Introduction
The world of firearms is filled with choices, but few names carry the weight and recognition of Glock. Known for their reliability, simplicity, and innovative design, Glock pistols have become a staple for law enforcement, military personnel, and civilians alike. Among the wide range of Glock models, compact and subcompact pistols have gained immense popularity, particularly for those seeking concealed carry options. These smaller firearms offer the potential for personal protection without the bulk of a full-sized handgun. Today, we delve into a comparative analysis of two such contenders: the Glock 36 and the Glock 43.
The Glock 36 and Glock 43 represent compelling choices within the Glock lineup, each catering to a slightly different set of needs and preferences. This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of these two pistols, breaking down their features, characteristics, and performance to assist you in determining which model is the right fit for your individual requirements. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a first-time gun owner exploring the realm of concealed carry, this guide will equip you with the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision.
Glock 36 Overview
The Glock 36 stands out as a distinctive offering in the compact pistol market. It presents a unique proposition, blending a relatively small frame with a powerful cartridge. Let’s explore the key aspects of this Glock variant.
Chambering and Caliber
The heart of the Glock 36 lies in its chambering: the potent .45 Automatic Colt Pistol (.45 ACP). This cartridge is renowned for its stopping power, delivering a significant punch on impact. The .45 ACP has a long and storied history, often associated with law enforcement and military use. Many consider its larger bullet diameter and heavier projectile weight to be advantageous in terms of incapacitation.
However, the .45 ACP is not without its trade-offs. The cartridge typically produces more recoil than smaller calibers, which can affect the shooter’s ability to maintain control and accuracy, especially during rapid firing. Ammunition costs for the .45 ACP are usually higher compared to 9mm, and the magazine capacity is often somewhat limited due to the larger cartridge size.
Size and Dimensions
The Glock 36 has been designed to offer a compact form factor that still provides a comfortable grip. Its dimensions are carefully calibrated to strike a balance between concealability and shootability. The overall length, from the tip of the barrel to the end of the slide, is moderately compact, contributing to its ability to be carried comfortably.
The height of the Glock 36 is designed to accommodate a grip that is long enough for a firm purchase without being overly bulky. This provides a solid platform for the shooter’s hand to control the pistol effectively. The width, a crucial factor in concealment, is well-managed, making the Glock 36 relatively easy to conceal under various clothing. Finally, the weight is kept reasonably light, making the gun manageable and comfortable to carry for extended periods. These dimensional choices are important when considering the Glock 36 as a concealed carry option because it is very easy to carry.
Features
Like all Glocks, the Glock 36 incorporates the Glock Safe Action system, a hallmark of the brand’s safety and reliability. This system consists of three independent safety mechanisms: a trigger safety, a firing pin safety, and a drop safety. These features work together to prevent accidental discharge while maintaining the pistol’s ease of use.
The frame of the Glock 36 is crafted from a high-strength polymer, known for its durability and resistance to environmental factors. The polymer frame also contributes to the pistol’s relatively lightweight nature. The slide is made from steel and finished with a durable coating to resist corrosion and wear. The barrel is made with the same quality materials that give the Glock line its reputation for excellence.
The magazine capacity is designed to balance manageable size with the need for a sufficient number of rounds. With a capacity, the Glock 36 is ideal for personal protection.
Pros and Cons
The Glock 36 holds certain benefits that appeal to a specific audience. Its stopping power in .45 ACP is a significant advantage, instilling confidence in its ability to neutralize a threat. Its compact size, though not the smallest available, allows it to be carried with reasonable discretion. The Glock’s reputation for reliability and ease of maintenance is another major selling point.
The drawbacks of the Glock 36 include the potentially stronger recoil associated with the .45 ACP. The limited magazine capacity may require the shooter to be mindful of their ammunition supply. The Glock 36 may not be as concealable as some smaller alternatives, particularly for those with smaller frames or wearing form-fitting clothing.
Glock 43 Overview
The Glock 43 represents a pivotal shift in Glock’s approach to concealed carry, embracing a slimmer profile and a smaller caliber for maximum concealability. Let’s examine the key features of the Glock 43.
Chambering and Caliber
The Glock 43 is chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, commonly referred to as 9mm. This cartridge is widely popular for its versatility, affordability, and manageable recoil. 9mm offers a good balance of stopping power, magazine capacity, and ease of control.
The 9mm cartridge offers a wide range of ammunition options, with different bullet weights and designs to suit various needs. The 9mm also tends to be more affordable than the .45 ACP, allowing for more frequent practice and training.
Size and Dimensions
The Glock 43 stands out as a subcompact pistol, with dimensions carefully optimized for concealed carry. Its length, the height, and the width are all considerably smaller than the Glock 36. This reduction in size translates directly into enhanced concealability, making it easier to carry the Glock 43 discreetly.
The Glock 43’s reduced size allows for more comfortable and discreet carry, reducing the likelihood of “printing” (the outline of the gun showing through clothing) and making it easier to conceal in various carry positions, such as inside the waistband (IWB) or pocket carry. The Glock 43 is a joy to carry.
