How to Choose the Best Holster for a Glock 43

Whether you’ve just picked up a new Glock 43 or you’re looking to enhance your current carry setup, finding the right holster is essential for this compact, reliable firearm.

So, what factors should you consider when selecting a holster for the Glock 43?

The best holster for Glock 43 pistols should match the gun’s lightweight, easily concealable design while offering durability, adjustability, and strong safety features. A well-made holster ensures you can carry your G43 with confidence and ease.

Before you decide on the ideal holster for your setup, it’s important to understand how the Glock 43 is designed so you can make an informed and practical choice.

About the Glock 43

The Glock 43 is one of the most popular and reliable concealed carry pistols on the market. Known for its exceptional accuracy and ease of concealment, this striker-fired 9mm pistol is engineered for both comfort and performance. Built with a subcompact frame, the Glock 43 is chambered in 9mm Luger, 

It comes standard with a 6-round magazine, although you can opt for extended magazines if you prefer more capacity. The small form factor doesn’t compromise its performance, with the pistol offering the same remarkable accuracy and reliability that Glock is known for, despite its smaller size.

The Glock 43 features Glock’s signature Safe-Action trigger system, providing a consistent and predictable trigger pull that enhances overall safety. The pistol’s design allows for smooth, consistent shots, and with a reputation for minimal recoil, it’s an excellent choice for shooters of all experience levels. 

Whether you’re new to firearms or an experienced shooter, the Glock 43 offers comfort, durability, and versatility. Its user-friendly design and reputation for dependability make it a solid choice for self-defense, everyday carry, or even range use. If you're looking for a holster for this carry pistol, check out our selection of Glock 43 holsters. If you have a G43 with an aftermarket light or laser, visit our Holsters By Gun Model page to customize a holster for your setup. 

 Glock 43 Specs

What to Look for in a Glock 43 Holster

Now that you’re familiar with the build and purpose of the Glock 43, it’s time to choose a holster that complements this reliable carry pistol.

Holster Type

The first step in selecting a holster is deciding how you want to carry it, as this determines the type of holster you need.

Given its compact size and common role as a backup firearm, the Glock 43 is most frequently carried inside the waistband. Its small frame also makes it well-suited for a variety of traditional carry positions, including appendix and 3-5 o’clock.

This is an important factor to consider, as not all holsters are designed for every carry position. For instance, the Vedder Holsters LightTuck® is a versatile option that works in nearly any position, while the SideTuck® is specifically built for appendix carry in the 1-2 o’clock range.

Once you determine your preferred carry position, you can narrow down your holster choices to those that align with your needs. From there, you can focus on other key factors like material and customization. If you’re unsure which position is best for you, take a look at our “Concealed Carry Positions: Ultimate Guide” article for guidance.

Material

Holsters are typically made from one of three materials: leather, Kydex, or nylon.

While nylon holsters are widely available, they’re not the best choice for concealed carry. They tend to lack durability compared to other materials and don’t retain their shape once the firearm is removed, making reholstering more difficult and potentially unsafe.

Leather holsters are another common option, valued for their comfort and longevity. However, leather can become sticky when exposed to moisture from sweat, water, or humidity. While still durable, leather isn’t as resilient as Kydex and will wear out more quickly over time.

Kydex is by far the most popular holster material today – and for good reason. They excel in durability, concealability, and adjustability, making them a top choice for everyday carry. Kydex holsters are heat-molded to fit a specific firearm, ensuring a secure and precise hold. And while it’s made from thermoplastic, they’re surprisingly comfortable to wear.

If you’re looking for something that offers the strength of Kydex with the comfort of leather, a hybrid holster is the perfect solution. These holsters combine a rugged Kydex shell with a soft leather backing for a balanced mix of security and comfort.

Want to explore your options? Check out our full selection of Kydex and hybrid holsters to see which one is right for you.

Adjustability

When carrying a pistol like the Glock 43, which is designed for everyday use, having an adjustable holster is essential for both comfort and concealment.

One key feature to look for is adjustable retention. This allows you to modify how tightly your firearm is held in place, making it easier or more difficult to draw. Not only does this let you tailor the holster to your personal preference, but it’s also an important safety consideration.

