Understanding the Glock 43X Trigger and the Need for Improvements
The Glock 43X has become a popular choice for concealed carry and everyday personal defense. Its slim profile, reliable design, and relatively compact size make it an excellent option for those seeking a balance of portability and firepower. However, one of the most common critiques leveled against the Glock 43X (and indeed, many Glock pistols) is the factory trigger. Often described as mushy, with a long travel distance, and sometimes inconsistent breaks, the stock trigger can hinder accuracy and slow down follow-up shots. Thankfully, the aftermarket offers numerous solutions to address this shortcoming, and one of the most highly regarded is the Apex Trigger. This article delves deep into the world of Apex Triggers for the Glock 43X, providing a comprehensive guide to their benefits, installation, performance, and other considerations for owners looking to elevate their shooting experience.
Before diving into the Apex Trigger, it’s crucial to understand how the Glock 43X’s original trigger operates and why many shooters seek improvements. The standard trigger system in a Glock is known for its simplicity and durability. When the trigger is pulled, it interacts with the trigger bar, which in turn releases the firing pin. This system, while reliable, often falls short in terms of the feel and responsiveness that experienced shooters desire.
The common complaints about the Glock 43X factory trigger often center around a few key elements. One common issue is the long trigger pull, which requires the shooter to move their finger a significant distance before the shot breaks. This long travel can contribute to “trigger jerk” – the unintentional movement of the gun just before the shot breaks – which negatively impacts accuracy. Another issue is the “gritty” feel, often described as a sense of friction or resistance throughout the pull. This can be fatiguing during extended shooting sessions and can make it difficult to maintain a consistent trigger squeeze. Furthermore, the trigger’s weight is a factor, and the stock pull weight of the Glock 43X can be heavier than what many shooters prefer, making it more challenging to achieve clean and accurate shots.
But why upgrade the trigger? The answer is multi-faceted. An upgraded trigger can significantly improve accuracy by allowing for a more controlled and predictable shot break. By reducing the trigger pull weight and shortening the travel distance, shooters can minimize the chances of unintentional movement, which leads to a tighter shot grouping. The enhanced feel of a smoother, crisper trigger also helps shooters maintain better control, improving consistency and allowing for faster follow-up shots. Ultimately, a better trigger enhances the overall shooting experience, making the firearm easier to manage, more enjoyable to use, and more effective for both self-defense and recreational shooting.
Introducing Apex Triggers for the Glock 43X
Apex Tactical Specialties is a well-respected name in the firearms industry, known for its high-quality aftermarket parts, with a strong reputation built on its commitment to precision, reliability, and innovation. They’ve been designing and manufacturing upgrades for various firearms for many years. Apex has earned the trust of law enforcement professionals, competitive shooters, and everyday gun owners seeking to enhance the performance of their firearms. Their dedication to quality materials and rigorous testing has established them as a leader in the industry, making their products a popular choice for those looking to refine their shooting experience.
Apex provides trigger solutions specifically for the Glock 43X, offering different kits and individual components designed to dramatically improve the feel and performance of the pistol. The core of the Apex trigger upgrade is designed to address the issues commonly found in the factory trigger. By replacing key components, Apex Triggers offer improvements in several critical areas.
The primary benefits that shooters can expect from an Apex Trigger for their Glock 43X are significant. One of the most noticeable improvements is the shorter reset, allowing for faster follow-up shots. After firing, the trigger reset is the distance the trigger must travel forward before it’s ready to fire the next shot. A shorter reset means the trigger travel is reduced, allowing for quicker and more efficient shooting. Furthermore, Apex triggers reduce trigger pull weight. This makes the trigger lighter and easier to pull, thus improving control and precision. A crisper break is also a key feature, meaning the shot breaks cleanly and predictably, enhancing accuracy. These triggers offer a much smoother pull, eliminating grittiness and providing a more consistent feel. All of these features combine to enhance the accuracy of the firearm.
Apex Trigger Kit Options and Components
Apex Tactical Specialties offers various kits and components for the Glock 43X, allowing shooters to tailor their upgrades to their specific needs and preferences. Understanding these options is crucial for selecting the best fit. The Apex Flat-Faced Trigger is a popular choice. The flat-faced design provides a consistent surface for the shooter’s finger, contributing to a more repeatable and controlled trigger pull. This feature helps shooters achieve a straighter pull and reduces the likelihood of lateral movement, which improves accuracy.
If the shooter is looking for a complete solution, they may consider the Apex Action Enhancement Kit (AEK) which contains components designed to optimize the overall performance of the trigger system, and often this kit includes things like a trigger, trigger bar, spring kits, and sometimes a connector to improve feel and pull weight. If you opt for the AEK, pay close attention to the specific components included in the kit, because depending on the AEK model, the configuration may vary. It’s best to check Apex’s website to see what specific components they include.
Another important component is the trigger bar. The trigger bar is the heart of the trigger system. Depending on the Glock 43X you may need to replace this. Check the specifications.
The quality of the materials is another reason why people prefer the Apex Trigger for the Glock 43X. These triggers are typically constructed from high-grade materials, ensuring durability and longevity. The components are often precision-machined to precise specifications, guaranteeing optimal fit and function. The attention to detail in the manufacturing process ensures that the Apex Trigger delivers a smooth, consistent, and reliable performance.
