The beloved Glock 43 is a subcompact 9mm single stack concealed carry that, although a bit snappy in recoil, is a top choice when going for self-defense or home defense.
What’s great about the Glock 43 is its massive window for all kinds of aftermarket options like grips, sights, lights, slides, internal parts, and of course, magazine extensions.
Because this handgun has a low magazine capacity of only 6 rounds, your first aftermarket choice should be a nice little extended magazine. It’s a no-brainer if you’re regularly visiting the ranges because the constant reloading after a couple of rounds can be cumbersome.
In this guide, we’ll talk about a couple of the best Glock 43 magazine extensions, their characteristics, what to look for, and whether or not they’re worth the trouble for you.
Not only does a G43 magazine extension increase the ammunition capacity of a pistol, but they also provide extra finger space, especially if you have a carry gun with a small frame.
Additionally, extended magazines add to the weight of the pistol, and this accounts for an easier dropping when cycling another mag. Since the Glock 43 is already a subcompact carry, I really can’t see how extended magazines hinder the concealability factor.
Besides, having extra rounds can be a decisive factor in a self-defense scenario.
If you think magazine extensions are dumb, and you still want to solve your low capacity problem, then the only aftermarket alternative I can think of is buying another Glock 43.
Dual-wielding ain’t such a bad idea, to be completely honest.
But seriously, if you really want proven reliability, but with only +2 rounds of added capacity, you can’t go wrong with the manufacturer’s standard Glock 43 OEM magazine extensions.
The ‘Slimline’ Glock G43 9mm 6-round Luger is one of the smallest and most compact 9mm Lugers the manufacturer has to offer. It’s a shooting range favorite.
It has a lightweight polymer frame, preloaded firing pin lock, and it’s fed with single stack magazines, which makes it a great concealed carry option.
I know what you’re thinking. What about the subcompact Glock G26 9mm Luger? Isn’t it already the uncrowned king of concealed carry Glocks?
Well, it’s all in the slenderness of the Glock 43.
The G26 is a double stack and is beefier and wider than the Glock 43. The G43 has a 27 mm width, while the G26 has 33mm, and the shutter width is only 22 mm. The G43 is 159mm long, and 108mm high, so that’s why Glock went for another concealed carry in their ranks.
No disrespect to the G26, but the G43 might be a perfect fit for some, and there are so many aftermarket options that I think the manufacturer won’t be discontinuing it any time soon.
If you’re willing to go for more capacity, take a look at what we recommend below.
Here’s our list of the most popular, cost-effective, and interesting magazine extenders for the Glock 43 that you can find on the market today.
Each has its own characteristics, its own weight, and I can guarantee they are all worth their price.
Let’s start with…
Here’s the tyrant. A manufacturer of gun parts straight from Chicago.
The Tyrant is an easy-to-install magazine extension with a sturdy construction, it extends capacity to +3 rounds, and comes in many colors for your aesthetic pleasure.
For when 6 rounds don’t cut it at the firing range, the Tyrant Glock 43 +3-Round Magazine Extension will suit any gun owner just fine.
What you get is a total of 9 rounds, and you still have enough room for concealment and holstering, depending on the holster, of course.
It’s one of the better-looking magazine extensions on this list, with smooth cambered edges, and it’s available in black, blue, red, grey, and regular aluminum.
You can also choose your capacity, from +1, +2, but I strongly recommend you go for the +3-round capacity. All of them fit the Glock spring perfectly.
Since it’s a CNC-machined, aircraft-grade aluminum, it’s not such a light option, but the added weight makes the mag drop easier when reloading. You win some, you lose some, I guess.
What makes it great is that it’s surprisingly easy to mount and install and requires no additional tools, and it won’t affect the ergonomics at all, besides the added weight you need to get used to.
Additionally, Tyrant Designs offer a lifetime guarantee with these magazine extensions, and this may be a big plus for some, but I wouldn’t worry about the durability much.
You can also check out the Tyrant magazine extension for the Glock 19 with +4/5-rounds.
Pearce Grip Extensions are one of the most popular aftermarket base plates and grips, and their most sought-after products are aftermarket parts for all kinds of Glocks, including the Glock 26, Glock 17, and the Glock 43.
This includes the grip extension for the Glock 43, a popular aftermarket option among Glock fanatics.
The thing is, you only get one shot with this, quite literally. The +1 round extension won’t be that appealing to some gun owners, but in this case – less is more.
You see, it’s not much of a mag extension as it is an ergonomics modification for your pinky which makes the Glock 43 even more comfortable, plus you only get one bullet.
Some Glock 43 owners only need just one more shot, and even though this grip extension doesn’t give you a large increase in capacity, you’ll definitely find the extra pinky room more appealing.
