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Glock 43 - Magguts +2 or Magguts +1 with a Pearce +1

6.8K views 40 replies 12 participants last post by  GlockyQ  
#1 ·
I know several folks here (@GlockyQ, @PilatusTurbo) have experimented with all kinds of magazine upgrades for the Glock 43 to get to 8 round magazine capacity. I myself have multiple mags with the stock Magguts +2 and I have a few with the Magguts +1 in addition to a Pearce +1.

What’s the general consensus on the best configuration for long-term Magguts reliability and lifespan? The stock +2 or the +1 with a plus 1? I guess I’m really asking because deep down inside, the full Z spring of the MG +1 just seems like a better design than the 2 piece arrangement of the MG +2.

For the sake of this thread, let’s keep it to these 2 options - I’m not looking for alternative solutions like a Ghost +2…

Thanks in advance!
 
#3 ·
I still have two custom mags that utilize MagGuts+1 & Pearce+1. I have recently used them and fired 100 rounds RN and 72 rounds of JHP +P without any issue. I think at least theoretically this combinations is structurally more robust than MagGuts+2 that utilizes the "dual-spring" system. The key here is theoretically...

In practice, I have used MagGuts+2 for several years and also took 3 - 4 course with my G43 and MagGuts+2 equipped mags without any issues. More recently, I have started using my custom 8-rounder mags that combine MagGuts+2 springs & TTI+1 baseplates after range-testing them with my carry ammo. So far, the MagGuts+2 springs in those custom mags have also been working well without any issue.

FWIW,
Again, I acknowledge that at least theoretically MagGuts+1's single "Z" spring (whether it is combined with Pearce+1 baseplate or not) is structurally more robust than the MagGuts+2 that utilizes the "dual-spring" system. In practice, however, I personally do NOT detect any difference in terms of "durability" between MagGuts+1's single "Z" spring and MagGuts+2's "dual spring" - at this point. As a matter of fact, all of my current carry mags (that I trust my life with) are my custom 8-rounder mags that utilize MagGuts+2's "dual springs" and TTI+1 baseplates.

When we have more data gathered by end users of MagGuts+2, we may start seeing something...
 
#4 ·
I still have two custom mags that utilize MagGuts+1 & Pearce+1. I have recently used them and fired 100 rounds RN and 72 rounds of JHP +P without any issue. I think at least theoretically this combinations is structurally more robust than MagGuts+2 that utilizes the "dual-spring" system. The key here is theoretically...

In practice, I have used MagGuts+2 for several years and also took 3 - 4 course with my G43 and MagGuts+2 equipped mags without any issues. More recently, I have started using my custom 8-rounder mags that combine MagGuts+2 springs & TTI+1 baseplates after range-testing them with my carry ammo. So far, the MagGuts+2 springs in those custom mags have also been working well without any issue.

FWIW,
Again, I acknowledge that at least theoretically MagGuts+1's single "Z" spring (whether it is combined with Pearce+1 baseplate or not) is structurally more robust than the MagGuts+2 that utilizes the "dual-spring" system. In practice, however, I personally do NOT detect any difference in terms of "durability" between MagGuts+1's single "Z" spring and MagGuts+2's "dual spring" - at this point. As a matter of fact, all of my current carry mags (that I trust my life with) are my custom 8-rounder mags that utilize MagGuts+2's "dual springs" and TTI+1 baseplates.

When we have more data gathered by end users of MagGuts+2, we may start seeing something...
Thank you for chiming in and for your insights!
 
#8 · (Edited)
Would you gents mind taking a picture of the stock 6rd mag with flat baseplate lined up next to a Magguts +2 equipped mag? Feel free to show other extensions as well.

