The Glock 23, a compact .40 S&W pistol, has long been a popular choice for concealed carry. Its blend of reliability, capacity, and manageable size makes it a strong contender in the crowded concealed carry market. But is it the right choice for you? This comprehensive guide will delve into the pros and cons of carrying a Glock 23, helping you make an informed decision.
Glock 23: Strengths and Weaknesses for Concealed Carry
The Glock 23 occupies a sweet spot for many concealed carriers. Let's examine its key attributes:
Advantages:
- Reliability: Glock pistols are renowned for their ruggedness and reliability, a crucial factor for a self-defense firearm. The Glock 23 consistently performs under pressure, demanding minimal maintenance.
- Capacity: With a standard magazine holding 13 rounds of .40 S&W, the Glock 23 offers substantial stopping power compared to smaller caliber handguns. Extended magazines increase capacity further.
- Size and Weight: While not the smallest concealed carry option, the Glock 23 offers a manageable size and weight for everyday carry, especially with proper holster selection. It's noticeably smaller than its full-size counterpart, the Glock 22.
- Ergonomics: The Glock's simplistic design provides a comfortable and reliable grip, even for those with smaller hands, though aftermarket grip modifications can further enhance this.
- Aftermarket Support: A vast array of aftermarket parts, including holsters, sights, and triggers, are readily available for the Glock 23, allowing for significant customization.
Disadvantages:
- Recoil: The .40 S&W cartridge is known for its snappy recoil. While manageable for experienced shooters, it can be challenging for those new to firearms or with smaller builds. This can impact accuracy and speed of follow-up shots.
- Caliber Debate: The .40 S&W cartridge has faced criticism regarding its balance between stopping power and recoil. While effective, some argue that 9mm offers similar stopping power with less recoil and higher capacity.
- Concealability: While manageable for many, the Glock 23 isn't the most easily concealed pistol. Proper clothing and holster selection are paramount for comfortable and secure concealment.
- Trigger: Glock's trigger pull is often described as somewhat stiff and gritty by some users. While reliable, it lacks the crispness of some other handgun triggers, requiring practice to master.
Comparing the Glock 23 to Alternatives
The Glock 23 competes with a variety of other concealed carry options. A direct comparison should consider:
- 9mm vs .40 S&W: 9mm pistols often offer higher capacity and less recoil, making them potentially more suitable for first-time or smaller-framed shooters. The Glock 19 is a popular 9mm alternative.
- Subcompact Pistols: For deeper concealment, subcompact pistols like the Glock 43 or Sig Sauer P365 offer smaller profiles, albeit with reduced magazine capacity.
- Other .40 S&W options: While the Glock 23 is a solid choice, other manufacturers produce comparable .40 S&W pistols with varying features and ergonomics.
Choosing the Right Holster and Accessories
Proper holster selection is crucial for safe and comfortable concealed carry. Consider:
- Inside-the-waistband (IWB): Provides excellent concealment, but requires careful selection to avoid printing.
- Outside-the-waistband (OWB): Offers easier access, but may be less concealable depending on clothing and body type.
- Appendix Inside-the-Waistband (AIWB): Offers a more forward carry position for improved concealment and draw speed but requires practice and proper technique.
Additional accessories like magazine pouches, extra magazines, and quality gun belts enhance both safety and convenience.
Conclusion: Is the Glock 23 Right for You?
The Glock 23 is a reliable and capable pistol suitable for many concealed carriers. However, its suitability depends on individual factors such as experience level, physical build, and preferred carry method. Carefully weighing the pros and cons, considering alternatives, and selecting the right accessories are essential for making an informed decision. Always prioritize safety, training, and responsible gun ownership. This information is for educational purposes only; consult with a firearms professional before making any purchasing decisions.
