What Gen is Glock 43?
The Glock 43 is a popular single-stack, striker-fired, 9mm pistol designed for concealed carry and self-defense. When it comes to determining the generation of the Glock 43, there are a few things to consider. In this article, we’ll dive into the details and provide a clear answer to the question: What gen is Glock 43?
What is a Generation in Glock?
Before we dive into the specifics of the Glock 43, it’s essential to understand what a generation refers to in the context of Glock pistols. A generation is a specific design and engineering iteration of a Glock model, which can affect its performance, features, and overall functionality.
Glock has produced several generations of their pistols, each with its unique characteristics and improvements. The generations are typically denoted by a number, with the most recent being Gen5. However, the Glock 43 is a bit of an exception, as it doesn’t fit neatly into one specific generation.
Early Production Glock 43: Gen4 or Gen3?
The early production Glock 43, which was introduced in 2015, was initially classified as a Gen4 pistol. However, it’s important to note that the Gen4 designation was only temporary, and Glock later clarified that the early production Glock 43 was actually a modified Gen3 design.
What are the Key Differences between Gen3 and Gen4?
Here are some key differences between the Gen3 and Gen4 Glock 43:
| Feature | Gen3 | Gen4 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame material | Polymer | Polymer |
| Trigger | 5.5 lbs | 5.5 lbs |
| Magazine capacity | 6+1 | 6+1 |
| Recoil spring | Single spring | Dual spring |
| Slide stop lever | Curved | Straight |
| Texturing | No texture | Textured |
| Magazine release | Ambidextrous | Ambidextrous |
As you can see, the Gen4 Glock 43 only had a few minor changes compared to the Gen3 design. The most significant difference was the addition of texturing on the frame and the straightened slide stop lever.
The Current Glock 43: Gen5?
In 2019, Glock released an updated version of the Glock 43, which is often referred to as the Gen5. The Gen5 Glock 43 features several significant upgrades, including:
- A new, more aggressive texture on the frame
- A flared magwell for easier magazine insertion
- A recessed crown on the barrel for improved accuracy
- A nDLC (Nitride) finish for increased durability
- A new, more consistent trigger pull
Key Features of the Gen5 Glock 43
Here are some key features of the Gen5 Glock 43:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| New texture | Aggressive, textured frame for improved grip |
| Flared magwell | Easier magazine insertion and ejection |
| Recessed crown | Improved accuracy and reduced muzzle rise |
| nDLC finish | Increased durability and corrosion resistance |
| New trigger | Consistent, crisp trigger pull |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Glock 43 is a bit of an anomaly when it comes to generations. The early production model was initially classified as a Gen4, but was later clarified to be a modified Gen3 design. The current production model, released in 2019, is often referred to as the Gen5. While the Gen5 designation is not officially recognized by Glock, it’s clear that the updated Glock 43 features significant upgrades and improvements over the early production model.
Whether you’re a seasoned Glock enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of firearms, the Glock 43 is an excellent choice for concealed carry and self-defense. Its compact size, lightweight design, and reliable performance make it an attractive option for those looking for a reliable, easy-to-use pistol.