I just traded for a Glock 43 today. It came with 2 stock mags. I ordered a 3rd OEM mag, night sights, & 2 Vickers +2 baseplates. I'm currently debating a Magguts +1 or +2 setup. I would like the Glock to match the height of my Ruger and ideally match or exceed the capacity of the Ruger. I

This Glock 43 will theoretically replace the Ruger LC9s Pro I have been pocket carrying for a few years now.
Fyi the- shortest mag for the Ruger is a 7rd "flush" fit mag. Ruger also offers a 9rd mag from the factory. Which is really a 7rd mag with a +2 baseplate.

Pics:

Ruger LC9s Pro with Glock 43
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My Glock 43 with my Glock 43X with plus Shield Arms 15rd mag with a +5 Taran Tactical extension
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My current pocket carry Ruger LC9s Pro with Alabama Front Pocket holster and a 7rd mag and 9rd mag in a Desantis Mag-Packer.
Image
 
#9 ·
Here it goes.
Image

[From left: OEM stock mag; Custom 8-rounder mag that combines MagGuts+2 "dual" spring & TTI+1 baseplate; and MagGuts+2.]

FWIW,
Here is another photo comparing my favorite four "+2" extended 8-rounder mags.
Image

[From left: Custom 8-rounder mag that combines MagGuts+2 "dual" spring & TTI+1 baseplate; MagGuts+2; Custom 8-rounder mag that combines MagGuts+1 "Z" spring & Pearce+1 baseplate with the "hanging tongue" removed; and Vickers+2.]
 
#11 ·
If MagGuts+2 works reliably in your G43, there is a very strong possibility that the custom combination will also work reliably in it. If it works, you get the most "size-efficient" 8-rounder mag for your G43!(y)
(The catch is that it costs $60 to get a MagGuts+2 unit and a TTI+1 baseplate...)
 
#14 ·
Here it goes.
View attachment 1241856
[From left: OEM stock mag; Custom 8-rounder mag that combines MagGuts+2 "dual" spring & TTI+1 baseplate; and MagGuts+2.]

FWIW,
Here is another photo comparing my favorite four "+2" extended 8-rounder mags.
View attachment 1241857
[From left: Custom 8-rounder mag that combines MagGuts+2 "dual" spring & TTI+1 baseplate; MagGuts+2; Custom 8-rounder mag that combines MagGuts+1 "Z" spring & Pearce+1 baseplate with the "hanging tongue" removed; and Vickers+2.]
Thanks! I have to agree that custom Magguts / TTI setup looks perfect!
I'm going to order a Magguts +2 and consider doing that.


Another question, when carrying your G43 as a primary / only ccw, how many backup mags do you guys normally carry?
With my Ruger LC9s Pro, I normally carry 2 backup mags.
 
#17 ·
Thanks! I have to agree that custom Magguts / TTI setup looks perfect!
I'm going to order a Magguts +2 and consider doing that.


Another question, when carrying your G43 as a primary / only ccw, how many backup mags do you guys normally carry?
With my Ruger LC9s Pro, I normally carry 2 backup mags.
I carry the G43 6+1, and a single 8 round backup mag. If I really feel the need, I’ll carry 2x 8rd backup mags. I rarely feel that need.
 
#15 ·
If MagGuts+2 works reliably in your G43, there is a very strong possibility that the custom combination will also work reliably in it. If it works, you get the most "size-efficient" 8-rounder mag for your G43!(y)
(The catch is that it costs $60 to get a MagGuts+2 unit and a TTI+1 baseplate...)
TTI is quality though!

My G43X Shield Arms 15rd mag with TTI +5 spring and baseplate is about a $72 mag, if you don't figure in the metal mag release. Gotta love carrying 20rd backup mags though. However, the 43X is belt gun and just doesn't replace a good pocket gun for hot weather.

I like having enough mags that I don't need to unload my carry ammo (other than the chambered round) when practicing.
The 2 matte black mags are PSA Micro Dagger mags.
Image
 
#16 ·
Another question, when carrying your G43 as a primary / only ccw, how many backup mags do you guys normally carry?
... .
I have been carrying a G43 as my primary CCW for about 7 years now, and I carry only one back-up "+2 extended" mag on me (but I keep another 8-rounder mag in my car).
 