You got some folks complaining about the awkward ergonomics of the Glock 43 (you can’t please them all, apparently) and this may be their best solution yet. Ergonomics and accuracy go hand in hand (sorry).
Small frame Glocks need that extra shootability, and you have a solid, subcompact grip with the Pearce Grip Extension. It’s very easy to install, and you won’t need extra tools for it.
Additionally, +1 round means better concealability, because it’s still a subcompact frame even with the extension on. This mag extension doesn’t need a spring or a new follower, either.
Sadly, this product does not ship to California.
Here’s a magazine extension that got a lot of positive feedback from customers.
The Strike Industries Glock 43 mag extension offers a 2-round increase and a definite grip surface area improvement. You can also check out their +6 mag extension for the Glock 17 and Glock 22.
The SI G43 EMP (Extended Magazine Plate) is very durable, reliable, comfortable, and offers butter smooth ammo feeding and cycling.
The durable and comfortable design of the Strike Industries mag extension doesn’t hinder the Glock’s concealability.
It’s designed to specifically quicken reloading with the low drag and no-snag build, and for added accuracy and handling, you get more finger space for your pinky.
It simply adds more space and safely secures your grip with a strong, grippy texture. What’s more, you can choose to use the factory Glock spring and follower with no problems.
The downsides are that some customers complained about the annoyingly sharp edges. The fact that it only offers a +2 round increase can be a hindrance to some as well. It’s just under an inch and a half in length, so this won’t be a hindrance for concealability.
Although it’s pretty straightforward and easy to install, here’s an installation video for additional info and disassembly procedures.
I definitely like the strong and sturdy build of the Strike Industries mag extension, because it’s clearly built to last.
The Tangodown Vickers Tactical Base Pad for the Glock 43 is an excellent budget aftermarket option if you don’t mind the wonky ergonomics. Still, it might be comfy enough for your concealed carry Glock 43.
It includes a stainless steel, heat-processed spring, a durable floor plate retainer, and an extended magazine floor plate which allows a last round lock back. All of the included parts are far superior to the factory Glock ones.
It’s a very reliable base pad and can go up to 8 rounds – if you find one in stock, that is.
The 2-rounder is under half an inch and is great for competition and target shooting sessions. It can also fit a Glock 42, but it’s not advisable for the Glock models 25 and 28.
With the Tangodown Magazine Extension For Glock 43, you receive two additional rounds, and the extended floor plate is designed for a very stable and comfy shooting grip.
The downside is that it’s not very ergonomic in contrast to the others on this list.
But the Tangodown might just be the aftermarket part for you if you’re a regular target shooter that only needs a couple of rounds more.
Here’s an expensive one for you, but the durability is definitely worth the price.
As one of the most famous Glock aftermarket manufacturers, Taran Tactical Innovations have one of the best Glock upgrades that are designed, built, and molded by the finest materials.
If you’re willing to spend a few dollars more for any of your Glock needs, make sure it’s Taran Tactical Innovations.
The owner, Taran Butler, is a famous competition shooter from L.A., and the quality of the Taran products can attest to how this hotshot dedicated himself to his business. Fun fact: Taran has been seen on ranges with famous people like wrestler Stone Cold Steve Austin, film director James Cameron, and actors Johnny Depp and Keanu Reeves. How cool is that?
The Taran Base Pad for the Glock 43 is a robust and durable mag extension that offers an enhanced, ergonomic grip and comfort. It’s made from machined aluminum, it has a CNC aluminum billet with a lightweight feel and it comes in a variety of color finishes.
You can also check out the Taran Firepower Base pads for the +5 9mm mags and the +4 for .40 Smith & Wesson handguns if you’re going for heavy-duty. Other than that, you can either grab a +2, +3, +4, or the almighty +10, but that’s kind of an overkill for me personally. For shooting competition standards, it’s a must-have.
It’s also pretty easy to disassemble and install. No need for drills or power tools.
It’s not too fabulous, not too dull, and it’s a top choice if you’re going for a premium aftermarket option. Ever seen John Wick? It’s the same base pad on John’s Glock 34.
Believe me, there’s no movie magic here, and any Glock owner can use it, both amateurs and professionals.
This is one of the easiest magazine extensions for installation.
A lot of customers go for it not because of its reliability and easy drop-down, but because of the Punisher logo. This is completely understandable.
Most Glock 43 users can rejoice, and if you’re frustrated with Glock never including a disassembly tool, then this easily solves your installation problems.
Besides the price and how difficult it is to find it in stock, there are no major issues or loading problems with this 2-round mag extension.
CruxOrd, or Crux Ordinance, is a manufacturer in Illinois with a prominent record for innovative tripod designs. They also happen to make really cool mag extensions.
