Introduction
The concealed carry lifestyle demands a lot from its participants. It necessitates responsible gun ownership, commitment to training, and, above all, the right equipment. Choosing a concealed carry handgun is a crucial decision, one that can significantly impact your safety and peace of mind. The market is flooded with options, but two handguns consistently rise to the top: the Smith & Wesson Shield Plus and the Glock 43. Both have earned a stellar reputation as compact, reliable, and capable platforms for personal protection. But which one truly deserves a place on your hip? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the nuances of each handgun, examining their features, performance, and overall suitability for concealed carry, helping you determine which compact nine-millimeter reigns supreme for *your* specific needs.
Background and Overview
Smith & Wesson Shield Plus
The Smith & Wesson Shield Plus represents an evolution of the hugely popular Shield line. The original Shield quickly became a favorite due to its comfortable size and chambering in the readily available 9mm Luger cartridge. Building upon that foundation, the Shield Plus introduces significant enhancements, primarily focusing on increased magazine capacity and a vastly improved trigger. Smith & Wesson meticulously refined the platform, listening to consumer feedback and addressing key areas for improvement. Key selling points for the Shield Plus revolve around its combination of increased capacity, a superior trigger pull, and overall ergonomics, making it a practical and user-friendly option for everyday carry. This is a direct response to the demands of the market, understanding that more rounds on tap can mean more security.
Glock 43
The Glock 43, on the other hand, is a direct descendant of the iconic Glock lineage. Glock, with its reputation for simplicity, reliability, and a proven track record, is a force to be reckoned with. The Glock 43 embraces the compact form factor, offering a smaller footprint that’s easier to conceal while retaining the core attributes that have made Glock so successful. The Glock 43 represents a dedication to the Glock philosophy of reliability and ease of use. The absence of external safeties and straightforward takedown procedures appeal to a wide range of users. Key selling points for the Glock 43 revolve around its legendary durability, straightforward manual of arms, and robust aftermarket support. It’s a pistol that is often praised for its unfussy nature.
Feature Examination: Size and Dimensions
Concealability is paramount when selecting a carry gun. The Shield Plus and Glock 43 both excel in this area, but a closer inspection reveals crucial differences that could sway your decision. Assessing the actual dimensions provides crucial context for understanding each pistol’s suitability for different carry methods and body types.
Dimensions: Shield Plus
The Shield Plus is typically found with a length approximately around six inches, and a height that varies depending on the magazine used, but generally falls in the range of 4.6 to 4.8 inches with the extended magazine. The overall width, a particularly critical aspect for concealment, is about one inch at its widest point. Weight, of course, is also a consideration, with an unloaded Shield Plus typically tipping the scales at around 17 to 18 ounces. These dimensions translate to a pistol that is relatively easy to conceal inside the waistband (IWB), outside the waistband (OWB), or even in a pocket holster, depending on clothing choices and body type.
Dimensions: Glock 43
The Glock 43 presents similar but slightly different measurements. It usually measures around six and a quarter inches in length and stands approximately four and a quarter inches tall with the standard magazine. The width is a shade over an inch, making it exceptionally easy to conceal. The unloaded weight is comparable, coming in around 17 to 18 ounces. The minimal size profile of the Glock 43 makes it an outstanding choice for deep concealment, and its thinness adds greatly to the gun’s comfort.
Concealability Considerations
When considering these dimensions, remember that the overall height, particularly the grip length, significantly impacts concealment. A shorter grip is often preferable for IWB carry, as it reduces the likelihood of printing. The overall width also affects how the gun feels and whether it’s likely to dig into the body. The type of carry method chosen will determine what size is suitable for each individual. Ultimately, the “best” size is subjective and depends on individual physique, carry style, and clothing choices. Trying both pistols and carrying them empty to test the fit and feel are highly recommended.
Capacity: Rounds at Your Disposal
The number of rounds a handgun holds is always a critical consideration for self-defense. Both pistols utilize compact magazine designs that make them very easy to carry and conceal.
Capacity: Shield Plus
The Shield Plus has a distinct advantage in capacity, even in its standard configuration. The base model offers a 10-round magazine, while the extended magazines can hold 13 or 15 rounds. This means, for a gun of its size, the Shield Plus offers a considerable advantage in terms of firepower. This added capacity is a significant selling point for many users.
Capacity: Glock 43
The Glock 43, by contrast, ships with a standard magazine capacity of six rounds. While Glock offers extended magazines, the options may impact the gun’s concealability. This is an area where the Shield Plus clearly leads. While six rounds may be sufficient for some situations, the extra rounds offered by the Shield Plus can provide extra peace of mind and the ability to effectively address multiple threats.
Capacity Considerations
However, it is very important to remember that capacity is only one factor to consider. Training, situational awareness, and marksmanship are as important, if not more, than the number of rounds a gun holds.
The Trigger: Feel and Performance
The trigger is the crucial interface between the shooter and the gun. The Shield Plus and Glock 43 have very different approaches to trigger design and feel.
Trigger: Shield Plus
The Shield Plus trigger is one of the most significant improvements over the original Shield. It has been engineered to provide a flat-faced trigger profile. The take-up is typically crisp, with a clean break and a shorter reset. The feel is generally considered to be significantly improved over Glock’s factory offerings. The lighter pull weight, typically around five to six pounds, contributes to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots.
Trigger: Glock 43
The Glock 43 features a trigger design, incorporating the Glock “Safe Action” system. The pull is consistent but the break can sometimes feel less defined compared to the Shield Plus. The Glock 43 has a slightly longer pull and a more noticeable take-up. The trigger pull weight on the Glock 43 typically falls within the range of five to six pounds.