#19 · (Edited)
So I placed an order to MIdwayUSA and received 2 Vickers Tactical +8 mag extensions, a spare mag, and a set of Ameriglo Night Sights. I installed the VT extensions and like them. I'll be working on the night sights today.

I haven't ordered anything from Magguts yet and have decided, that I'm going to go with the +1 Spring instead of the +2. I want to keep the stock mag short as possible so this gun will fit in my pocket.

Shooting impressions, I ran 50rds of Fiocchi 115gr FMJ through it the other day.

Complaints:
1. The trigger doesn't seem to have a positive reset like my G43X or my 3 G19's and G26. I found myself having to completely release the trigger to get it to reset. I may need to put a new trigger in it.
2. The mags don't drop free. I might be biased there though as I'm using metal Shield Arms mags in my G43X and rarely shoot my other Glocks these days.

My G43 has not yet replaced my Ruger LC9s Pro for pocket carry and I need to order another pocket holster for it.
 
#21 ·
I haven't ordered anything from Magguts yet and have decided, that I'm going to go with the +1 Spring instead of the +2. I want to keep the stock mag short as possible so this gun will fit in my pocket.
Makes sense if you are going to pocket carry a G43.(y) MagGuts+1 will be perfect for that purpose.
I have been using MagGuts+1 ever since I got my first G43. Though I am now running +2 in my carry mags (because I do not pocket carry my G43), I have never had any issue with MagGuts+1.
 
#20 ·
I wish Glock did a plus 2 like they do for the G26. With that said, I have 2 vickers +2 and 4 6 rd mags with glock finger extension. My recent carry configuration is the 6rd with 8 rd Vickers back up for around town, if I'm going further 2 vickers and a few 6 rounders.
Come on Glock at least make a 7 rd mag for the 43.
 
#22 ·
Image


Image


Image


Finding my G43 doesn't like Federal HST +p 124gr ammo. This happened to me with all 3 mags.

Mags are an 01 and 02 with Vickers +2 baseplate and an 01 with Magguts +1 spring.

The failure required hitting the mag release while prying out the mag.

The gun runs fine w/ 115gr FMJ.
I'll try some 115gr JHP.
 
#25 · (Edited)
I tried and tried to encourage both of my G43’s to “like” HST 124+P, but neither of them did. I was disappointed, because that is my go-to self-defense load for all my other (larger) Glocks.

What I finally settled on is HST 147. Both G43’s fire it flawlessly. I realize ballistics testing indicates somewhat less penetration, due to heavier weight and slower speed, but I’m confident it will get the job done. And it really shoots smoothly and softly.

Something else I finally and reluctantly tried was replacing the plastic guide rods in my G43’s with Lenny Magill’s reduced power tungsten guide rods. I was skeptical, but the results, for me, have been remarkably positive … noticeably lower recoil and improved accuracy. Even more fun to shoot!
 
#26 ·
And if I may continue re: the HST 147 … Federal formerly made a HST 150 Micro load, designed specifically for micro-pistols like the G43. I liked it, and it fired well in my G43’s, but it was expensive, and as best I can tell, Federal discontinued it a couple of years ago. It appears to me that the only differences between the HST 147 and HST 150 are minor design distinctions like subtleties of shape and striation lengths, plus the difference of 3 grains. Most commentators I have read seem to be of the opinion that those tiny distinctions have no real effect on the performance of the ammo, and that the introduction of the product was merely a marketing ploy to match other ammo producers’ similar “micro-specific” loads. My informal evaluation, based on my own use: the two are virtually identical.

The reason for my segue into this topic is that the 147 HST is remarkably similar to the load Federal designed especially for micro-pistols. The 147 HST might be worth a shot (pun intended) for G43 users having certain difficulties with extensions.
 
