The Glock G23 Gen 4 is a compact .40 S&W pistol built around Glock's standard Safe Action system. The compact frame makes it workable for concealed carry without giving up much in capacity or barrel length compared to the full-size G22.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Glock
- Model: G23
- Caliber: .40 S&W
- Barrel Length: 4 inches
- Capacity: 10 rounds
- Weight: 1.5 lbs (23.7 oz)
- Frame Size: Compact
- Action Type: Double Action
- Safety Features: Trigger/Firing Pin/Drop Safety System
- Sights:
- Front Sight: Fixed 1-Dot
- Rear Sight: Fixed 2-Dot
- Frame Material: Polymer with Black Finish
Features
At just over five inches tall and seven inches long, the G23 fits under most carry garments. The polymer frame is light; the steel slide handles long-term wear. The trigger, firing pin, and drop safeties all engage passively, no manual thumb safety to manage. The Gen 4 version added interchangeable backstraps and a revised grip texture, giving shooters with different hand sizes more fit options. Fixed 1-dot front and 2-dot rear sights are adequate for defensive use; most owners upgrade them to night sights eventually.
Who It's For
The G23 suits concealed carry permit holders who want .40 S&W in a compact package, law enforcement looking for a backup sidearm, and range shooters comfortable with the caliber. New shooters can run it fine, though the .40 S&W recoil has a steeper learning curve than 9mm.
Usage
- Concealed carry: compact dimensions fit IWB holsters comfortably for all-day carry
- Competition: consistent trigger and proven reliability work well at the range
- Personal protection: double-action trigger and passive safeties make it straightforward to deploy under stress