I have been surprised at the popularity of the Glock 19 9mm versus that of the Glock 23 .40S&W among civilian shooters.
I do not know anyone that carries the Glock 23 on their own time and their own dime. Practically everyone in my circle of friends and associates owns at least one Glock 19.
The handguns are identical in size and shape and fit the same holsters. My yardstick, tape measure and calipers show that each is 7.35 inches long, about 5.0 inches high and 1.18 inches thick.
They weigh but 23.6 ounces unloaded and pump up to about 32 ounces loaded. Neither Glock features a manual safety. The firing pin block and safety lever in the trigger are the whole show. True safety is between the ears.
Glock 19 vs. Glock 23
The real difference is in magazine capacity. The Glock 19 9mm features a 15-round magazine while the Glock 23 .40 caliber pistol carries 13 rounds in the magazine.
Clearly, either holds enough cartridges on tap for any foreseeable difficulty.
The Glock 23 features the typical Glock double-action-only trigger. There is only one trigger action to learn. In my example, the action is fast and light enough at six pounds. Trigger reset is rapid.
The Glock 23 is snag-free, fast into action, and simply feels good in the hands. The sights are adequate for the task at hand, especially with the night sight option. The Glock is easily field stripped and maintained.
Overall, the Glock 23 is not only a good concealed carry handgun, but an acceptable service pistol as well.
| 15-yard accuracy, Glock 23, from a solid bench rest | |
|---|---|
| Hornady 155-grain XTP | 1.8 inches |
| Winchester 155-grain Silvertip | 2.0 inches |
| Remington 180-grain Golden Saber | 2.25 inches |
This brings us to the obvious comparison. The Glock Model 23 is chambered for the .40 Smith & Wesson cartridge. The .40 is a result of many studies into problems that have dogged police side arms for over 100 years.
The Smith & Wesson .38 Special handled well and was mild to fire. The problem was that it did not do the job it was intended to do.
The original 158-grain RNL .38 load was often called a “widowmaker” because it failed the officers carrying it.
Eventually, the powerful .357 Magnum cartridge was chambered in a relatively compact revolver. The Smith & Wesson Model 19, and the later Model 13, were great service revolvers.
Problem was, they were difficult to control without extensive training. The magnum cartridge was also hard on the gun. They did not crack or blow, but magnum recoil was hard on small parts.
The .40 was shoehorned into the 9mm frame in much the same manner and much the same problems surfaced.
The .40 S&W is more difficult to control than the 9mm and weapon wear is regarded as greater, although this differs from brand to brand.
Will we ever learn? Yet, a study by the Feds some years ago confirmed what many harness cops already knew. A handgun over 35 ounces becomes a burden by the end of the day.
The 9mm size handgun is ideal for carrying and for hand fit. A .45 caliber pistol such as the excellent Glock 21 is a stretch for most hand sizes.
A general consensus was reached—supported by well-documented cases and by research—that the 9mm wasn’t enough for police work.
| Water test results | Velocity | Penetration | Expansion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hornady Critical Defense 115-grain FTX | 1140 fps | 14.0 | .56 |
| Cor Bon 115-grain DPX +P | 1235 fps | 11.0 | .63 |
| Winchester Ranger 147-grain SXT | 940 fps | 15.0 | .54 |
| Hornady 155-grain XTP | 1090 fps | 17.5 | .72 |
| Cor Bon 135-grain JHP | 1290 fps | 12.0 | .70 |
| Remington 180-grain Golden Saber | 980 fps | 14.5 | .65 |
We could debate the 9mm from here to Ragnorak, but the fact remains the 9mm’s wound potential isn’t up to the .45 ACP—but the .45 is too heavy to carry.
I am certain a .45 can be made as light as a 9mm, but the .900-inch long cartridge case demands a long grip frame. The same goes for the 10mm.
The .40 had been kicking around for a while in the form of the centimeter round—.41 Action Express and others. The .40 S&W was a success story.
There were a few cracks in the canvas, however. One Federal agency rushed to adopt the Glock 32 and went back to the 9mm because the officers were not qualifying to the previous high standard with the Glock 23.
This is understandable. Recoil is greater. The first runs of .40 caliber ammunition did not display a high degree of accuracy. Some were loaded perhaps too hot.
Various loads demonstrate excellent wound potential. I have added a few results garnered from experimentation with water from 21st Century Stopping Power, Paladin Press.
The author is a military intelligence officer and the results are verifiable and repeatable. As you can see the results with the .40 caliber across the spectrum of light and heavy bullets and various velocity gives better wound potential than the 9mm. But this isn’t the whole story.
Power Factor
| 9mm | Power | .40 S&W | Power | .45 ACP | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 115 grains 1140 fps | 13 | 155 grains 1090 fps | 17 | 230 grains 868 fps | 19.9 |
| 115 grains 1235 fps | 14 | 135 grains 1290 fps | 17 | 185 grains 920 fps | 17 |
| 147 grains 940 fps | 14 | 180 grains 980 fps | 17.5 |
Shot placement means a great deal. The Glock 19 9mm is easier to shoot well than the .40 caliber pistol. While recoil energy may be calculated, the easiest way is to calculate power factor.
This is bullet weight times velocity divided by 1,000. It is generally regarded that a power factor of 20 or above is too much for control by most shooters in a personal defense gun.
9mm defense loads rate 13 to 14, the .40 runs to 17 and over. The 230-grain .45 is at 20; the .45 ACP 185-grain standard load is at about 17. (The PF isn’t the whole picture—the full-size Glock 21 .45 is among the easiest-kicking handguns in the Glock line due to size and weight.)
So we have a pistol that hits hard, but kicks harder. Gee, Einstein was right! Many shooters find themselves choosing the 9mm if they want a lot of shots and the .45 if they want knockdown power. Nothing wrong with that, but they ignore the .40.
As for myself, I like the Glock 23. I have been impressed by the results I have carefully researched and cataloged. For those willing to practice and accept lower times between shots, greater recoil, and perhaps slightly less absolute accuracy, the Model 23 offers excellent real-world ballistics.
The Glock 23 is as accurate to a fast first shot as the Glock 19. For those considering a compact pistol and moving from the .45, the Glock 23 offers the best of both worlds. The Glock 23 isn’t for everyone, but which handgun is? It is a well-balanced and reliable handgun, and it is all Glock.
| Glock 23 | |
|---|---|
| Action Type | Semi-automatic/Safe Action |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches |
| Caliber | .40 S&W |
| Overall Height | 4.99 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.36 inches |
| Overall Width | 1.18 inches |
| Weight Unloaded | 21.16 ounces |
| Sights | Fixed |
| Capacity | 13 |
| Magazines | 2 |
| Frame | Polymer |
9mm or .40 S&W? Do you carry the Glock 23 or Glock 19? Share your experiences with the Glock 23, 19 or your preferred Glock in the comment section.
blah blah blah all you will ever need is a Glock 19 gen 3 in 9mm.
Talking from experience.
I have many firearms. My favorite pistol is the Beretta 96 Inox .40 caliber.
This was a great article. To chime in, I am a sucker for the 40. Getting into firearms later in life, my first handgun was a .40, so naturally I learned from this caliber. Reloading has become a ritual, and my passion has moved to multiple Calibers. And with a supportive wife, a growing collection of handguns. Now with plenty of range time, & a lot of experience reloading 9’s, 40’s, 45’s, 10mm, .38spl, .357mag, & 45LC – I can still safely say I love the 40s&w. And yes, for some reason out of my collection ranging from Sigs, DW, Kimber, Colt, CZ’S, Springfields, HK’s, and Glocks, the good old Glock 23 still manages to strike my fancy. As crazy as it sounds, it is my most accurate gun. When shooting the 9’s, for some crazy reason, I cannot match the accuracy of my. 40’s. It’s almost like I am unconsciously anticipating a recoil that does not exist.
I carry the G23 & G19. I find besides a little more kick they are both accurate it’s practice. I’ve concealed carried over 10 different hand guns over the years and I keep coming back to the glock. 29 when hunting in bear country,19,23,17 and they all have their purpose. However to each their own on what they like, the thing you have to do is practice, practice practice, tear down your guns and keep them clean. Safe shooting to all!!
I enjoy my Glock 23. Is have a job where I typically wear my shirt tucked in. What is your recommendation on the better method to conceal carry and what holster do you recommend? Thank You
I was issued a Glock 19 in 1989. Great gun, carried it on and off duty for years. Naturally I still carried one of my S&W .38 SPL revolvers as a back up. Upon retirement I had to turn in my G19 since I couldn’t afford to purchase it. For the next decade I made do by carrying my S&W revolvers, however they were equipped with Speer Gold Dot JHPs (on the job we were restricted to 158 gr. lead SWC in .38+P – no hollow points allowed!)
Finally, I was able to buy a Blue Label Glock 23. I’ve been carrying that since 2008, completely stock. I did add Tru-Glo day & night sights a few years ago. I recently shot a perfect score with it for my LEOSA qualification. I suppose practice pays off. In today’s anti-police society, I feel I can reasonably protect my family with my Glock 23. A few spare mags loaded with premium ammo doesn’t hurt.
