Choosing a concealed carry pistol is a deeply personal decision, heavily influenced by factors like hand size, comfort level, and intended use. The Glock 42, a subcompact .380 ACP, is a popular choice for its small size and ease of concealment. But how does it stack up against other popular options? This in-depth size comparison will help you determine if the Glock 42 is the right fit for you.
Glock 42 Dimensions: A Baseline for Comparison
Before we dive into comparisons, let's establish the Glock 42's dimensions. Remember that these measurements might vary slightly depending on the source and whether accessories are included. We'll focus on the core gun dimensions:
- Overall Length: Approximately 5.94 inches
- Height: Approximately 3.94 inches
- Width: Approximately 0.83 inches (this is notably slim)
- Weight (unloaded): Approximately 13.7 ounces
This slim profile is a key selling point for the Glock 42, making it exceptionally easy to conceal. However, the trade-off is often a smaller grip, which might not suit everyone.
Glock 42 vs. Popular Competitors: A Detailed Look
To understand the Glock 42's place in the subcompact market, let's compare it to some leading competitors. We'll focus on dimensions and weight, as these are crucial for concealed carry:
Glock 42 vs. Ruger LCP II
The Ruger LCP II is another popular .380 ACP choice known for its lightweight and diminutive size. It's generally smaller and lighter than the Glock 42, making it even easier to conceal for some users. However, this comes at the cost of potentially reduced comfort and shootability.
- Key Difference: The LCP II prioritizes absolute minimum size over ergonomics and overall shootability. The Glock 42 offers a slightly larger grip, potentially improving comfort and control.
Glock 42 vs. SIG Sauer P365
The SIG Sauer P365 represents a jump in capacity and size compared to the Glock 42. While still considered subcompact, it carries significantly more ammunition (often 10+1 rounds compared to the Glock 42's 6+1) and has a noticeably larger grip. Its increased size might affect concealability for some, but the improved ergonomics and magazine capacity are significant advantages for many.
- Key Difference: This comparison boils down to capacity versus concealability. The P365 prioritizes ammunition capacity and improved ergonomics, but it's larger and less easily concealed than the Glock 42.
Glock 42 vs. Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 falls somewhere between the Glock 42 and the Ruger LCP II in terms of size and weight. It's slightly larger than the LCP II but still smaller than the Glock 42. Like the Glock 42, it offers a slightly more substantial grip than the LCP II.
- Key Difference: The M&P Bodyguard 380 offers a compromise between size and shootability, with a balance between smaller size and comfort.
Beyond Dimensions: Consider These Factors
While dimensions are critical, they don't tell the whole story. Other crucial factors to consider when comparing the Glock 42 to other pistols include:
- Ergonomics: How does the gun feel in your hand? A comfortable grip is essential for accuracy and control.
- Recoil: The Glock 42's .380 ACP caliber has relatively manageable recoil, but personal experiences can vary.
- Reliability: Glock has a strong reputation for reliability, and the Glock 42 generally performs well. However, it's essential to research the reliability of any pistol before purchasing.
- Accuracy: Accuracy depends on several factors, including the shooter's skill and the pistol's design.
Conclusion: The Right Size is Personal
This size comparison should provide a clearer picture of the Glock 42's dimensions relative to its competitors. Ultimately, the "best" size is subjective. The ideal concealed carry pistol depends on your individual hand size, comfort preferences, and desired level of concealability. It is strongly recommended to handle and potentially test fire various models before making a purchase decision to ensure a proper fit and comfortable shooting experience.
