The G42 is in a unique class of firearm. It’s larger than typical .380 pocket pistols such as the LCP 2 while being smaller and lighter than the P365/Hellcat. It’s bridging the gap between these two types of firearms that gives the G42 this very unique role.
There are some popular misconceptions regarding these size comparisons and the specific role the G42 excels in. The purpose of this critique is to address these misconceptions as to their validity and significance.
1.) The G42 is too big for a .380 ACP
![Image]()
Size/Metrics:
G42 LCP LCP 2
Weight w/ no mag (Oz) 12.4 8.8 9.5
Weight w/ empty mag (Oz) 13.9 9.9 10.7
Weight w/ full mag (Oz) 15.9 12.0 12.8
Height (mag to slide) 3.98 3.6 3.6
Length (Inches) 5.96 5.19 5.15
Width of grip (Inches) 0.88 0.76 0.9
Width of slide (Inches) 0.83 0.76 0.82
Width at controls (Inches) 0.99 0.837 0.86
Loaded Weight (Oz)
Hellcat - 23.1
P365 - 23.0
PM9 - 20.0
Glock 42 - 15.9
LCP Max - 14.75
Beretta Pico - 13.8
LCP 2 - 12.8
LCP 1 - 12.0
P3AT - 11.0
P32 - 9.0
The G42 is longer than the LCP 2 by .81 of an inch. It has a heavier more robust slide and barrel geometry than smaller pocket guns. Do note that the slide width is virtually the same for both guns at .83/.82 respectively. The G42 barrel is 3.25 inches long compared to the majority of pocket pistols of 2.5 inches with a notable increase in muzzle velocity using defensive .380 ammunition. This increase in ballistic performance over smaller .380 pistols equates to more consistent expansion and penetration through denim and ballistic gelatin. These two factors have plagued several .380 JHP loadings. They may fail to expand acting like FMJ or only partially expand through the denim material. The G42 improves upon this problem.
Ballistically, the G42 is capable of bridging the gap between factory .380 and standard pressure 9mm with the Underwood 90 grain XTP +P. This loading produces 1,175 fps at the muzzle and the G42 is unique in that it can feed these rounds like a champ without stressing the gun unlike any smaller micro .380 sized pistol. I wouldn’t want to shoot this through an LCP but I’ve fired well over 200 rounds of it through my G42 with no issues and only slightly more felt recoil over factory .380 ACP. *
* My Beretta Pico while smaller and thinner than the G42, the stainless steel slide/barrel components are very robust and heavier than typical micro .380 guns more so than the LCP. Factory rated for occasional .380 “+P” ammunition use as stated in the manual and in my testing w/ UW 90 grain +P XTP, feed and function flawlessly. Considerably more “snappy” compared to the G42 which can easily handle a steady diet of Underwood +P ammunition. *
The dual captive recoil spring assembly of the G42 is much more capable of higher round counts compared to any micro .380 ACP. In conjunction with the heavier slide, the G42 experiences significantly less muzzle flip. The recoil is almost non-existent using factory .380 ammunition. I can shoot this model ridiculously fast and accurately and can place hits with it much more reliably at longer than typical self defense distance compared to the LCP 2. I’ve placed two holes touching at 7 yards with this gun and can achieve .25 splits. That’s not happening on any .380 micro that I’ve used or tested over a wide range of different models over the years.
The G42 is taller. Less than a half inch more overall height than the LCP 2. But the G42 is also the thinner gun in the frame and this is even more readily apparent compared to the LCP Max. The G42 slide despite being heavier is the same width. Overall, the G42 is the flatter gun compared to the LCP 2. The longer gripping surface also leads to superior shooting and handling characteristics compared to typical micro .380 guns. This touches upon the unique role of the G42 and perhaps it’s biggest advantage.
The G42 handles like a real gun. It doesn’t feel like a toy in your hand. Weapon manipulations with it are much easier in a stressful environment than smaller pocket guns when changing mags, operating the slide release, slingshotting the slide or clearing a malfunction. Imagine doing that with bloody hands on a Beretta Pico, Kahr CW380 or Ruger LCP 1/2.
The G42 is the smallest and lightest .380 that will still shoot and operate similarly to a service sized subcompact while maintaining Glocks well established reliability and durability over many thousands of rounds. An advantage over more compact .380 pistols with smaller and more fragile internal/external parts, trigger springs, recoil springs, chamber thickness, etc.
That means you can train to a very high level of proficiency with the G42 that wouldn’t typically be possible with the LCP models without requiring repairs and trips back to the factory. The ability to put 500-1000 rds through a G42 in an afternoon of shooting with a weapon this small and light is remarkable for a pocket gun weighing 12.4 oz empty.