Installation Made Simple
Before installing any aftermarket trigger, safety should be your highest priority. *Always* ensure your Glock 43X is unloaded before beginning any work. Double-check the chamber, visually and physically, to confirm that there is no ammunition present. Work in a clean, well-lit area, and have all the necessary tools at hand.
The tools required for installing an Apex Trigger are relatively basic, making this upgrade accessible to most gun owners. A Glock tool, punch set and a small hammer are the primary essentials for disassembling and reassembling the firearm. Lubricant may also be required to ensure smooth functionality, so ensure you also have firearm oil.
Here’s a general step-by-step installation guide for the Apex Trigger. It’s important to note that the exact steps may vary slightly depending on the specific Apex Trigger kit, so always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions that come with your kit.
1. **Field Strip the Glock 43X:** Follow the standard field stripping procedure. Remove the magazine, verify the chamber is empty, and then field strip the slide from the frame.
2. **Remove the Factory Trigger Components:** With the slide removed, carefully remove the original trigger mechanism. This typically involves using a punch to remove the pins that secure the trigger housing and trigger mechanism. Take care to note the orientation of the parts during removal.
3. **Install the Apex Trigger Components:** Install the new trigger components one by one. Refer to Apex’s instructions, which may include the Apex trigger, trigger bar, and connector (if applicable). Ensure you follow the specific instructions.
4. **Reassemble the Glock 43X:** Reassemble the frame. Test the trigger after installation.
5. **Function Test:** Conduct a function test. Rack the slide, dry fire the pistol, and verify the trigger resets correctly and that all safety features are working as intended.
If you encounter any difficulties during the installation process, don’t hesitate to consult video tutorials. You can find a variety of helpful installation videos online, which can provide visual guidance and demonstrate the process step-by-step. If you are uncomfortable with the process, it’s always a good idea to have your trigger installed by a qualified gunsmith to ensure proper fit and function.
Performance and Real-World Testing
Once the Apex Trigger is installed, the differences in performance become immediately apparent. The feel of the gun will change drastically, with the Apex trigger offering a more refined experience. The smoother, crisper pull translates to enhanced accuracy and a more enjoyable shooting experience. The trigger pull weight comparison will reveal a significant reduction. Compared to the stock trigger, the Apex trigger often offers a pull weight that is several pounds lighter.
Shooting range testing is essential for verifying the benefits of the Apex Trigger. Conduct accuracy tests by shooting at targets at various distances. The goal is to compare shot groupings using the Apex Trigger to the results you obtained with the factory trigger. By comparing shot groupings, you will notice the impact on shooting performance. Many shooters report faster splits (the time between shots) with the Apex Trigger due to the shorter reset and improved feel. The results will speak for themselves.
Reliability is a critical factor. The Apex Trigger is designed to function reliably in various conditions. During your testing, fire many rounds through the Glock 43X, noting any failures to fire or any other malfunctions. Properly installed, the Apex Trigger is designed to be as reliable as the factory trigger, ensuring you can depend on your firearm when it matters most.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of the Apex Trigger
There are several reasons why many shooters choose an Apex Trigger for their Glock 43X. The trigger offers significant improvements in performance and feel. The improved trigger pull and feel make shooting more enjoyable and the firearm easier to manage. Accuracy is noticeably enhanced. The short reset allows for faster follow-up shots. And high-quality construction ensures reliability.
However, there are also some potential downsides. Any modifications you do to your firearm could potentially void the manufacturer’s warranty. Always do your due diligence. Another potential issue is the increased cost compared to the factory trigger. The Apex Trigger is an investment, but many shooters find the enhanced performance justifies the cost. The installation process may also pose a challenge for some, especially if you are not comfortable working on firearms. Finally, depending on the competition, some shooting events might have rules about aftermarket triggers. Be sure to familiarize yourself with any regulations that are in place.
Legal Considerations, Safety, and Responsible Ownership
Before making any modifications to your firearm, it’s critical to be aware of all applicable federal, state, and local laws. It’s your responsibility to understand your rights and responsibilities as a gun owner.
Even with an improved trigger, always prioritize safety. Safe gun handling practices are paramount. Treat every firearm as if it were loaded, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and be aware of your target and what’s beyond it. Regular practice and training will also help you hone your skills and maintain responsible gun ownership.
In Conclusion
The Apex Trigger for the Glock 43X offers a significant upgrade for shooters seeking improved performance and a more refined shooting experience. The enhanced trigger pull, crisper break, shorter reset, and overall improvement in feel justify the investment for those prioritizing accuracy and control. The Apex Trigger delivers an enhanced shooting experience that can lead to greater accuracy, faster follow-up shots, and a more enjoyable time at the range.
If you’re looking for better performance, consider an Apex Trigger upgrade for your Glock 43X.
Call to Action and Recommendations
Ready to upgrade your Glock 43X? You can find Apex Trigger kits at most reputable gun stores or online retailers. You can also buy directly from Apex Tactical Specialties. When choosing a retailer, ensure that they are authorized Apex dealers to ensure you receive a genuine product. Consider exploring other accessories, such as extended magazine releases or upgraded sights, to complement your new trigger and enhance your shooting experience further.
We encourage you to share your experiences with the Apex Trigger for your Glock 43X. What benefits did you notice after installation? What was the most challenging part of the installation process?