I have fired an assortment on calibers from .22 cal. to .44 mag. I had the G19 and traded to the G23. I also have the G26. I traded because I wanted a mid-range Glock. To me, the recoil with the Gen 4 G23 is moderate. Target acquisition is easier than expected. True to the fact, you can shoot faster with a 9mm. But I prefer knock-down power with one round. I’ve also learned that different calibers have different sound pitches. Low calibers have very high pitch levels as opposed to. 40 or .44 and .357. The .45 ACP is the exception. I almost went deaf from the piercing sound. As far as concealment, the G26 is the best. It’s a great backup, put as far as home and personal defense, I rely on the G23.
Small fast bullets hit with impressive numbers, but since they are in fact small(ish) they lose momentum quickly. Larger bullets (with more weight/mass) carry their energy a wee bit longer, and in many cases they penetrate deeper. All the numerical mumbo jumbo aside none of what is posted here matters if you can’t place your rounds where you want, so in my humble opinion it’s okay to be a ballistics freak and and carry the conversation with impressive math, but the fact is accuracy should also be part of the formula… and part of this discussion.
Excellent article and very much to the point. The 40 SW is simply more powerful than the 9mm regardless of all the debates singing the praise of the 9mm. Both are great rounds but there is no question that the 40 is on average 25% more powerful,
Re: Power factor, divide by 10,000 (ten thousand) not 1.000.
I own the glock 23 and use it as my EDC I have to say it never feels like it’s weighing down or anything of the sort. At the range I find it to be accurate. I wish the .40 S&W had a smoother recoil though
The article ignores ammo pricing. 9mm is substantially less expensive, which affords greater opportunities for range time and training for most people “on their own dime”. Either will do the job, if you can place shots.
I use a G23 mag in a G27 with a grip sleeve. Also added a Combat Armory G23 threaded barrel, and KAK 9/16″ compensator. Now got the same barrel length as a full-size G22 and 100 fps more velocity for woods carry. Shoots fine with the short sight radius and the compensator really helps with mitigating muzzle flip and recoil for faster and more accurate follow-up shots on lions, tigers, and bears. Oh my! Kinda looks like a compensated Webley Scott 1913. Lol 🙂
Good article; I use a G23 mag in a G27 with the mag sleve. Basically a snubby G23. I love how the G27 shoots with or without the G23 mag. Quick to draw and get an accurate first shoot.
I like to have night sights on my firearm so that I can find it on the nightstand in the middle of the night.
Seems to me like a person should CC the largest caliber firearm that they can shoot well and carry adequately concealed. I prefer to carry a small 3 1/2 in. striker-fired .45 ACP.
The old ranger was once asked why he carried a Colt 45. He replied, “Because they don’t make a Colt 46.
I’m a 1mm auto fan the Glock 20 is a .45 frame weight of slide large frame Glock makes hot 135 grain JHP equal and surpassing the #1 man stopper of all time the 125 grain JHP. 357 mag. But in saying that I also carry a Glock 23 with Corbin 135 grain JHP best round I’ve found for the 23. I also spent around $130 for a 9mm drop in barrel for the 23 converting it into a 19 same pistol 2 calibers thinking of getting a .357 SIG barrel also much cheaper than getting 3 pistols…. so I enjoy and recommend getting a Glock 23 with a 9mm barrel then you’ve solved the delemna between 40 and 9 you’ve got both then
I bought a Glock 23C and put in a #15 spring and stainless rod rather than the plastic I also put in a slide buffer. These features and additions have made a huge difference in a small woman. She can practically shoot the 23 one handed. Of course she Carrie’s a new #15 spring as well as #18 as well as the factory parts in her range bag.
U R Carrying – this is not night stand commando. I do like a larger caliber (not 40 but it’s a great round for very smaller power factor) like 45acp/w night sights- but my firearm for nightstand is the Mossberg 590 shockwave for the bump in the night
19 wins – carries more ammo but you practice and control not to need the extra ammo.
Control and weight carrying – 19 wins
EDC Subjective Power factor – duh, 23 wins but if you cannot control/dont practice except qualifying then if you hit – its more power but control on the firing line is well, controlled. 19 wins for some, 23 wins for those who can handle the weight and power. With defense ammo and superior control you can put more center mass – the only objective – not to say I have a 45acp I cannot hit real well with. U HAVE TO CARRY WHAT U CAN SHOOT WELL – not what power factor people talk about. Practice, Practice more and certainly practice mg changes and malfunctions.
9mm is my champion – cost of ammo, availability of ammo, availability of firearms, controllability in carry situations outside of home protection and you are already familiar so at home works if it works for you, Power factor Is negated if you cannot control a 45acp but the 40 is just a smidge more weight, power but less control.
What’s your champion – any gun (even if it is 22lr because that’s all your accurate with or 22wmr) you can control, carry all day, conceal, are extremely familiar with including malfunction clearing, shooting while moving, knowing if your firearm will shoot it out of battery (my dog you can blow on and it’s out of battery (great for safety, not for self defense if a body is touching your muzzle) – will it fire? My little keltec P-11 9mm will shoot almost 1/4 inch back – is it optimal no but many people don’t know there Glock or sig or ruger may not fire and have no idea what out of battery is or that the trigger wont pull.
control accuracy and weight all trump power factor once you can no longer be accurate.
Ammo Expense – 9mm wins
Power factor/carrying and accuracy 9mm wins
Popularity and availability 9mm wins
4 U – 23 may win because you can control it well – I can control it well and did so in USPSA but I chose the 9mm because of everything noted above. I would chose the 23 for (if I had to but 34 is much more accurate) USPSA given the power factor advantage – once you cannot control the 40 at speed then you have to back down to the 9mm and below power factor scoring.
Cheers – it means everything to some and nothing to as many so everybody have a nice day and opinion
ÔÇ£So we have a pistol that hits harder, but kicks harder. Gee, Einstein was right!ÔÇØ
YouÔÇÖre mistaking Einstein for Isaac Newton.
NewtonÔÇÖs Third Law of Motion: For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.
I totally agree with you. Many many tests have been done along with countless real life examples, that have left us with this finding. A 165 grain projectile traveling at over 1050 fps creates enough energy and momentum for any handgun usable encounter. Inside 50 yards, the energy doesnt drop much inside that range, and still penetrates quite effectively. All that aside, New ammo development, has increased the effectiveness of all handgun rounds. Just stands to reason that the benefits of a .40 S&W round get over looked. I feel that a 9mm can be effective in most situations, BUT a .40 S&W is better. A 45acp seems to lob large projectiles in there when you are talking 50 yards. Im saying: 230 grain at 875 fps. A feather is easy to throw, but it looses energy very quickly and floats to the ground. A bowling ball has weight, but suffers without extreme energy(powder) to propel it. A baseball is in-between. The 40 is a baseball.
Just lots of valuable information here. Thanks for sharing with us.
We could debate which has better stopping power all day. Me personally, I carry a 9mm. With all the new ammo on the market it’s really hard to say which has more stopping power. I personally keep mine loaded with either the civic duty or R.I.P. rounds from G2 Research and quite frankly, certainly would doubt that after the first hit, the attacker would keep coming. That is if they didn’t drop dead first!
I have the best of both worlds, I bought the KKM
conversion barrel for my Glock 23
I use two glock22 for home defense and I carry two glick19′ on me all the time . From sun rise to sun set.
I own four Glocks–the 19, 26, 36 and, most recently, the 23 Gen 3. I must say that the 23 quickly became my favorite. I can shoot all four pretty much equally well, but the 23 is a cut above in terms of accuracy and of course power.
The 36 and 23 now alternate as my carry weapons, depending on the situation.
Joel,
The recoil isn’t that much different… ESSPECIALLY for the increased energy you get!!! The good thing about the 23 is that for a $100 barrel you can have a 9mm if you don’t like it, but not the other way around. Also if you are remotely concerned about SHTF or Ammo supplies, you have a gun that can shoot .40 or 9mm with about a 15 second barrel change. But when it comes down to it, proper grip, stance, and positioning will make it barely noticable. I shoot 9mm out of mine sometimes and I don’t really even notice a difference recoil wise… but I can see a big difference in how much my steel targets move!!!
Anyway, I’m a 23 fan…. I have 3 and bought my first one as a graduation gift for myself from paramedic school back in 1996. That is still my main carry gun and I have about 10,000 rounds through it. I polished the friction areas, put a 3lb connector on it, and XS big dot sights. Other than a single pistol class back in 2014 I’m a self taught shooter, and I can EASILY draw, fire 3 rds, and hit center mass of my IDPA target with all 3 in less than 3 seconds from 10 yds. The recoil is all about practice and training. To be honest I’m about 7-8 out of 10 hitting that target from 50 yds with my 23…. So for a defense weapon I think it’s a great choice!!!
Hope that helps.
