The Glock 42 in .380 ACP is one of the smallest pistols in the Glock lineup. The Flat Dark Earth version is the same gun mechanically. The color is the only difference from the standard black finish. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Caliber: .380 ACP 
• Barrel Length: 3.25 inches 
• Overall Length: 5.94 inches 
• Capacity: 6+1 rounds (includes two magazines) 
• Weight: 13.76 ounces (0.86 pounds) 
• Finish Colors: Black / Flat Dark Earth 
• Manufacturer: Glock 
• Model Number: UI4250201DE 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The Safe Action System uses three passive safeties (trigger safety, firing pin safety, and drop safety), that disengage in sequence as the trigger is pressed. No manual safety to manage. 
 
The polymer frame keeps weight under 14 oz unloaded, which is a meaningful number for all-day carry. Fixed front and rear sights handle basic target acquisition without requiring upgrades out of the box, though owners who want more do swap them. 
 
The slim profile is the main draw here. At under 6 inches overall with a single-stack magazine, it disappears under light clothing in a way that double-stack 9mm pistols cannot. 
 

Usage 

 
The G42 is built for concealed carry, not range duty. It handles extended sessions fine, but the 6+1 capacity and .380 caliber mean it is not a first choice for shooters who can carry something larger. For those where size and weight are the deciding factors, particularly first-time carry gun buyers or shooters who find larger pistols uncomfortable to carry daily, the G42 is a practical fit.

The G42 in Flat Dark Earth draws the same feedback as the standard black version. The FDE finish gets positive comments on looks, but it does not change the shooting experience.

Concealability is the most consistent positive. The slim, light package carries well under most clothing, and owners regularly note it as the deciding factor in choosing it over a larger pistol.

The grip gets good marks. Most hands find it comfortable, and the manageable recoil from .380 ACP makes it approachable for newer shooters.

Reliability holds up across the reviews. The G42 runs cleanly with quality defensive ammunition, and owners report few malfunctions over extended use.

The caliber debate comes up in almost every discussion. Some shooters are comfortable with .380 ACP for personal defense; others would prefer 9mm and find the G43 a better trade-off between size and power.

Factory sights draw mixed feedback. They work, but a number of owners upgrade to aftermarket options for better visibility. Adding a light or laser is straightforward given the available rail accessories.

Price is seen as fair within the compact carry segment, though a handful of buyers note that competing .380 pistols from other brands come in lower.