The G42 can handle this level of shooting in a boringly reliable and comfortable way. This wouldn’t be recommended with an LCP or similar model. These smaller guns will not take that level of regular abuse, are typically much less pleasant to shoot and they experience malfunctions at a higher rate on average. *
* What about the Ruger LCP Max as a pocket gun?
![Image]()
* The LCP Max while being much lighter than the P365 / Hellcat is still unfortunately too wide in the frame to serve as a true pocket gun as it has roughly the same footprint as the Micro 9mm guns in H/L/W which means the draw will be as difficult when fully gripping the gun from inside the pocket compared to the G42 unless you’re wearing looser fitting/cargo pants with larger than average pocket size.*
2.) The G42 is too big for a pocket gun
![Image]()
![Image]()
This is perhaps the biggest misconception of the Glock 42. As pictured is the G42 in a Desantis pocket holster in the off hand pocket of straight legged Levi flex 514 jeans. I don’t like the look of baggy or loose pants but I also don’t wear skinny jeans either. You can certainly tell something is in my pocket but when either standing or moving it doesn’t scream GUN! Instead, it looks like a fat wallet or larger model iPhone and maybe some car keys.*
* Some individuals with thinner body frames and legs may have more difficulty in concealing the G42, possibly requiring a smaller micro .380 LCP style alternative for the pocket. *
The G42 is the largest and easiest to shoot polymer framed gun that can still qualify as a lightweight dedicated pocket or ankle pistol that can easily be carried in the majority of straight leg jeans, slacks or shorts with a gun belt. I find that as long as the gun conceals, can easily be drawn from a pocket at a reasonable weight, then there is no practical need to go smaller as that just serves to handicap shooting-handling under stress. The G42 grip being slightly longer is also much easier to consistently draw with under pressure as you get a better firing hand grip on the gun than you would with any micro .380 weapon.
The slightly larger size in height and length also enables the G42 to anchor to the pocket more securely and not shift or rotate as much with the holster in changing position in typical pockets like smaller micro .380 pistols can. This also aids in producing a more consistent and repeatable draw stroke. Something that is rarely illustrated by reviewers.
The only time I feel the need to carry a smaller gun is when I’m in gym shorts with only a draw string as the G42 while still being lightweight at 15.9 oz loaded, the LCP II is about 2.5 - 3 oz lighter. Even better still would be my Kel-Tec P32 which only weighs in at 9.0 oz loaded. Weight savings becomes critical when wearing gym shorts on a hot summer day.
3.) The G42 is the same size as the P365/Hellcat
![Image]()
![Image]()
![Image]()
Size/ Metrics
G42 Size Comparison
G42 Hellcat
Weight w/ no mag (Oz) 12.4 16.1
Weight w/ empty mag (Oz) 13.9 18.2
Weight w/ full mag (Oz) 15.9 23.0
Height (mag to slide) 3.98 4.03
Length (Inches) 5.96 6.03
Width of grip (Inches) 0.88 1.02
Width of slide (Inches) 0.83 0.87
Width at controls (Inches) 0.99 1.07
I find this misconception to be the most common. The G42 is roughly the same length as the Micro 9mm and about a quarter inch shorter in height. That is where the comparison in size and weight between the two come to a full stop.
The Hellcat/P365 are significantly wider in the grip frame at 3.6 mm and have slightly wider but much heavier slides/barrels 6 - 7 oz that are designed to handle 9mm +P pressures. This precludes them as being dedicated pocket guns unless you’re wearing loose fit pants, cargo shorts, etc.
![Image]()
There is no comparison in how the two carry in the pocket or on an ankle where weight is critical. A dedicated pocket pistol should weigh under 15-17 oz loaded. The Micro 9 pistols simply cannot meet this requirement.
The Hellcat/P365 increase in size over the G42 is just enough that getting a full firing grip on the gun within the pocket while being easy to draw from the pocket opening is decidedly more difficult in straight legged or tapered jeans and slacks. *
![Image]()
![Image]()
* The Kahr PM9 is the only available 9mm Micro that dimensionally can fit and draw well from a jeans/slacks pocket. The PM9 almost makes the grade as a pocket gun as it’s very close to the overall size in height/width as the G42 but the 4.1 oz heavier weight precludes it from being a true pocket gun at 20.1 oz loaded. *
The Micro 9mm best intended role is a minimalist style belt gun that is lighter, more comfortable and easier to conceal than double stack guns such as the G26/G19.
