Introduction
The air crackles with the scent of gun oil and the metallic tang of a spent cartridge. In the world of handguns, some names resonate with reliability and a certain enduring legacy. One such name is Glock. The Glock 23, a compact semi-automatic pistol chambered in the formidable .40 Smith & Wesson, has earned its place as a trusted companion for law enforcement, concealed carry enthusiasts, and recreational shooters alike. This review delves into the heart of the Glock 23 Gen 3, examining its features, performance, and suitability for a variety of roles. We’ll explore why this particular iteration of the Glock 23 continues to be a relevant choice in a market saturated with new designs and technological advancements.
Background and History of the Glock 23
The Glock 23’s story begins with the Austrian engineer, Gaston Glock, and his revolutionary polymer-framed pistol. Glock’s entry into the firearms world was a disruptive one. The Glock 17, introduced in the early 1980s, immediately challenged conventional wisdom about handgun design. Polymer frames were lightweight, durable, and could withstand extreme conditions, and the innovative striker-fired system simplified operation. Glock’s success was swift, and they soon started developing other calibers and sizes.
The .40 Smith & Wesson (S&W) cartridge was born from a partnership between Smith & Wesson and Winchester in the late 1980s, designed to offer a better balance of power and controllability than the then-popular 9mm Luger, but with a more manageable recoil than the potent .45 ACP. It quickly gained traction with law enforcement agencies and civilian shooters seeking a potent defensive round in a relatively compact package. The Glock 23 was introduced in 1990 to capitalize on this new and growing market. It perfectly marries the power of the .40 S&W round with the reliability and ease-of-use that Glock had become known for.
Throughout the years, Glock has refined its designs with successive generations. The Gen 3 represents a mature stage in the evolution of the Glock 23. While newer generations exist, the Gen 3 remains a popular choice. This review will primarily focus on this specific model.
Features of the Glock 23 Gen 3
The Glock 23 Gen 3 boasts a set of features that have become hallmarks of Glock pistols, establishing a reputation for ruggedness and functionality. Let’s break down the key elements.
Frame and Grip
The frame of the Glock 23 Gen 3 is crafted from a high-strength polymer. This material is lightweight, contributing to the overall ease of carry. It also renders the Glock impervious to the corrosive effects of salt water and other environmental factors. The polymer’s inherent flexibility contributes to the pistol’s ability to withstand the rigors of repeated firing and rough handling. The frame integrates the grip, the trigger guard, and the rails that the slide rides on.
The grip design is straightforward and functional. It features a textured surface to provide a secure hold, even with wet hands. The ergonomics of the grip are generally well-regarded, allowing for a comfortable and natural point of aim for a wide range of hand sizes. Some find the grip angle, sometimes referred to as the Glock grip angle, takes a little getting used to, but practice resolves this. The magazine release is easily accessible, and the slide stop lever is positioned for quick manipulation.
Slide and Barrel
The slide of the Glock 23 is made from steel and finished with a black Melonite coating. This coating provides exceptional resistance to wear, corrosion, and scratches. The slide houses the barrel and the internal mechanisms that control the firing cycle. The barrel itself is a crucial component. Its lands and grooves impart spin to the bullet, stabilizing it in flight and improving accuracy.
Sights
The standard sights on the Glock 23 Gen 3 are the Glock factory sights, typically a white-dot front sight and a white-outlined square notch rear sight. These sights are functional and offer a quick sight picture, suitable for fast target acquisition. The simplicity of the sights also makes them easy to upgrade. Many aftermarket companies offer enhanced sights with features such as tritium inserts for low-light visibility, or adjustable rear sights for fine-tuning.
Trigger
The trigger system is a key element of the Glock design. It is a Safe Action system with a trigger safety, a drop safety, and a firing pin safety. The trigger pull on the Gen 3 is a consistent weight, typically around five and a half pounds. The trigger reset is relatively short, allowing for rapid follow-up shots.
Magazines
The Glock 23 Gen 3 utilizes double-stack magazines, allowing for a generous magazine capacity of ten rounds in the standard configuration. The magazines are constructed from a durable polymer, providing reliable feeding and resistance to damage. The magazine also incorporates witness holes, which allow the user to easily check the number of rounds loaded.
Performance and Handling
How does the Glock 23 Gen 3 perform when it’s time to put rounds downrange? It’s a question of accuracy, recoil management, and reliability.
