A Quick Look at Each Pistol
Introduction
The concealed carry market is booming. More and more people are recognizing the importance of self-defense, and with that comes the need for reliable, easily concealed firearms. The choices are vast, but within the realm of subcompact, single-stack pistols, two names consistently rise to the top: the Glock 43 and the Walther PPS M2. Both guns offer a blend of compact size, effective chambering, and ease of carry, making them popular choices for everyday concealed carry. Choosing between the two can be a tough decision, so this article will delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make the right choice for your needs.
Glock 43 Overview
The Glock 43 emerged as Glock’s answer to the demand for a more compact, single-stack offering. Building upon the well-established Glock platform, the G43 offers the same simplicity, reliability, and ease of maintenance that have made Glock pistols legendary. It represents a streamlined package designed for discreet carry, while still retaining Glock’s signature features: a polymer frame, a striker-fired system, and a robust reputation. The G43 prioritizes simplicity and ease of use.
Walther PPS M2 Overview
The Walther PPS M2, on the other hand, is the evolution of the Walther PPS (Police Pistol Slim). Walther, known for its focus on ergonomics and accuracy, crafted the PPS M2 with a focus on refinement. It offers a more refined grip, a superior trigger, and a sleek profile. The PPS M2 aims to provide a more premium feel, blending modern features with Walther’s commitment to quality.
Size and Weight: The Concealability Factor
Detailed Analysis
For concealed carry, size and weight are paramount. Every millimeter and gram contributes to how comfortably and discreetly a firearm can be carried.
The Glock 43, with its relatively slim profile, is known for its ease of concealment. It’s easy to tuck away inside the waistband, appendix carry, or even utilize pocket carry in some situations. The overall lightweight nature of the G43 further enhances comfort during all-day carry.
The Walther PPS M2, while sharing a similar design philosophy, often feels slightly different in the hand due to its contours. It generally boasts a similar overall footprint, making it very effective for concealed carry. The specific dimensions, even a small difference can affect how the gun sits, where it prints, and how it feels against your body during movement.
These nuances in size and weight translate directly to how comfortable each gun is. A lighter pistol is generally more pleasant to carry over extended periods. However, the differences are subtle, and individual body types and carry methods will ultimately dictate which pistol feels more comfortable for a particular user.
Ergonomics and Handling: Feeling the Difference
Grip and Controls
How a gun feels in the hand, how the controls operate, and the quality of the trigger contribute significantly to the shooting experience.
The Glock 43 offers a relatively straightforward, utilitarian grip. Its textured polymer frame provides a decent grip, though some shooters might find it a bit blocky. The controls are classic Glock: a slide release and a magazine release, both positioned for intuitive access.
The Walther PPS M2, however, is where the ergonomic differences become more apparent. The PPS M2 has an updated grip design with more pronounced texturing, and a grip that is designed with a better angle to sit well in the hand. The controls are also easy to manipulate, but the placement of the slide release might take some getting used to for shooters unfamiliar with Walther. The trigger on the PPS M2 is widely regarded as a significant upgrade over the G43. It typically feels smoother and crisper, contributing to more precise shooting.
The feel of a gun is subjective, so it’s crucial to handle both the Glock 43 and the Walther PPS M2 before making a final decision. Try dry-firing each pistol to gauge trigger feel and handling. The grip size and angle might affect how naturally you point and shoot the pistol. The best choice here hinges on what feels the best in your hand and how your hand naturally aligns with the firearm.
Features: Beyond the Basics
Magazines and Sights
Both pistols come equipped with features critical for effective use.
The Glock 43’s magazine capacity starts at a standard amount and is easily expandable with aftermarket magazines. The sights are the standard Glock sights, which are functional but can be upgraded for enhanced target acquisition. The G43 often offers a simpler setup.
The Walther PPS M2 similarly uses magazines that can be expanded. The standard sights on the PPS M2 are usually well-regarded, offering a clear sight picture. The option for aftermarket sights is also present. The PPS M2 also provides the optional advantage of an accessory rail.
Consider how important these individual features are. What kind of sights do you prefer? How important is magazine capacity? Do you need an accessory rail? The answer to these questions will influence your decision.
Performance: On the Range
Accuracy and Reliability
How these pistols perform is a critical factor in the comparison.
The Glock 43 is well-known for its reliability, owing to its simple, robust design. It tends to group shots well, though the trigger might require some getting used to in order to achieve optimal results.
The Walther PPS M2, frequently praised for its accuracy, provides a more refined shooting experience due to its trigger. The trigger assists in achieving tighter groups at various ranges. Both guns generally perform reliably, with minimal malfunctions reported when using quality ammunition.
Recoil management is crucial for effective follow-up shots. While both pistols are relatively compact, the Glock 43’s recoil impulse might feel slightly more pronounced. This is manageable with practice. The Walther PPS M2, with its ergonomic design, tends to mitigate felt recoil, leading to faster and more accurate follow-up shots.
Cost and Availability: Budget and Access
Pricing and Support
Price and availability are often key decision-making factors.
The Glock 43 is generally available at a competitive price point. Its popularity means finding one is usually straightforward, and aftermarket parts and accessories are abundant.
The Walther PPS M2, while typically priced slightly higher than the Glock 43, still remains within the affordable range. Its availability is usually high, with access to a wide range of accessories and upgrades available.
Assess your budget and the importance of aftermarket support. Both guns offer a wide selection of accessories, but the Glock 43 might have a slight edge due to its larger market presence.
Pros and Cons: A Quick Breakdown
Strengths and Weaknesses Summarized
Let’s break down the strengths and weaknesses to help you determine what matters most to you.
The Glock 43’s key strengths include its simple, reliable design. It’s incredibly easy to maintain, disassemble, and reassemble. Furthermore, the immense aftermarket support provides options for customization. Its weaknesses include its utilitarian grip and a trigger that is often considered less refined than others on the market.
The Walther PPS M2 shines in its ergonomic design, enhanced grip, and excellent trigger. This allows a more intuitive shooting experience. On the downside, some users may find the magazine release less accessible, and the after-market support is somewhat less extensive than the Glock 43.
Conclusion: Making Your Choice
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Glock 43 and the Walther PPS M2 is a personal decision. There is no universally “best” choice.
If you prioritize simplicity, reliability, and a vast ecosystem of aftermarket support, the Glock 43 is likely a strong contender. It’s a gun you can depend on, known for its rock-solid performance.
If, however, you value ergonomics, a refined trigger, and a slightly more premium shooting experience, the Walther PPS M2 might be the better option. Its design focuses on the shooter, providing enhanced comfort and control.
The most important recommendation is to handle, and if possible, fire both firearms before making a decision. Visit a local gun store, try them both, and see which one feels the best. Feel them. Get a sense for the balance and the controls. Ideally, shoot both to determine which one you shoot better. Consider your individual hand size, shooting experience, and carry preferences. Your personal comfort and confidence are paramount.
Remember, the ideal concealed carry pistol is the one that you can comfortably and reliably carry and that you will practice with regularly.
