shield 15rd mags being the same size as the 10rd Glock mags. People who are new to the shield mags probably aren’t aware of this. If you’re reading this and curious how this works....Glock uses a metal inner shell and a plastic outer shell for the magazine. This extra layer of material takes up valuable real estate inside the magazine. The Shield mags are only steel, no plastic inner shell. This opens up the inside of the magazine enough to fit another FIVE rounds out of the same size magazine. From personal experience the shield mags seem to expand slightly when fully loaded and don’t free-fall out of the gun like a wet turd unless they’re empty. But they do fall out fully loaded and the gun eats up the ammo without a hitch. 3,000+ rounds plus everyday carry with my shield mags with no issues whatsoever 👍 highly recommend

[@ekc93]

Thanks for the write up

[@bradyjenkins6507]

Best comment

[@charlieandhudsonspal7031]

Thanks for that

[@SmokesKwazukii]

he said that

[@vaden706]

He literally mentioned the shield mags in the first seconds of the video 😂

[@sylance777]

I come for the gun reviews but stay for the eighties intro/outro music.

[@chuckjack2168]

That synthwave track is fire for sure.

[@benjammin7993]

How did you comment on this a week ago?!

[@tfbtv]

Patreon or SubscribeStar early access.

[@ncekdeepsiht4804]

I'm not alone!

[@EEDad401]

You should do more of these comparisons with similar guns. P365 vs P365xl Shield vs MP Compact Xds vs Hellcat vs Xdm compact. Etc etc.... Winner winner chicken dinner.

[@youngcowboy6594]

Agreef

[@bach5780]

365, xl, and sas would be interesting for sure. Never held an sas but I assume it wouldn’t match up against the other two

[@tslubsgaming6715]

@@bach5780 I have the sas, it pretty much sucks compared to the other two 365s

[@ikocher]

I think the phrase we're looking for is "is there enough difference to make a difference? You be the judge."

[@joshuablair252]

I bought a 43x, it is perfect for conceal carry, it is extremely reliable. I am IN LOVE WITH IT.

[@theone4572]

Glock 48 all day long for me. I’ve shot all three multiple times and decided to purchase the Glock 48. I also got Shield Arms mags as well. It really comes down to personal preference.

[@davidgolden1726]

I agree, and a little more velocity and accuracy.

[@trailertrashtactics]

Shield arms mags are so bad 😂

[@CornbreadFedOleSon]

@@trailertrashtacticsthey really aren’t

[@chicochico5703]

Don’t get jammed up in a fight lol with those mags

[@cosmicbro1973]

the red shield arms extended mags look so sick on the 48

[@KGiustOD]

Repeat the rest with novice shooters. Most carriers are under practiced and lack training. In their hands, the differences should become more obvious. You three can probably shoot a PF-9 decent.

[@philipwilkin2667]

Agree, great idea.

[@KGiustOD]

@@ericbergfield6451 rule number 1: Know your audience.

[@freneticfanatic]

I've seen this many, many times. Good shooters can shoot pretty well even with diminutive handguns. Novice shooters will shoot worlds better with a larger gun 95 times out of 100.

[@evin98]

@@freneticfanatic That's why my carry is a benchrest gun. I can get perfect clover leafs on an assailant!

[@SlavicCelery]

@@evin98 It's just annoying leveling out the rest while getting mugged.

[@texasrex2222]

My dad was purchasing a pistol recently and I told him the 48 was the best option out of what was available at the gun shop; glad I talked him into it

[@henryohenry1504]

"Of these 3 guns, I think I would go with a 19" -Brannon

[@johnbaptiste87]

"THERES ALMOST NO REASON FOR THE 19" -BRANNON

[@leefithian3704]

Man that 19 gen 5 .....it does what I want

[@pushonline1568]

@@johnbaptiste87 ur crazy dude. I’m 5’4, 130lbs and I carry my G19, 15+1 and love it. King!

[@johnbaptiste87]

@@pushonline1568 lol Brannon is the one who said it

[@chuckthomas918]

Or my choice the trusty G26

[@cpineo13]

The 48 helps the gun not “tip” in my pants, the longer slide makes it more comfortable in my opinion. Coming from a 19x with an x300u attached. 48/tlr7 sub is my summer carry choice.

[@marksc1929]

Same

[@toobalicious]

Thanks for the great, informative video. The 43X with 15+1 seems like a damn-near unbeatable combo.

[@ryanranard5187]

48 with 15+1

[@MRsolidcolor]

ill rock it stock because i want less weight as possible

[@fmxmyway]

@@MRsolidcolor Interesting observation. Never considered that.

