Glock 17 Glock 43: A Complete Comparison & Upgrade Guide
The Glock 17 and Glock 43 are two of the most popular 9mm pistols on the market, each serving different shooting needs. The Glock 17 is a full-size handgun known for reliability and performance, while the Glock 43 is a slim, highly concealable option favored for everyday carry. This guide explores both models while including top accessories such as the Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS for sale, Glock 17 holster OWB, Radian Afterburner Glock 17, and more.
Glock 17 Overview: Full-Size Performance
The Glock 17 remains one of the most trusted full-size pistols due to its durability, accuracy, and versatility. Modern versions, including the Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS for sale, support optics mounting straight from the factory, making them highly adaptable for competition, personal defense, and range use.
Key Features
-
Optics-ready configuration: Versions like the Glock 17 slide optics ready and Glock 17 Gen 4 slide with optic cut allow shooters to mount red dots for faster target acquisition.
-
Training options: Shooters often use the Glock 17 Gen 4 airsoft model to practice handling and trigger control.
-
Frame compatibility: Many users enjoy customizing builds using a Glock 17 Gen 4 frame or upgrading with aftermarket components.
-
Performance upgrades: The Radian Afterburner Glock 17 compensator is a popular option to reduce muzzle rise for faster follow-up shots.
Holster Options for Glock 17
Because it is a full-size pistol, choosing a suitable holster is crucial. Highly preferred options include:
Outside-the-Waistband Holsters
-
Glock 17 holster OWB
-
OWB Glock 17 holster
These provide stability and are ideal for duty carry or open carry.
Light-Bearing Holsters
Shooters running weapon lights or red dots often choose:
-
Glock 17 holster with light and red dot
-
Holster Glock 17 with light
-
Holster Glock 17 Safariland, a premium choice for professionals and tactical users
Holster compatibility is one of the reasons the Glock 17 remains so widely supported in the shooting community.
Glock 17 Magazines and Capacity Options
The Glock 17 platform supports nearly every magazine configuration available for Glock pistols.
Popular Magazine Options
-
Glock 17 30 round mag for competition or recreational shooting
-
Glock 17 drum clip and Glock 17 with drum magazine, commonly used for range fun
-
Standard and extended magazines that ensure continuous reliability
These magazine choices show how customizable and versatile the Glock 17 truly is.
Comparing the Glock 17 and Glock 43
While the Glock 17 is a full-size duty pistol, the Glock 43 is a compact, single-stack 9mm built for concealability. The Glock 43’s lightweight design makes it one of the most popular everyday carry pistols. Pairing a Glock 43 for daily carry with a Glock 17 for range or home defense is a common strategy among firearm owners.
Glock 17 vs Sig P320
The Glock 17 vs Sig P320 debate is consistently active in the firearm community, including discussions on Glock 17 Reddit. While both pistols perform exceptionally well, Glock enthusiasts often prefer:
-
A simpler striker-fired system
-
Low bore axis
-
Massive aftermarket support, including Glock 17 Gen 3 parts
-
Proven long-term reliability
The Sig P320 offers modularity, but Glock’s ecosystem remains broader in terms of parts, holsters, magazines, and upgrades.
Why the Glock 17 and Glock 43 Make a Strong Combo
Many shooters keep both models due to their complementary strengths:
-
Glock 17 — accurate, reliable full-size performance
-
Glock 43 — ideal for deep concealment and comfortable daily carry
The pairing covers home defense, training, and everyday carry seamlessly.











Reviews
There are no reviews yet.