I own a Gen 4 Glock 23. I choose it for my carry gun because of Glock’s reputation for reliability. My final deciding factor after renting multiple handguns at the range was the versatility that it offers. The barrels can be changed out to shoot 9mm, and 357 SIG, in addition to the 40 barrel that comes with it.. It has a compact frame, but is still has a double stack mag which was another important feature. I felt that a single stack handgun did not offer me enough protection for some situations where I might be out numbered. I do have a couple sub compact single stacks that I carry when my attire will not allow me to carry the G 23. Occasionally I will carry one of them as a backup in addition to my G 23. If there is ever another ammo shortage, or a SHTF situation my G 23 with the additional barrels I have purchased for around $100 each will give me a better chance of securing ammo.
Momentum is velocity times mass. Using that calculation a well rolled bowling ball wins over a .45. Would you rather be hit by a .45 ACP or the bowling ball?
I don’t want shot with either. As I always say to ppl who doubt a .380 or any other round… stand in front of me and let me shoot you with it… no takers?? K then.
“Hurr durr, volunteer to stand in front of it” is the most cliched, tired comment out there.
No one would volunteer to stand in front of a rubber band being shot at their face, nor a pebble thrown at their head. By your logic, those would be acceptable carry weapons.
.380 can not reliably do the job for which it would be needed, regardless of whether anyone would voluntarily stand in front of it.
As I always say when someone comes up with new math that “proves” the effectiveness of their favorite round. Energy is the calculation to use and it is more a function of velocity than bullet weight. Or if that is too difficult to understand, would you rather be shot by a .45 ACP or a .270 Winchester?
What about the calculation of momentum? Doesn’t the 45 win there? (Against the other handgun calibers of course not a rifle round)
I’ve had my G23 for 20 years and friends with Walters and wheel guns are jealous. In thousands of rounds through it never a single jam (sorry Walter). It was always described as having penetrating power, as compared to the knock down power of a .45. It definitely is an unusually powerful mid size frame. I know state police and other officers who prefer it over a 9, even a Sigg 9.
Considering a 23 over a 19 for my first Glock. Shot a lot of them, but never a 23. All I ever read online is the recoil is too “snappy.” Owning one for years, you obviously either got used to it or don’t notice it I assume? So which is it? Not bad and everyone is making a big deal of nothing, or is it something that you had to adjust to? I’ve shot .40’s before and of course they have more recoil than most 9 mm, but it wasn’t a huge issue. Thanks!
I’ve been carrying a 23 for a couple of years now. Also use it as my handgun of choice in training.
I have a 9 mm conversion barrel as well. I shoot it in 9mm more often than not but found I am more accurate with it in .40. Perceived recoil is not much different for me between the 2. Get the 23 and a conversion barrel. Other than the barrel and opening on the slide, they are identical from what I can tell.
Wow… I had no idea!!
My daily carry is a G23!! I love it and I’m glad I picked it.
Nice write up! I keep hearing and reading people say “With todays ammo, there is no difference between 9mm, .40 cal and .45 ACP”! I say nonsense! The same ammo advancements that improved 9mm also improved .40 cal and .45 ACP. IMHO; even if you didn’t know anything about firearms ballistics, just lining up the 3 caliber cartridges along side each other, to say the 9mm “equals” the .40 cal and .45 ACP is foolish.
AS far as the FBI report that 9mm meets or exceeds LEO requirements, I don’t believe the FBI report. I firmly believe it a political correct report so woman and small men can qualify with their firearms. It has been widely know that many LEO’s could not qualify as well or at all when switching from 9mm to .40 cal’s. So, instead of improving training and competency, it was easier to lower the bar on ammo…….The FBI isn’t fooling me!
Just my opinion……
Agree. Idk if half the ppl even kno wtf they’re talking about, I mean if guy says well with the advanced top of the line ammo a 9mm is just as powerful as a 40. Really? So they just decided to not advance the tech or components in anything but 9mm? Lmao some ppl as far as common sense lol
Bullsh*t
The G23 always works with lightly-built shooters where the G19 fails. Weak grip will induce stovepipes in the 9mm, whereas the snappier recoil of the .40 will cycle the pistol without fail. The .40 caliber Glocks can always be down-sized to fire the Nine with a conversion barrel, but the Nines can’t be up-sized. Every student I’ve worked with who had reliability problems on the range shooting a Nine saw their reliability issues disappear when handed a G23. They all acknowledge the extra recoil, but cling to the G23 because it WORKS.
There are loads in .40 that will eclipse the .45 ACP in power factor, but who cares? The permanent wound tracks in gel between .40 and .45 are pretty much the same.
PS: I will say that the best thing I ever did was change to a 3.5lb trigger!!! My accuracy tripled and my rate of fire doubled almost!!! I know some think that it’s not safe… and they are welcome to use the 12 (I think) lb NY adapters if they feel they can’t control their finger (the safety) well enough!!! All of my AR’s have 3.5 Gisselle trigger’s and it’s a comfortable weight for me.
Those who worry about round count, carry a spare. Actually carry the full size 15 rd spare. By the time you get to reloading in a self defense situation, you will not care that it sticks out the bottom a little bit!!! I keep a 32 rd spare in my vehicle too.
I have had my first (I have 3) Glock 23 since 1999 and just recently rebuilt it (new springs etc)… not because of any problems, but because it is my carry pistol and I had a solid 7,000 rounds through it at the range. I now own a 9mm barrel for it (and an Osprey suppressor, BIG GRIN. LOL). About a yr ago I was shooting my steel targets from about 10 yds. I had the 9mm barrel in and shot the 2″ target a few times as it swung on the 18″ chains. Then when my 9mm mags were empty I swapped to the original barrel…. The first shot hit so hard the target flipped all the way back and looped OVER TOP of the 2×4!!! Ever since that my 9mm vs 40 debate was over!!! Add to that the fact I do figure 8 drills around 12-15 yds and draw, hit an IPSC zone C torso 3 times (1-2 through the center mass flap) and be back in “compressed ready” before the 1st brass has hit the ground!!!! I am just an average self defense guy with ZERO military or LEO training!!! I just try to practice.
So all that said… yes, I LOOOOVE my 23 and find it to be perfect for CCDW carry too!!! The only 9mm I own is the Glock 43 because I’m Florida sometimes I need to go a bit smaller. If they come out with a single stack 40 then mom will get that and I’ll be 40 all the way.
Just my OPINION based on what I have done/seen.
Initially my G23 was just OK until I made a few modifications, now it is my EDC and favorite firearm. Changes include:
A Pyramid Trigger, same trigger pull weight but significantly better break and don’t have the ridges on the trigger.
A steel guide rod which tames much of the muzzle flip assisting with follow up shots.
TrueGlo TFX sights. Greatly increases my ability to line up on target day or in low light.
Finally added an extended slide release for convenience.
Improving perfection is hard but these modifications makes the .40 much easier and faster shooter for me.
A few months ago I bought a Glock 27 after shooting a friends. I have really enjoyed it. For whatever reason this little hand cannon makes me grin. I’m now considering buying a G23 to add to my collection.
On shoot ability, I went to the range yesterday with my Nano and G27. The Nano has been a disappointment for me since I like Berettas. It is harder for me to handle the Nano 9mm than the G27 in .40. I’m looking forward to trying out a G23!
I see so many complaining about the recoil of the .40 and slower follow up shots, less capacity blah blah. Its not a problem for me. I dont think its going to matter in a self defense situation. If you need more than 13 shots you are outnumbered and probably going to die anyway right? The 9mm is a good round dont get me wrong. I just prefer bigger. Its the same reason most 9mm guys wouldnt carry a .380 or .22 ha!
That all makes perfect sense, but try telling diehard 9mm guy that????????????
I own a G23 Gen4 just came from the Range and I have to say that I fall in love with my G23 Gen4 more and more every time I shoot it.
I’m always on target and I feel more confident with every pull of the trigger!
Recoil is not an issue for me when using my G23.
I had a glock 22 for quite awhile and decided to step down in size for concealed carry. I went to two different gun shops in town and asked each shop owner what he recommended. each one said they carried the glock 23. that was good enough for me…
1st gun I purchased when I was old enough, was a .357 Colt Trooper owned by a retired C.H.P. hate to say that was over 40 yrs ago. I’ve always had a .357 revolver & shot highest grain I could fined. Forty plus yrs later I purchased Glock-27 & S&W Shield .40. Yeah, I know small & hard to hang on to, but that’s just how most of the women in my life have been. I’ll never learn, just want to have a little fun trying. No point to this, just FYI.
Years ago, I started my collection with a Ruger P89, which for me was quite unreliable. It jammed up 1 or 2 times every mag! So I switched to a Beretta 92, which I liked, but I eventually decided that I wanted more power. Enter the 96. That was everything and a bag of chips, until a friend handed me a G23 to try. Never looked back! I now own 3 G23’s (a Gen 2 and 2 Gen 3’s). I use one of the gen 3’s w/night sights as my IWB EDC, wouldn’t have it any other way! I’ve looked for the new “G23”, but nothing else stands out, they’re either not aesthetically pleasing, or I don’t like how they feel in my hand.
