
Here at Dallas Shooters Supply, we get our hands on a lot of pistols, but few have generated as much consistent, year-over-year buzz as the Glock 43X. It’s a staple on our shelves and a top seller for a reason. But let’s be honest: the one nagging point for many shooters has always been the capacity. The standard 10-round flush-fit magazine in a single-stack-width frame is good, but in a world of micro-compacts holding 12, 13, or 15 rounds, it felt like a compromise. For years, the aftermarket, specifically Shield Arms, offered a solution with their metal S15 magazines. Now, for 2026, Glock has finally answered the call with their own factory 15-round all-metal magazine (GL79269). We took the updated package out to the range under the brutal Texas sun to see if this is the configuration that finally checks every box.
What’s New for 2026: The Factory 15-Round Magazine
The Glock 43X itself hasn’t changed. You’re still getting the same incredibly reliable, slimline 9mm pistol with its excellent ergonomics and shootability. The 2026 update is all about the magazine. Glock’s new offering, part number GL79269 with an MSRP around $32.73, is a 15-round, all-metal magazine designed specifically for the 43X and 48 frames.
This is a big deal. It means you now have a factory-original option to carry 15+1 rounds in a pistol with a grip circumference that still feels like a true single-stack. The magazine body is steel, with a polymer floorplate that maintains compatibility with most 43X holsters. The follower and spring are new designs from Glock to handle the increased capacity within the compact frame.
Specs at a Glance
- Model: Glock 43X
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- Barrel Length: 3.41 inches
- Overall Length: 6.5 inches
- Width: 1.10 inches
- Capacity: 15+1 (with GL79269 magazine), 10+1 (with factory polymer mag)
- Frame: Polymer, Slimline
- New Magazine: GL79269, all-metal (steel) body, 15-round capacity
Height (with new mag): ~5.04 inches
Range Report: Testing in the Texas Heat
We ran over 500 rounds through our 43X paired with two of the new factory 15-round mags. Ammo included 115gr and 124gr FMJ range fodder, 147gr subsonics, and our preferred 124gr +P defensive hollow points. The temperature hovered around 98 degrees, and the pistol was left in direct sun between strings of fire to simulate how it might sit in a truck or on a hip during a Texas summer.
Performance was, in a word, flawless. The magazines loaded smoothly to full capacity, though the last two rounds require a firm push—this is normal for a high-capacity compact mag. Locking the magazine into the pistol on a closed slide required a solid smack, again expected. During firing, we experienced zero failures to feed, chamber, fire, or eject. Slide lock on empty was consistent every time. The metal magazines drop free cleanly, just like the polymer ones.
The shooting experience is where the 43X has always shined. That extra pinky grip over the standard G43 makes a world of difference in control. With 15 rounds on tap, we felt even more confident running drills. The balance of the pistol is slightly altered with the heavier, loaded metal magazine, but it’s a change for the better, putting a bit more weight in the grip for mitigated muzzle flip.
The Big Question: Glock vs. Shield Arms S15
This is the comparison everyone in our Dallas store asks about. Having sold and tested countless S15 magazines over the years, we have a clear perspective.
Shield Arms S15: Pioneered this concept. They work very well in many pistols, but we’ve seen a higher incidence of tolerance stacking issues. Some 43X/48 frames require their aftermarket metal magazine catch for reliable function, and even then, occasional feed issues or slide lock problems can pop up. It’s a great product, but it’s an aftermarket modification.
Glock Factory 15-Round (GL79269): This is a factory-engineered part. It’s designed from the ground up by Glock for Glock. In our testing, it offers total reliability with the stock polymer magazine catch. There’s no need to swap any parts. The peace of mind that comes with a factory-original magazine, especially for a defensive firearm, is significant. For the vast majority of shooters, particularly those who don’t want to tinker, the Glock magazine is the new default choice.