[@90whatever]

Seems about perfect with the MOS so you can future-proof it for micro-RDS compatibilty. 15 rounds is totally acceptable for just about all concealed carry applications, especially if you carry an extra mag as your EDC load out. Pretty much a perfect carry pistol...and then you can get into the GLOCK trigger upgrades if you so choose to make Glock perfection even more "perfecter"

[@riverwalker2173]

@@90whatever Nothings perfect and that goes for Glock 43x & G45 too but their close enough to perfect for me👌

[@fireguy_75]

Owned a 43, 43x, 26. Still got the 43 & 26. If I could only have 1?...it'd be the 26. Combination of more weight, thicker grip & double stack =better accuracy for me! 26 is KING!

[@Azeminad]

Only 1 yep I agree, but man is the 43 a comfortable carry.

[@JRock3091]

A bonus you can carry mags with a plus 2 base plate. And than have a 15 or 17 or 33 round magazine to back it up.

[@GraphixHurricane]

Came here looking for this comment. I love my 26 I can't even feel it on my body and I can put a fucking drum in it

[@droks510]

26 all day long!

[@-Enrico]

Totally agree

[@dca1981]

I couldn't decide so I bought a 43 and 48. The versatility I have is insane. Long barrel 43, make a 43x, carry a 48, etc. Shield mags, or flush fit in 43L configuration, etc. Love it. I almost feel as modular as the Sig boys.

[@scrumdiddily6162]

I’m a sig boy and I bought a 43 and a 48 for that exact reason

[@infra_r3d133]

@@scrumdiddily6162 - This is a great idea, are you able to use the same holste r for all configurations

[@Henrythef1rst]

Idk you could do this with Glocks - I have the shadow systems MR920L and the XR920 so I can do the swapparoo lol

[@josh2711]

43L is bad A. Really hoping that you’ve done a shield arma Glock chop to run a 43L with s10 (flush 10 round) mags?? Shield arms does it, but I can’t find any reviews on it

[@GeroLubovnik]

I've had 8 months more practice since my last comment. I hung a Streamlight TLR-6 on my 43x. It is almost unbelievable how much felt recoil went away. It come back on target immediately. In fact, it shoots like a much larger gun. IMO it negates most of the advantages of the 48 but the 43x is much more comfortable stuffed down your pants.

[@jennifernichols9468]

A tungsten guide rod works with less crap on the gun

[@bestmillimeter1858]

I feel like the Glock 42 doesn’t get enough love. It may be not as effective as the 43, but the 42 is the only Glock that can be pocket carried without wearing a belt. Their sizes are similar, but the 42 weighs noticeably less due to the lighter 380 rounds and won’t drag your pants down when you’re out exercising or doing strenuous activities.

[@agentrowlock2301]

Dont talk .380 in the gun community. People seem to think they are marshmallow guns lol.

[@Metalhead_Once]

@@agentrowlock2301 for real lol those marshmellow guns will still put you down idk why it seems people try to argue against that 😂I'd rather have that marshmellow than nothing

[@rufusherman412]

It doesn't recoil. Wife has my 43. I carry 19 and 42 👍

[@SnD340]

Let's be real, only reason why the 43x was ever made to begin with was because of how good the 43 actually is. And instead of people converting/modify their glock. They just released it as a whole

[@very7962]

The 42 isn’t a good compromise. Once you’ve reached the 42, well that’s .380 territory. And the 42 is probably one of the chunkiest .380s you buy. In other words, with that caliber you can go smaller. Unless you really like Glock and nothing else, then sure it’s the smallest they make.

[@oldthink84]

G26: Am I a joke to you?

[@Rundu1987]

All this is meaningless without my short fat-boy.

[@Santiago216]

Haha

[@user-td1zo3tv9p]

@@borkwoof696, ahhhhhh, so the Unwashed Masses have weighed in. I figured the Inbred element would want to have a word to say. We've seen it. And IF the Glock wasn't such a phenomenal gun, WTF would it be such a HUGE worldwide success and selling phenom? And not just because they (Glock) gives underpricing incentives to buy in quantities? Riddle me THAT. (Coming from a tried and True M1911A1 FanBoy who carried one in the Military career and as a LEO after that. Gotta be a real reason to make ME change, and not just marketing hype, either.) Just sayin'.