So I realize there are some very experience people leaving comments. I had a Smith & Wesson 357 mag for years and loved it. Went to get a concealed weapon and did a lot of research. Almost went with the 19 gen4 but after reading and talking to people I went with the Glock23 gen 4. What a nice weapon! I can’t say enough good things about it! And if I want a 9MM It can be changed over easily and cheaply!! I see a lot of comments about the price of ammunition. My take on that is I will spend a couple more dollars to make them drop on the first shot than worry if they get a shot off at me!! Love my Glock 23 Gen 4 buy one and you will also
I wish to purchase a fire arm for home protection. I have been reading about Glocks and such…
Have never purchased a fire arm . My knowledge of one can be put on a tip of a needle..
Daniel,
Congratulations on the decision to purchase a firearm! Here are a few articles to help you make your decision
http://dev-migrationctd.pantheonsite.io/fence-buying-gun/
http://articles.cheaperthandirt.com/handguns-for-first-time-gun-buyers/
http://dev-migrationctd.pantheonsite.io/guns-beginners-choosing-firearm/
Good luck!
Could you just swap barrels and have a 40 AND a 9mm AND a .357? All in one gun; the g23?
Chris,
Yes. It would be exactly the same, just shorter barrels. ~Dave Dolbee
That’s not completely true…you may swap 40 cal and 357 sig barrels, but for the 9mm the ejector must be changed. The 9mm round has a smaller diameter and may not eject spent casings reliably.
I have been shooting 9mm out of my G22 and G23 for about a year now without a hitch and never changed anything but the barrel and magazine without a hitch or a failure to eject (FTE). However, it is a good tip for other to consider in case they are having an issue. ~Dave Dolbee
Joe, I did not realize that you should swap the ejector as well. LWDist. never mentioned the need to swap the ejector. I have used my gen 2 G22 frame for well over 8 years with a 9mm conversion barrel and mags and it has never failed to eject a 9mm casing. After years of shooting this way I finally broke down and bought a G17 and noticed that the ejector was shaped differently. Dumb luck I guess.
No Ejector change needed! I have owned 4 G23’s (Needless to say, I Love the G23) One of which my Bro. now owns. 3 of these have 9mm conversions for them. 2 of them are Gen3 and one is a Gen4 The first one I converted had some ejection trouble, so I talked to the local Glock Guru. He told me to put a Stainless Recoil Spring in it, which I did. No more trouble!, and it shoots smoother and with less recoil with the 9 or 40’s running through it. I now install Stainless Recoil Springs in all my pistols. I own 7 different S&W 40 pistols and have no problem with accuracy or follow up shots with any of them. Even my Carry weapon which is an S&W Shield 40
I understand that you can shoot the firearm without changing your ejector, but I’m just putting it out there that you are not supposed to. As a LE Officer, Range Instructor and Certified Glock Armorer, I’m just saying that just because you have been doing it doesn’t mean that is the way it is supposed to be that way. Glock has made it clear that the Glock 19 and the Glock 23 have different ejectors for a reason. Hence the different part numbers (Glock 19-30274 and Glock 23-28926). I guess if you are going to use the firearm to plink around with at the range…Knock yourself out, but life or death situation I would strongly advise the you have the proper internal parts for the caliber being used. Just because you always 10 over the speed limit, doesn’t mean you can’t get a ticket someday. BTW If I was a betting man (I am in this case). I’d bet that if you were to have issues in the future with your firearm and you told Glock that or Glock found out that you weren’t properly switching out the parts for the appropriate caliber they will say you voided your warranty. I am just trying to help. The ejector is not an expensive part, so it just doesn’t make sense to not do things the right way. I’m sure the local Glock Guru can get his/her hands on the parts needed/required to swap out calibers. I also have a large collection of Glocks myself, almost in every caliber and actively carry Glocks on and off duty. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Good luck and be safe.
Make mine 9. I could quote some physics but the 45 ACP boys long ago changed the argument to one that favors their cartridge and I see that is continued in this article. When the 9m m vs. 45 argument comes up and how the heavier bullet blah, blah, blah, I simply ask would you rather be shot by a 45 ACP or a .270 Winchester?
I have never been a fan of the 9mm. I don’t hate it, but just not impressed. It seems you have to step up to a +p round and be very selective to get a round that performs as good as a 40 S&W. I love my Glock 23. I have thought about going to a 19. The 40 really is the best of both worlds though.
I love my Gen 4 Glock 23 too. And I believe this is what this article is about a glock 23 i don’t think a Kel-Tech 2000 is in the same category as a glock 23 handgun so how can u compare the two
Easy answer.
.40S&W’s suck, People hate them in all brands of guns. New Gen 2 Kel-Tec SUB-2000 tell the tale better than any.
A 9mm Gen 2 Subby sells for at least $100 to $150 more than the .40S&W on GunBroker. Normally, a price differential this huge is due to the rarity or greater desire for the higher-priced gun OR just the opposite. In the case of the ,40SW SUB-2000, buyers hate them and are unloading them like a polyester 3-piece suit from the ’70’s.
After testing the same brands of gun in 9mm and .40SW, the extra flip and recoil from the .40SW that kept me from getting back on target for follow-up shots vis-a-vis the 9mm also meant that there were more flyers in the batches of .40SW.
The extra initial power output of the 40’s also increased the depth of penetration though dry walls increasing the risk to civilians.
Is a three or four round reduction in carry capacity worth the relatively useful but unpredictable increase in muzzle energy?
Were the would cavities from .40’s that much better than 9’s?
Then answer to all of the above is “NO.”
The .40S&W was a necked down 10mm because it was putting more hurt on the good guys than the bad guys. The 10mm was supposed to be the answer to the underpowered duty rounds that the Miami PD carried. BUT, more is not necessarily better. Seven 00 buckshot pellets vs a bucket full of birdshot will attest to that.
So, the G22’s and G23’s are being swapped out for 4th Gen G19’s. More ammo in a lighter gun and lighter dual-mag pouch.
When faced with multiple perps, there is strength in numbers – especially when those numbers are bad ass 9mm bullets.
@DrRJP:
Thanks for explaining the price differences on Gun Broker, and all the other logic you wrote. I went over there and I see what you mean.
I agree with you that if you’re going to buy a Kel-Tec Sub-2000, it’s best to buy a 9mm to stay on target and have more rounds.
I think you have gone a bit off topic. If I were to purchase a Gen 2 Kel-Tec SUB-2000, I would also go with 9 mm because the ammo is cheaper and the capacity is larger with 9 mm. Also the 9 mm round is more lethal in a carbine than a handgun, due to the longer barrel. But, back on topic the Glock 23 is hard to beat for the versatility of being able to use three different types of ammo (including the 9 mm), and can be used for concealed carry. For home defense I have a 22 round magazines in 40 cal, and a 12 gauge shotgun. I love my Gen 4 Glock 23!
Sorry I have to respond.
“So, the G22’s and G23’s are being swapped out for 4th Gen G19’s. More ammo in a lighter gun and lighter dual-mag pouch.”
Are you able to talk to LEO/Gov employees who actually have to qualify with their pistol? Out of four people whom I spoke to about this redundant issue that work in the force, two of them use .40’s while another who is retired daily carries a 1911 .45ACP.
Your quote above is not accurate.
Reading the article is the same today as it was yesterday, I do agree .40’s are harder to target practice with but from what I know, self defense isn’t about bulls-eyes and showing off. You need to place accurate and deadly force upon the target, regardless of repeated, exact shot placement and these Gov. employees can do that very, very well with what they practice with.
Anyway, those are my opinions.
I’ve owned a lot of handguns in my life. The Glock 23 is my all time favorite followed by the Bersa Thunder 380 tack driver.
When I got my concealed carry license a few years ago I cycled through all of my handguns but couldn’t find anything that provided the right combination of caliber, capacity, reliability, accuracy and carry-ability.
Tried a Glock 23 GEN four and instantly fell in love. Perfect fit in the hand, decent accuracy, unparalleled reliability, easy to carry.
I carry concealed with a 15 round mag when I’m out with my family. The larger mag sticks out the grip by an inch but doesn’t affect handling.
Bought the Kel Tec sub 2000 in the same caliber with 33 round mags which also fit the hand gun (which is a hoot at the range). Decked out the Kel Tec. The wife loves it and it’s her go to gun for home defense. Accurate and fun to shoot. Plus it looks cool as hell.
I own a sub2k in .40 with a buffer and it is a smooth shooting extremely accurate road and I can use the rounds in my g22. So I call BS to your smack on the keltec
I own a Glock 17,19,20,21,22,23,32,and the new G40 all are great guns.
The key to all hand guns and how the felt recoil is precieved is due to
How good the shooter grips the gun
A poor grip gives a greater precieved recoil a correct firm grip less!
Point you can’t beat a glock no matter what caliber just control it
We took the 23 to the range on
Tuesday and tried out my new interchangable 357 SIG barrel. It worked flawlessly using my 40 cal magazine. My son and I put about 300 rounds downrange with it. Lot’s of fun and no issues, with no significant difference in flip/recoil. There was a little more flash using the same white box ammo. We all tried the OEM glock 22 round for the 40 cal ammo, and again no issues. I am now looking forward to getting the 9 mm barrel, and magazines to try out as well. What a great firearm!
Put a 20lb spring in the Glock 23 and it is about as easy to shoot as the G19 with no reliablity issues.
C, thanks may have to check that out.
