Glock G42
Glock Ges.m.b.H. · Pistol · In Production · 2014
Also known as: G42, Glock 42, Pocket Glock
Overview
The Glock G42 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in .380 ACP, produced by Glock Ges.m.b.H. Featuring a 6-round magazine capacity, this pistol offers compact firepower for concealed carry applications. With a 3.3-inch barrel, this firearm prioritizes concealability for everyday carry while still delivering adequate ballistic performance at defensive distances. At 345g (12.2 oz) unloaded, this lightweight firearm is optimized for comfortable all-day carry without creating undue fatigue or printing concerns.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 345 g (12.2 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 450 g (15.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 151 mm (5.94") |
| Barrel Length | 83 mm (3.27") |
| Height | 105 mm (4.13") |
| Width | 24 mm (0.94") |
| Sight Radius | 125 mm (4.92") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Safe Action |
| Trigger Pull | 24 N (5.4 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 290 m/s (951 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 245 J (181 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1000 m (1094 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 250 mm (9.84") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Tenifer |
Calibers
- .380 ACP · primary — also known as .380 Auto, 9x17mm, 9mm Browning Short
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Trigger Safety, Firing Pin Safety, Drop Safety
- Features: Slimline Frame, Single Stack Magazine, Polygonal Rifling, Safe Action Trigger, Reversible Mag Release
Service history
Operators
- Civilian Concealed Carry Market · adopted 2014
Production
Production years: 2014-present
Manufactured exclusively at Glock's Smyrna, Georgia USA facility. Strong sales in the concealed carry market, though exact production numbers are not disclosed.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Gaston Glock
Notes
The G42 was controversial at its launch because many shooters had expected Glock's first slimline pistol to be chambered in 9mm rather than .380 ACP. Despite the initial disappointment, the G42 proved to be an excellent concealed carry pistol valued for its extreme concealability and shootability. It is manufactured exclusively at Glock's Smyrna, Georgia facility. The G42 uses a blowback operating system rather than the locked-breech short recoil system found in most other Glock pistols, as the .380 ACP cartridge does not generate enough pressure to require a locked breech. Optional 6-round magazine with finger extension is available.
Background
The G42 holds a special place in Glock history as the pistol that launched the entire Slimline series. When unveiled at the 2014 SHOT Show, it was met with a collective groan from the firearms community who had been clamoring for a single-stack 9mm Glock. That wish would be granted a year later with the G43, but the G42 proved that Glock could build a slim, pocketable pistol -- and it developed a devoted following among shooters who appreciated the soft-shooting .380 ACP platform.