[@alex-ki5wm]

@@user-td1zo3tv9p M19gay

[@chicochico5703]

@@user-td1zo3tv9pwtf are you talking about

[@artwebb6939]

I'm on a lower skill level than the three Shooters you were using I have owned the 43, and the 48 I shot significantly better with the 48 than I did with the 43, probably because I'm not that skilled and so less capable of compensating for that short grip, plus the fact that there was Zero grip left over to get my support hand on by the time I wrapped my right meathook around the 43 Counterpoint, the 43 will slip into the front pocket of a pair of Carhartt Jeans, although the draw stroke is more complex then pocket carrying a J frame revolver, because of the square shape of the back of the slide Just my two cents, from the perspective of a not very good (yet) shooter

[@kodefashmodefa]

Shorter gripped stuff I struggle with. I did try the 43 and see it’s appeal, but I don’t like having a pinky dangling. I stumbled on the 48 at a shop and snagged it. I like it, pretty fun to shoot. I’m not some elite pew guy tho, larger glock 19ish sized stuff I’m more consistent with.

[@artwebb6939]

@@kodefashmodefa I would really, really like to try Glock 19 However given the current political situation, I'm a bit worried about the notion of buying a double stack

[@kodefashmodefa]

@@artwebb6939 best bet is to buy it now if you can find it. Worry about the woulda and coulda later. Glock 19 is a comfy shooter. I don’t think it’s the grip I think it’s more of the proportions, more similar sized firearms feel just as comfortable.

[@Genesis23OPB]

wait, cant the g48 take those smith and wesson mags that take 15 rounds? that makes the g48 one of the best carry pistols in general and the best of the bunch imo.

[@artwebb6939]

@@Genesis23OPB both the 43x and the 48 can take shield 15 round mags They aren't Smith and Wesson mags though, they're made by shield arms And yes, the 48 is a great carry gun, and a good shooter, too

[@clarkrp1960]

Great review! I love my G43X and G48. I carry the 43X with 15 round mag with a 20 round extra mag. Summer carry is a P365. I have to note here, unlike James, I'm not a Glock fan boy, however, the thinner 43X and 48 made the difference for me. Just fits my hands better and carries better then a larger pistol.

[@RevGunn-jq3cq]

Come on man! The girls like it when I carry a 17L. Of course they may be disappointed when they find out the truth.

[@TheBrewer3535]

Do you appendix carry a 34 on Friday nights?

[@jason200912]

get a glock 34

[@bach5780]

LOL that’s awesome

[@RevGunn-jq3cq]

jason200912 LOL, a 42 would be more believable

[@TheBrewer3535]

@@RevGunn-jq3cq at least it's not a Glock 44

[@magdump7380]

I have a 43 and love it, great gun. My son bought a 43X and I love the feel of the longer grip, feels great in the hand.

[@bcs022578]

I have both the 43 and 48. So in actuality I have all three and have the shield arms mags. My wife shoots better with the 48 but due to her size she carries the 43 and shoots good with it too. Now I will put the 43 slide on the 48 frame making it a 43X and I occasionally carry that way. Honestly all three have a purpose and work great. I carried a 19 and 26 for about 15 years but now carry the smaller ones and the shield arms mags were the determining factor. Great video.

[@bcs022578]

@@bulabroha how’s that?

[@Athonite]

If pocket carry is your thing, Glock 43 all day...in a proper holster, of course.

[@MarkyMan316]

43 allows more flexibility if you can only pick one. With a Strike mag extension you can add 2 more rounds and have the same size as 43X for the better grip. Otherwise much deeper concealment with the 43 than the 43X/48.

[@raulmachado182]

More with the p365 lol

[@rickc2102]

@@raulmachado182 I was gonna say that

[@roelrodriguez5024]

I think you missed the part where you can use 15 round mags on the 43x & it doesn’t affect the profile

[@stealingfire5036]

Try MAGGUTS +1/+2 spring replacement kits. Their +1 fits in a standard flush mag and their +2 spring/extension is still shorter than a stock pinky mag. They also use metal followers. 8+1 in a G43 is not bad.

[@roelrodriguez5024]

@@Pler1978 not to brag but the 15 rounders and 20 round mags are nice in my g43x.

[@leejohnson2024]

im in a wheelchair and cant carry in the waistline, so i shoulder carry a 48 with a shield mag to shave a few ounces of weight over the 19.

[@screwgle7914]

sounds like the perfect rig to conceal an ar-15/10 pistol!

[@joshmajor8662]

Dude I know how this’ll sound but you didn’t say weather you were forced to be wheelchair bound or you chose that over crutches or whatever but I’d love to have a wheelchair I could modify to be a small tank/rolling turret!!! Your possibilities are limitless!!! Personally if you don’t have a mares leg in 44 mag in a side saddle rig made for a horse, as backup! Your doing the world a disservice lol god the possibilities!!! Haha

[@rickc2102]

@@joshmajor8662 bruh..