Brian. It functions like a dry fire “Snap Cap” that fits in your barrel just like a round, when you pull the trigger the laser comes on for 1/100 of a second and lets you know if you hit your target. I put reflective tape on my old range targets bulls eyes so that it will light up when I hit my mark dead on. It’s also great for low light conditions. If your grip is steady it lights up as a small red dot, but it you jerk the trigger the it will light up as a streak, instead of a fine dot, letting you know that you you need to work on you trigger pull. It;s made of solid brass like a bullet and will last forever. On the back is a screw on brass piece with a switch inside protected by rubber. The switch is good for about 3000 rounds, and can be replaced with a new one for about $10+ batteries. You will save a ton on ammo, and can practice any time, or place. It comes in several calipers. I have the LT-40, and love it. Here’s the link laserlyte.com/products/trainer-lt-cartridge/ I am pretty sure CTD has them for sale on their website.
I tried both the 19 and the 23 in Gen 3 & 4 versions before purchasing the Gen 4 23. I found no significant difference in flip/recoil on the Gen 4 23. The newere release with the beavertail backstraps reduce the flip. I love mine, and have bought a 357 SIG barrel for it, and plan to buy the 9 mm barrel in the near future. Why be limited to one Cal. when you can have three for a couple hundred dollars more? It’s like owning three Glocks of different Cal.
I have a Gen 4 G23 and I bought the 357 barrel and I also bought the 9mm barrel, and a couple of G19 magazines, got a G19 single spring to go with it because with the double spring that comes with the G23 is to stiff to properly eject the spent 9mm brass so if you get the single spring that comes with the Gen3 G19 and run a box of 147 grain or some plus P ammo will break it in and I haven’t had a single problem with it. And like you said, why not have 3 different calibers for a little more than 700 dollars in everything….love my glocks
Brian, I still haven’t purchased the 9 mm barrel to go with my 40, and 357. It’s good to hear you love yours and it is functioning perfectly. I do have the LaserLyte 40 Cal training cartridge, and love to train with it between trips to the range. I have multiple old range targets taped up throughout my property, and use them to train while moving about the property. I change them around regularly, and approach them from differnt angles using available cover. It’s great training, fun, and has improved my accuracy.
C, THAT SOUNDS LIKE A LOT OF FUN, WOULD BE COOL TO GO THRU THERE WITH EACH BARREL TO SEE WHICH ONE YOUR MORE ACCURATE WITH.
“The Glock 19 9mm is easier to shoot well than the .40 caliber pistol” . . . you said it yourself.
Have been a CCL holder for 8 years, Qualified first with a Rem. Western Revolver-9mm, at my renewal, I used a Glock 27, with an extended grip, increased rounds from 9-15! Mainly increased the stock size for my large hand, and now is quite comfortable for me! Recently got another for my wife, also a CCL holder, for her to qualify with next time. .Do really like the 40 better than the 9, for me at least. Good grief, I’m 70, slightly crippled, just like to level the field as much as possible! She will still have the 9!
Forget the caliber. The Springfield XD has many more safety devices, a far better trigger, doesn’t feel like a 2X4 in your hand and is just a plain better pistol. So is the 1911, but that is another subject.
I’m sorry – I’m no math major. I thought it was mass x velocity SQUARED devide by 2 or the constant.
You have “This is bullet weight times velocity divided by 1,000. It is generally regarded that a power factor of 20 or above is too much for control by most shooters in a personal defense gun.” That needs some explNation please. With bullet weight x velocity squared / 2 really put the 9mm in a better comparison in that the velocity is significantly more of a variable then slight differences in the grain. Again – I’m new to this, but I havrnt seen any formulas that don’t square the velocity. What am I missing? Respectfully
In United States engineering units, particular care must be taken to ensure that consistent units are used.
Mass, m, is usually given in grains and the speed, v, in feet per second but kinetic energy, Ek, is typically given in foot-pound force (abbreviated ft-lbf). Most sporting arms publications within the United States report muzzle energies in foot-pound force. If m is specified in grains and v in feet per second, the following equation can be used, which gives the energy in foot-pound force:
v is the velocity of the bullet
m is the mass of the bullet
A foot-pound is a unit of energy/work. The metric equivalent is a joule a.k.a newton-meter. Found by:
Energy (work) = force * displacement
Energy (kinetic) = 1/2 mass * velocity squared.
Your equation instead found the momentum of the bullet:
momentum = mass * velocity
I’m not sure, but I think kinetic energy would be a better indicator of destructive power.
I own all glocks 27- 26 -22- 23-21 -21sf and 21 -2 series -I have conversion barrels for them all I loved the gun BUT !! I WENT too A GUN SHOW AND FOUND AN OLD – CZ 75- THE FIRST shot WAS DEAD CENTER BULLS EYE NOW I OWN ALL CZ ‘s the p01 -p06 and now looking to by a cz 97 these gun are great …they make you a good shooter I still have all my glocks but I love my CZ’s
@johnnyu799:
Johnny that’s cool that you own so many Glocks and CZ’s. Can you explain more about if the CZ’s are noticably more accurate than the Glocks across the board? Comment on 25 yards if possible.
Also, out of the CZ models that you own, which model and caliber is #1 in accuracy?
Thanks in advance for any information you can provide.
I have a Glock 23 40cal that I use for target practice. It won’t hurt your bank account so it’s practical to shoot. I bought a 357 sig barrel and dropped it in. That is an expensive Hi Velocity / Performance round, but it’s like having a second gun for $105. I use it for my off duty and back up gun.
Yeah I know, but it scares the crap out of anyone in the same hall way. If you blink it only ruins their night vision. Most of the .45 acp rounds I fire, even in +P have very little flash, but are deafening in close quarters. But that’s out of a Glock 30
I own five Glocks total. They include in 40 S&W the models 22, 23 and 27. In 45 acp the model 30SF and in 9 mm the model 43. When I carry I want a gun which will give me enough firepower if needed, is light enougth it doesnt feel like your a carrying a brick on your waist and a weapon that doesn’t “print” on your clothing as you carry concealed. The model 23 does all that!
I’ve owned glocks a long time. 9 40 45 and 10mm. One time I had 12 of them. Down to 4 now. Model 27 23 22 and a 17 just to use 9mm ammo. My go to’s are 40 cal. I say nothing to those who carry 9’s, I just prefer 40. The facts speak for themselves
I used to carry a G19 but decided to step it up to the G23 after alot of research on both guns. True there is more recoil in the G23 but there is more knock down power that comes along with that recoil. But with training I made the move to getting rid of the 9mm all together and carry the 40cal Glock on my side and another 40 on my ankle everyday. Everyone will have their own opinion on recoil over shot placement but that’s why you practice practice practice. Shoot straight and stay safe.
Knock down power has been disproven. Shot placement is #1, quick follow up shots are #2. It has been proven that in real world wound ballistics there is little difference between the 9mm -.40S&W – .357 SIG & .45 ACP. Those are facts established from years of scientific testing and evaluations of actual shootings. You can feel a certain way but the facts are the facts. Although having confidence in your gun & ammo choices is very important even if based on myths & misinformation.
Who makes a 10-mm barrel for a G-30 ? I would deffinitly be in the market for one.
Storm Lake for one
You must be in the Phx area as I am. Lone Wolf co. Used to make a 6″ barrel as well. I think they were around $ 180.00. It was a St. St. finish.
Thanks Chris, but I called Lone Wolf and they don’t have any. The Lone Wolf salesman said there’s a different Lone Wolf in Idaho that may have them, but I’m going to focus on Glockmeister. They have done 2 trigger jobs for me, and I like that they are dedicated to Glocks.
I prefer the Glock 23 .40 for conceal carry. The 9mm does the job but I prefer a little more knockdown power. I have owned my Glock 23 for around 20 years and love it. My Glock 21 .45 acp is my favorite range/home defense pistol. I gave my Glock 23 to my wife and now use my Glock 32 .357 sig as my carry pistol. The Glock 32 has excellent accuracy and power just like my Ruger GP100 .357 magnum. I think the .357 line up is more suited for an experienced shooter indeed. I have nothing against the 9mm, they all can do the job and depends on what each individual can handle. Self preference comes with experience with each of these firearms. Back to the point, the .40 s&w is an excellent bridge between the 9mm and the .45 acp. and .40 cal ammo is plentiful and inexpensive to fire compared to the other firearms I own. Safe shooting everyone:)
I think it’s up to the individual shooter and what he or she shoots well. I carry a 40 Glock and shoot it very well. I also have a Glock 45 but due to the size and weight I prefer the 40. I think you practice with what you carry and learn to shoot well and it will be effective. I would dare to say that anyone that takes a 40 S&W the chest is going down anyway so I think it all comes down to what you’re comfortable with and how will you shoot that individual firearm..
agreed
When you read the headline and then the little blurb from the email – it just doesn’t make sense.
PETE: I don’t know where you get your figures for the .357, but you damn sure not gonna get 600 fpe from ANY 4″ .357.using factory ammo.
As a Firearms Instructor for a Ga. L E Agency for 10 yrs. and reloading for 40 yrs., the Ruger GP 100 is the most rugged revolver today and the best load to reach 600 fpe in the RUGER literally wrecked a S&W 65 and bulged the cylinder of a Dan Wesson Mod.14.