#27 ·
So far my G43s are feeding HST 124gr +P rounds without any issue.... So it is still my primary carry ammo in my G43s. I have also had very good luck with Underwood 124gr Nosler JHP +P, which I keep as my "secondary" carry ammo in my G43s when my supply of HST 124gr is low. Underwood also sells their JHP ammo in 115gr and 147gr, and the standard pressure version, +P and +P+ versions. It may be worth trying Underwood JHP ammo.

I have not experienced any serious "nose dive" but experienced "hesitation to feed" with 124gr Gold Dot +P in my G43, even though the ammo has always fed reliably in my G19s and G26... So, I no longer carry the ammo in my G43s.

FWIW,
All of my G43s (and other Glocks) are equipped with the DPM RSA instead of the factory stock RSA.
 
#29 ·
@Csenna, your question is a good one. The math appears to work: 6+2+1 = 9, and the +1 (chambered round) would make it 9+1.

The issue is that the MagGuts+2 has its own baseplate, and we are removing it (thereby reducing the capacity by 1) and replacing it with the TTI baseplate (thereby increasing the capacity by 1). So the math is actually 6+2-1+1 = 8, and with the chambered round, 8+1.

Welcome to the site and enjoy your new G43!
 
#37 ·
So if we are removing the MagGuts base plate thus losing 1 round but adding the TTI baseplate now adding 1 round what is the reasoning for changing the baseplates?

If you were me and wanted the 8+1 in the g43 what setup would you choose exactly?

Side note the stock magazine is a bit too small and I think the pinky extension would be perfect.
 
#31 ·
Here's a contra opinion: 1) in a self-defense scenario, none of us ever have nor ever will need more than the 6+1 in an unadulterated G43 magazine. 2) d!cking with your Glock mags frequently makes them less reliable, but never more reliable. 3) God lets you carry additional mags if it makes you feel good - though you have never needed one nor ever will. 4) When I put these facts in the Powernoodle food processor and statistical analyzer, it tells me that there is no good reason to screw up a perfectly good Glock 43 mag.
 
#34 · (Edited)
... there is no good reason to screw up a perfectly good Glock 43 mag.
The mag itself is perfectly good. However, the Version 2 OEM mag spring is an atrocity (overkill-extra-thickness and an extra coil), and it has accordingly caused problems for the majority of G43 shooters who have used it. The mag works much better with one of several replacement springs, notably including the Ghost +11% (or even +15%), among others.

d!cking with your Glock mags frequently makes them less reliable, but never more reliable.
It is indeed important to test any modified mags thoroughly ... even exhaustively ... to ensure reliability. I have done so, and I am confident in the reliability of my custom-modified mags. Frankly, the OEM mag with the Version 2 OEM spring does not function as reliably in my two G43's as my modified mags. So I would have to respectfully disagree with you on that point.
 
#38 ·
The MagGuts +2 yields 8+1 and virtually everyone who has tried it says it works perfectly. It is a great setup.

The only reason for replacing the base plate of the MagGuts+2 with the base plate of the TTI+1 is to lessen the grip length slightly, thereby reducing the profile slightly for concealability. The mag modified with the TTI+1 is only about 1/8" or so longer than the OEM mag, providing just enough additional length for the pinkie (depending on hand size). Also, the metal TTI baseplate adds an extra touch of weight, and, for what it's worth, it is aesthetically appealing.

It is important to note that cutting off the baseplate of the MagGuts+2 effectively destroys it 🤪 , so that might be a consideration. For me personally, I decided I liked the TTI setup so well that I could live with saying farewell to the MagGuts+2 baseplates.

Also ... if your hand is larger, you might prefer just using the MagGuts+2 extension without tearing it up and adding the TTI+1. The MagGuts+2 is still small-profile but gives ample room for the pinkie.

An alternate (and immensely simpler) modification is to simply add the TTI+1 extension to the OEM mag (and OEM follower), yielding 7+1. I have several mags set up like that, and I really like them.