Trigger Preference
Ultimately, the trigger is largely a matter of personal preference. Some shooters may prefer the feel and control offered by the Shield Plus, while others may be accustomed to and comfortable with the Glock trigger. Dry firing both pistols is an absolute must before making a decision.
Ergonomics and Grip: How They Handle
How a handgun feels in the hand is paramount for control, comfort, and overall shooting experience. The Shield Plus and Glock 43 offer differing approaches to ergonomics.
Ergonomics: Shield Plus
The Shield Plus generally features a more sculpted grip profile, designed to enhance the hand’s purchase. The grip texture, typically a stippled or textured pattern, contributes significantly to grip security, even with sweaty hands. The overall shape encourages a high grip, allowing for better recoil management. Some shooters find the Shield Plus grip to be more comfortable and natural in their hands.
Ergonomics: Glock 43
The Glock 43, consistent with the Glock design philosophy, features a simpler grip design. The grip angle is generally more upright, some shooters find this offers a more intuitive point of aim. The Glock 43 often includes textured grip panels or inserts.
Grip Influence
The grip, of course, plays a large role in how easy each handgun is to shoot accurately and quickly. A well-fitting grip allows the shooter to maintain control during recoil and promotes better shot-to-shot consistency. Ultimately, which grip design is superior is a matter of personal preference and how well the gun feels in *your* hand.
Sights: Target Acquisition
Sights are crucial for accurately placing your shots. Both the Shield Plus and Glock 43 offer various sight options, but there are differences in their standard configurations.
Sights: Shield Plus
The Shield Plus typically comes equipped with basic iron sights, often incorporating a three-dot configuration, which are relatively easy to acquire and use. Many aftermarket sight options are also available, including night sights, which can greatly improve low-light visibility. The Shield Plus also has various sight combinations that are offered from the factory.
Sights: Glock 43
The Glock 43 also typically comes with a basic, polymer sight system. Many shooters find the Glock sights functional but often upgrade to better sight options. As with the Shield Plus, there are vast aftermarket options, including night sights and fiber-optic sights. Upgrading the sights on either pistol can significantly enhance the shooter’s ability to quickly acquire and engage targets.
Control Systems: User-Friendliness
The design and placement of controls can significantly impact how easily and safely a handgun can be operated. Both pistols strive to keep things simple and user-friendly.
Control Systems: Shield Plus
The Shield Plus features an ambidextrous slide release lever. The magazine release is usually located on the left side of the frame.
Control Systems: Glock 43
The Glock 43 also features a streamlined approach, incorporating a standard slide release. The magazine release is usually on the left side. The absence of an external safety on either gun is another point that must be considered.
Performance and Shooting Experience: Recoil Management and Accuracy
The proof is in the performance. Ultimately, both pistols are designed to reliably launch rounds downrange. The ability to manage recoil and achieve consistent accuracy is what matters most.
Recoil and Accuracy: Shield Plus
The Shield Plus, due to its heavier weight compared to the original Shield and ergonomic grip design, generally offers good recoil management. The flat-faced trigger can also aid in accurate shooting, allowing for a cleaner break and more precise shot placement.
Recoil and Accuracy: Glock 43
The Glock 43 also offers decent recoil management, although the lighter weight can result in a slightly more pronounced felt recoil. However, the grip angle and ergonomics will play a large role in the shooter’s ability to control the gun.
Factors of Accuracy
Accuracy, of course, depends on multiple factors, including the shooter’s skill, the trigger, and the sights. Both pistols are capable of good accuracy. Test firing is the best way to determine which gun is best for you.
Aftermarket Support and Customization: Making It Yours
The ability to personalize your handgun is something many shooters appreciate.
Both the Shield Plus and Glock 43 have extensive aftermarket support. This means that shooters can purchase a variety of accessories to enhance performance, aesthetics, or ergonomics. These upgrades can make the handgun fit your needs.
Pros and Cons: Quick Summary
Shield Plus
- Pros: Increased capacity, improved trigger, more refined ergonomics.
- Cons: May not be suitable for all hand sizes, some may find the grip slightly large.
Glock 43
- Pros: Simplicity, durability, extensive aftermarket support.
- Cons: Lower standard capacity, trigger feel is a matter of preference.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Shield Plus and the Glock 43 often comes down to weighing the pros and cons and determining which features best align with your needs and preferences. The Shield Plus offers a compelling package with its increased capacity and enhanced trigger, making it an excellent choice for those seeking maximum firepower in a compact package. The Glock 43, with its proven reliability and simple design, remains a solid and dependable option, particularly for those who value its simplicity and legendary durability. If you value ease of use, the Glock 43 is a good choice. For those who value the extra rounds and the trigger pull of the Shield Plus, then this might be a better choice.
Conclusion
The Smith & Wesson Shield Plus and Glock 43 are both excellent choices for concealed carry. Both offer reliability, and accuracy. By carefully considering the various factors discussed in this comparison—size, capacity, trigger, ergonomics, and aftermarket support—you can make an informed decision about which handgun is best suited for your needs and your lifestyle. Remember to prioritize responsible gun ownership and ongoing training to ensure safe and effective use of your chosen firearm.
(Optional) Call to Action:
Visit a local gun store to handle and test-fire both handguns, to experience the feel of each gun. Consider taking a self-defense class or joining a shooting club to further develop your skills and confidence.
