In This Article
- Introduction
- About the Glock 43
- Glock 43 Size Dimensions
- What to Pay Attention to in a Glock 43 Holster?
- Final Notes
When it comes to handguns, Glock pistols have emerged as one of the most popular choices among both law enforcement professionals and civilian gun enthusiasts alike. Glock pistols are considered durable and reliable pistols with great performance.
According to the statistics, Glock 43, introduced in April, 2015, is one of the most favored pistols as the best concealed carry firearm among gun owners. 35% of Glock consumers use it as concealed carry as per the Glock survey.
In this article, we will delve into the realm of Glock 43 as concealed carry and the things to pay attention to while choosing the right concealable holster for it.
If you have recently acquired this super compact, single stack 9mm Glock 43, it is essential to find the right holster that complements this lightweight yet highly effective subcompact pistol. The holster you select for your G43 should possess the same level of functionality and concealability as the firearm itself. The ideal Glock 43 holster is lightweight, durable, and equipped with adjustable features and a safety-oriented design, all while ensuring comfort during daily wear.
To make an informed decision on a concealable holster for the Glock 43, it is crucial to understand its design. Slim size and useful features make this model an ideal concealed carry. In this article, we will begin by providing an overview of the G43, followed by a comprehensive discussion on the key holster features to consider when searching for a high-quality holster for this concealed carry weapon.
Let’s get into the details-
About Glock 43
The length of Glock 43 helps in not giving you a hard time in printing (when your clothes aren’t sufficient to conceal the firearm). In most cases though, it is the grip of the gun that causes concealment issues. But in that area as well, Glock 43 is aptly sized. Thinner size of the Glock 43 makes it excellent for concealed carry. Featuring a built-in beaver tail design on the grip, it enables the shooter to achieve a secure and firm hold. Dotted and rugged texture on the grip ensures comfortable and reliable operation of the pistol.
With a large ambidextrous magazine catch (it can be adjusted for the left-handed user as well), the six round magazines can be swiftly removed. It comes with two magazine cases (6 rounds each)- one with a flat base plate and the other one with an extended base plate (which provides a bit of extra grip space). Built to the exceptional standards that GLOCK is known for, the compact Glock 43 endures the same rigorous tests as its larger counterparts.
Glock 43 Size and Dimensions
| Caliber : 9 mm Luger | Barrel Length : 86,5 mm | 3.41 inches | Weight with loaded magazine : 585 g | 20.64 oz | ||
| System: Safe Action | Weight without magazine : 460 g | 16.23 oz | Trigger Pull : 24 N | ||
| Mag. Capacity Standard: 6 | Weight with empty magazine : 510 g | 17.99 oz | Price: $450 (Average) |
What to Pay Attention to in a Glock 43 Holster?
Now that we have discussed quite at a length the design and specifications of the Glock 43, it is time to choose a holster that complements this widely used pistol. And if you are a concealed carry holder, it’s really important that you get the right one. Because if the holster is uncomfortable, it does affect the experience of using a firearm itself.
When choosing a holster to carry your concealed Glock 43, it is crucial to consider where on the body you will conceal the firearm. Various holsters are tailored to specific carry positions. One must be aware of how to properly wear iwb and owb holsters.
We will discuss common positions for Glock 43 concealed carry and analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each.
IWB
Consider the type of holster that suits your preferred carry position when shopping for a Glock 43 holster. The carry position you choose will determine the type of holster you need. The most popular carry position for the slim and compact Glock 43 is inside the waistband (IWB).
Wearing your holster inside the waistband (IWB) involves placing it between your body and the inside of your waistband. Generally, “clock” positions are used to define the placement of a holster on the waist. Strongside IWB carry position for right-handed users is considered at 4:30. This position allows for effective concealment for various body types and enables a natural drawing motion. It is the most commonly used method for carrying a concealed firearm due to its adaptability.
However, there are some drawbacks or considerations to keep in mind when carrying in this position. The grip of the pistol can create printing while bending. Another disadvantage of traditional IWB carry is the difficulty of drawing from a seated position, especially when seated in a vehicle. It can be hard to draw the firearm with much speed.
AIWB
AIWB, or Appendix Inside the Waistband, refers to carrying a holster inside the waistband at the front of the body. This position is typically around the 1 o’clock position for right-handed individuals or right beside the belt buckle.
One advantage of the Appendix carry is the ease of accessing the firearm for a quicker draw compared to the traditional behind-the-hip position. The motion of drawing from AIWB is also less noticeable compared to reaching behind your back. Additionally, it is easier to access the firearm while seated. Another benefit of AIWB over IWB carry is that the firearm is always in front of you, making it easier to defend yourself, unlike IWB carry where an assailant could approach from behind.
AIWB carry is more sensitive to different body types and the positioning of the waistband on your body compared to the traditional behind-the-hip position. The slide and the grip of the pistol can put pressure on the stomach. The length of the firearm’s slide is also a factor to consider. It can create pressure against your thigh area when bending or sitting.
OWB
In the OWB position, the holster is tied up to your belt outside your waistband. This method is considered the most comfortable as the firearm is not pressed against your clothing.
However, OWB carry is more suitable for “open carry”. If you prefer OWB for comfort but also need to conceal your weapon, you will have to adjust your clothing accordingly. Choose loose clothes. The weather will also impact how comfortable it is to conceal carry using the OWB method. While it may be more comfortable on the hip, you might have to wear clothes that are not ideal for hot summer temperatures in order to conceal the firearm.
