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Glock 43 is one of the most reliable guns out there. But most gun owners can only fit two fingers over its base, which makes it feel slippery.
To maximize your shooting ergonomics, you might benefit from adding an extension.
Different options offer extra bullets, grips, or patterns. But first, what are extensions, and why should you buy one?
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Glock 43 Magazine Extensions
- OUR TOP PICK: Pearce Grip Glock 43 1-Round Magazine Extension w/Grip
- RUNNER-UP: TANGODOWN - MAGAZINE EXTENSION FOR GLOCK® 43
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: HYVE Technologies Glock 43 Magazine Extension Base Pad
Comparison of the Best Glock 43 Magazine Extensions
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What is a Magazine Extension, and Are Magazine Extensions Worth It For a Glock 43?
A magazine extension is a tool you attach to the end of your magazine well that makes it longer. Many come with additional capacity units for +1 to +4 extra shots. That’s useful for a Glock 43, which may have too few bullets for some enthusiast’s tastes.
The trade-off with extra cartridge space is that it adds some bulk. That can make it harder to conceal your weapon. Thankfully, some extensions find a way to add a +1 without being clunky. If storing extra rounds and improving your grip are your priorities, an extension is probably worth it.
Photo credit: opticsplanet.com
Are Magazine Extensions Universal?
No. Each handgun has unique mechanics and performance. If you try to use a magazine extension in the wrong model, it’ll tend to be too thick or narrow. Even if it fits, there’s a chance it won’t feed the bullets correctly.
Review of the Best Glock 43 Magazine Extensions
Glock 43 extensions come in different colors, sizes, grips, and loading capabilities. This list will cover some of the most popular options for each of these needs.
Best Overall:
Pearce Grip Glock 43 1-Round Magazine Extension w/Grip
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The extension length is 0.82 inches, which users found comfortable to carry. Many also said it was easy to install and switch. One buyer noticed they could change three gun magazines for this one in five minutes. Occasionally, the extra bullet would fail to feed. To avoid that problem, some suggested testing it before buying.
Why it Stands Out to Us
With an attractive but practical design, this extension almost blends into the Glock. The length offers just enough extra grip to fit small to medium hands without making the gun feel clunky. Users found it easier to wield and point their weapons.
Even if the extra round feels small, it can be enough if you’re confident in your aim. Essentially, the Pearce grip offers a reliable medium between concealment and comfort.
Bottom Line
This extension will adapt to fit most Glock 43 owner’s needs. It matches the classic gun design and offers extra capacity. Most importantly, it helped improved users’ aims with a comfortable gripping texture.
Runner-up:
Tangodown - Magazine Extension for Glock® 43
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The happiest users of this product appreciated it for its +2 rounds capacity. They tended to use it for shooting range practice, so they wouldn’t have to reload it as often. For concealed carry, this wouldn’t be your first choice. For shooting, the steel spring made feeding more smooth and reliable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The steel spring made the gun both smoother and more durable. It may look tricky to install, but it takes roughly less than five minutes to finish. Although this option doesn’t offer a textured pattern to grip, it still offers a sleek extra surface area.
Most importantly, it’s reliable to use for two extra bullets. The final round button helps mitigate any jamming issues to make it a user-friendly option even for beginners. So if you need an extension to take with you for shooting practice, this could be the best bet.
Bottom Line
If you want two extra bullets to carry in your holster, this is a comfortable one. It may not have texture, but that can make it easier on your ankles or waist. Regardless, this extension delivers on what it’s meant to do.
Best for the Money:
HYVE Technologies Glock 43 Magazine Extension Base Pad
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to buyers, the colors on the screen don’t always match what you get. Also, some of the +3 extensions only fit two bullets. Customers guessed that your Glock might need a worn-out spring to include the three. Despite these flaws, they had a lot of good things to say.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This product stands out for its variety and performance ability. The different capacities and colors can be a great fit if you have several Glock owners in your circle. As for performance, we felt that pulling the trigger became smoother with this accessory.
It made the overall feel of the gun easier to use. The build works with your OEM spring, so you don’t have to install any complicated alternatives.
Bottom Line
A family or friend group of Glock owners would appreciate this for its range. You can purchase the +1 cartridge for concealed carry or the +3 for shooting range practice. With sleek ergonomics and design, this is an excellent option for variation.
Best Glock 43 Magazine Extension Plus 4:
FAB Defense 4 Round Magazine Extension For Glock 43
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The FAB extension is like a tank for your Glock. Users said they had to watch videos to help them install it, though. For example, they had to separate the extension into halves, which other options don’t require. Then, some had to cram the fourth bullet in the piece.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The FAB extensions set itself apart as one of the most rugged, heavy-duty options out there. Its design may not look like a classic Glock. Still, it’s rough finger grooves and edges make it perfect if a thick grip is your priority.
There is a lot of difficulty jamming the 4th bullet in and we found that loading it would malfunction sometimes. That’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning on taking it to a gun range. But the polymer material makes it sturdy even for reloading. Opt for this if you want a rigid, long-lasting extension for your gun.
Bottom Line
Get this extension if you want the thickest, densest Glock extension available. It probably won’t fit as a daily concealed carry edition. Still, it’s made of durable material useful for a full-handed grip.
