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Glock · Pistol

Glock G23 Gen4

Short recoil (semi-automatic) · .40 S&W · introduced 2010

Also known as G23 Gen4, Glock 23 Gen 4

About the Glock G23 Gen4

The Glock G23 Gen4 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in .40 S&W, produced by Glock Ges.m.b.H. since 2010. This Austrian-manufactured firearm reflects the engineering traditions and quality standards of its country of origin, designed to meet the demands of both civilian and professional users in a competitive global marketplace. Featuring a 13-round magazine capacity, this pistol offers adequate firepower for defensive carry. The striker-fired action provides a consistent trigger pull for every shot, simplifying training and reducing the manual of arms - a design philosophy that has become the dominant paradigm in modern defensive handguns. The 4.0-inch barrel provides an excellent balance between sight radius and portability, making it equally suitable for duty carry and recreational shooting. Weighing 605g (21.3 oz) empty, this firearm strikes a practical balance between manageable carry weight and sufficient mass to moderate felt recoil during shooting. The polymer frame construction reduces weight while providing a textured, ergonomic grip surface designed for secure handling in all conditions. This firearm represents its manufacturer's commitment to delivering a well-engineered, reliable product that serves the needs of discerning shooters seeking quality, accuracy, and dependable performance from a proven platform.

The Glock 23 Gen4 was the plainclothes officer's best friend during the peak of the .40 S&W era. Federal agencies like the DEA and Air Marshals prized the compact .40 for its combination of concealment and firepower, and the Gen4's modular backstrap made it shoot better than ever. The dual recoil spring was especially welcome in the compact frame -- the original G23 was notorious for its snappy recoil in .40 S&W, and the Gen4's spring assembly smoothed out the shooting experience considerably. It remains a capable compact duty pistol for those who appreciate the .40's ballistic edge over 9mm.

Glock G23 Gen4 specifications

General

Type
Pistol
Action
Short recoil (semi-automatic)
Firing mechanism
Striker-fired
Trigger
Safe action
Trigger pull
2.9 kg (6.3 lb)
Calibres
.40 S&W
Magazine capacity
13 rounds
Magazine
Detachable box magazine

Dimensions

Barrel length
102 mm (4.0 in)
Overall length
185 mm (7.3 in)
Height
128 mm (5.0 in)
Width
32 mm (1.3 in)
Weight (empty)
0.60 kg (1.33 lb)
Weight (loaded)
0.89 kg (1.96 lb)
Sight radius
153 mm (6.0 in)

Barrel

Rifling twist
1:10 in (250 mm)
Rifling
Right hand
Grooves
6

Materials

Barrel
Steel
Receiver / frame
Polymer
Slide
Steel
Finish
tenifer

Performance

Muzzle velocity (typical)
308 m/s (1010 fps)
Muzzle energy (typical)
546 J (403 ft·lb)
Effective range
50 m

History

Introduced
2010
Production status
In production
Country of origin
AT
Designer
Gaston Glock

Features

  • Polymer frame
  • Safe action trigger
  • Polygonal rifling
  • Accessory rail
  • Modular backstrap system
  • Dual recoil spring
  • Rough textured frame
  • Reversible mag release

Safety

  • Trigger safety
  • Firing pin safety
  • Drop safety

The Glock 23 was introduced in 1990 as the compact counterpart to the G22. The Gen4 variant arrived in 2010. Weight without magazine is 605g (21.34 oz), making it lighter than the Gen5 at 687g due to the different slide and frame construction. Height is 128mm (5.04 inches), slightly shorter than the Gen5's 129mm. The dual recoil spring assembly was particularly beneficial on the compact .40 S&W platform, where the shorter slide and lighter weight amplify the snappy recoil characteristics of the cartridge. Magazine capacity is 13 rounds with compatibility for G22 full-size 15-round magazines.

This is a variant of the Glock 23 Gen5.

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