Choosing a Glock can feel overwhelming, especially when comparing popular models like the Glock 19, 26, and 43. These three handguns represent a spectrum of size and concealability, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This in-depth comparison will help you determine which Glock best fits your needs and shooting style.
Size and Concealability: The Key Differentiator
The most significant difference between these three Glocks lies in their size and, consequently, their concealability.
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Glock 19: This is the "goldilocks" of the group—often considered the perfect balance of size, capacity, and shootability. It's larger than the 26 and 43, offering a fuller grip and better control, but still relatively compact for concealed carry.
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Glock 26: Subcompact and designed for deep concealment, the Glock 26 sacrifices some shootability for its smaller size. Its shorter grip can be challenging for those with larger hands.
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Glock 43: The smallest of the three, the Glock 43 prioritizes extreme concealability above all else. Its single-stack magazine holds fewer rounds than the 19 and 26.
Here's a quick table summarizing the key size differences:
| Feature | Glock 19 | Glock 26 | Glock 43 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 4.02" | 3.35" | 3.39" |
| Overall Length | 7.36" | 6.46" | 5.95" |
| Height | 5.04" | 4.17" | 4.25" |
| Width | 1.18" | 1.18" | 0.87" |
Capacity and Ammunition
The magazine capacity also varies significantly:
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Glock 19: Standard 15-round magazines (17-round extended magazines are available)
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Glock 26: Standard 10-round magazines (12-round extended magazines are available).
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Glock 43: Standard 6-round magazines (8-round extended magazines are available)
Shootability and Recoil
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Glock 19: The larger grip and longer barrel of the Glock 19 contribute to superior shootability and manageable recoil.
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Glock 26: The shorter grip can make it more challenging to control recoil, especially for newer shooters.
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Glock 43: The small size and lighter weight of the Glock 43 mean sharper recoil. Accuracy can be more difficult to maintain during rapid fire.
Concealability and Everyday Carry
The choice here heavily depends on your body type and clothing. The Glock 43 excels in deep concealment, vanishing easily under light clothing. The Glock 26 is a solid compromise, offering more capacity while remaining relatively concealable. The Glock 19 is more challenging to conceal but offers superior shootability.
Which Glock is Right for You?
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For everyday carry prioritizing concealability: The Glock 43 is an excellent choice, though its smaller size and lower capacity should be considered.
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For a balance of concealability and shootability: The Glock 26 offers a good compromise, providing more capacity than the 43 but remaining relatively compact.
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For superior shootability and capacity, with slightly reduced concealability: The Glock 19 is the clear winner.
Ultimately, the best Glock for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your experience level, hand size, clothing choices, and intended use case before making a decision. Rentals or trips to a local gun range to handle and shoot each model are highly recommended before purchasing. This hands-on experience will allow you to make a more informed and comfortable choice.