Features
The Glock 43 maintains the core design principles of Glock, incorporating the Safe Action system for reliable and user-friendly operation. The frame and slide are constructed from high-quality materials and finished with a durable coating, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear and tear. The barrel maintains the quality standards that Glock customers have come to expect.
The magazine capacity of the Glock 43 is larger than that of the Glock 36, providing a greater number of rounds for self-defense scenarios. This increased capacity offers peace of mind to the user and gives the Glock 43 a big advantage.
Pros and Cons
The Glock 43 presents a compelling set of advantages. Its compact dimensions make it exceptionally easy to conceal, offering maximum discretion. The 9mm cartridge provides a manageable recoil and a good balance of stopping power, making it accessible to a wider range of shooters. The Glock’s reputation for reliability and ease of maintenance remains a key factor in the Glock 43’s favor.
The potential downsides of the Glock 43 include the generally less powerful performance of 9mm compared to .45 ACP. The small size can, in some situations, make the grip less comfortable for those with larger hands. However, the advantages of the Glock 43 far outweigh the disadvantages.
Comparison: Glock 36 versus Glock 43
Now, let’s delve into a direct comparison, highlighting the critical differences between the Glock 36 and the Glock 43.
Size and Concealment
The Glock 43 clearly wins the battle of concealment due to its smaller overall dimensions. Its slimmer profile and reduced weight make it considerably easier to conceal than the Glock 36. The Glock 43 is easier to carry in various positions, including IWB, pocket carry, and appendix carry. The Glock 36, although still a compact pistol, might be more challenging to conceal effectively, particularly for those with smaller frames or wearing tight-fitting clothing.
Caliber and Effectiveness
The choice of caliber has a significant impact on the performance of each pistol. The .45 ACP in the Glock 36 is known for its significant stopping power, offering a potentially more decisive impact on a threat. The 9mm in the Glock 43 provides a good balance of energy and controllability, but with generally less terminal effectiveness than .45 ACP. The selection of ammunition can influence the perceived differences in stopping power, but in the end, shot placement is most important.
Recoil and Control
The .45 ACP cartridge in the Glock 36 produces more recoil than the 9mm in the Glock 43. This can make the Glock 36 more challenging to control, especially for new shooters or those with smaller hands. The Glock 43 offers more manageable recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy. The shooter’s experience, grip strength, and overall shooting proficiency will influence how well they manage recoil.
Capacity and Reloads
The Glock 43 has a higher magazine capacity than the Glock 36. This means the Glock 43 can carry more rounds without the need for reloading. The ability to quickly and efficiently reload a firearm is a critical skill in a self-defense situation. The Glock 43, with its higher capacity and ease of handling, can give the user a great tactical advantage.
Price and Availability
The price of both the Glock 36 and Glock 43 falls within a similar range, but minor fluctuations can occur based on market conditions and retailer pricing. The Glock 36 is slightly older, so finding replacement parts or accessories may be a little harder than for the Glock 43. The Glock 43 is a more commonly produced model, which usually means that it is easier to get.
Choosing the Right Glock
Ultimately, the best choice between the Glock 36 and the Glock 43 depends on your individual needs and priorities.
For the Concealed Carrier
If concealability is your primary concern, the Glock 43 is the clear winner. Its smaller size makes it significantly easier to conceal and carry discreetly. If you prioritize maximum stopping power and are comfortable with more recoil, the Glock 36 might be a good option, but concealment may require more effort.
For Home Defense
For home defense, both pistols are viable choices. The Glock 36 offers potentially greater stopping power, while the Glock 43 provides higher magazine capacity and potentially faster follow-up shots.
For Beginners
For beginners or those new to firearms, the Glock 43 may be the easier pistol to handle and control due to its lower recoil. The manageable recoil is important to help the shooter build confidence and hone their skills.
Conclusion
The Glock 36 and Glock 43 represent different approaches to the compact and subcompact pistol market. The Glock 36 offers the undeniable power of .45 ACP in a compact package, while the Glock 43 prioritizes concealability and ease of use with the 9mm cartridge. The choice between these two models is personal.
If you prioritize stopping power and are comfortable with more recoil, the Glock 36 may be the better choice. If concealment and ease of use are your top priorities, the Glock 43 is likely the better fit.
To arrive at the perfect decision, it is recommended to handle both pistols at a gun store or range, if possible. This hands-on experience will enable you to gauge the feel, recoil, and overall comfort of each pistol, ultimately helping you choose the Glock that is best for you.
Call to Action
We encourage you to share your experiences and questions in the comments below. If you have experience with either the Glock 36 or the Glock 43, let us know your thoughts!
Remember to always handle firearms responsibly and follow all applicable local, state, and federal laws.
For additional information, consider visiting the Glock website or consulting with a qualified firearms instructor. Many reputable online and local gun stores offer both the Glock 36 and the Glock 43 for sale.
