Introduction
The sleek, slim silhouette of the Glock 43X has become a familiar sight in the world of concealed carry. Its promise of potent firepower in a package that practically disappears on the hip has made it a darling of the self-defense community. But alongside the praise, a chorus of complaints echoes: The 43X sucks to shoot. This sentiment, voiced in online forums, at gun ranges, and amongst firearm enthusiasts, highlights a stark divide in opinions about this popular pistol. Is the Glock 43X truly a punishing experience at the range? Or is the criticism overblown, missing the point of this compact firearm?
This article dives deep into the world of the Glock 43X, exploring the common reasons why some shooters find it less than enjoyable to handle and shoot, while also presenting the arguments and experiences of those who have embraced it. We’ll examine the core factors contributing to this division, weighing both the pros and cons to offer a comprehensive understanding of the 43X’s appeal, and its potential shortcomings. Ultimately, our aim is to provide you with the information needed to decide whether the Glock 43X is a suitable choice for your needs and shooting style.
Delving into the Difficulties: Exploring the Downsides
The primary source of discontent stems from the fact that the 43X sucks to shoot, and the complaints are often linked to the inherent design considerations of a subcompact handgun. The fundamental physics of recoil cannot be ignored, and in a smaller, lighter package, these forces become more noticeable.
Recoil and Muzzle Flip
One of the most frequently cited issues is the significant recoil and muzzle flip. When a handgun fires, the explosive expansion of gases pushes the bullet forward, creating a reaction force that pushes the gun backward. This recoil, in a larger firearm, might be felt as a manageable push, absorbed by the weight of the frame and the shooter’s grip. In the Glock 43X, however, the lighter frame and smaller dimensions amplify this effect. The gun tends to “snap” upwards and backward, making it harder to maintain a consistent sight picture and follow-up shots. This leads to slower split times between shots, and potentially reduced accuracy. The perceived recoil can also be fatiguing, especially during extended range sessions.
Grip and Ergonomics
Furthermore, the grip and ergonomics of the 43X can be a challenge for some shooters. While Glock has designed a well-regarded grip profile, its comparatively short length and width do not always fit every hand size comfortably. Shooters with larger hands might find themselves struggling to get a full, secure grip, leading to instability and a less-than-optimal firing experience. The potential for “pinky hang” is a very real concern for some. That is where the little finger extends below the base of the grip, leaving it unsupported and, at worst, contributing to flinch and poor grip.
Accuracy Challenges
The sight radius, which is the distance between the front and rear sights, is also shortened on the 43X. A shorter sight radius means that any slight deviation in alignment is magnified at the target. This makes it more difficult to achieve accurate shots, especially at extended distances. Those who are more new to shooting often find this difficult. The difference in accuracy when using a larger firearm is often a noticeable improvement.
Shooter Error Amplification
Adding to these issues, the smaller, lighter frame is also more susceptible to the shooter’s errors. A flinch, caused by anticipation of recoil, will have a more pronounced effect on the 43X’s trajectory compared to a larger pistol. Similarly, inconsistent trigger pulls can lead to more noticeable deviations from the point of aim. The lack of a substantial frame may feel less stable in the hands of less-experienced shooters.
These issues combine to create an experience that leaves many shooters feeling frustrated. The snappy recoil, the grip challenges, the reduced sight radius – all these factors contribute to the widespread sentiment that the 43X sucks to shoot.
Fighting Back: Why Some Appreciate the 43X
Despite the complaints, the Glock 43X remains a highly popular choice for concealed carry, and for good reason. This is due to several benefits, and the people that find the 43X to be a quality firearm often have specific reasons for their choice.
Concealed Carry Advantages
One of the key advantages of the 43X is its slim profile and exceptional concealability. The smaller size allows for comfortable everyday carry, even in warmer weather or with tighter clothing. For those who prioritize discreet carry, the 43X offers a significant advantage over larger, heavier pistols. It readily disappears on the hip. The ease of concealment, in many cases, outweighs the potential compromises in shooting comfort or handling. The ability to carry a firearm, unseen, is, for many, the most important aspect.
Recoil Management
The management of recoil, while a common complaint, is also a matter of individual experience, skill, and technique. The recoil can certainly be learned, and that will change your impression of the 43X. For some shooters, particularly those with experience, the recoil of the 43X is manageable. Proper grip, stance, and trigger control can significantly mitigate the felt recoil and minimize muzzle flip. Practicing the fundamentals can greatly improve the shooting experience.
Grip Customization
Also, the grip challenges can be solved by aftermarket parts. For those with larger hands, or those who simply want a more comfortable grip, a variety of accessories are available. Grip extensions add length to the grip, allowing for a full grip. Textured grips, made from materials like rubber or Talon grips, provide a more secure and comfortable hold. These add-ons can transform the feel of the gun for certain shooters.
Accuracy Potential
Another factor is the accuracy potential of the 43X. While the shorter sight radius may present challenges, the gun is inherently capable of delivering accurate shots. With dedicated practice and mastery of shooting fundamentals – proper stance, grip, sight alignment, and trigger control – shooters can achieve impressive results with the 43X. The gun is not holding them back, so much as their personal performance is affected.
Cost and Availability
The cost and general availability are also factors. Glock firearms are known for their reasonable prices, and the 43X is no exception. Coupled with the popularity of the model, this results in a wide availability and relatively inexpensive ownership compared to other firearms. This makes it accessible to a broader range of shooters. This makes it easier for shooters to get hands-on training, to change the barrel to a threaded barrel for a suppressor, or even get a red dot optic installed.
For those who prioritize concealability, manage the recoil effectively, and are willing to invest time in practice, the Glock 43X can be a reliable and capable firearm. For many, the trade-offs are well worth it.
Finding the Balance: Purpose, Practice, and Prudence
The debate over whether the 43X sucks to shoot boils down to a complex interplay of individual preferences, shooting skills, and the intended purpose of the firearm.
Purpose and Design
The Glock 43X is not designed for competition shooting or extended range sessions. Its primary role is concealed carry, where size and discretion are paramount. This means that some compromises in terms of shootability are inherent in its design. The shooter needs to realize that.
The Power of Practice
The importance of regular practice cannot be overstated. Consistent practice is key to becoming proficient with any firearm, and this is especially true for the 43X. It takes time and repetition to master the gun’s feel, develop a consistent grip, and manage the recoil effectively. Dry-fire practice, where the gun is handled without live ammunition, is an excellent way to hone trigger control and sight alignment. Live-fire drills, focusing on accuracy and quick follow-up shots, will build confidence and improve overall performance.
Try Before You Buy
Before committing to a purchase, it is crucial to try the Glock 43X. Visiting a local shooting range and renting one or asking a friend to let you try their firearm allows you to experience the gun firsthand and assess whether it suits your hand size, shooting style, and preferences. This crucial step allows you to determine if the ergonomics are comfortable, and if you can handle the recoil and shoot it accurately.
Conclusion
The question of whether the 43X sucks to shoot doesn’t have a simple yes or no answer. The experience is subjective, and it depends heavily on individual factors. The 43X can be a great choice for those who value concealability and are willing to invest time in practice and potentially make modifications. Others may find the shooting experience less than ideal, and that is alright. The important thing is that you find a gun that works for *you*.
Ultimately, the Glock 43X is a popular pistol for a reason: it provides a balance between compact size, capacity, and Glock reliability. But it is not a perfect firearm, and it will not be the best choice for everyone.
