Glock 43X COA, the combo for self defense

Glock currently offers ten different 9mm models of its semi-automatic pistol with polymer frame and Safe Action trigger, with numerous sub-variants, such as the G45 Hunter Edition featuring a green frame and slide. Other variants go far beyond the color scheme, offering the user a real rethink of the gun's proportions, such as the Glock 43X COA that we present here.

The 9mm Glock 43X COA is a compact pistol designed primarily for self defense, and belongs to the Slimline series, with a narrower slide and frame than the standard models. To be precise, the  Slimline pistols' slide is 22 mm wide compared to the 25.5 mm of a standard G17. The frame is also narrower, with a slim grip and a grip spur that allows for a higher grip. In Glock pistols with Slimline frame, length of pull is shorter than standard frame Glocks, while the grip angle remains the same. The magazine is single-stack, with a capacity of ten rounds, but this is not necessarily a problem given the intended use of this model. The barrel of the Glock 43X COA is the now ubiquitous Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) which is one of the main improvements introduced with the Generation 5. It is 84-mm long and thanks to the improved polygonal rifling offers match-level accuracy. Trigger is the improved classic Safe Action, and finally the magazine release is of the oversized and easily reversible type. The slide finish is nDLC (nano-diamond like carbon), an extremely hard and durable surface treatment that effectively protects the gun from rubbing against clothing and holster, sweat and the elements, prolonging its service life.

The Aimpoint COA red dot sight

The COA is a red dot sight with enclosed design, made by Aimpoint for uncompromising use, with its proprietary A-Cut integrated direct mounting system, which eliminates the need for adapter plates. It ensures perfect stability and zeroing retention even under very demanding use. Size is compact: 45x28x30 mm, and a weight of 48 g (without battery). The 3.5 MOA red dot can be adjusted to twelve brightness settings, four for night use and eight for daytime use. The COA is powered by a 3V lithium CR2032 battery that guarantees 50,000 hours of operation (approximately five years) with the red dot set to level 7. The red dot can be used in co-witness with the metal sights of the 43X.

The red dot sight obviously increases the gun's bulk and weight, but it offers the user –  particularly if a little advanced in age – greater ease and precision in pointing the barrel at the target. To give you some statistics, remember that in the US, where there are at least 20 million firearm carriers, studies such as that of the National Center for Health Statistics have shown that middle-aged people (45-64 years) tend to own firearms more frequently than other age groups.

Glock 43X COA technical specifications