First Impressions of Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide
The Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide promises enhanced performance and aesthetics for Glock’s popular slimline pistols. Strike Industries is known for aggressive styling and practical upgrades, and this slide aims to deliver both. With features like enhanced serrations, a Shield RMS optic cut, and a lightweight design, the Liteslide piqued my interest as a potential upgrade for my G43X.
I was looking for a way to improve the handling and accuracy of my G43X without sacrificing its concealability. The stock slide felt a bit slick, and I wanted the option to mount a red dot sight without sending my slide off for milling. The Strike Industries slide seemed like a perfect solution.
The slide arrived well-packaged and upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the aggressive styling. The slide felt noticeably lighter than the factory Glock slide and the machining was clean and precise. It certainly looked and felt like a quality upgrade.
I considered slides from ZEV Technologies and Brownells, both reputable names in the Glock aftermarket. Ultimately, I chose the Strike Industries Liteslide for its combination of features, aggressive styling, and competitive price point. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype.
My first impression was one of excitement and anticipation. The Liteslide seemed well-made and offered the features I was looking for. I couldn’t wait to get it installed and put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide at my local outdoor shooting range. I installed it on my Glock 43X frame, along with a Holosun 507K red dot sight. The weather was clear and sunny, with a slight breeze.
The slide cycled smoothly with both factory ammunition and my reloads. I experienced no malfunctions during the first 100 rounds. The enhanced serrations made racking the slide much easier, especially with the red dot sight mounted.
I was impressed with the improved grip and faster target acquisition. After the first use, I noticed a small amount of finish wear on the edges of the slide. This was not unexpected with the FDE finish and didn’t affect performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile upgrade. I’ve put approximately 1000 rounds through it in various conditions. I’ve used it during several range trips and while carrying concealed.
The slide has held up well to regular use, with only minor cosmetic wear on the finish. I clean and lubricate the slide after each range session, and it has required no special maintenance. Compared to the factory Glock slide, the Liteslide offers a noticeably improved grip and a more streamlined profile for concealed carry.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide
Specifications
The Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide is constructed from machined billet 17-4 stainless steel. It fits Glock 43, 43X, and 48 pistols of Gen3-5 vintage. The slide features a Shield RMS optic cut for mounting popular mini red dot sights.
- The length is 5.97 inches, the width is 0.86 inches, and the height is 1.29 inches.
- The stainless steel construction ensures durability and corrosion resistance.
- The Shield RMS optic cut allows for direct mounting of popular red dot sights, which enhances target acquisition and accuracy.
- The reduced weight aids in faster follow-up shots due to reduced recoil momentum.
These specifications translate into a slide that is both durable and functional. The ability to easily mount an optic dramatically improves accuracy and target acquisition speed.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide significantly enhances the performance of my Glock 43X. The aggressive serrations provide a secure grip for racking the slide, even in wet conditions. Mounting an optic was easy and straightforward, and zeroing the red dot improved my accuracy at longer distances.
The slide cycles reliably with a variety of ammunition types, and the reduced weight makes a noticeable difference in recoil management. One minor weakness is the finish, which can show wear over time. Overall, the Liteslide exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide is excellent. The materials feel robust, and the machining is precise. The slide feels comfortable in hand, and the weight reduction makes it easier to control during rapid fire.
There is minimal learning curve. The slide is essentially a drop-in replacement for the factory slide.
Durability & Maintenance
The Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide is built to last. The stainless-steel construction and heat treatment make it resistant to wear and tear. With regular cleaning and lubrication, the slide should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only basic cleaning supplies and a few minutes of time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide comes with all necessary screws and posts for mounting Shield RMS footprint optics. The slide is also compatible with standard Glock sights. There is a removable cover plate included for customization.
The Shield RMS optic cut allows for compatibility with popular red dot sights like the Holosun 507K and Shield RMSC. The ability to customize the slide with different sights and optics makes it a versatile upgrade.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide
Pros
- Enhanced grip with aggressive front and rear serrations.
- Precut Shield RMS optic mount for easy red dot installation.
- Lightweight design for reduced recoil and faster follow-up shots.
- High-quality stainless-steel construction for durability.
- Aesthetic upgrade with Strike Industries styling.
Cons
- Finish can show wear over time.
- Price point may be higher than some other aftermarket slides.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide?
The Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide is perfect for Glock owners looking to improve the handling, accuracy, and aesthetics of their pistol. It’s an excellent upgrade for concealed carriers, competitive shooters, and anyone who wants to add a red dot sight to their Glock without the hassle of custom milling. Those who prioritize extreme durability over aesthetics and are on a very tight budget may want to explore other options.
Must-have accessories include a Shield RMS footprint red dot sight and high-quality Glock compatible sights.
Conclusion on Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide
The Strike Industries Glock G43/G43X/G48 Gen3-5 Liteslide is a worthwhile upgrade for Glock owners seeking enhanced performance and aesthetics. The price is justified by the quality of construction, the improved handling, and the convenience of the pre-cut optic mount. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their Glock 43, 43X, or 48. Upgrade your Glock today and experience the difference!