Holster Fitment and Everyday Carry
A major concern with metal magazines is holster compatibility. The good news here is excellent. The GL79269 magazine uses a polymer floorplate that is nearly identical in dimensions to the standard 10-round magazine’s floorplate. We tested the 43X with the new mags in a selection of popular holsters from Vedder, Tier 1 Concealed, and a local Texas maker we stock. Fitment was perfect in every case. The holsters indexed on the trigger guard and slide as usual; the magazine basepad is irrelevant to retention.
For everyday carry in Texas, this update is a serious upgrade. You’re now carrying a slim, concealable pistol with a full-size capacity of 16 rounds total. Whether you’re dealing with the minimal clothing of a Houston summer or just want a low-profile option that doesn’t sacrifice firepower, the 43X with its factory 15-rounder is a compelling package.
What’s in the Box
- Glock 43X Pistol
- (2) Standard 10-round polymer magazines
- Speed loader
- Glock hard case
- Owner’s manual, lock, etc.
- Note: The new GL79269 15-round magazines are sold separately. They do not come packaged with the pistol from the factory.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Factory-original reliability. No modifications needed.
- Transforms the 43X into a 15+1 micro-compact.
- Maintains the excellent, slim ergonomics of the 43X frame.
- Fully compatible with existing 43X holsters.
- Steel construction should offer enhanced long-term durability over polymer.
- Simplifies the platform—one magazine type for max capacity, no aftermarket parts.
Cons:
- Magazines are sold separately, adding to the total cost of the setup.
- Slightly heavier than the polymer magazines when loaded.
- The last few rounds require a firm hand when loading.
- For existing S15 users, it may not offer enough advantage to switch unless factory provenance is critical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change the magazine catch with the new Glock metal magazines?
No. That’s the key advantage. The Glock GL79269 magazine is designed to work perfectly with the stock polymer magazine catch. This preserves the simplicity and warranty of your firearm.
Will these new magazines fit my older Glock 43X or 48?
Yes. They are backwards compatible with all Glock 43X and 48 models. The magazine well dimensions are identical.
Are these magazines legal in Texas?
Texas has no restrictions on magazine capacity. You are free to purchase, possess, and carry these 15-round magazines.
How do I purchase just the magazines? Do they ship to my house?
At Dallas Shooters Supply, we stock the GL79269 magazines individually. In Texas, magazines are not regulated items and can be shipped directly to your door, no FFL transfer required. You can order them online or pick them up in-store.
Is the Glock 43X with this magazine now better than a Sig P365 XMacro or similar?
That comes down to personal preference. The 43X is still a bit longer in the grip and slide than some of the newest micros, but it offers Glock’s legendary simplicity and a fantastic trigger reach. The 43X now matches or exceeds the capacity of many competitors while retaining its slimmer side profile. The best advice is to handle both at a local shop like ours.
How many rounds should I test for reliability?
We recommend a minimum of 200 rounds of your intended defensive ammunition through each magazine you plan to carry. This ensures function and builds muscle memory. In our Texas heat test, 500 rounds across two mags showed zero issues.
Final Verdict
The Glock 43X was already a top-tier concealed carry choice. With the official release of the factory 15-round magazine, it has addressed its one perceived weakness. What you get now is a no-compromise package: the slim, shootable frame Texas carriers love, combined with full-size capacity and guaranteed factory reliability. You don’t have to be a gunsmith or worry about aftermarket part compatibility.
For a new buyer, the equation is simple. For an existing 43X owner, these magazines are a must-buy upgrade. They transform the utility of the pistol without altering anything that made it great in the first place.
Where to Buy
If you’re in Texas and looking for a Glock 43X or the new GL79269 15-round magazines, we’ve got you covered at Dallas Shooters Supply. We stock the pistols and the magazines separately. Remember, purchasing a pistol requires an FFL transfer, which we handle smoothly in-store. The magazines, however, can be shipped right to you. Come by, feel the setup in your hand, and see why this combination has become an instant classic for Texas carry.
Ready to buy? The Glock 43X (New 2026) 9mm w/ 15rd Metal Magazines is in stock at Dallas Shooters Supply — $599.00. View Product →


