Here are some other size comparisons for you to view. In order of appearance: G42 vs. Ruger LCP; G42 vs. Sig P238; G42 vs. S&W Bodyguard:
Is it a pocket pistol? I’m not entirely sure just yet. Once some holsters are out on the market, I’ll be able to make a better decision on this. It can fit in the right pocket, but it’s definitely not LCP sized. However, I feel this is a benefit (at least to me) because it’s just a perfectly sized .380 in my book. It has bulk and weight the others lack. It doesn’t feel like a toy. It feels like a Glock.
Caliber
Everyone loves to debate the effectiveness of different calibers. My take is very simple: If it’s a caliber that you can shoot well and are comfortable with, then it’s an effective caliber. I think that too much stress is associated with calibers. Self-defense situations have taken bad guys down with 22’s. The focus should be put on shot placement, control and competence with your concealed carry firearm.
If someone ever tells you that a .380 isn’t enough stopping power, ask them if they’d like to volunteer to get shot with one. I bet they’ll decline. Furthermore, don’t forget the people who aren’t able to handle a larger caliber firearm but still want to carry. They can’t be left out in the dark and unable to defend themselves. In this case, the G42 would probably be a perfect fit.
With all of that said, the new lines of .380’s are increasing in popularity, so something must be working. I’ll leave it up to the buyer to decide if it’s a caliber for them, but personally, I could be confident carrying the G42.
Recoil
The G42 has a very nice balance of weight, and it’s not as small as it’s competitors in the 380 pocket pistol category. Because of the additional size and weight of say, the LCP, the recoil is much more manageable. Given it’s chambered in .380 Auto, the recoil is usually manageable to begin with. Remember though, the pocket pistols cater to the increasing popularity of concealed carry with women and the elderly. For example, my mother has a difficult time with a 9mm and would not feel comfortable carrying one. With the G42, I could see this as a carry piece for her. With less recoil and better follow up shots, she would be proficient and confident with this firearm.
Range Test
I hit the range as soon as this firearm was at the door and took it for a good, solid run. A little note here; I didn’t do anything to the firearm before we went to the range. It was fired right out of the box. I feel the need to mention this because whenever I get a new firearm, I will usually clean out all of the factory lubrication and apply Eezox and wait 24 hours before use.
Here is the ammo that was used to test the Glock 42:
Underwood Ammo: (100 rounds) 380 ACP +P 90 Grain Bonded JHP
Underwood Ammo: (100 rounds) 380 ACP 102 Grain Brass JHP
Freedom Munitions: (300 rounds) 380 Auto 100 gr RNFP New
At the range, I fired rounds at 20 Yards, 15 Yards and 7 Yards. Before and after this, I ran quite a few rounds through it for fun, and I mean FUN!
This firearm is accurate, and I’m not the least bit surprised. Even at 50 feet with a 380, I was still hitting the mark. The main point here though, is reliability. Let’s jump right into that.