Some individuals opt to have multiple holsters for different positions to adapt as needed. For example, you might choose OWB in the colder months but switch to IWB during the summer. Or, if you are going on a road trip, you may prefer AIWB, but switch back to traditional IWB when you return to your regular routine.
Regardless of where you decide to carry your firearm, ensure that you are aware of how it affects your comfort throughout the day. Additionally, practice your draw regularly until it becomes second nature, allowing you to draw your weapon smoothly without having to consciously think about it.
The Glock User’s Guide to Concealed Carry Options and Safety Tips
Holster material
When you are looking for a perfect concealable holster, holster material also plays a huge role. The most common materials used for making holsters are- leather, Kydex, and nylon.
Nylon
Nylon holsters are generally not very durable. While they may offer comfort, they tend to collapse when the gun is removed, making reholstering difficult and potentially unsafe.
Leather
Leather is durable and comfortable to wear on a daily basis. However, fully leather holsters are not as lightweight as other materials and may not offer the same precise fit as Kydex.
Kydex
Kydex holsters are durable and also better in terms of concealability. The thermoplastic material is molded to fit the Glock 43 securely and precisely. Despite its rigidity, Kydex holsters are surprisingly comfortable.
If you desire the best of both worlds, there are Hybrid holsters designed keeping comfort as well as durability in mind. Hybrid holster combines leather and Kydex materials.
Adjustability
Adjustability is crucial when it comes to pistols like the Glock 43 that are designed for everyday carry. It is essential to have a holster that can be adjusted to ensure optimal comfort and concealment. One of the key features of the adjustable retention system is the ability to customize how securely the Glock 43 is held in the holster and how easily it can be drawn. It is useful to be able to bend the holster in the direction that offers comfort and flexibility.
Furthermore, adjustable ride height enables you to position your gun high, low, or anywhere in between on your waistline. So, we can set the position as per our choice. By having the ability to adjust retention, cant, and ride height, you can customize your holster to meet your specific needs for comfortable concealed carry throughout the day. Customization is key when it comes to a highly customizable daily carry pistol like the Glock 43.
Safety and Design
The most crucial aspect to consider when selecting a holster is its well-thought-out design that prioritizes safety. In the case of Kydex holsters, it is important to choose one that is specifically molded to fit the Glock 43 with precision. When using a Kydex holster, you should be able to hear and feel a satisfying “click” when holstering, indicating a perfect fit. This ensures that the Glock 43 remains secure and prevents any accidental falls or shifts. A lack of precision in the fit can be unsafe and may cause damage to your firearm, which is certainly not ideal.
Clips and trigger guard have to be sturdy as well. Clips that do not securely fasten to your belt can result in the holster falling off or sliding around, while an inadequate trigger guard poses a significant safety risk. It is highly necessary from a safety point of view that the trigger guard is fully covered by the holster. A guard that does not completely cover the trigger increases the chances of an accidental discharge, which is a risk not worth taking.
Comfort
When it comes to concealment, IWB is often a preferred choice but OWB holsters offer a comfortable position for the body
When it comes to carrying the Glock 43 on a daily basis, having a comfortable holster is absolutely essential. Fortunately, this lightweight Glock can be comfortably carried in a variety of holster styles. However, if maximum comfort is what you’re after, there are a few key factors to take into consideration. Leather does provide comfort. The leather conforms to your body and evenly distributes the weight of the Glock 43, resulting in a lighter and more secure feel.
If you prefer an all- Kydex holster, look for one that has two points of body contact to evenly distribute the weight in a similar manner. While the Glock 43 (being a preferred concealed carry firearm) is often carried inside the waistband (IWB), many people find outside the waistband (OWB) carry to be even more comfortable. If you’re having trouble finding a comfortable IWB option, it may be worth giving OWB a try.
Concealment
When it comes to a concealed carry pistol like the Glock 43, having a discreet holster is absolutely crucial because the pistol itself is slim and super compact. The holster should be durable yet not very thick in size. This will prevent any printing or bulges under your clothing. The clip on the holster is also important. Avoid using large clips that can easily print. Go for a thin steel clip which seamlessly disappears under a shirt. Optional accessories like pancake clips and holster claws can also enhance concealment by pulling the firearm closer to your body.
Warranty
When searching for a holster for your Glock 43, it is equally important not to overlook the warranty offered by the product. A reliable warranty not only provides peace of mind in case any issues arise, but it also demonstrates the company’s commitment to the quality of their product.
Given that a holster is an essential component for concealed carry, a strong warranty offers reassurance that your Glock 43 is in capable hands. When conducting your research on holsters, be sure to prioritize a warranty that has your best interests at heart.
Final Notes:
In order to find the perfect concealed carry holster, whether it be inside the waistband or outside the waistband, it is crucial to choose one that aligns with your specific carry system. It should be comfortable for you to carry. Ensure that you can easily draw, ensure that you can get a grip of the gun with one hand quite confidently even in a hasty situation, and most importantly practice the post and draw as many times as it needs before you feel confident of it.
Ultimately, the ideal Glock 43 holster for you will depend on your individual requirements and preferences. When deciding where to carry concealed, safety and comfort should be your top priorities. Practice various body movements at home with your holstered firearm in the chosen position to understand how your body interacts with the carry method. Once you have identified what works best, practice drawing your weapon daily from different positions (standing, seated, crouched, etc).
Your choice of concealed carry method may vary depending on the situation. Take into consideration what you desire in a holster, compare the available options, and make an educated decision based on your newfound knowledge about the qualities to look for in a high-quality holster.