Those two loads chronoed thru my OEHLER 35P were a 160gr hard cast @1490 fps/784, and a 140gr jhp @ 1427/633. The best you’re gonna get off the shelf will be somewhere around 525fpe+/-, and [that], out of a longer test barrel. If you are getting more than that, let me know from where, and which gun you’re getting it with, and I’ll quit reloading for that level.
When I was a correctional officer on the PERT team and a armed nuclear security officer we trained to shoot center mass nevertheless targeting the triangle(eye sockets down to the nasal cavity) the 9mm will get the job done
I have both a G27 & 19. The addition of a Wolf 9MM barrel gives me a G26, 27 & 19. The 9mm Wolf barrel is more accurate than the stock G27 .40 S&W barrel but weighs more due to the extra thickness and allows the use of lead ammunition, great for reloaders. I can use the G19 mags in the G27 as well.
I have thought of buying a G23 to go along with my G19 and adding a 9MM barrel just as I did with my G27.
Pluses, more powerful round, versatility of two calibers for the price of a barrel & can use G23 mags in G27.
Minuses, heavier and two fewer rounds, more recoil and slower double taps.
Practically, I use my G27 with 9MM barrel for concealed carry and home defense, my G19 only for home defense so the weight & capacity aren’t really issues. I also have .45 ACP and 10MM 1911s available plus long guns and shot guns so the .40 S&W isn’t really needed. I can add a .40 S&W barrel to my 10MM Delta Elite for less recoil and increased control.
I have not experienced a lack of accuracy at all with the 6″ barrel. I have seen an increase in velocity, FP and penetration. The 10-mm was meant to shoot FULL TILT ammo but off the shelf it has been dumbed down a bit lately. As a loader for 30+ years, I make sure my 10-mm ammo replicates some of the ballistics you would see in some 41 mag ammo.
@Gunclub:
I think you have convinced me. Getting a 6″ barrel would be a worthy investment and also a lot of fun to expirement with. I checked CTD just now, and they don’t have any 6″ barrels, but GlockMeister has a Stormlake stainless 6″ barrel, and they’re actually in my city, so I can go over there and check it out in person. So thanks for the info!
Regarding ammo, I know about the dumbed down off the shelf ammo, so I order from UnderwoodAmmo, because they are known for full loads, and I have seen YouTube FPS tests to prove it, and trust me I feel the difference in my guns, like rotating Underwood and other makers of ammo at the shooting range. But like you said about yourself, the extra pep doesn’t bother me, because I shoot 44 magnum and 50AE also, so the 10mm has become calmer to shoot.
I tried my brand new Stormlake 6″ barrel today in my Glock 20.
I managed to get 38 rounds through it (no jams) before the shooting range closed down with a rain and wind storm.
I was standing and shooting all Underwood and Buffalo Bore ammo, basically all +P ammo, so this wasn’t some kind of smooth bench rest test.
My 1st take on the barrel is that there were more shots on target, in the black, than with my stock barrel. However, this isn’t some kind of panacea or nirvana. My gun is still very unforgiving if I have a nervous or impatient hand. Still, with the way everything went down, my first impression is that I have made an excellent investment, and the long barrel is staying in the gun permanently. I have a Glock 29 if I need something more concealable in 10mm.
I wrote this in case anyone is contemplating buying a longer barrel for any Glock.
I forgot to say that this test was done at 25 yards.
I had a G27 & sold it because of the snappy recoil. I bought a G29 in 10mm & loved it. The larger frame fit my hand better & helped with recoil. I looked at the G23 but when I fired it, my thumb, more than once, hit the mag release from the recoil, causing FTF’s. I have bought a G19, 31 & 20 since. I do have a .40 barrel for my G31, though.
^^^^^^Ditto^^^^^^
Well said.
I’m with the writer Mad Dog on this one.
One thing I am convinced of and that is that most of this is complete BS.
Carry what you want.
Given the realities of firearm related confrontations, it really doesn’t matter.
The average civilian would be just as well armed with a 22lr than a 45 acp given the fact that the confrontations are overwhelmingly within a 12 foot engagement scenario.
What really frustrates me is the mindless nonsense that is palmed off as reality when during the most violent time in the history of our country shootists regularly engaged confrontations with black powder single shot firearms and black powdder cartridges like the 45 colt and the 44-40.
If it was plenty good for professional gun fighters in the wild west, what has happened today to make it so much more dangerous? –Lol !!
Inquiring minds want to know.
Been in the firearms business for the better part of 40 yrs, owned and shot just about everything made. 10mm is one of my favorite rounds when full bore, might as well be shooting a .40 when loaded down. Glock 30/ 10mm conversion barrel is a hard to beat combo.The 17″ of flame will terrify anyone one the receiving end Love them full house rounds.Practice, practice practice. 9mm is a girlie self defense round when used in a short barreled gun. But anyone worth shooting is worth shooting twice so it’ll work
While certainly visually impressive, a large jet of flame at the barrel is a sign that there’s too much (or too slow) powder in your ammunition for the barrel length. That wasted powder adds muzzle flash, noise, and recoil without any additional improvement to the bullet’s ballistics.
And if I could carry a 30mm chain gun concealed, that would work better than .357 Sig. Again, it really doesn’t matter what caliber you carry, as long as you carry something – and you can reliably and accurately hit your target. One 357 Sig to center mass is not better than 10 .22LR accurate hits to center mass.
I’m not a fan of any specific caliber. I shoot .45 best, so that’s what I carry. I also shoot .44 Magnum very well, but can’t practically carry a 44 Magnum. I also own and shoot a 500 S&W very well. I would think the 500 would have a much better one-shot stop potential. I also hunt a lot, and have seen the 44 Magnum (loaded very hot) NOT put down a hog when shot in the heart at less than 15 yards. I’ll spare the gory details, but let’s just say there was no heart left…
You can throw all the scientific data you want and it still doesn’t matter. What matters is shots on target. Multiple shots with any caliber. So carry what you want, and TRAIN for it.
Sorry, Bob, but this statement is a fallacy: “the fact remains the 9mm’s wound potential isn’t up to the .45 ACP.”
The .45 ACP generates only slightly greater muzzle energy compared to the 9mm, and a slightly bigger hole (but with less penetration). The added probability of the slightly extra width of a .45 ACP bullet actually hitting and disabling an attacker’s CNS, when the identical shot with a 9mm wouldn’t, is so small as to be meaningless.
Attackers have continued to harm victims even with fatal shots to the attackers’ hearts. The only way to stop an attack, immediately and reliably, is by disabling the attacker’s CNS with either a direct hit (neck/head shot) or the delivery of sufficient kinetic energy COM.
For a self-defense shooter who is willing to rely on a psychological stop or neck/head shot to stop an attack, basically ANY handgun round will get the job done. For self-defense shooters who make that choice, the chosen round is essentially irrelevant and adequate self-defense is a matter of training and risk balancing rather than round choice. This is the realm of the 9mm, .45 ACP, and the .40 S&W as well — all of which are almost equally effective in stopping attacks psychologically or through direct CNS hits, but none of which can reliably stop attacks physiologically without neck/head shots.
For self-defense shooters who are NOT willing to rely on psychological stops or neck/head shots, the effectiveness of a given round for use in self-defense is defined by the ability of that round to stop attackers reliably by disabling the CNS without a direct hit — which requires muzzle energy in the range of 600 ft-lbf and beyond. Among common handgun rounds, the .357Mag, .357 SIG and 10mm deliver that much muzzle energy out of typical 4″ barrels. The 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP all fall significantly short of that minimum.
Anyone who relies on any handgun round that delivers less kinetic energy than the .357 Mag, .357 SIG and 10mm, is necessarily relying on either a psychological stop or a neck/head shot. Otherwise, the self-defense shooter is still at risk while an attacker bleeds out, no matter what round is used.
The most effective use of the Glock 23 for self-defense would be to swap out the .40 S&W barrel for a .357 SIG barrel from a Glock 32, and use .357 SIG ammo rather than .40 S&W. THAT capability to convert easily to .357 SIG is what makes the Glock 23 FAR superior to the Glock 19 as a carry weapon, not the .40 S&W chambering of the Glock 23 itself.
The numbers are what the numbers are, and the 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP all far significantly short of the 600 ft-lbf minimum required to stop attacks immediately and reliably without direct CNS hits..
It doesn’t say you HAVE (in all caps? Really?) to use a Glock. The article’s title is “Why the Glock 23 should be your new carry gun”…. Should be, in the author’s opinion. He never said you HAVE to use a Glock. Why would you even think that way? Are you so tired of hearing about Glocks that when a cop writes an article saying, “Hey – you should try this Glock 23 out” that you immediately hold onto your super expensive Kimber Ultra II with both hands and yell, “Why do I HAVE to?!” Dang dude, relax! This guy has an opinion and wrote an article. You can carry your Kimber around with you 24/7 if you want. But I wouldn’t. But maybe you’re not a cop, or maybe you’re a cop in a small town. I bet you wouldn’t carry that thing around 24/7 if you were a cop in Atlanta, Brooklyn, Memphis, or Detroit… Well, the guy that wrote the article is, or was, a cop, and he wrote an article about something he has experience with. If you’re a cop and you think every department should come up with magic money and equip their people with $2000-$2500 guns, each, as opposed to the $500 Glocks, don’t yell at this guy, write your own article about it!
