The Glock 23, chambered in .40 Smith & Wesson, has long been a favorite among law enforcement and civilian shooters alike. Its compact size makes it ideal for concealed carry, while its powerful cartridge offers significant stopping power. This review delves into the specifics of the Gen 5 iteration, examining its features, performance, and overall suitability for various applications.
What Makes the Glock 23 Gen 5 Stand Out?
The Glock 23 Gen 5 builds upon its predecessors, incorporating several key improvements that enhance its performance and usability. These advancements make it a compelling choice for both experienced shooters and those new to the platform.
Enhanced Features:
- Marksmanship Enhancements: The Gen 5 boasts an improved trigger, resulting in a crisper, cleaner break. This contributes significantly to improved accuracy and shot placement. The reduced trigger pull weight also makes for a more comfortable shooting experience.
- Ambidextrous Features: The slide stop lever is now ambidextrous, catering to both left- and right-handed shooters. This small but significant detail enhances the gun's versatility and ease of use for a broader range of users.
- Improved Surface Treatment: The nDLC (nitride) finish on the slide and barrel enhances durability and corrosion resistance. This translates to a longer lifespan for the firearm, even under harsh conditions.
- Redesigned Magazine Release: The magazine release is slightly more prominent, facilitating faster and more reliable magazine changes. This is a crucial element in tactical situations or self-defense scenarios.
- No Finger Grooves: The Gen 5 Glock 23 eliminates the finger grooves found on earlier models, offering a more customizable grip for users with varying hand sizes. This design promotes a more comfortable and secure grip for a wide range of users.
Performance and Handling
The .40 S&W cartridge offers a potent combination of stopping power and manageable recoil. In the Glock 23 Gen 5, this translates to a firearm that is both effective and controllable. The compact size makes it easy to conceal, while the improved ergonomics and trigger contribute to enhanced accuracy.
The gun's reliability is legendary. Glocks are known for their robust construction and ability to function flawlessly even under duress. This is a critical factor for those who depend on their firearm for self-defense or professional use.
Recoil Management:
While the .40 S&W has a noticeable recoil, the Glock 23 Gen 5’s design mitigates it effectively. The gun's weight and grip texture help manage recoil, making it comfortable to shoot even during extended practice sessions.
Is the Glock 23 Gen 5 Right for You?
The Glock 23 Gen 5 is a versatile and capable firearm suitable for a variety of applications. Its compact size makes it ideal for concealed carry, while its powerful cartridge provides sufficient stopping power. However, it's crucial to consider the following points:
- Caliber Considerations: The .40 S&W cartridge is powerful, but its recoil can be more pronounced than 9mm. Shooters new to this caliber should practice extensively to develop proper shooting technique.
- Concealed Carry Suitability: Its compact size makes it highly suitable for concealed carry, though individual body types and clothing choices will influence the comfort level.
- Maintenance: Like any firearm, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to ensure reliable performance.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Experienced and New Shooters
The Glock 23 Gen 5 is a significant improvement over previous generations, offering enhanced ergonomics, improved reliability, and a refined shooting experience. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newcomer to the world of handguns, the Glock 23 Gen 5 deserves serious consideration. Its compact size, potent cartridge, and renowned reliability make it a strong contender in the crowded market of compact handguns. However, understanding the nuances of the .40 S&W caliber and practicing safe gun handling are paramount before carrying and using this firearm.