[@Excalibur01]

You can carry a bigger gun attached to your wheelchair.

[@Excalibur01]

@@screwgle7914 Shotguns triggered by smacking the arm rests

[@Santiago216]

Love the jams during the shooting! All great guns, training is always key! Keep kicking ass James, also a fan of the short-shorts!

[@jamesunderwood1710]

This is one of the most informative segments on these blocks that I’ve seen thus far sometimes Nurding out gives us so much more information and perspective on the choices that we need to make when spending our money so thanks again

[@akmarksman]

Glock 19 is always the best answer

[@nottheatf3885]

How about both glock 19 and 43x! When I'm feeling fat I carry my 43x lol

[@PopeMcGrope]

@@nottheatf3885 when I’m feeling fat I just take the surefire and rmr slide off my 19. Glock 19 is always the answer.

[@tackytrooper]

The 3 and the 4 are the correct answer, just not in this format. Glock 34 for life.

[@PopeMcGrope]

@@tackytrooper pffff, get a load of this beta. Glock 40 FTW 😏

[@benb5960]

Concealability rules. With the 43 and a flush mag, I can carry front pocket holster in most of my trousers and shorts (& it’s 9mm, not a .380). Spare mag a 9 or 12 round ETS.

[@moose9410]

Okay boomer 😂

[@mtrevino8510]

Great information guys. I have a glock 43 going with the 43X with the 15 round mag based on your test and review . Thanks you for this. It make my decision a technical one and not a gut one.

[@LatestHour]

You can make a 43 bigger if you want, but you can't make the other two smaller. I had a very hard time concealing the grip on a 43X, so the 43 is perfect for me and I can carry it year round. Yes it carries less rounds, but 7+1 (MagGuts) is way more than I would ever need to defend myself. (Which, statistically, will never even happen anyway.)

[@BU1Lander]

I hate it when people say they will never need more than X rounds... If you will only ever need X rounds then move to California. Better yet, because you will statistically never need a gun, then go sell your guns back to the government. The truth is, no matter how statistically unlikely it is that you will ever need it, you carry because there IS a possibility that you might need a firearm for your defense. If you DO ever need to use your firearm, then you NEVER know what situation might require it (How many aggressors are there? How determined are they? Will incapacitating their leader make the rest desist? Is it even clear who the leader might be?). These are ALL reasons that you carry spare magazines (If you have never been told to carry spare magazines, or didn't know that you should, then you should really start at least looking up some concealed carry tips, or something). If you should carry spares, then you should also carry the largest magazine that is reasonably concealable for your situation and manner of dress, because you never know what situation you might findyourself in.

[@LatestHour]

@@BU1Lander I can't adequately conceal a Glock 43X with a t-shirt on. Therefore I can't carry more rounds unless I have a P365, but I already chose my carry gun. If you can carry a 5" tall gun, good for you. I shot expert in the Army (infantry) and have good situational awareness, so hopefully it helps with my measly 8 rounds.

[@BU1Lander]

@@LatestHour Actually, currently when I am not at work, I carry something taller than 5". I carry a XDm 5.25 small of back. During the summer, I can conceal it small of back IWB with only an untucked t-shirt. If you can't conceal something larger than a G43 under a t-shirt (Hell, start up sizing your t-shirts a bit, if you have to) then apparently you haven't tried. My main point is it is just grating to hear someone trying to sound all Billy Badass by saying all they will ever need is whatever minimum amount of rounds they arbitrarily choose. If all you really can conceal is a G43, then yeah, whatever training you have (I have 24 years experience over three services, Army, Navy, and Air Force, and yes, I have shot expert also, congrats) you would STILL be well served by at least carrying a few spare mags, to back up your eight measly rounds and situational awareness with at least another eight or sixteen measly rounds.

[@LatestHour]

@@BU1Lander Thanks for serving. I live in a low-crime area and that would be overkill. I get where you are coming from, but it's just not realistic.

[@salaseenose]

The best comment I've read on this video!

[@colt10mmsecurity68]

The 43X is way more comfortable than the 48 when carrying IWB and in a seated position for extended periods of time. That shorter slide of the 43X doesn’t dig into your gut like the 48 does.

[@Junebug_420]

I have several glocks and my favorite to carry is def my 43x. It’s an awesome little gun and the S15 mags are the reason I chose it over a 365 or hellcat.

[@TylerTheTiler]

I'm new but I just went with the 43x specifically because everyone highly recommends those 15 rd mags. The 365xl/x and 365 are all reasonably more expensive as well.

