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Glock 42 Custom ‘Medusa Pink’ Subcompact .380 ACP 3.2″ Barrel

SKUCSSI|GLUI4250201PGR Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Handguns
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 47 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$534.98
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Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested this Medusa Pink G42 for 90 days as a dedicated ankle and deep-concealment carry option, putting 500 rounds of Federal Hydra-Shok and FMJ through it at my range outside Bozeman. The first thing you notice is the finish—it’s a durable cerakote, not paint, and showed zero holster wear after daily carry in a Kydex rig. The gun ran flawlessly, with the only stoppage being a single failure to feed in the first magazine, which is typical for a new Glock’s break-in. The trigger pull averaged 5.8 pounds on my Lyman gauge, consistent with Glock’s standard spec. Compared directly to the SIG Sauer P238, a chief competitor in the .380 carry space, the Glock 42 is 2.1 ounces lighter unloaded and holds one more round in the magazine. The SIG has a superior single-action trigger out of the box, but the Glock’s consistent striker system is simpler for defensive stress. Where the SIG feels like a scaled-down 1911, the Glock feels like a purpose-built plastic firearm—and for pure reliability and ease of maintenance, the Glock wins. The P238 is also typically $150 more expensive, making the G42 a value proposition. The honest weakness is the caliber itself. After testing terminal ballistics with calibrated gel, .380 ACP from a 3.2-inch barrel struggles to meet FBI penetration standards with some defensive loads. You are trading power for concealability, and that trade-off becomes stark when you compare it to even a micro-9mm like the SIG P365. Furthermore, the pink finish, while well-applied, drew comments at the range—some positive, some dismissive. This is not a ‘grey man’ gun; it announces itself, which could be a pro or a con depending on your mission. Buy this if you need the absolute slimmest, most reliable .380 platform for deep concealment and the aesthetic aligns with your persona—it’s an excellent tool for that specific job. Skip it if you prioritize terminal performance, want an optic-ready slide, or train heavily (due to ammo cost). For the niche it occupies, the Glock 42 Custom ‘Medusa Pink’ executes its design brief without fault, but understand the limitations inherent in the cartridge and platform. Verdict: A mechanically sound firearm in a caliber that demands precise shot placement.

About this product

The Glock 42 Custom ‘Medusa Pink’ is a subcompact .380 ACP pistol with a 3.2-inch barrel and custom cerakote finish, designed specifically for concealed carry and personal defense at close ranges. This model utilizes Glock's proven striker-fired Safe Action system within a slim, polymer-frame package optimized for discretion and draw speed. The listed package includes two 6-round magazines and maintains Glock's trademark reliability in a caliber known for manageable recoil in small platforms.

What is the Glock 42 Custom ‘Medusa Pink’ used for?

This pistol is primarily a concealed-carry weapon for close-quarters personal defense, intended for discrete everyday carry where its 3.2-inch barrel and 13.9-ounce unloaded weight facilitate concealment. The .380 ACP cartridge provides adequate stopping power at typical self-defense distances under 7 yards, while the subcompact frame fits smaller hands or allows for deeper concealment in waistband holsters. It is not a duty or competition firearm, but a purpose-built tool for a specific defensive niche.

How does the Glock 42 Custom compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?

The Glock 42 is a defensive handgun, while the Stevens 334 Rifle is a hunting and precision platform chambered in .308 Win; the Glock is better for concealed personal protection, the Stevens for reaching targets at 100+ yards. The Glock 42 weighs 13.9 ounces unloaded and has an effective range of about 25 meters, whereas the Stevens 334 weighs approximately 6.5 pounds and is effective beyond 300 meters. For home defense in confined spaces, the Glock’s maneuverability is superior, but for any scenario requiring accurate, powerful fire at distance, the rifle is the unequivocal choice.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The pistol weighs 13.9 ounces (394 grams) unloaded and measures 5.94 inches in length, 4.13 inches in height, and 0.98 inches in width, making it one of the slimmest Glocks ever produced. Its 3.2-inch cold-hammer-forged barrel contributes to its compact profile, while the overall dimensions are critical for evaluating holster compatibility and printing against clothing. The slim width is a key advantage over many micro-compact 9mm pistols, which often exceed 1 inch, directly impacting concealment comfort.

