The Glock 42 is a .380 ACP semi-automatic pistol with a 3.25-inch barrel, 6-round capacity, and a gray polymer frame with a gas nitride steel slide. It weighs 13.76 oz (0.86 lbs) unloaded. Two magazines are included. Overall length is 5.94 inches, height is 4.13 inches. 
 

Key Specifications 

• UPC: 764503914102 
• Action: Semi Automatic 
• Caliber: .380 ACP 
• Barrel Length: 3.25 inches 
• Capacity: 6 rounds (two magazines included) 
• Weight: 13.76 oz (0.86 lbs) 
• Finish: Gray polymer frame, gas nitride slide 
   

Detailed Features 

The Safe Action system uses three passive internal safeties that disengage only when the trigger is pulled. There is no external safety lever to manage. Fixed front and rear sights are set for standard defensive distances. The textured polymer grip keeps the gun in hand during the draw without being rough. At 5.94 inches long and 4.13 inches tall the G42 is one of Glock's smallest pistols, which makes it straightforward to conceal in a waistband or pocket holster. The slide is forged steel, made in the USA.

Owners of the G42 center their feedback on a handful of consistent themes.

The lightweight and compact dimensions come up in almost every positive comment. At under a pound the gun disappears in a pocket or IWB holster in a way that larger 9mm pistols don't, which is the main reason people buy it. Reliability gets consistent marks. Glock's track record on that front carries over to this platform, and few owners report malfunctions during normal use.

Ease of operation is appreciated, particularly among newer shooters. The lack of an external safety simplifies the manual of arms, and recoil in .380 ACP is mild enough that follow-up shots are comfortable.

The .380 ACP caliber is a common discussion point. Some owners are comfortable with it for defensive use; others would prefer 9mm and see the caliber as the G42's main limitation. The 6-round standard capacity gets similar treatment, sufficient for many carry situations, though not everyone is satisfied with it.

Shooters with larger hands sometimes find the grip short. Price occasionally comes up as a mild friction point, with some buyers noting comparable .380 options from other manufacturers at lower prices. Overall sentiment leans positive, driven primarily by the combination of small size, light weight, and reliable function.