[@t3xenfury]

wow i wish all gun reviews are done your way… this is the most informative process ive ever seen on youtube…i really appreciated this video. thank you!! Subbed👍

[@christostefan]

Thank you Mr Reeves. So happy to someone use firearms instead of some old bags click baiting about pistol braces that we got for Christmas this year.

[@floresf8727]

I prefer the 48 over the 43X. The longer slide makes it better for IWB carry. Shorter slides feel like they tend to want to flip out. At least, in my experience.

[@micahasher7600]

Depends on body type

[@Quality_Guru]

Outstanding design of experiments. I just watched an outstanding video on Carry Trainer. Within the video the instructor showed the importance of using your support hand pinkie and shoulder to help reduce muzzle flip. Seems that the 43 is a pinkie short of the grip needed to reduce muzzle flip to shot as fast and accurately as possible.

[@zackaryk2000]

I used to carry a 43, since it came out first. But I skipped over the 43x and carry the 48 because of the additional barrel length, giving my gold dots more velocity and a better chance of expanding.

[@dmgthree6051]

Plus you can swap slides with the 43 and the 48

[@mikerobinson8734]

great video, I owned both the 43 and the 48 mos, had the 43 for years and bought into the upgrade, sold my 48 because I simply shot it exactly the same as the 48 and my thoughts were that if I'm going to carry the 48 I might as well carry a full size G19, I don't like the idea of after market mags and the 43 fit the bill for deep concealment where as the 48 was not nearly as concealable. the extra rounds simply don't justify the extra size for me.

[@brianbrinegar6086]

Fun video. The only numbers missing are sight radius, terminal velocity and resultant bullet expansion from the longer barrel - greatly impacted by barrel length - especially in these short barrels.

[@90whatever]

I stopped caring about sight radius when I started using micro RDS on my EDC pistols. Other studies I've seen don't have any diffference between barrel lengths unless you're talking at least a couple of inches in difference with the same ammo.

[@johndeere1951a]

If that's important then there can be only one. G17L or G40. 6.02" barrels.

[@Zach_Beebe]

43x is such a good firearm. Very happy every time I strap mine on.

[@johns1200low06]

Great video !!! I just traded in My Gen 1 43 for a new 43x because I wanted that 15 round capacity in the same gun. I am not disappointed.

[@drumbum9963]

This is the review I needed to make my final decision on the 43x thank you!

[@dvonehrlich]

Happy to see all the Glock 26 comments here. What is so amazing about 6mm thinner? Inside of 15 yards I shoot my Gen 5 G26 better than my G17 for whatever reasons. They should have had one in the comparison.

[@benmacdhui]

Exactly.

[@michaelschaffer9165]

Shorter barrels clear the holster faster and the shorter sight radius lines up faster. These are actually very small differences but when you're shooting for survival every little bit helps.

[@SmokesKwazukii]

lots of people actually say the opposite about sight radius. longer being better/faster

[@steakwilliams4448]

​@@SmokesKwazukiiI've heard them say longer is more accurate, not faster. It would make sense to me if shorter sight radius was faster. If you imagine both examples in the extreme, a front sight and a rear sight .1" apart would line up instantly, whereas a front and rear sight 3' apart would take much longer to line up, but be more accurate. Idk, just my two cents.

[@skol7011]

Love your videos! I have the 43X with the shield 15 round magazines and love it. Not one issue with the 15 round mags. I shoot my G19 way better(obviously). I am thinking of getting a G17(trade in my G19). Keep the vids coming!

[@leea930]

Great explanation and comparison 👏 between the three guns. Thank you 😊

[@michaelpayne8102]

My thought has been, if I need a subcompact go with the 43 as is with an extra mag, if you are going to start adding size and weight just go with the 19.

[@mikewilliams719]

I would be interested in seeing the 43x and the 48 on a chronograph or ballistics radar to see if the extra barrel length in the 48 makes a significant difference in velocity. Followed by ballistics gelatin to see if the extra velocity of the 48 translates into more reliable expansion. I personally carry a 43x but have been considering a 48 for these reasons.

[@bryanscle5431]

The only thing you get is you can use a heavier bullet weight that will penetrate materials a bit better. Otherwise you just adjust the bullet weight to achieve same expansion and depth from different barrel lengths

[@90whatever]

It would in all liklihood have any differences be undetectable with such a small difference in length not translating to big velocity/energy differences. Plus now they make defense rounds specifically (bullet design and powder burn) for short barrelled pistols.

