Description
Glock 42 – .380 ACP Subcompact Pistol
Glock 42 – .380 ACP Subcompact Pistol
The Glock 42 is Glock’s smallest pistol, designed for those who demand ultimate concealability without sacrificing reliability. Chambered in .380 ACP, this subcompact features Glock’s proven Safe Action system and the same durability and ease of use trusted by professionals worldwide.
Its slimline frame and lightweight build make it an excellent choice for deep concealment or as a backup option. Despite its compact size, the Glock 42 maintains comfortable ergonomics and manageable recoil, making it easy to shoot accurately even for newer shooters.
Ideal for everyday carry, the Glock 42 comes in its factory case with two 6-round magazines and includes a factory lock. Whether you’re looking for a discreet carry pistol or a reliable addition to your lineup, the Glock 42 delivers performance in a micro-sized package.
The Glock 42 (G42) is Glock’s smallest semi-automatic pistol and the company’s first slim-frame .380 ACP (9mm Browning Short) handgun. Designed primarily for deep concealed carry, the G42 combines Glock’s Safe Action® striker-fired system with a compact single-stack design, making it easy to carry while maintaining Glock’s reputation for reliability and durability.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Glock |
| Model | Glock 42 |
| Caliber | .380 ACP (.380 Auto) |
| Action | Semi-automatic striker-fired |
| Operating System | Glock Safe Action® |
| Frame Type | Slimline polymer |
| Magazine Type | Single-stack |
| Capacity | 6+1 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 3.25 in (82.5 mm) |
| Overall Length | 5.94 in (151 mm) |
| Height | 4.13 in (105 mm) |
| Width | 0.98 in (25 mm) |
| Slide Width | 0.83 in (21 mm) |
| Weight (empty) | Approx. 13.76 oz |
| Weight (loaded) | Approx. 15.87 oz |
| Barrel Rifling | Glock polygonal/hexagonal profile |
| Sight Radius | Approx. 4.92 in |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Steel |
Design Purpose
The Glock 42 was designed for:
- Deep concealed carry
- Pocket or backup carry
- Users who prefer lower-recoil ammunition
- Shooters wanting Glock reliability in the smallest possible package
Although extremely compact, the G42 uses Glock’s full Safe Action operating system and maintains the same basic operating principles as larger Glock pistols.
Key Features
Slimline Compact Frame
The G42 features:
- Thin single-stack grip
- Textured polymer frame
- Integrated beavertail-style grip shape
- Low-profile design for concealment
- Comfortable handling compared with many ultra-small pistols
Its 0.98-inch width makes it one of Glock’s easiest models to conceal.
Barrel and Slide
Barrel
- Length: 3.25 inches
- Glock polygonal-style rifling
- Designed for durability and consistent accuracy
Slide
- Compact steel slide
- Corrosion-resistant finish
- Front and rear slide serrations
- Fixed sight system
Trigger System
The Glock 42 uses Glock’s Safe Action® system.
It includes three passive safety mechanisms:
- Trigger safety
- Firing pin safety
- Drop safety
Typical specifications:
- Trigger pull: approximately 5.5 lb
- Trigger travel: approximately 0.49 in
Magazine Capacity
The Glock 42 uses a slim single-stack magazine.
Standard capacity:
- Magazine: 6 rounds
- Loaded capacity: 6+1 rounds
The compact magazine helps maintain the pistol’s slim profile but limits capacity compared with larger Glock models such as the Glock 19 or Glock 43X.
Sights
Factory configurations typically include:
- Fixed front sight
- Fixed rear sight
Common aftermarket upgrades include:
- Steel sights
- Tritium night sights
- Fiber-optic sights
The short sight radius is a trade-off for the pistol’s extremely compact size.
Handling and Recoil
The .380 ACP cartridge produces less recoil than 9mm Luger in similar-sized pistols, making the Glock 42 easier for many shooters to control.
Advantages of the G42’s size:
- Comfortable carry weight
- Low-profile grip
- Easy concealment
Trade-offs:
- Smaller grip
- Shorter sight radius
- Lower magazine capacity
Typical Package Contents
A factory package commonly includes:
- Glock 42 pistol
- Two 6-round magazines (varies by market/package)
- Glock hard case
- Magazine loader
- Cleaning brush
- Cable lock
- Owner’s manual
Used or dealer packages may differ.
Reliability & Maintenance
Like other Glock pistols, the G42 is known for:
✅ Simple operation
✅ Easy field stripping
✅ Durable polymer frame
✅ Corrosion-resistant finish
✅ Large aftermarket support
Routine maintenance generally involves:
- Cleaning barrel and slide components
- Lubricating contact points
- Inspecting recoil spring and magazines
Advantages
✅ Extremely compact Glock design
✅ Very easy to conceal
✅ Mild .380 ACP recoil
✅ Reliable Safe Action system
✅ Lightweight
✅ Good choice for shooters who prioritize portability
Considerations
- Capacity is limited to 6+1 rounds.
- Smaller grip may be less comfortable for large hands.
- Less powerful cartridge than 9mm Luger.
- Not designed as a high-volume range pistol.
Comparison With Similar Glock Models
| Model | Glock 42 | Glock 43 | Glock 43X |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .380 ACP | 9mm | 9mm |
| Barrel | 3.25″ | 3.41″ | 3.41″ |
| Capacity | 6+1 | 6+1 | 10+1 |
| Width | 0.98″ | 1.06″ | 1.10″ |
| Role | Deep concealment | Slim carry | Slim carry with larger grip |
Best Uses
The Glock 42 is commonly selected for:
- Concealed carry
- Backup handgun use
- New shooters who prefer lighter recoil
- Discreet everyday carry
Summary
The Glock 42 .380 ACP Subcompact Pistol is Glock’s smallest handgun and is built around maximum concealability while retaining Glock’s familiar reliability, Safe Action system, and rugged polymer construction. Its main strengths are its thin profile, low weight, and manageable recoil, while its primary compromises are lower capacity and reduced ballistic performance compared with 9mm Glock models.
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