Accuracy
Accuracy with the Glock 23 Gen 3 is generally considered to be good. While not necessarily a precision target pistol, it is capable of delivering accurate shot placement at typical self-defense distances. The consistency of the trigger pull and the inherent mechanical accuracy of the pistol contribute to its performance. Factors affecting accuracy include sight picture, trigger control, and the ammunition used.
Recoil
The .40 S&W cartridge generates a noticeable recoil impulse in a compact frame like the Glock 23. The recoil is snappier than a 9mm pistol. However, the Glock 23’s ergonomics and the design of the recoil spring system effectively mitigate the recoil, allowing for relatively rapid and controllable follow-up shots. With practice, shooters of various experience levels can manage the recoil comfortably and shoot accurately.
Reliability
The Glock 23’s reputation for reliability is well-deserved. The Glock’s simple design, combined with its robust construction, translates into a pistol that is very resistant to malfunctions. It can typically function reliably even when exposed to dirt, mud, and harsh weather conditions. Proper maintenance, of course, is essential, but the Glock 23 is known for its ability to perform under pressure.
Handling
The Glock 23 Gen 3 is easy to handle and control. The grip offers a secure purchase. The controls are easily accessible. The trigger pull is consistent. All these features combine to create a pistol that can be handled quickly and confidently. Reloading is quick and efficient thanks to the magazine design and the readily accessible magazine release.
Pros and Cons
Let’s evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the Glock 23 Gen 3.
Pros
The positives of the Glock 23 Gen 3 begin with its well-established reliability. Shooters can often depend on a Glock 23 to function when needed. The pistol is also incredibly durable, able to withstand years of use and the stresses of repeated firing. Its accuracy, as mentioned earlier, is more than adequate for its intended purposes. The Glock 23 is also very easy to maintain and clean. The availability of replacement parts and accessories is also a major advantage.
Cons
Now, what about the potential drawbacks? Some users do not love the “Glock grip angle.” Others might prefer a different trigger feel. For some, the recoil can be more pronounced compared to smaller cartridges. In comparison to newer generations of Glock pistols, the Gen 3 might be perceived as a bit dated in terms of specific features.
Suitability for Different Users and Applications
How does the Glock 23 Gen 3 fit different applications?
Concealed Carry
For concealed carry, the Glock 23 Gen 3 presents a good balance of power and concealability. It is relatively compact, which makes it easier to conceal under clothing. However, the .40 S&W cartridge is known for its potent stopping power. The main trade-off to consider is the size and weight compared to some smaller caliber options and the increased recoil compared to a 9mm.
Home Defense
For home defense, the Glock 23 Gen 3 is a suitable choice. The combination of a substantial cartridge, a good capacity, and the pistol’s inherent reliability makes it a formidable option for defending the home.
Law Enforcement
Historically, the Glock 23 has seen widespread use in law enforcement. Its reliability, ease of use, and ability to handle a powerful cartridge made it a popular choice for many agencies.
Target Shooting/Recreational Shooting
The Glock 23 Gen 3 is also a perfectly adequate choice for target shooting and recreational shooting. Though it’s not a competition pistol, its accuracy, reliability, and the availability of accessories make it an enjoyable pistol to shoot at the range.
Maintenance and Care
Maintaining the Glock 23 Gen 3 is a straightforward process. Begin by field stripping the pistol. Clean the barrel with a bore brush and solvent. Wipe down the slide, frame, and internal components. Lubricate the key areas, such as the slide rails and the barrel hood, with a quality gun oil. Regular cleaning after each shooting session and proper lubrication are key to long-term reliability. Always be certain the pistol is unloaded before beginning any maintenance procedure.
Conclusion
The Glock 23 Gen 3 is a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-designed handgun. It provides a reliable, accurate, and powerful option in a relatively compact package. While newer Glock generations offer updated features, the Gen 3 retains its practicality and appeal. Its strengths are its reliability, durability, and ease of use.
The Glock 23 Gen 3 is best suited for individuals who want a reliable and potent handgun for self-defense, concealed carry, or home protection. Its balance of size, power, and ease of use makes it a good option for both experienced shooters and those new to handguns. While there may be more modern designs available, the Glock 23 Gen 3 offers a proven track record and a well-earned reputation. It is a solid choice.
It’s a pistol that has been proven in the real world.