4.) The .380 ACP isn’t an effective self defense caliber
Another misconception regarding terminal effectiveness. First, the .380 ACP using defensive JHP is admittedly very ammo selective unlike duty gun calibers. However, a narrow range of expanding .380 bullet designs that will meet or exceed the FBI minimum are readily available for purchase.
- Hornady 90 grain XTP (various loadings)
13-14 inches through denim and ballistic gelatin media with a .45 to .50 final expanded diameter.
- Federal Hydra-Shock Deep 99 grain JHP
12-13 inches through denim and ballistic gelatin media with a .50 to .55 final expanded diameter.
- Buffalo Bore 100 grain standard pressure or “+P” Hardcast (G42 recommended only)
Flat point with a sharp shoulder that penetrates 30 + inches with virtually no deformation even through bone. I’m confident with this as a general use woods load at close range.
- Underwood 90 grain XTP “+P” (G42 recommended only)
As previously mentioned, this loading will produce 1,175 fps at the muzzle. Bridges the gap between factory .380 JHP and standard pressure 115 grain 9mm JHP ammunition. Penetrates 12 inches through denim and ballistic gelatin media with a .52 expanded final diameter.
5.) Conclusion: What Is the Role of the Glock 42?
The G42 serves a unique purpose in bridging the gap of weight, terminal ballistics, shoot-ability and size between the micro .380 sized pocket pistol and the micro 9mm while remaining easy to pocket carry in most attire. The G42 is truly a unique firearm because it excels in this role better than any other micro .380/9mm handgun can. Likened to be the .380 ACP equivalent to the Airweight J-Frame revolver. I believe this is a fitting description. The G42 performs like a much larger Glock in handling, long term durability and reliability. Anything larger or heavier starts to enter the realm of the sub-compact belt gun. Anything smaller or lighter becomes a handicap when shooting under pressure becomes a reality and you have to make fast and accurate hits from the draw.
The Glock 42 in my opinion is the best overall .380 ACP caliber handgun for the pocket, ankle or backup gun role. This critique isn’t meant to change anyones mind. My goal is to illustrate some of the many factors that enter into choosing a pocket sized gun and how weighing all those possible variables led me to choose the Glock Model 42 as the ideal .380 caliber pocket gun.
There are some popular misconceptions regarding these size comparisons and the specific role the G42 excels in. The purpose of this critique is to address these misconceptions as to their validity and significance.
1.) The G42 is too big for a .380 ACP
Size/Metrics:
G42 LCP LCP 2
Weight w/ no mag (Oz) 12.4 8.8 9.5
Weight w/ empty mag (Oz) 13.9 9.9 10.7
Weight w/ full mag (Oz) 15.9 12.0 12.8
Height (mag to slide) 3.98 3.6 3.6
Length (Inches) 5.96 5.19 5.15
Width of grip (Inches) 0.88 0.76 0.9
Width of slide (Inches) 0.83 0.76 0.82
Width at controls (Inches) 0.99 0.837 0.86
Loaded Weight (Oz)
Hellcat - 23.1
P365 - 23.0
PM9 - 20.0
Glock 42 - 15.9
LCP Max - 14.75
Beretta Pico - 13.8
LCP 2 - 12.8
LCP 1 - 12.0
P3AT - 11.0
P32 - 9.0
The G42 is longer than the LCP 2 by .81 of an inch. It has a heavier more robust slide and barrel geometry than smaller pocket guns. Do note that the slide width is virtually the same for both guns at .83/.82 respectively. The G42 barrel is 3.25 inches long compared to the majority of pocket pistols of 2.5 inches with a notable increase in muzzle velocity using defensive .380 ammunition. This increase in ballistic performance over smaller .380 pistols equates to more consistent expansion and penetration through denim and ballistic gelatin. These two factors have plagued several .380 JHP loadings. They may fail to expand acting like FMJ or only partially expand through the denim material. The G42 improves upon this problem.
Ballistically, the G42 is capable of bridging the gap between factory .380 and standard pressure 9mm with the Underwood 90 grain XTP +P. This loading produces 1,175 fps at the muzzle and the G42 is unique in that it can feed these rounds like a champ without stressing the gun unlike any smaller micro .380 sized pistol. I wouldn’t want to shoot this through an LCP but I’ve fired well over 200 rounds of it through my G42 with no issues and only slightly more felt recoil over factory .380 ACP. *
* My Beretta Pico while smaller and thinner than the G42, the stainless steel slide/barrel components are very robust and heavier than typical micro .380 guns more so than the LCP. Factory rated for occasional .380 “+P” ammunition use as stated in the manual and in my testing w/ UW 90 grain +P XTP, feed and function flawlessly. Considerably more “snappy” compared to the G42 which can easily handle a steady diet of Underwood +P ammunition. *
The dual captive recoil spring assembly of the G42 is much more capable of higher round counts compared to any micro .380 ACP. In conjunction with the heavier slide, the G42 experiences significantly less muzzle flip. The recoil is almost non-existent using factory .380 ammunition. I can shoot this model ridiculously fast and accurately and can place hits with it much more reliably at longer than typical self defense distance compared to the LCP 2. I’ve placed two holes touching at 7 yards with this gun and can achieve .25 splits. That’s not happening on any .380 micro that I’ve used or tested over a wide range of different models over the years.