Another beneficial feature is adjustable cant, which lets you angle your firearm forward or backward to achieve the ideal balance of concealment, accessibility, and comfort. Many Vedder holsters offer up to 30 degrees of both forward and reverse cant, giving you far more flexibility than most competitors.

Lastly, adjustable ride height lets you position your holster higher or lower on your waistline, depending on your carry style. Whether you prefer deep concealment or easier access with a higher placement, you can fine-tune your holster’s ride height to match your needs.

Customization 

No two carry setups are exactly alike. With different preferences, firearm modifications, and accessories on the market, it’s crucial to have a holster that accommodates your specific setup.

Fortunately, all Vedder Holsters are handcrafted to order and fully customizable for your firearm. We offer a wide range of Kydex colors, full sight channels, and custom cuts to fit various lights, lasers, and optics.

Additionally, our holsters can be configured for right- or left-handed shooters and come with different belt clip options, as well as attachments like our holster claw. Some models also offer optional sweat shields and combat cuts for enhanced comfort and functionality.

And if you have a modification that isn’t listed on our site, reach out to us – we’ll do our best to craft a holster that works for you.

Design

Believe it or not, a holster’s design involves more than just style, color, and adjustability. Certain design elements play a crucial role in safety and should never be overlooked.

One of the most important aspects of holster design is how precisely it fits your firearm. With a quality Kydex holster, your gun should lock in with an audible and tactile “click,” ensuring a snug and secure fit. This not only provides peace of mind but also prevents your firearm from shifting or falling out.

Vedder’s Glock 43 holsters are meticulously molded to create a near-perfect fit, leaving virtually no wiggle room once your pistol is holstered. Poorly fitted holsters can be a safety hazard and may even cause unnecessary wear on your firearm.

Just as vital as a secure fit is a properly designed trigger guard and durable belt clips. Without strong clips, your holster may shift around or even detach throughout the day, making it unreliable.

Additionally, a well-designed trigger guard should offer complete coverage, leaving minimal “daylight” around the trigger. This ensures that nothing – like clothing, debris, or foreign objects – can accidentally engage the trigger while your firearm is holstered.

Vedder Holsters are built with a full-coverage trigger guard, giving you confidence that your weapon remains protected at all times.

Comfort

Everyday carry pistols like the Glock 43 are meant to be carried for long periods, so your holster should prioritize comfort just as much as functionality.

Fortunately, the Glock 43’s lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry with a variety of holster styles. However, if you’re looking for the most comfortable option, there are a few factors to keep in mind.

Hybrid holsters are often one of the most comfortable choices. Their leather backing conforms to your body over time and distributes the weight of your firearm more evenly, making your setup feel lighter and more stable.

If you prefer an all-Kydex holster, models with two points of contact on your body can help achieve a similar weight distribution.

For additional comfort while carrying a Kydex holster like the LightTuck®, the Vedder HolsterPad offers a cushioned barrier between the holster and your body. This pad can be adjusted for a perfect fit or extended to wrap around the muzzle end, preventing discomfort—especially in appendix carry.

Lastly, while the Glock 43 is commonly carried inside the waistband, some users find that outside the waistband provides an even more comfortable experience. If you struggle to find a comfortable IWB setup, consider trying OWB carry as an alternative.

Concealment

It should go without saying that an everyday carry holster needs to be concealable. That’s the entire point, after all, especially when carrying the Glock 43.

Designed specifically for concealed carry, the Glock 43 features a slim profile and compact size, making it an ideal backup or everyday carry pistol. But even the most concealable firearm can print if paired with a bulky, awkward, or snag-prone holster.

So, what makes a holster truly discreet?

First, consider the shell. To minimize printing and ensure a smooth draw, a holster’s shell should be slim, snag-free, and as thin as possible without sacrificing durability.

Another key factor is the clip. Many holsters use bulky plastic clips that can create visible outlines beneath clothing. A better option is a thin, steel clip like our patented Rock Solid Spring Steel Belt Clip, which lays flat against the belt and disappears under even a simple T-shirt.

Finally, additional accessories can further enhance concealability. Features like pancake clips, holster claws, and holster wedges help pull the firearm closer to the body, reducing printing and improving comfort.

Warranty

While factors like concealability, comfort, and adjustability should be top priorities when selecting a holster, don’t overlook the importance of a solid product guarantee.

