There are several differences between the US and Austrian-made Glock G43 pistols. The most noticeable difference is the format of the serial numbers, with Austrian models featuring a 6-digit serial number and US models featuring a 7-digit serial number. Additionally, the country of manufacture is stamped on the slide of the gun. Some users have also noted that the Austrian G43s have a bluish-grey finish on the slide, while the US models have a darker, more matte finish. The Austrian G43s are also said to be made with higher-quality steel and a superior slide coating. However, it's worth noting that both the Austrian and US G43s share the same manufacturing process and parts, and some users have reported no significant difference in quality, performance, or reliability between the two. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference, with some users preferring firearms made in their country of origin.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Serial number format | ABC123 (Austria) vs ABCD123 (USA) |
Slide stamp | USA vs Austria |
Number of digits in serial number | 6 (Austria) vs 7 (USA) |
Metal treatment process | Said to be slightly different |
Finish | Austrian slides are a little darker and more matte |
Serial number format
The serial number format of Austrian-made Glock pistols differs from that of their US-made counterparts. Austrian Glocks typically have a three-letter, three-number serial number format (e.g. ABC123), while US-made Glocks have a four-letter, three-number format (e.g. ABCD123). However, this distinction seems to have been phased out in recent years, with newer Glock pistols featuring serial numbers that follow the same format regardless of their country of manufacture.
The serial number of a Glock pistol can be found on the slide, which is the metal part of the gun that houses the barrel and other internal components. The slide will also typically indicate the gun's place of manufacture, with "USA" or "Austria" stamped on the slide depending on where it was made.
In addition to the serial number and place of manufacture, Glock pistols may also feature other markings or codes that provide information about the gun's specifications or production history. These markings can be found on various parts of the gun, such as the barrel, frame, or grips.
It is important to note that Glock serial numbers are unique to each firearm and are used for identification and tracking purposes. As such, the specific serial number format may vary across different Glock models and production years. Therefore, it is always a good idea to consult official Glock resources or a qualified gunsmith for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Glock serial numbers and their formats.
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Slide stamp
The "Slide Stamp" on a Glock pistol refers to the marking on the slide of the gun that indicates the country in which it was manufactured. For Glocks, the slide stamp will typically read either "USA" or "Austria".
There are several differences between US-made and Austrian-made Glocks, most of which are cosmetic. One notable difference is the format of the serial numbers, with Austrian Glocks featuring a 6-digit serial number (e.g. ABC123) and US Glocks featuring a 7-digit serial number with an additional letter (e.g. ABCD123). Additionally, the slide stamp itself will differ, with "Austria" or "USA" stamped on the slide to indicate the country of manufacture.
Some users have also noted that the finish on the slides of Austrian and US Glocks differs, with Austrian slides having a more "bluish-grey" or "deep, glossy black" finish, while US slides have a darker, more matte finish.
In terms of performance, some users have claimed that Austrian Glocks are made from higher-quality steel and feature a superior slide coating. However, others have stated that there is no significant difference in quality, performance, or reliability between the two.
It is worth noting that Glock's manufacturing processes and materials have evolved over time, and some of the differences between US and Austrian Glocks may have been standardised. For example, Glock no longer uses the Tenifer process for metal treatment and has adopted a new nitration process for both US and Austrian-made guns.
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Slide finish
The slide finish of the Glock 43 differs between those manufactured in the USA and those made in Austria. The Austrian slide has a darker black finish and is slicker, while the US slide has a rougher feel and a grayer finish.
The difference in appearance may be due to the different coating processes used. As of April 2023, Glock Slimline pistols are coated with GasOX instead of nDLC due to increased demand. This change in coating results in a slight variation in colour but does not affect durability.
Some users have expressed a preference for the Austrian slide finish, while others prefer the US finish or have no particular preference. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference, as there is no significant difference in quality, performance, or reliability between the US and Austrian-made Glocks.
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Metal treatment process
While there are some minor differences between US and Austrian G43s, the metal treatment process is one of the most notable. The metal treatment process is an important step in firearm manufacturing, as it helps protect the weapon from corrosion and environmental damage, ensuring long-lasting durability.
There are several methods of metal treatment, each with its own unique benefits and properties. One of the most common processes is bluing, which has been used since the early days of gun-making. Bluing is a process that creates a thin coating on the outside of the metal parts, protecting them from rust and corrosion. There are two types of bluing: cold bluing and hot bluing. Cold bluing is achieved by applying a cold bluing compound, typically selenium dioxide, to the metal, resulting in a very dark grey finish. This type of bluing is challenging to apply evenly and is best suited for small repairs or touch-ups. Hot bluing, on the other hand, uses alkali salt and is performed at higher temperatures, resulting in a beautiful grey-blue finish.
Another popular metal treatment process is Parkerizing, also known as phosphating or bonderizing. This process involves submerging the steel into a phosphoric acid solution, often with the addition of zinc or manganese, to protect the surface from corrosion and increase its resistance to scratches and nicks.
Anodizing is another method that increases the thickness of the natural oxide layer on the surface of the metal. This process involves submerging the metal in a chilled sulfuric acid bath, resulting in a harder and more corrosion-resistant surface.
Cerakote is a ceramic-based coating that offers superior lubricity, scratch resistance, and impact resistance. It can be applied to various materials, including plastic, metal, and composite surfaces, and is highly resistant to the corrosive effects of salt spray and water.
Nickel boron coating provides increased lubricity and corrosion resistance, giving the treated part a silvery metallic appearance. This process does not require an electrical current, allowing for a more uniform coating.
Finally, ferritic nitrocarburizing, also known as Tenifer or Melonite, is a modified form of nitriding that introduces nitrogen and carbon into steel. This process enhances scratch and scuff resistance, fatigue resistance, and corrosion resistance, with only minor shape distortion.
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Steel quality
One source states that Glock Austria previously used the Tenifer process to treat the metal, resulting in a very deep, glossy black finish. However, Glock no longer uses this process, and now uses a nitration process that produces a flat grey colour. This process is also used by Glock USA, resulting in a darker, more matte finish.
Another source mentions that Glock USA's steel, polymer, and component materials are sourced from Austria, and that the manufacturing equipment also comes from Austria. This suggests that there may be little to no difference in the steel quality between US and Austrian-made Glocks.
Some users have expressed a preference for Austrian-made Glocks, citing the country of origin as a factor. However, others have stated that they have not noticed any difference in performance or reliability between US and Austrian-made guns. Ultimately, the decision between a US or Austrian-made Glock may come down to personal preference and the specific features of each gun.
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Frequently asked questions
No, there are no differences in manufacturing and parts between the two. The only differences are the format of the serial numbers and the stamp of the country where it is made.
Austrian G43s have a 6-digit serial number in the format of ABC123, while the US G43s have a 7-digit serial number in the format of ABCD123.
The metal treatment process and material used are said to be slightly different. Austrian G43s are treated with the Tenifer process, resulting in a glossy black finish. On the other hand, US G43s use a different process, resulting in a darker, more matte finish.
No, Austrian-made G43s cannot be imported into the US due to size restrictions. Only US-made G43s are available in the country.
Yes, the G42 model is exclusively made in the US and cannot be imported into the US.