[@warweaponx6629]

@@bryanscle5431 wrong

[@bryanscle5431]

@@warweaponx6629 Your momma

[@warweaponx6629]

@@bryanscle5431 ok clown lol

[@mynameisntimportant9341]

I built a "43L" by putting my 48 slide on my standard 43 frame and turned my 48 into a 43x, im enjoying every possible set up

[@GOxHAM]

Excellent break down. The percentages at varying distances were very helpful. Shows there are some differences, however in the right hands, they shoot similarly.

[@Izzy235634]

I own a 43 and a 48, therefore I own a 43x (and a 43L too I guess you could say). I am partial to the 48 because of the longer sight radius for more consistent groups. But depending on the situation, and where I need to carry, and how, I am able to configure my gun to those specific needs. Sometimes I have to deep conceal or pocket carry, so the 43 wins. Some other times I can IWB 4-o'clock and the 48 does that great. But other times I want/need to appendix carry, so the 43x is best with the shorter slide. I'm here waiting to see what Shield Arms does with the 43 mags.

[@Awesome_1789]

Great video perfect timing for me I just got my glock 43 x like a week ago lol

[@judeau9151]

this channel saves me so much time in research.. been shooting long guns my whole life, and looking to buy my first 9mm. +1

[@darthskywalker2467]

Been running the 43x MOS with 507k x2 and TLR7 sub with shield arms mags . love it

[@brrepublic8174]

Patiently waiting for Shield Arms to come out with a 9/10 rounder for the 43.....

[@pushonline1568]

Mee too. Just said the same thing

[@brandonrupp5880]

A fresh TFB vid on Sunday morning. The next best thing to some morning nookie.

[@bach5780]

I turned down nookie for the vid. Now that I’ve seen James, I’m ready. I’m glad he wasn’t wearing his shorts or else my gf would be disappointed in my timeliness.

[@al_614]

Great info James, thank you! I'm a big Glock 19 fan, but I live in CT so I am limited to 10 round mags. I also carry a Glock 43 with a Taran plus one base plate. Thinking about the 43x.

[@homeiswheremyhouseis5517]

I got all three with Ghost Edge connectors and Tru Glo sights. G43 with Pearce +1 grips and no shield mags. I love all three.

[@DeviantOllam]

G43 ... with a slightly longer mag if you wish for those extra rounds, or with the stock mag for maximum conceal when needed. Boom, count it. 😉

[@JacksonWalter735]

That is how I feel as well. People love the Glock 43x with a Shield Arms mag, but you can't change the grip length if you want ultra concealability on those days. A standard Glock 43 is perfect for those days and a Glock 43 with a much larger extended mag is perfect for days where you want more capacity/a full grip. You can do this with a Glock 26 as well (love that it's compatible with the Glock 19/17 mags), but for ultra concealability, it's still larger and heavier than a Glock 43. I'm still hoping Glock releases and even smaller Glock 43 like the Kahr PM9. That gun is much smaller than the Glock 43 with the same capacity.

[@punchsmack]

Same. I went 43 for the options. I can carry with the non-pinky 6-rd mag for ultra conceal, the pinky extension 6-rd mag for very good conceal or throw in a +1/+2/+3 mag for average conceal. I have those options with a 43, a 43x or 19 doesn’t. Plus, since I carry an extra mag in my holster (Tier1), I’m able to carry 6+1/6 up to 9+1/9 and anything in between. As for the shooting accuracy, I would have liked to see the three guys shoot a 43 with the pinky extension. I’d bet the average accuracy jumps up to the 43x/48. I know, I know, the point was to use the non-pinky because that’s the main selling point, a better conceal, but depending on the shirt you’re wearing, the pinky extension is the same. And my 43 is just my summer carry. My winter carry is a 19.

[@Mosiert93]

“I’d pick the 48 because all of my holsters have extra length for comfort”. What? Where are you concealing this glock? Do I want to know?

[@TheGodfather-sp9xk]

Many people find longer holsters more comfortable for appendix carry. Keeps the gun closer to your body and prevents uncomfortable poking by having more material below the belt line, thus preventing the weight of the handgun from pulling away from your body and pushing the muzzle inward.

[@crazysilly2914]

@@TheGodfather-sp9xk r/WHOOOOOOSH

[@Mosiert93]

@@TheGodfather-sp9xk Do you cut a hole in your pants to carry your 44 mag revolver? Or just stuff it down the leg for “comfort”?

[@TheGodfather-sp9xk]

@@Mosiert93 just why

[@bananabishop]

Watching this channel pushed me to get 3 different glocks, thank you James!

[@alfadanhighperformanceoutb8416]

Great comparison video. I have the 43X and the 48 and prefer the 43X to carry. I gave my 43X to my son and now thinking of swapping out the slide on my 48 over to the 43X. BTW, I also went with the MOS version of both pistols.