The G42 is taller. Less than a half inch more overall height than the LCP 2. But the G42 is also the thinner gun in the frame and this is even more readily apparent compared to the LCP Max. The G42 slide despite being heavier is the same width. Overall, the G42 is the flatter gun compared to the LCP 2. The longer gripping surface also leads to superior shooting and handling characteristics compared to typical micro .380 guns. This touches upon the unique role of the G42 and perhaps it’s biggest advantage.
The G42 handles like a real gun. It doesn’t feel like a toy in your hand. Weapon manipulations with it are much easier in a stressful environment than smaller pocket guns when changing mags, operating the slide release, slingshotting the slide or clearing a malfunction. Imagine doing that with bloody hands on a Beretta Pico, Kahr CW380 or Ruger LCP 1/2.
The G42 is the smallest and lightest .380 that will still shoot and operate similarly to a service sized subcompact while maintaining Glocks well established reliability and durability over many thousands of rounds. An advantage over more compact .380 pistols with smaller and more fragile internal/external parts, trigger springs, recoil springs, chamber thickness, etc.
That means you can train to a very high level of proficiency with the G42 that wouldn’t typically be possible with the LCP models without requiring repairs and trips back to the factory. The ability to put 500-1000 rds through a G42 in an afternoon of shooting with a weapon this small and light is remarkable for a pocket gun weighing 12.4 oz empty.
The G42 can handle this level of shooting in a boringly reliable and comfortable way. This wouldn’t be recommended with an LCP or similar model. These smaller guns will not take that level of regular abuse, are typically much less pleasant to shoot and they experience malfunctions at a higher rate on average. *
* What about the Ruger LCP Max as a pocket gun?
* The LCP Max while being much lighter than the P365 / Hellcat is still unfortunately too wide in the frame to serve as a true pocket gun as it has roughly the same footprint as the Micro 9mm guns in H/L/W which means the draw will be as difficult when fully gripping the gun from inside the pocket compared to the G42 unless you’re wearing looser fitting/cargo pants with larger than average pocket size.*
2.) The G42 is too big for a pocket gun
This is perhaps the biggest misconception of the Glock 42. As pictured is the G42 in a Desantis pocket holster in the off hand pocket of straight legged Levi flex 514 jeans. I don’t like the look of baggy or loose pants but I also don’t wear skinny jeans either. You can certainly tell something is in my pocket but when either standing or moving it doesn’t scream GUN! Instead, it looks like a fat wallet or larger model iPhone and maybe some car keys.*
* Some individuals with thinner body frames and legs may have more difficulty in concealing the G42, possibly requiring a smaller micro .380 LCP style alternative for the pocket. *
The G42 is the largest and easiest to shoot polymer framed gun that can still qualify as a lightweight dedicated pocket or ankle pistol that can easily be carried in the majority of straight leg jeans, slacks or shorts with a gun belt. I find that as long as the gun conceals, can easily be drawn from a pocket at a reasonable weight, then there is no practical need to go smaller as that just serves to handicap shooting-handling under stress. The G42 grip being slightly longer is also much easier to consistently draw with under pressure as you get a better firing hand grip on the gun than you would with any micro .380 weapon.
The slightly larger size in height and length also enables the G42 to anchor to the pocket more securely and not shift or rotate as much with the holster in changing position in typical pockets like smaller micro .380 pistols can. This also aids in producing a more consistent and repeatable draw stroke. Something that is rarely illustrated by reviewers.
The only time I feel the need to carry a smaller gun is when I’m in gym shorts with only a draw string as the G42 while still being lightweight at 15.9 oz loaded, the LCP II is about 2.5 - 3 oz lighter. Even better still would be my Kel-Tec P32 which only weighs in at 9.0 oz loaded. Weight savings becomes critical when wearing gym shorts on a hot summer day.