I love my Gen4 Glocks. I keep a G21 in my nightstand. My carry gun is a G26. I like having the big bore in a full-size handgun, and the smaller caliber in a compact carry gun. I have never bought into the .40 caliber trend, though I am interested in the power 10mm round. Also, I have read that, with current ammunition technology, the 9mm round is just as effective in FBI terminal ballistics testing as both the .45 and .40 calibers.
Why does my carry gun HAVE to be a Glock? I’m perfectly happy with my Kimber Ultra Carry II in .45 acp.. Some of us don’t care for polymer guns, even now!
I have owned a Glock 23 for many years, and carried it both concealed and open on many occasions. I’ve practiced with it at the range, firing hundreds of rounds in the process. It is a potent, remarkably reliable, and accurate firearm. It is true, however that this measure of power in such a compact and lightweight form, takes its toll after blowing through a couple boxes of shells at the range – In contrast, I can fire box after box from my Kimber Pro Carry 1911 in .45ACP without fatigue. That having been said, neither of these weapons are meant for hundreds of rounds at the range, but rather to be carried and used at need. In this application, both shine, and each has scores of devotees.
The 1911, being slimmer, can be easier to conceal, and there are times when neither of these “compact” weapons is convenient. For these occasions, I carry Ruger’s LCP and LCR, each loaded with high velocity frangible rounds because of the lower potency of the caliber.
The most effective weapon will always be the one that you are carrying. A firearm left at home cannot protect you. Choose from the dozens of quality choices available in today’s market, and get comfortable carrying and using whatever you choose.
I absolutely HATED Glocks. For years. Cocked and locked 1911 Commander size, every day, all day. Yeah, Glocks are reliable – no one can argue that. They just aren’t, well, they are just, well, plastic. Then I bought a Glock 30SF. Then I bought a Ghost trigger. Now I carry a 30SF every day in the winter. It is big to conceal, but I still have my 1911’s for summer/t-shirt carry.
I thought well, if I like the 30SF so much, why not go to the .40 for a smaller carry size? (9 vs. 45 vs. 40 doesn’t matter to me – accuracy and familiarity make more sense).
I simply can NOT shoot the 40 S&W cartridge as well as my 45’s. In any pistol. Glock, Sig, etc. I just hate the “snappy” recoil. Of course, this is personal preference, but I’m an ex-cop, NRA Firearms Instructor, and a competitive shooter. I simply can’t shoot the .40 well.
Funny thing is, I shoot a G20 really well – strange how more power in full-power 10mm is easier to me to shoot than the 40 S&W.
Obviously, your opinion will vary. Just don’t be one of the bunch of new shooters I see go out and buy a 40 based on what they read, or that some “expert” told them was the best defensive caliber. I’ve seen this many times, and seen students not only struggle with the 40, but develop flinches and bad habits that take YEARS to break.
Shoot what YOU are comfortable with. If that means a 9mm, then by all means carry a 9mm. If you can put up with the snappy recoil, then shoot the 40. Capacity makes no difference if you can’t make accurate hits. My rule is simple – carry the biggest handgun you can be accurate and comfortable with – even if it is a .380.
I have owned a Glock 23 for 20 years. It is,in my opinion a great carry weapon. I have a large hand so size is important. Addition of a few “bells and whistles” has made this weapon a better fit for me.
Why choose between them carry them both as you see fit on a day to day basis. I carry both a 19 and 23 on a regular basis, but i find myself carrying my 30 more frequently. Each have their pros and cons, more pros than cons, the difference in power between any of the 3 makes no difference if you do not hit what you shoot at. They are all effective loads.
9mm/.40/.45/.357sig; I’m honestly sick of hearing it all. Assuming reasonable shot placement, ANY of them will do just fine with the right ammo. In terms of platforms, I’m sick of all that too. I carry a Glock 34 typically (I own two). If I want something small, I carry a Glock 26. As for all the intermediate size Glocks, I really just don’t understand, nor do I give a damn. 17, 19, blah blah blah, not to mention the other calibers in the same size guns; I go full size or I go small only when absolutely necessary. Call me crazy. I have 500ft/lb+ loads in in my G34 which group at about 1.75″ at 45ft (in my modest efforts of a Weaver stance, not bench rest; seriously, what good is bench rest in practical use?!?!?). In any case, the gun holds 18 of those. Seems sufficient to me, or it at least gives me a fighting chance to get to my AR-15 loaded with 40 rounds of green tips or my M590A1 with 8 rounds of 00 buck. Seriously, enough is enough. I had a guy in the lane next to me the other day with a Glock 17. I blew his doors off with my G34. No comparison. I carved out the 9 and x-ring with 200 rounds at 45ft, along with with a few fliers that were my fault. He shot up his entire target with no notable grouping whatsoever. Not completely sure if that was me or the gun, but nonetheless. Considering I can shoot the same groups with my little G26, I suspect the shooter has more to do with it than the gun. Everything I’ve said here can be said for any auto pistol caliber. They all do just fine, although anything less than 9mm is certainly questionable. In my reasonably informed assessment, 9mm currently reigns king in terms of cost/performance ratio, at least in pistol calibers. In closing, my little G26 puts all it’s rounds though the same 1.75″ hole that the G34 carves out at 45ft. I’m no wizard or ultimate marksman, but I do know that all my ammo and G17 magazines are compatible and I could drill someone in the head at 50ft without much of a challenge. Additionally, despite being relatively new to Glocks, I’ve put 1500 rounds though my G34’s and G26 with zero malfunctions using 5 different loads. In all fairness, I was a Glock protagonist for a long time. Sig Sauer was everything to me. However, after a few sessions of practice with the Glock 34, I recently traded in my P226 for my second G34. I will never go back.
I am a retired police officer. I carried several calibers over the years. My last side arm was the Sig P220 .45 cal. I keep hearing of all these ” Latest FBI reports ” I would really like to see them. I’m being totally serious when I say that. At the time when my dept. changed to auto pistols we were told that the FBI reports said that the .45 was the superior pistol cal. for police. My personal experience. I saw the .38 underpowered. I saw where officers fired numerous rounds and the bad guy didn’t go down. I think if a small light fast moving bullet was superior then we would use a .223 to hunt Elk instead of the 30-.06. I think we have entered an era of trading marksmanship for more bullets.
The FBI is recommending the 9mm again not because they got it wrong in the post-Miami ballistics tests, but because 20+ years of improvements in hollow-point ammunition have changed the landscape dramatically.
Also, we use high-powered rifle rounds to take game because we expect (and intend) to only take one shot. Anyone expecting a one-shot stop with a handgun in a defensive situation is either an exceptional marksman (in which case caliber won’t matter), or they’re in for quite the surprise.
All of the quality defense ammo regardless of brand or caliber is loaded to meet the same standard issued by the FBI. With that in mind give me the model that holds more ammo. To reach the same threshold in a 9 mm or a 40 you have to run at near maximum pressure. With a 45, not even close. If you,ever run some max loads in 45 through a glock 21 you will be amazed at the difference in the cartridges. I tried really hard to like the 40. I bought a 23 and equipped it with good gear and practiced with it. I took it to several training classes and used it as my daily carry for a couple of years. Then I shot a glock 30 and was in love all over again.
The 40 recoil impulse is different from the 45 and the 9 mm. Snappier. The harmonics just do not match me. I am faster and more accurate with either a glock 21, 30 or my 19. In summery, carry what works best for you regardless of the popularity. If that is a 40 more power to you.
I will take my M&Ps and the profits stay in the US of A. .
Thanks!
I’ve used a G23 for several years, and can shoot it pretty well. However, I shoot a G19 better and can re-acquire the sight picture and get follow-on shots off noticeably quicker and with better accuracy. The FBI report more or less debunks all the advantages of the larger round. With my own experience with the two, and the information from the FBI’s report, I’m planning to sell all my .40S&W stuff.
I shall call the sheep.
I been carrying the G23 for the at least 5 years now. Two back surgeries forced the change so I traded in my Para P12 for the Glock. I could not be happier.
17, 15, 13 in full or two less in compact as we slide from 9mm to .40 to .45.
e=mv2, so the 9mm v 45 debate is meaningless. They are generally equal assuming modern expanding ammo (if you are stuck with ball, fat and slow is better, since the 9mm over penetrates in ball wasting energy).
The .40 gains a little, keeping velocity while adding to mass. It is no 10mm, however, a demonstrably superior round (and one of the few pistol rounds not better measured by how bad it is rather than how good it is).
So, with the power issue being generally a matter of preference, all other factors must be the determination. Particularly since all three are actually terrible man stoppers.
It really comes down to holes on target rapidly.
For most people, that is going to be the 9mm – with the least recoil and the most chances to get that lucky hit to just the right place to put them down.
