My comparison, G43X, Hellcat and P365

[Lennyjoe]

Today I got bored and decided to do some comparison photos of 3 of my subcompact 9MM carry pistols.

In the below photos you’ll see all 3 side by side and layered for comparison. In my humble opinion, the only benefit (in regards to concealed carry) is when you use the 10 round magazines in the Hellcat and P365 over the 43X.

So here’s some photos for your viewing pleasure. First is a rear view with the P365 (10 round Mag), Hellcat (13 round) and G43X (Shield 15 round Mag) from left to right.


Same view, just lower. Think I’ll grab a handle plug for the 43X to take up that gap.


Stacked view. P365 has the 12 round Mag installed.

 

[Lennyjoe]

Not much difference in barrel/slide length


For me, the 43X is most accurate and just a hair thinner in an IWB leather holster. It provides more grip for my fat hands. The Hellcat shoots just a bit better due to its axis and I like the sights better than the P365. The P365 is also a great shooter with just a bit better trigger (in my eyes) than the Hellcat. The 43X trigger beats them all because it’s souped up a little more with aftermarket parts so that’s a bit of a cheat from the other 2 factory triggers.


In the end, you can’t go wrong with either of the 3. I’ll stick with the 43X for EDC, P365 for B/U or glove box gun and Hellcat for nightstand/strategically placed somewhere accessible in the house.

Safe shooting everyone.

 

[Lennyjoe]

Here’s another view to include the factory sights.


Finally, all 3 .

 

[Buckeye63]

I have been looking at picking up new wonder 9 .. really can’t decide… I have always leaned toward Glocks .. and the Shield Arms 15rd looks promising,
I sorta waiting to see a few more GX4 reviews, and Shield Plus .. not really considering the Ruger Max 9
and the P365 seems to be a heck of a pistol

 

[Lennyjoe]

Of the 3 I like the 43X and the 15 round Shield mags the best. Shoots great, a bit larger handle for my bigger hands and Uber reliable. I do, however, like that I can throw the P365 with 10 round magazine in a pocket holster and put in my back pocket for quick out and backs.

 

[LeftyRed]

Thank you for your perspective, great review. Well rounded.

Personally, I don’t like any of them. I stick to my stubby and chunky G26. I too can’t wait for the GX4 to be in stores around here. Was able to hold one a few days ago, went with wife to eat and decided to get it. Went back and they were gone! I like the replacement back strap (are you listening SIG) that allows you to have a couple options on the fit. Going to make some companies take notice and step their game up.

Thanks again,
Lefty

 

[SDGlock23]

I've had a few 43X's and I do like them and have shot my friends Hellcat. The Hellcat is nice, I think it probably has a bit more recoil than the G43X but overall I was impressed with it and the group I shot was nice and tight. I like the sight setup too, well at least the sight picture, just wish the rear glowed and not just the front. I've never messed with a P365.

 

[WheelGunMan]

I looked long and hard at the G43X and a P365XL..ended up going with the XL. Added a P365 to the mix but found its grip a little small for my liking...ditched it and added a Shield Plus that I've really grown fond of. Added a Kimber Micro 9 for days where clothes restrict what I carry.

 

[redfin00]

Thanks for the info,been researching them.

 

[jonnyc]

When I carry, it's a 43X with a Shield mag. When not carrying, it's a P32. This is most likely the pair I'll stick with until I become too old and fragile to carry. Then I'll just wander my property with a Mossberg 500...hopefully clothed.

 

[Lennyjoe]

I usually go to a full size carry in the winter time as the addition clothing aids in better concealment of the larger pistol.