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Table of Contents
Walther PPS M2 & Glock 43 - What are the Differences?
The main difference between Walther PPS M2 and Glock 43, besides their specs, is the higher round capacity of PPS M2. Walther offers the standard 6+1 rounds, but it also provides 7+1 and 8+1 rounds. Since most 9mm concealed carry has extended magazines, handgun users often criticize Glock 43’s ammunition.
Additionally, Glock 43 has the same factory plastic sights that many find as a problem. Unlike the white, three-dot sights of PPS M2, which we notice to be visible even under low light situations.
The good news, however, is that replacing the sights and other parts of the Glock gun is easy and accessible with its wider aftermarket and factory support.
- G43 is slightly shorter, slimmer, and relatively lighter
- Walther PPS M2 offers higher capacity options
- PPS M2 has better recoil management
- More aftermarket and factory support available for G43
- Better sights offering from PPS M2
Specification Chart
Walther PPS M2
- Manufacturer: Walther
- Model: PPS M2
- Height: 4.4 in
- Weight: 21.1 oz
- Length: 6.3 in
- Trigger: Striker-Fired
- Barrel: 3.18 in
- Calibers: 9mm Luger
- Capacities: 6 +1 (9mm Luger), 7 +1 (9mm Luger), 8 +1 (9mm Luger)
Glock 43
- Manufacturer: Glock
- Model: G43
- Height: 4.25 in
- Weight: 17.95 oz
- Length: 6.26 in
- Trigger: Striker-Fired
- Barrel: 3.39 in
- Calibers: 9mm Luger
- Capacities: 6 +1 (9mm Luger)
In-Depth Comparison
Design & Ergonomics
If you consider weight as a crucial factor, G43 is lighter with a weight of 20.64 oz compared to the approximately 24 oz of PPS M2 with a loaded magazine.
But we can attest to the well-designed grip of PPS M2, and we didn’t experience any difficulty in controlling the gun as we shoot. Although, it could have been designed rougher for a more secure grip.
Regardless, G43 gets the upper hand as the built-in beaver tail design helps optimize the firing hand position for a tighter grip. The magazine release button is also reversible, making it left-hand friendly.
Recommended article: Ruger Security 9 vs SR9: Key Differences
Glock 43 & PPS M2 Reliability
In terms of reliability, both guns are relatively the same. When we tested them for more than 1,300 rounds, we never experienced any error or malfunctions that we can attribute to the weapon itself. Sometimes, though, depending on the ammunition, PPS M2 shows weak ejection patterns.
Yet, overall, if you’re looking for a concealed carry that you can trust your life with, you could never go wrong in using either of these. Planning to thoroughly clean your Glock? Here are the steps to disassemble your Glock mag.
Trigger Pull
With the Walther PPS M2 vs Glock 43 trigger pull, G43 is on the heavier side, given that it’s almost eight pounds compared to the 6.5-pound pull of PPS M2. But just like the sights, you could always change its feel depending on your preference. You can find the best Glock trigger connectors here.
Regarding the trigger safety system, Glock 43, like other Glock guns, possesses a safe action trigger to avoid being drop-fired. See the difference between two-stage and single-stage triggers here.
But we’re impressed with the striker cocking indicator of Walther designed to prevent unintentional discharges when re-holstering.
Shootability
For small pistols like these two models, concealability mustn’t sacrifice shootability, and both guns never failed to deliver what we expected from them. Based on our research, many users are satisfied with the mechanical accuracy of G43.
But others noted that a conscious effort to slow down is sometimes needed if you don’t want to miss the target. Thus, PPS M2 has a slight shootability edge since many have reported about how the gun can work almost as fast as compact double stack pistols.
Walther PPS M2 vs G43 Pricing
Glock has been a well-respected brand. So, many do not care that much, even when it is a bit pricey than PPS M2.
Besides, more handgun owners are after finding the best price to value ratio possible. Yet, if you’re on a tight budget, PPS M2 won’t be a wrong choice considering its performance.
Related article: Heckler & Koch P2000 vs Glock 19: Which is better?
Glock 43 or Walther PPS M2: Our Choice is…
In the Walther PPS M2 vs Glock 43 comparison, our choice is PPS M2. Although Walther could have designed its grip ergonomics better, there’s no doubt that it offers a significant advantage when it comes to capacity, trigger pull, and recoil management.
However, for a gun that feels smaller and lighter yet shoots like a big one, go for a G43. We suggest that you click these links then try which one fits your hand and shooting technique better.
If you want to know more about self-defense pistols, try this Bodyguard vs S&W Shield article here.
Our #1 Recommendation
Walther PPS M2
- Has a larger ammunition capacity
- Better recoil and sights offering
- Offers an impressive striker cocking indicator
- Almost similar shootability with a double stack compact
I own the pps m2 as well as a 43x with sr 15 mags. I rotate 3 guns as my edc g26, 43x, and pps m2. Carrying the m2 I don’t feel under gunned. I’ve put ns on it and talon grips. It is an excellent shooter I would recommend it over the 43.