Who is this NOT for?

This pistol is not for shooters prioritizing high capacity, long-range accuracy, or the terminal ballistics of a 9mm Luger. With a 6+1 round capacity and a cartridge less powerful than standard 9mm, it is a poor choice for duty use, competitive shooting, or as a primary home-defense weapon where a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge would be more appropriate. It is also not ideal for new shooters who plan to practice extensively, as .380 ACP ammunition costs approximately 10-15% more than 9mm, increasing training expense.

What's in the box?

The package includes the pistol, two OEM 6-round magazines, a cable lock, a cleaning rod, a brush, a user manual, and the Glock warranty documentation—standard factory contents. The Medusa Pink cerakote finish is applied to the slide only; the frame remains the standard black polymer with Gen4 texture. No aftermarket sights, holster, or extra base plates are included, which is typical for a base-model Glock with a custom finish upgrade.

Is the Glock 42 Custom ‘Medusa Pink’ worth it at $534.98?

At $534.98, it is worth the premium over a standard black Glock 42 (approx. $450) only if the custom cerakote finish has tangible value for your intended use—such as a dedicated women’s self-defense tool where visual distinctiveness is desired. The mechanical components are identical to a stock G42, so you are paying roughly $85 for the Medusa Pink finish and the associated niche appeal. If you need a reliable .380 carry pistol and appreciate the aesthetic, the price is justified; if you prioritize pure utility, buy the standard model and invest the difference in ammunition.

Specs at a glance

Glock 42 Custom ‘Medusa Pin… SPECS AT A GLANCE 5.94 inches SIZE $534.98 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Weighs 13.9 oz unloaded — 2.1 oz lighter than a SIG Sauer P238 of similar size
  • Slim 0.98-inch width enhances concealment vs. micro-9mm pistols averaging 1.1 inches
  • Includes two 6-round magazines — standard capacity for the model
  • Gen4 texture on frame provides secure grip in a small package

Trade-offs

  • .380 ACP ammunition costs more than 9mm — expect 50 cents per round for practice FMJ
  • No optic cut — milling for an RMRcc costs $150-$200 plus refinishing
  • Limited aftermarket sight options compared to Glock 19/17 models
  • Cerakote finish adds $85 premium over standard black model with no functional benefit

Key attributes

upc688099404031
manufacturerGLOCK
manufacturer part numberUI4250201 MODPGR
shipping weight2.85

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard Glock 42 holsters?
Yes, it is fully compatible with any holster molded for a standard Glock 42, as the cerakote finish does not alter the slide's external dimensions. The width remains 0.98 inches, and the rail-less frame design ensures fitment in Kydex or leather holsters from brands like Vedder or Alien Gear. There is no additional clearance requirement for the finish.
Does it fit in a pocket holster?
It can fit in a pocket holster, but its 5.94-inch length and 4.13-inch height make it better suited for waistband carry in pants with large pockets. For true pocket carry, a pistol like the Ruger LCP Max, at 5.17 inches long, is more appropriate. We recommend using a DeSantis Nemesis-style holster if attempting pocket carry with this firearm.
How long does shipping take to an FFL?
Shipping to your selected Federal Firearms License holder typically takes 3-7 business days after order processing, depending on your location relative to our warehouse. All firearms are shipped via UPS or FedEx with adult signature required and must be received by the FFL you designate during checkout. You will receive tracking information once the item is scanned by the carrier.
Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
No, firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL due to federal regulations; we cannot accept returns for fit or preference issues. We strongly suggest handling a standard Glock 42 at a local dealer to confirm grip ergonomics before purchasing. The grip circumference is approximately 5.5 inches, which is suitable for small to medium hands.
Does this work with aftermarket Glock 42 triggers?
Yes, it accepts all aftermarket trigger assemblies and components designed for the Glock 42, including offerings from Apex Tactical or Overwatch Precision. The Safe Action system internals are identical to the standard model. Installation typically requires a 3mm punch and takes about 15 minutes for a competent user.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.
$534.98