Glock 43 vs 43X vs 48: Which Parts Interchange?

The GLOCK 43, 43X and 48 are all 9mm "Slimline" pistols, and they share more parts than most owners expect. They are not identical, though. A few frame-side parts changed when GLOCK widened the grip for the 43X and 48, and those are the parts that cause most ordering mistakes. This guide covers what is the same, what is different, and how to confirm fit before you buy.

The three pistols at a glance

GLOCK's published specifications show where the models line up and where they split:

• G43: 6-round single-stack magazine, overall width 27 mm (1.06 in), slide width 22 mm (0.87 in), slide length 154 mm (6.06 in), barrel length 86.5 mm (3.41 in).
• G43X: 10-round magazine, overall width 28 mm (1.10 in), slide width 22 mm (0.87 in), slide length 154 mm (6.06 in), barrel length 87 mm (3.41 in).
• G48: 10-round magazine, overall width 28 mm (1.10 in), slide width 22 mm (0.87 in), slide length 174 mm (6.85 in), barrel length 106 mm (4.17 in).

Put simply, the G43X uses a G43-length slide on a longer, slightly wider grip, and the G48 puts a longer slide on that same 43X-size frame. All three list the same slide width and the same 24 N trigger pull.

Parts shared across the G43, G43X and G48

Factory GLOCK parts for the Slimline 9mm guns are listed by retailers as fitting all three models. These include:

Trigger group

• Trigger with trigger bar: the factory grooved trigger with bar (marked 33363) is listed for the G43, G43X and G48.
• Connector: the factory standard connector (marked "–") and the "+" connector are listed for the G42, G43, G43X and G48. Standard-frame GLOCK connectors are listed as excluding Slimline models, so a G19 connector is not a substitute.
• Trigger mechanism housing with ejector: the Slimline housing is listed for the G42, G43, G43X and G48.
• Trigger spring and trigger pin: listed for the Slimline 9mm models.

Aftermarket trigger kits follow the same pattern. The Apex Action Enhancement Kit for Slim Frame GLOCK pistols, for example, is listed for the G43, G43X and G48, and the listing notes it is not for the G42.

Slide lock (takedown lever)

The factory slide lock (marked 33364), the part you pull down to field strip the pistol, is listed for all three models. The slide lock spring is listed for the G42, G43, G43X and G48.

Firing pin parts and slide parts

• Firing pin assembly: listed for the G43, G43X and G48.
• Firing pin safety with spring: listed for the G43, G43X and G48.
• Extractor depressor plunger and spring assembly: listed for the G43, G43X and G48.
• Slide cover plate: listed for the G43, G43X and G48.

Guide rod and recoil spring

The factory dual recoil spring assembly marked "1-1-1" is listed for the G43, G43X and G48, even though the G48 has a longer slide. Aftermarket assemblies, such as the Rival Arms stainless and tungsten guide rods, are also sold as one part for all three.

Parts that do NOT interchange

Slide stop lever

This is the most common mix-up because the name sounds like the slide lock. The slide stop lever is the small lever on the left side of the frame that holds the slide open on an empty magazine. GLOCK makes two versions:

• Version 01 (marked 33730-1) for the G43, listed for the 1.06 in wide frame.
• Version 02 (marked 47876) for the G43X and G48, listed for the 1.10 in wide frame.

Order the one that matches your frame.

Magazine catch

The factory magazine catch is listed separately for the G43 (6-round magazines) and for the G43X/G48 (10-round magazines). Aftermarket makers such as Shield Arms, Tyrant Designs and TangoDown also sell separate G43 and G43X/G48 versions of their extended or steel catches.

Magazines

The G43 uses a 6-round single-stack magazine. The G43X and G48 share a 10-round magazine. Retailer listings for the 10-round magazine name only the G43X and G48, and the different magazine catches above reflect that the magazines are not cross-compatible.

Slides, frames and barrels

The G48 slide and barrel are longer than those of the G43 and G43X, so they are model-specific. The G43 and G43X list the same slide dimensions, but GLOCK does not list complete slides, barrels or frames as interchangeable between these models. Do not assume a slide or barrel swap will work unless the part maker lists your exact model.

Fit table

How to check fit before you order

• Confirm your model. Check the model marking on your pistol. A G43 and a G43X look alike from a distance; the magazine capacity and grip length tell them apart.
• Read the fitment line, not just the title. "Slim frame" can include the .380 G42, which shares some parts but not others. Look for your exact model number.
• Use the factory markings. Many GLOCK parts carry a marking, such as "1-1-1" on the Slimline recoil spring assembly or 47876 on the 43X/48 slide stop. Matching the marking to the listing is a quick check.
• Check frame width for frame-side parts. If the part mounts in the frame and touches your thumb, such as the slide stop lever or magazine catch, assume it is specific to 1.06 in (G43) or 1.10 in (G43X/G48) frames.
• Function check after installation. GLOCK and most parts makers recommend installation by a GLOCK certified armorer or qualified gunsmith. After any parts change, perform a function check with an unloaded pistol before carrying it.

Shop

Browse factory and aftermarket GLOCK parts, including Slimline triggers, connectors and guide rods and recoil springs for the G43, G43X and G48. Check each listing's fitment line for your model before ordering.