A strong warranty not only provides peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong, your holster can be repaired or replaced, but it also speaks to the confidence a company has in its craftsmanship.

At Vedder Holsters, we stand behind the quality of our products with a 30-day risk-free trial and a lifetime guarantee. If you’re not completely satisfied with your holster or experience any issues down the line, we’ve got you covered.

Best Glock 43 Holster Options

Now that you know what to look for in a quality holster, let’s get to the good part: finding the best concealed carry holster for Glock 43 pistols.

Best Glock 43 IWB Holster

Everyone has unique preferences when it comes to concealed carry, so we’ll break down the best Glock 43 concealed carry holster options based on different needs and tastes.

First on the list is the top overall IWB holster for the Glock 43: the Vedder Holsters LightTuck®. This Kydex holster offers impressive versatility, allowing it to be worn in any carry position. It comes with fully adjustable retention, three ride height settings, and 30 degrees of forward and reverse cant. Lightweight, tuckable, and featuring our patented Rock Solid Spring Steel Belt Clip, this is the ultimate choice for an adaptable inside the waistband holster.

If comfort is your top priority, consider a hybrid option for your Glock 43. Both the Vedder Holsters RapidTuck® and ComfortTuck® are designed for the 3-5 o’clock carry position and feature premium cowhide or horsehide leather backing. These holsters are made to mold comfortably to your waistline, offering superior comfort and concealability. The RapidTuck® is also fully adjustable, so you can customize ride height and cant to your preference.

Another great IWB holster for the Glock 43 is the Vedder ProTuck®. This hybrid holster combines the comfort of the ComfortTuck® with two points of contact and a shape that naturally conforms to your body. It’s designed for the 3-5 o’clock position and offers fully adjustable retention.

Lastly, if you prefer to carry a spare magazine along with your gun, the Vedder SideTuck® could be the ideal choice. This holster combines the concealability of the LightTuck® with an attached, fully adjustable Kydex mag carrier. It also comes with a claw attachment and offers adjustable retention along with two points of contact. If you prefer to keep your holster and spare mag separate, one of our mag carriers is another great option! 

Best OWB Holster for Glock 43

If you prefer carrying outside the waistband, choosing the right holster is key for comfort and accessibility. Here are our top recommendations for the best holster for a Glock 43 that can be worn outside the waistband.

One of the best OWB holsters for the Glock 43 is the Vedder Holsters LightDraw®. This Kydex holster strikes the perfect balance between functionality and comfort. It features adjustable retention and a double-sided, fully reinforced shell that allows for easy one-handed reholstering.

For those looking for a hybrid OWB holster, the Vedder Quick Draw is an excellent option. With a premium leather backing and two built-in belt loops, this holster is designed for maximum comfort and quick access. It works well in most outside the waistband carry positions.

If you prefer a paddle holster, the Vedder ProDraw® is a great choice. Known for its high adjustability, this holster offers adjustable retention and 15 degrees of forward and reverse cant. It’s lightweight and features our OWB Paddle Clip, making it easy to put on and take off at the end of the day.

Best Glock 43 Pocket Holster

For those who prefer not to carry at the waistline, a pocket holster is a fantastic option for the Glock 43. Due to its compact size, the Glock 43 is one of the best pistols for pocket carry. The Vedder Holsters Pocket Locker® holster is a slim, Kydex option that slides easily into your pants pocket and stays securely in place.

There are several reasons why this holster stands out. First, unlike many pocket holsters, the Pocket Locker® also offers fully adjustable retention, making it one of the safest options available. It’s also great for those who want a custom fit for their carry bag or purse, as this holster comes with eyelet hardware, which can be used to attach paracord to the inside of your bag for an easy draw. 

Summary

Choosing the right holster, whether inside the waistband or outside the waistband, is essential for ensuring comfort, security, and concealability. The best holster for Glock 43 pistols ultimately depends on your unique preferences and needs.

Take the time to evaluate the features that matter most to you, compare your options, and make an informed decision based on the qualities that define a top-quality holster.

Looking for a reliable, custom-fit holster? Visit our Holsters by Gun Model page to find Kydex holsters tailored to your firearm. Plus, explore our Resources Page for gear recommendations, concealed carry guides, and exclusive content to elevate your carry system.