The Glock 43 is a slim single-stack 9mm pistol designed for concealed carry. At 6.26 inches overall with a 3.39-inch barrel, it weighs 17.95 oz unloaded and carries 6+1 rounds. Gas nitride finish in Flat Dark Earth. Includes 2 magazines. No manual safety. The Safe Action trigger system handles drop and accidental discharge protection passively. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Glock 
• Model: 43 
• Type: Semi-auto Pistol 
• Action: Safe Action 
• Finish: Gas Nitride with Flat Dark Earth color 
• Stock/Frame Material: Polymer Frame 
• Weight: 17.95 oz. 
• Caliber/Gauge: 9mm (9x19 Para) 
• Capacity: 6 + 1 rounds (Includes 2 magazines) 
• Barrel Length: 3.39 inches 
• Overall Length: 6.26 inches 
• Sights: Fixed Glock Sights 
• Safety Features: No Manual Safety 
   

Detailed Features 

The 43's single-stack magazine keeps it narrow. That's the main carry advantage over the double-stack G19. At 17.95 oz, you can carry it IWB all day without much fatigue. Fixed Glock sights are adequate for defensive distances. The gas nitride finish holds up well against sweat and incidental moisture, which matters for a gun in daily contact with your body. The FDE polymer frame distinguishes it visually from the standard black version. 
 

Target Audience 

Shooters who prioritize a thin profile and light weight for concealed carry over maximum capacity. Works for first-time carry gun buyers and experienced shooters who want a minimalist backup. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

• Concealed carry as a primary or backup gun 
• Home defense where compact size helps with maneuverability 
• Dry-fire and live-fire practice sessions for defensive fundamentals

The Glock 43 Gen 1 FDE gets consistently positive marks for its slim profile and light carry weight. Most owners bought it specifically for concealed carry and report the sizing works well. It disappears under a shirt in a way a G19 doesn't. The FDE finish gets mentioned as an aesthetic plus by buyers who chose it deliberately.

Glock reliability is assumed by most buyers going in, and the 43 lives up to it. Users report it runs cleanly across different 9mm loads.

Capacity is the most common criticism. Six rounds in the standard magazine is on the low end for compact 9mms, and some owners immediately moved to 7-round extended magazines. Grip fit for larger hands is a secondary concern. The short grip frame works well for average and smaller hands but can feel cramped for shooters used to full-size guns. Trigger feel draws mixed opinions; some find the pull acceptable, others want something lighter or crisper.

Afttermarket coverage is decent but narrower than the G19 or G43X. Most buyers find what they need for holsters and sights, but those who want deep customization options find the 43's ecosystem more limited.