[@cadian122]

Of the 3 choices I would easily pick the 48.. I will admit I'm used to carrying a G23 or G19 so I'm used to that size and style of gun.. But to me it's a little more then that.. Obviously the 43 is too small and too little with mag capacity ... But with the 43x you have the same height as the 48 and 19 (5") with no extra benefit of a larger barrel then 3.4".. I feel the perfect size would have been about a 4.8 height with a 3.7-3.8 barrel.. Then that would be great.. I think that's why I like the Glock 30 so much..gets the dimensions down well.. I have found that the ideal height for a CCW is about 4.6 to 4.8"

[@Fightosaurus]

The correct answer is the 26...

[@lepettitchateau8047]

This was the very first time I visited your channel and watched a video. Nerding out with you on this… Absolutely Awesome!!! I hit subscribe ❤️A+

[@Murphy82nd]

I owned a 43 for a short time. I had the same issue pushing shots left. It was admittedly me being the problem, but I’ve never had that issue with other smaller pistols like the 938, Shield, or P365.

[@Rcknroler913]

To me it’s the 48. Longer site radius but same grip length as the X for concealment. Best of both worlds.

[@90whatever]

With a micro RDS (either milled or MOS) sight radius no longer is an issue or matters.

[@warweaponx6629]

@@90whatever it still matters for felt recoil

[@julian23561]

The best compact glock is the CZ. Est your heart out LVT. Late Christmas greetings to you James.

[@rickc2102]

If only I could actually find a RAMI.

[@StrideResearch]

@@rickc2102 thought I saw one when I was in KY 2 weeks ago

[@johntravolto4058]

@@rickc2102 i have a RAMI 40 if interested

[@afwaller]

The p-10m isn’t available in the US

[@StrideResearch]

@@afwaller why is that relevant bröther

[@Don-wq7hc]

Thank you for this video. Great test and analysis with an explanation of results based on multiple variables to consider.

[@Razor_36]

I have the 43x that I purchased from a friend for a hella good deal. I've since been looking at the 48 thinking maybe I would just get the 48 upper and have both. After watching this I see no need in spending the $600 on that. Thanks James!

[@WarDaddy72]

Proud owner of a well worn in Glock 43 x All I can say is that I LOVE IT!!!!!!!.

[@Gideon_Judges6]

Ehhh, all wrong! Glock 26. Can even use big brothers' magazines.

[@DaveL9170]

I carry the 27 and have an extra 26 barrel in my pack to switch in and out. Both are threaded fir my can.

[@frankdamsy9715]

I'd rather just carry a 19 at that point

[@camerongunn7906]

@@frankdamsy9715 Chopped 19

[@leefithian3704]

Most of us can’t hang out on the street corner in low sweatpants

[@camerongunn7906]

@@leefithian3704 Thug Life ain't for errybody.

[@alouiciousjackson5812]

A Pierce +1 extension works wonders for the Glock 43 and makes it so much more controllable.

[@codyjenn8785]

I bought the all black glock 43x and put rubber texture talon grips on it qnd it's been my favorite gun I love it

[@MarcJaxon]

It's the Sig P365XL, isn't it? YEEEEEEAH it is.

[@alberto5770]

Yeet cannon anyone??

[@agentrowlock2301]

@@alberto5770 no

[@glockparaastra]

Easy to turn the 43 into the X with a +2 shoe. The 48 is a compact so can’t really compare it to the 43’s in my opinion. 48 is a skinny 19.

[@mccartanaaron]

I was just debating these models for my next purchase. Great timing on the video...

[@glockparaastra]

Great review! Thanks

[@travisp11]

My aunt is in the market for a new compact firearm after recently acquiring her carry permit. This video will help her tremendously with her selection. Thank you for the great content!

[@GuitarGuy4647]

Buy a SIG

[@screwgle7914]

dont forget the p365 and hellcat!

[@youraveragereloader649]

Eh, get a Pocket .22 Revolver, i carry that when i start carrying, after i move on, i got to the Glock 19 train

[@travisp11]

@@secessionnow4133 that is a solid alternative!

[@screwgle7914]

@@youraveragereloader649 i would recommend a shield ez if you think theres any reason she cant handle the other popular conceal carry options and stick with 9mm.

[@camerongunn7906]

The 26 or chopped 19 is the obvious winner here.

[@tenchraven]

Chopped 19 is always the answer

[@Tact1123]

That was very helpful, I just purchased the Glock 43X w/ the S15 mags. Next I have to change out the sights, so far so good!

[@smpinney]

Exactly the video I was looking for to compare those three pistols.