Best Glock 43 Plus 2 Magazine Extension:
Strike Industries SI Enhanced Magazine Plate for Glock43
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of users appreciated this because it was neither too big nor too small. However, it does come with some sharp edges. Some customers ended up shaving those edges down with sandpaper to fix it. Otherwise, they had minimal feeding issues.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This extension blended into the Glock 43 form factor better than any other. It feels like it’s all one piece when it’s on. Plus, it’s good looking while keeping enough space to afford two extra bullets. The thick lip at the bottom helps you pop off the magazine whenever you need to refill it.
While you’re shooting, it serves as a pinky grip, too. It doesn’t come with an extra magazine spring. However, that shouldn’t be a problem if yours is working fine. You can trust smooth feeding and durable design from this extension.
Bottom Line
The SI extension offers the right length, smooth processing, and variation to boot. You likely won’t go wrong with this option. Plus, it has one for him and her. The grip is comfortable without being jarring, making this a balanced choice.
What Should I Look For When Buying a Mag Extension for Glock 43?
Different gun owners have different priorities. Before you buy an extension, consider the following factors to make the best decision.
Purpose
Are you going to practice using your Glock 43 in a live combat situation? Or do you only want to train with it occasionally? An extension that gives you as many extra rounds as possible is great for shooting practice, so you don’t have to reload it as often.
But if it’s an emergency handgun, something that looks sleek with a slight extra grip might be enough. Ultimately, you want something that makes you comfortable enough to use it with confidence.
Photo credit: opticsplanet.com
Concealability
Having extra rounds naturally takes up more space. It also has the potential to feel uncomfortable against your ankle holster. Some people choose to do appendix carry instead because it’s easier to reach for the pistol. That location can make it easier to conceal, but your holster has to support it.
Weight
Extensions can be made of polymer, aluminum, or a mix of materials. On top of that, the more bullets you store, the more it can weigh you down in concealed carry. Consider practicing as much as you can so you can make the most of as few rounds as possible.
Pros and Cons of Magazine Extensions
Every modification has a trade-off. You don’t want to buy an extension that defeats the purpose. These pros and cons can help you weigh your options.
Pros
Extra Ammunition
One of the main reasons gun owners purchase extensions is to keep a spare bullet. We mentioned how that could be useful for shooting practice. But it’s also vital if you’re ever in an emergency where a backup is necessary.
Photo credit: opticsplanet.com
Comfort
The average person will only fit two fingers on the grip of a Glock 43. It can look smooth to operate in its standard build, but even the smallest extension offers a lot to improve your aim.
Improved Accuracy
Your grip on the gun may be firm when you begin shooting, but if you keep going without setting up again, the momentum tends to slide your hand off slowly. Having that extra surface area to grab can stop that from happening. And that’s crucial to have the best self-defense weapon.
Cons
Noticeable
The more capacity your extension has, the bulkier it gets. That can get uncomfortable when you holster it on your ankle. To navigate this problem, you can get an extension that holds only one bullet. Choose the most efficient one, so the extra ammunition functions correctly.
Photo credit: brownells.com
How to Install a Glock 43 Magazine Extension
If your Glock extension holds extra bullets, the installation will tend to be harder. In general, though, you’ll have to take the following steps.
1. Get a Glock Magazine Plate Removal Tool or Screwdriver
Beware that a screwdriver may create abrasions on the plate. If you were planning on replacing that piece, though, that might be fine with you.
2. Press the Removal Tool Into the Stock Magazine Base Plate Button
That will push the retaining nub against the spring. It’ll also give you access to use the interior for leverage, making it easier to remove.
3. Use Your Tool or Screwdriver to Leverage the Base Plate Off From Within
There are “teeth” and indents that hook together on each side of the base plate. They add extra security but are difficult to get off with only your fingers. So when your screwdriver is inside, just push it to the side to slide the plate off.
4. Slowly Push the Base Plate Off
Be careful because the spring pressure will bounce off the retainer when it’s off. You can catch it with your hand to remove it manually.
5. Slide in the New Magazine
Your spring should be sticking out by now. Take your new retainer plate, line it up with the spring, and face the nub outward as you push it down. Then you can slide the extension over it until the pieces click together.
If you want to use a visual reference, be sure to watch the video below.
Conclusion
Finding the best Glock 43 Magazine extension comes down to what you find essential. Whether you need extra space or just to make it more comfortable, you can be confident there are many options on the market for you. You can even buy several of the models we listed to make your Glock lock ready for any scenario.
People Also Ask
This gun’s performance is already smooth, but Glock owners are always finding ways to improve on it. Maybe you’re wondering if you can use different gun tools on your Glock 43. Or you might be thinking of buying one in the first place. Here are answers to some of the most popular questions.
Will a Glock 43x Magazine Fit a Glock 43?
No. Only the barrel, slide, springs, triggers, and sights are interchangeable between these models. A Glock 43x’s magazine has a broader base that can hold ten bullets. If you tried using it on a Glock 43, it wouldn’t be able to slide in at all.
Can You Modify a 10 Round Glock Magazine?
You can keep ten rounds in your Glock 43 with a +4 extension. If you want a model that already comes with ten bullets, you might prefer the Glock 43x. It’s best not to add modifications to an extension to prevent any feeding issues.
Is Glock 43 Good For Home Defense?
Yes, although it’s best for concealed carry. Many gun owners prefer to use something with more rounds for home defense. For example, a Glock 19 can hold at least 15 + 1 bullets in its standard magazine. But if you’re confident in your marksmanship and like a smaller model, this will do you just fine.
How Many Rounds Does a Glock 43 Hold?
It holds six rounds in the magazine. There’s a place for an extra one in the chamber. So a fully loaded Glock 43 will have seven bullets total. With extensions, you can increase that up to ten shots.