Are You Guys Going To “Chop” Your Glock 43x?

Published on January 27, 2024
Duration: 8:27

This video from SPN Firearms discusses the reliability of aftermarket magazines, specifically Shield Arms S15 magazines, for the Glock 43X. The instructor emphasizes the superior reliability of OEM Glock magazines, even with lower capacity, for everyday carry and training. While acknowledging the appeal of higher capacity from aftermarket options, the video highlights a significant user-reported failure rate, making them a potentially risky choice for self-defense. The instructor also touches on the concept of 'chopping' the Glock 43X and the ergonomic implications.

Quick Summary

For the Glock 43X, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) magazines are the most reliable choice for everyday carry, offering 10+1 capacity. While aftermarket options like Shield Arms S15 provide higher capacity (15+1), they come with a significant risk of malfunctions, with user reports showing a 50% failure rate. Modifying the firearm's grip ('chopping') is also discouraged due to its impact on ergonomics.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: OEM vs. Aftermarket Mags
  2. 00:25Glock 43X and Shield Arms Discussion
  3. 00:30Reliability of OEM Glock Mags
  4. 00:39Glock Owner Reliability Polls
  5. 00:59Glock 43X with OEM 10-Round Mags
  6. 01:17Shield Arms Magazines: Gen 2 & Gen 3
  7. 01:23What Glock Should Have Done: Chopping
  8. 01:48Glock 43X Ergonomics
  9. 02:07Glock 43 with Z9 +1 Magazine
  10. 02:19Unreliability of Z9 Mags
  11. 02:35The Concept of Chopping the 43X
  12. 02:51Magguts Kit for Glock 43X
  13. 03:06Why Not Chop Your 43X?
  14. 03:28Glock 43X Grip and Feel
  15. 03:53Carrying the 43X vs. 43
  16. 04:04Risk of Aftermarket Mags for EDC
  17. 04:19Backup Mags and Malfunctions
  18. 04:38PSA Dagger Frames for Modification
  19. 04:54Final Thoughts: Always OEM

Frequently Asked Questions

Are aftermarket magazines for the Glock 43X reliable for everyday carry?

According to SPN Firearms, aftermarket magazines like Shield Arms S15 have mixed reliability reports, with about 50% of users experiencing issues. For critical applications like everyday carry, the instructor strongly recommends sticking with OEM Glock magazines due to their proven reliability.

What are the pros and cons of the Shield Arms S15 magazine for the Glock 43X?

The primary pro of the Shield Arms S15 is its increased capacity, offering 15+1 rounds compared to the OEM 10+1. However, the major con is inconsistent reliability, with many users reporting malfunctions, making it a riskier choice for self-defense compared to the highly reliable OEM magazines.

Is it a good idea to 'chop' a Glock 43X for magazine compatibility?

The instructor advises against chopping a Glock 43X, as the firearm's excellent ergonomics and grip are its main strengths. Modifying it can negatively impact these features and lead to an awkward aesthetic, especially when using magazines that don't perfectly fit the modified frame.

What is the most reliable magazine option for the Glock 43X?

The most reliable magazine option for the Glock 43X is consistently the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Glock magazine. While it offers a lower capacity of 10+1 rounds, its reliability is paramount for everyday carry and training scenarios where a firearm must function without fail.

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