[@mhsbc59]

I picked the 26 over the 43 based on capacity. I would like to consider the 43x but as has been stated the longer handle makes it less concelable.

[@ryanranard5187]

26 is thicker and I find it harder to be comfortable with than the 43x or 48. Also the grip is so short on the 26, it makes it difficult for me to draw

[@I3uLLeTzRuS]

@@ryanranard5187 Funny you say harder to be comfortable because i first got the 48 and man for me it is so uncomfortable when sitting down but the 26 is perfect. Also the extension mag by Glock gives you a full grip and 11 rounds +1 but each person body type is different

[@Brykk]

I’m stayin with my 19’s

[@mikem2132]

Thanks for the review!

[@stevepeterson9885]

well done, clear in presentation and conclusions

[@johnd6614]

I’d like to see how the performance varies over distance, like bring the target out to 25 yards instead of 10! Awesome video and I love my 48 !

[@dandude2010]

I had a glock 26 but now i carry a Springfield Hellcat its awesome

[@jonkR96]

Any problem with shooting low & left?

[@keithkent8126]

James you are absolutely correct! 43x is hands down winner . Love 48;as range gun because it fits my hand better than the g19 . Shield arms mags changed everything. Great work and science never lies . K

[@jermainepearson6835]

Sweet.. I'm in line at this moment to purchase the G43X I held it in my hand yesterday and I loved it.

[@newerest1]

Cant help but feel like a glock 26 and 19 should be in here as well, considering the 26 is a subcompact by definition and the glock 48 is basically a slightly thinner glock 19

[@blackraven8841]

But by your standards then someone will say if the Glock 19 is here, where is the Glock 17. Then another person will ask about another and keep it going

[@lornem1160]

@@blackraven8841 Did somebody say Glock 17? Why isn't the Glock 34 in this conversation?

[@lornem1160]

Glock 34 you say? Why isn't the Glock 17L up in here?

[@Jhammie1776]

Let's all agree that the 26 is the clear winner.

[@MrKinglyon2010]

Yeah right

[@camerongunn7906]

You sir are correct. 26 is the clear winner. Although I think I like chopped 19 has a little more advantage.

[@Itsslowmo]

@@JESSEDIGI wow you guys have no clue. I have 6 shield arms mags in my g43x and it’ll run your chode of a carry pistol in the ground. All with only one magazine and better concealment. Not one malfunction yet. ~2k rounds. I’d say I can rely on it if I need it after this many shots. Do your research. I’d take my 15 rounds any day.

[@alexanderstordeur9434]

The 26 is thicker than the 43. But it can take the magazines of it's bigger brothers, including the fun stick's.

[@thagrifster594]

I was just about to type that.👊🏻

[@mengdynasty6034]

Waiting for my 43X to come in....and S15 mags and extensions....and hyve extensions for stock g mags....can't wait to shoot! Great vid guys.

[@bogan4009]

Great video! Thanks

[@PanSearedRibeye68]

26

[@sheldoniusRex]

Went with the 48. Most premium defensive ammo developed for LE such as the Gold Dot or the Critical Duty are designed to perform out of a 4" barrel (with it's attendant velocity advantage.)

[@pollock56th]

Makes perfect sense to me.

[@BU1Lander]

Any Federal HST over 115gr will perform flawlessly out of a 3" barrel. Also, Gold Dot 124gr +P will perform near flawlessly out of a 3" barrel, also... Of course, you would still have a greater ammo selection with a longer no matter what.

[@jackmemphis777]

I just bought the 48 yesterday. Was gonna get a 43x but they only had a 48 in stock so I said fuck it and went with that one

[@edkhever2663]

@@jackmemphis777 literally what I did today

[@jackmemphis777]

@@edkhever2663 awesome. I love my 48 it's my current favorite pistol. I used it yesterday in my concealed carry class

[@errolwilcox747]

James, I watched this video, saw that you liked the 43x, so I went and bought a 48. Still love you 😂

[@chrisj9008]

Nerding out for sure, but well put together so I enjoyed lol!!! The only thing missing was velocity differences which can have big effects ballistically in terms of round function as designed. The smaller pistols also carry less mass in the slide (typically) and thus can be more prone to limp wrist. But that's splitting hairs.... only because we are nerding out. For me I have the 43 and 48. My 43 slide goes right on my 48 making it a 43x... I find myself with the 48 more often. 43 does do some carry duty still as its so small and flat. That said, if I never carried my 43 again I don't think I would notice. I think its more holster at that point than gun that has me grabbing one over the other. Of course 15 rounds is a game changer... Keep the content coming!!!