Which is Better: The Glock 43 or the M&P Shield?

Introduction

Time to read: 7 minutes

Date: June 2, 2023

The debate between the Glock 43 and the M&P Shield is a hot topic among gun enthusiasts. Both guns are great options for concealed carry, but which one is right for you? This blog post will explore the differences between the two guns in terms of size and weight, capacity, accuracy, reliability, and price. We will then compare the pros and cons of each gun to determine which one is better. Finally, we will provide resources for further research so that you can make an informed decision.

Comparison of Size and Weight

When it comes to size and weight, the Glock 43 and M&P Shield are both lightweight handguns. The Glock 43 weighs in at 17.95 ounces unloaded, while the M&P Shield is slightly lighter at 18.3 ounces unloaded. Both guns have a slim profile that makes them easy to carry concealed, but the M&P Shield has a slightly slimmer profile than the Glock 43. In terms of length, the Glock 43 measures 6.26 inches long, while the M&P Shield is 6.1 inches long. Both guns have a 3-inch barrel length and are designed for close-range shooting accuracy and precision. 

The magazine capacity of each gun also differs; the Glock 43 holds six rounds in its standard magazine, while the M&P Shield holds seven rounds in its standard magazine, with an optional eight-round extended magazine available as well. This gives shooters more options when it comes to carrying extra ammunition for self-defense or competition shooting purposes. 

Overall, both guns offer excellent size and weight options for concealed carry or competition shooting purposes; however, shooters should consider their individual needs before making a decision on which gun is best suited for them based on size and weight considerations alone.

Comparison of Capacity

When it comes to capacity, the Glock 34 and M&P Shield have different advantages. The Glock 34 has a standard magazine capacity of 17 rounds, while the M&P Shield has a standard magazine capacity of 8 rounds. However, the M&P Shield can be upgraded with extended magazines that hold up to 15 rounds. This makes it more suitable for competitive shooting and self-defense situations where extra ammunition is needed.

Comparison of Accuracy

When it comes to accuracy, the Glock 43 and M&P Shield are both excellent choices. The Glock 43 has a smooth Apex trigger that is great for competitive shooting, while the M&P Shield has a Timney trigger that is also very consistent. The M&P Shield also has an advantage over the Glock 43 in terms of optics due to its SRO (fixed for the dot). Additionally, the M&P Shield can be reloaded on the move. This makes it more practical for quick reloads. 

Ultimately, when deciding between these two guns, it’s best to head to your local range and try out different models so you can see how each gun feels in your hand and find one that works best for you.

Comparison of Reliability

When it comes to reliability, both the Glock 43 and the M&P Shield are reliable firearms. The Glock 43 is a popular choice for competitive shooters due to its Apex trigger, which is smooth and consistent. The MP 20 has a Timney trigger that is also very smooth and consistent. Both guns have been extensively tested in various conditions and have proven to be reliable. 

The Glock 43 has an advantage over the MP 20 in terms of magazine capacity; it can hold up to 8 rounds compared to the MP 20’s 6-round capacity. This makes it more suitable for USPSA competition, where magazine capacity is an essential factor. However, the MP 20 can be reloaded on the move if not exposed to a target, while the Glock 34 cannot; this makes it more practical for quick reloads. 

Overall, both guns are reliable firearms that will serve you well in any situation. Ultimately, your decision should come down to personal preference and what works best for you; head down to your local range and try out different models so you can find one that fits your needs perfectly!

Comparison of Price

When it comes to price, the Glock 43 and M&P Shield are both relatively affordable options. The Glock 43 retails for around $500, while the M&P Shield is slightly more expensive at around $550. 

However, both guns offer excellent value for money and are well worth the investment. Both guns come with a variety of features that make them suitable for different types of shooting. The Glock 43 has a 3.4-inch barrel and weighs just 19 ounces unloaded, making it an ideal choice for concealed carry or home defense. 

The M&P Shield has a 3.1-inch barrel and weighs 18 ounces unloaded, making it an excellent choice for those who want a lightweight gun that can be easily carried all day. Both guns also have good aftermarket support, so you can customize them to suit your needs and preferences. Ultimately, when it comes to price, both the Glock 43 and M&P Shield offer great value for money and are well worth considering if you’re looking for an affordable handgun option.

Pros and Cons of Each Gun

Glock 43

Pros:

Reliability: 

Despite being smaller than most other Glock pistols, the Glock 43 still maintains the brand’s well-known dependability. It can fire in almost any circumstance, making it a strong option for personal protection.

Caliber:

Although it may appear to be a matter of personal opinion, the 9mm round is actually the most suitable for a handgun used in self-defense. This is due to several reasons, such as its affordability, widespread availability, and easy recoil control.

Cons:

Capacity: 

When it comes to concealed carry, you often have to sacrifice ammo capacity for greater concealability. The Glock 43, a slimline pistol, has a standard magazine that holds just 6 rounds, which is relatively low. 

Sight:

A commonly heard grievance regarding Glock sights is their lack of durability due to being made of plastic. In situations where one-handed operation is necessary, the sights are used to manipulate the gun and rack the slide. However, plastic sights are prone to being ripped off during such operations. 

M&P Shield

Pros:

The M&P Shield is a pistol that is designed to be compact and easy to carry on a daily basis. It features a textured grip that is comfortable to hold and provides good traction, reducing the risk of slipping while firing. 

The pistol is also known for its reliability and durability, withstanding heavy use and abuse. It is easy to operate, making it a suitable choice for beginners or those with less experience handling firearms. Additionally, the M&P Shield is priced reasonably, making it an affordable option for those on a budget.

Cons:

The M&P Shield has some drawbacks that users have reported. One issue is that the trigger pull can be heavy, resulting in accuracy problems for certain shooters. Additionally, the standard magazine only holds 7 rounds, which may not be sufficient for those who prefer higher-capacity handguns. 

Another downside is the limited options for aftermarket customization, making it difficult to personalize the gun to your exact specifications. Due to its small size and lightweight frame, the M&P Shield can produce a significant amount of recoil, which may be challenging to manage for some shooters. Finally, some users have reported that the stock sights are not very precise, necessitating an upgrade to aftermarket sights for improved accuracy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Glock 43 and M&P Shield offer great features at an affordable price point. The choice ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding which gun is best for you. If you are looking for reliability, accuracy, and carrying comfort, then the Glock 43 may be preferable for you; if you’re looking for capacity, then the M&P Shield may be your best option.

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