The sturdy ‘Punisher’ construction, with a lightweight aluminum billet, improves the overall ergonomics and offers comfy shooting.
This extension is a slim, durable, and solid aftermarket option for target practice, and it has a slightly bigger proportion than the Glock 43’s surface.
A notable downside is that it doesn’t come with an extra spring, and who knows when you’ll run into feeding and spring problems, so this might be an issue.
Although it’s a bit overpriced and difficult to get, the CruxOrd mag extension will no doubt serve you well for a long time. What’s most appealing to me about it is the low profile and simplicity of handling.
I’m sure Frank Castle will approve this one.
If you’re looking for a solid budget option, this might be your best bet.
This mag extension adds +2 firepower to your arsenal, and you won’t even feel a difference in your grip and handling. The elongated base plate provides extra room for your pinky.
It has a stainless steel magazine spring, heavy-duty design, and is very easy to install.
The feeding on this thing is butter smooth, the ergonomics are decent, and the grip isn’t too sharp on the pinky.
The downside is that the spring and followers aren’t very reliable. Maybe that’s why Ghost was courteous enough to package these with an extra stainless steel spring in case you run into any feeding issues.
What’s more, they also offer a lifetime warranty, and you can’t match this value anywhere.
Don’t get me wrong, this is a superb +2 round magazine extension with great additional features, and the surface space feels great
If you’re looking for a decent, 2-round budget option, look no further.
There are too many customization options for this handgun, and every product seems like a good idea.
It’s difficult to decide solely on aesthetics, capacity, size, utility, price, and the prospect of extra additional features.
Here’s a buyer’s guide and some general tips on what to look for when you’re generally purchasing a magazine extension.
Every product has its characteristics, capacity, and price tag, and some may find some features more suitable than others.
So, consider these variables that will help you in choosing a suitable mag extension for you.
Ask yourself if you really want that +10-rounder.
Usually, a 2 or 3-round ammunition capacity increase is just enough for self-defense and for target practice, and although it’s not a great big leap, it’s one of the most viable capacities you can find on the market.
There’s a reason why manufacturers go for this range from +1, +2, and +3 capacities. Concealability, weight issues, and holstering are also considered when designing these things.
I strongly recommend you get yourself a +3 round mag extension like the Tyrant and call it a day.
Always look for either durable steel, or lightweight aluminum (oftentimes it’s aircraft-grade material) when you’re going for quality.
Steel springs and followers are an absolute must if you don’t want to have feeding problems.
Most of these products are durable enough to last a long time, but you should still consider this option if you’re willing to pay an extra dollar when aiming for quality and durability.
Larger magazines are difficult to holster and conceal than small-framed ones.
Going for +1 or +2 round magazine base plates is generally a good idea if you’re going for stealth and concealability.
You can also try out bigger mags, just make sure to test it with your IWB holster.
This entirely depends on your preference.
Weight is important for stealthy handguns, and it’s also an important factor for handling and accuracy, so you probably need to get used to the feel of the handgun and the weight.
Get yourself a Pearce Grip extension and practice with it until you get used to the weight of a loaded handgun with extra ammo in it.
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the Glock 43 and its mag extensions.
One of the most cost-effective mag extensions is definitely the Tyrant. Not only is it affordable, but it’s almost always in stock.
The most expensive one is definitely the Taran Base Pad. It’s a great option if you’re willing to spend extra bucks for a high-quality magazine extension.
It offers unmatched durability, comfort, and reliability, and it makes you feel like John Wick, too.
It’s all a matter of preference, but I would go for the Strike Industries Glock 43 mag extension. It’s a solid, overall choice for a mag extension with a great price.
Sadly, Glock 43X magazines can’t fit a Glock 43, and vice versa.
The 43X has a width gap on the opening and both have different barrel lengths.
The Glock 43 has 6 rounds. For many gun owners, this isn’t enough, and that’s why base plates and mag extensions are the first aftermarket options for this model.
Pretty much all of these selected products are easy to install, remove, and clean. Some may come with instructions.
I recommend you buy yourself a Double Diamond MDT magazine disassembly tool if you have trouble installing and removing the mag extension.
You can check out our best CLP, solvents, and gun oils, or our list of best gun cleaning kits for more info on disassembling.
To conclude, a magazine extension should be one of your first considered aftermarket options for your Glock 43.
Not only does it increase mag capacity, but it also adds more space for your pinky, and depending on your hands, it also has an important role in ergonomics.
We covered the best, most effective, and easy-to-find magazine extensions for your Glock 43, and this little buyer’s guide has hopefully narrowed down your choices.
Although most of the mag extensions we covered offer a +2 or +3 round increase, they’re still a great self-defense option and are also viable on the ranges. Your pinky will thank you, either way.