3.) The G42 is the same size as the P365/Hellcat
Size/ Metrics
| Metrics | Sig P365 | Springfield Armory Hellcat |
| Weight No Mag(Oz) | 16.5 | 16.1 |
| Weight Empty Mag(Oz) | 18.6 | 18.2/18.6 |
| Weight With A Full Mag(Oz) | 22.9 | 23.0/24.2 |
| Height(top of Slide to bottom of Magazine Baseplate)(Inches) | 4.23/4.65 | 4.03/4.52 |
| Length (Inches) | 5.80 | 6.03 |
| Width of Grip(Inches) | 1.02 | 1.02 |
| Width of Slide(Inches) | 0.90 | 0.87 |
| Width Across Controls(Inches) | 1.01 | 1.07 |
G42 Size Comparison
G42 Hellcat
Weight w/ no mag (Oz) 12.4 16.1
Weight w/ empty mag (Oz) 13.9 18.2
Weight w/ full mag (Oz) 15.9 23.0
Height (mag to slide) 3.98 4.03
Length (Inches) 5.96 6.03
Width of grip (Inches) 0.88 1.02
Width of slide (Inches) 0.83 0.87
Width at controls (Inches) 0.99 1.07
I find this misconception to be the most common. The G42 is roughly the same length as the Micro 9mm and about a quarter inch shorter in height. That is where the comparison in size and weight between the two come to a full stop.
The Hellcat/P365 are significantly wider in the grip frame at 3.6 mm and have slightly wider but much heavier slides/barrels 6 - 7 oz that are designed to handle 9mm +P pressures. This precludes them as being dedicated pocket guns unless you’re wearing loose fit pants, cargo shorts, etc.
There is no comparison in how the two carry in the pocket or on an ankle where weight is critical. A dedicated pocket pistol should weigh under 15-17 oz loaded. The Micro 9 pistols simply cannot meet this requirement.
The Hellcat/P365 increase in size over the G42 is just enough that getting a full firing grip on the gun within the pocket while being easy to draw from the pocket opening is decidedly more difficult in straight legged or tapered jeans and slacks. *
* The Kahr PM9 is the only available 9mm Micro that dimensionally can fit and draw well from a jeans/slacks pocket. The PM9 almost makes the grade as a pocket gun as it’s very close to the overall size in height/width as the G42 but the 4.1 oz heavier weight precludes it from being a true pocket gun at 20.1 oz loaded. *
The Micro 9mm best intended role is a minimalist style belt gun that is lighter, more comfortable and easier to conceal than double stack guns such as the G26/G19.
4.) The .380 ACP isn’t an effective self defense caliber
Another misconception regarding terminal effectiveness. First, the .380 ACP using defensive JHP is admittedly very ammo selective unlike duty gun calibers. However, a narrow range of expanding .380 bullet designs that will meet or exceed the FBI minimum are readily available for purchase.
- Hornady 90 grain XTP (various loadings)
13-14 inches through denim and ballistic gelatin media with a .45 to .50 final expanded diameter.
- Federal Hydra-Shock Deep 99 grain JHP
12-13 inches through denim and ballistic gelatin media with a .50 to .55 final expanded diameter.
- Buffalo Bore 100 grain standard pressure or “+P” Hardcast (G42 recommended only)
Flat point with a sharp shoulder that penetrates 30 + inches with virtually no deformation even through bone. I’m confident with this as a general use woods load at close range.
- Underwood 90 grain XTP “+P” (G42 recommended only)
As previously mentioned, this loading will produce 1,175 fps at the muzzle. Bridges the gap between factory .380 JHP and standard pressure 115 grain 9mm JHP ammunition. Penetrates 12 inches through denim and ballistic gelatin media with a .52 expanded final diameter.
5.) Conclusion: What Is the Role of the Glock 42?
The G42 serves a unique purpose in bridging the gap of weight, terminal ballistics, shoot-ability and size between the micro .380 sized pocket pistol and the micro 9mm while remaining easy to pocket carry in most attire. The G42 is truly a unique firearm because it excels in this role better than any other micro .380/9mm handgun can. Likened to be the .380 ACP equivalent to the Airweight J-Frame revolver. I believe this is a fitting description. The G42 performs like a much larger Glock in handling, long term durability and reliability. Anything larger or heavier starts to enter the realm of the sub-compact belt gun. Anything smaller or lighter becomes a handicap when shooting under pressure becomes a reality and you have to make fast and accurate hits from the draw.
The Glock 42 in my opinion is the best overall .380 ACP caliber handgun for the pocket, ankle or backup gun role. This critique isn’t meant to change anyones mind. My goal is to illustrate some of the many factors that enter into choosing a pocket sized gun and how weighing all those possible variables led me to choose the Glock Model 42 as the ideal .380 caliber pocket gun.