The only reason to move up is if you are yourself large enough that the recoil does not slow or drive your shots off target and slow enough on the trigger that you are not getting to those bottom two shots in a reasonable amount of time anyways (about 2 seconds). Then, delivering your heat in bigger caliber makes sense.
If that doesn’t sound like much – it is because it isn’t. I regularly carry a G17 and a G22 (no, not at the same time). They might as well be the same gun in defensive virtue. Any difference is not going to be signification enough to make a difference in the chaos of use.
In an even more recent study, the FBI concluded that new bullet technology, better propellants, and better firearms technology has increased the effectiveness of the 9mm cartridge.
Not only do you get more capacity, but better accuracy, more controllability, and a less steep learning curve.
Some particularly salient points from the FBI report’s Executive Summary:
– Most of what is “common knowledge” with ammunition and its effects on the human target are rooted in myth and folklore
– Handgun stopping power is simply a myth
– 9mm Luger now offers select projectiles which are, under identical testing conditions, outperforming most of the premium line .40 S&W and .45 Auto projectiles tested by the FBI
– There is little to no noticeable difference in the wound tracks between premium line law enforcement projectiles from 9mm Luger through the .45 Auto
It’s a training division report not available directly on the FBI website, but many other sites have seen copies and published the content.
Statistics are useful for rascals to impress the uneducated.
The .45 and .40 are more than the 9mm.
RKC I totally agree with you!! Your reply is short, simple, and yet so much more realistic than all the 9mm love and all these FBI reports. After all, doesn’t Obama (you know, the guy who is feared and hated by this crowd on these forums) run the FBI?….LOL
Here is my take. It’s just simple logic. If you shoot someone with a .32ACP, and then with a .50AE, the .50AE will do more damage. So if you shoot someone with a 9mm, and then a .40S&W, the 40 will do more damage because it’s a wider bullet with more powder to push it’s extra weight.
As far as these comments about advanced breakthroughs in hollow point technology helping the 9mm, well I use Hornady XTP’s in my 180 grain and 200 grain 10mm bullets, so all those breakthroughs will help me too, because I’m assuming Hornady XTP is on the cutting edge.
You’re welcome to believe (and carry) whatever you want.
However, given that the adoption of the 40 S&W cartridge was driven in no small part by FBI ballistics research after the Miami shootout, it’s worth discussing the most recent FBI research in light of modern hollow-point ammunition.
If that’s true, then you must be very impressed. There were practically no stats in what I just read, but rather a description of energy in terms of velocity and mass. Not statistics, that’s physics and a proven reality.
My first Glock was a G23 Gen 3 and I still have it. I switched to the G19 Gen 4 as my primary carry gun because the combination of the finger grooves on the front of the grip and the sharp recoil from factory .40 S&W rounds made my strong-hand ring finger hurt to the point that I developed a flinch after just a few rounds. Eventually I sent the G23 off to get a grip modification to remove the finger grooves, but still found the sharp recoil to be an issue so I’ve stuck with the G19. I did try using the G23 with a Lone Wolf 9mm barrel but experienced a lot of jams with it during high round-count training classes. I’ve never had a problem with jams with the G19. And, of course, 9mm ammo is cheaper than .40 S&W ammo. Not an issue when it comes to EDC ammo, but I try to attend at least one high round-count class each year and the price difference becomes noticeable then.
One thing to note is that the Gen 4 recoil spring makes a noticeable reduction in recoil for .40 caliber. It has some reduction in 9mm recoil but significantly more in .40. If ever you get the chance and inclination you might give a 23 Gen 4 a try.
I have a G19C G3. I considered the G23. The deciding factor for me was ammo cost and the ability to control the follow-up shot. If you look on the CTD site, And compare Brand to Brand like the PMC Bronze, the 9mm is about 30-35% cheaper. I don’t just stand and shoot, I do my best to simulate shooting from concealed as much as our range will allow.
Another factor was that my wife would occasionally be shooting or carrying this weapon. I wanted something she could control and shoot well. We all know it does not matter how big of a bullet you send down range if you don’t hit the target. Now that does not mean I won’t get the 23 for some fun
The Glock G4’s have less felt recoil than earlier generations. If you are using them with the beavertail they have less flip. And for those of you that like the 9mm, the G 23’s 40 cal. barrel can be changed out to a 9mm on for @ $100, and you can even use Gen 3 magazines that can be had for cheap. Now you can shoot the cheaper 9 mm ammo. When there are ammo shortages, the G 23 gives you three ammo options by changing out the barrel, etc. This was a strong factor in my decision, plus the never Gen 4’s with the beavertail backstraps are softer shooting with less flip. I don’t have any affiliation with any gun manufacturer. I would suggest doing what I did and rent all of them you are considering before buying and then make your decision from first hand experience. Although I love Glocks, I plan to rent and try some of the newer Springfield XD series pistols my next trip to the range. They seem to have a well thought out design.
As I have done in the past and will likely do in the future when it comes to these blog Glock parties, I’d like to again remind those that are interested in three dimensional thinking that not even NEARLY all of the innovations in the World of Firearms are because of Glock. Yes, they make a fine firearm no question. It continues, however, to take additional “generations” to prefect what was pretty fair and solid in the first place.
The ergonomics for many of us who have tried the plethora of Glock products is still a major issue. From my POV the frame is to square and sharp in the web between thumb and trigger finger to be comfortable. It apparently is not important to Glock as it’s about the only thing they haven’t changed in all the Generations of product that they have produced. For me it’s been the XD or XDm’s of Springfield. The overall grip design to my way of thinking and comfort is superior to the Glock. There are others as well. The IMI Baby Desert Eagle Compact in all steel, .40 SW, is another excellent choice.
Even the P-35 Browning Hi-Power in 9mm, old school you say? Yes indeed! Also a rock solid rep worldwide. I do not carry mine often these days as I prefer the .40 to 9mm but it remains as a valued old friend and companion.
Point? Glock is not the be all or end all of the better handguns in the world. It’s good, well liked by those that have them and the company continues to innovate. So do Springfield, Sig, Baretta, Browning,DE, Ruger, HK and others. Glock is just one of many and it may be a good choice for some it’s however not always the best choice.
I’m always more than a bit skeptical when anyone try’s to tell me that something should be “my next best…” anything. You might what to be a bit skeptical too maybe, or not.
I did a lot of research, and testing before decided which pistol to purchase for my EDC. I tried both the Glock 19 & 23 in the Gen 3, and Gen 4 versions, as well as several other manufacturer’s pistols. The 19 had an excellent reputation, and was well liked by all the owners I talked with. I did notice a considerable difference in the recoil between the two in the Gen 3 version. But when I tried the Gen 4 version of both pistols, the difference in recoil wasn’t even noticable. All tested pistols were range rentals that had lot’s of rounds thru them. All operated flawlessly. I ended up buying the Glock 23 Gen 4 with factory night sights, and am love mine even more than the range rental. It was newly manufactured, and came with the regular backstraps, as well as the beavertail backstraps and shoots better and softer than the earlier manufactured Gen 4’s I rented without the beavertail backstraps. One other factor in my decision was the ability to easily change out the barrel to also shoot 9mm, and 357 SIG in a couple minutes for a couple hundred dollars more, So I can practice with slightly cheaper 9mm ammo, or if SHF I have three choices of ammo that can be used , if one type ammo is in limited supply. If you want to see a significant improvement in you accuracy, use a LASERLYTE trainer cartridge to practice between trips to the range. I even bought a 22 round factory Glock magazine to use as my primary magazine for home defense.
Sir,
It appears you thought this through well.
Sounds like good kit.
Best,
Bob Campbell
Agreed – they are both great handguns, but I prefer the more powerful 40. I shoot the glock23 well and can easily double tap targets out to 10 yards. In my experience, accuracy and quick follow up shots are not a problem.
want a 9 mm carry gun
check out the new GLOCK 43
Good for you! And don’t forgrt you can always convert down to 9mm for plinking and the .357 Sig for long range fun if you reload.
Hmmm: Not on my loved-one’s lives or my life!! To those willing to “accept lower times between shots, greater recoil, and perhaps slightly less absolute accuracy, the Model 23 offers excellent real world ballistics.” may be have to accept being shot, an innocent person being shot – by the defender and/or perpetrator.
Also, it was Newton who “was right”. Glocks or any other brand have nothing to do with nuclear physics.
I traded in a Taurus PT145 plus $120 for a new Glock 23 Gen4, and I definitely wouldn’t go back… I do miss the manual safety, as I have been used to that, but this is my first Glock, and I will stick to the brand based on my range experience…
I have always wanted a Kimber carry, but am shy on the price
i feel sorry for anybody that is standing on the recieving end of any glock pistol , because it’s going to be about the last thing they will see on this earth
You can say that about most any firearm. Duh.
I use and like Glocks. But statistically, 3 out of 4 persons that are shot with a handgun survive. With a Glock, it is true that you can more or less be sure that it will go bang when you need it to, but handguns in general aren’t that effective compared to long guns.
Please state your source(s) of that 3 out of 4 survive statement…
Well, Big Dave, if you go by the number of police shootings and their poor shot placement, it’s more like 9 out of 10–LOL!!
I shoot 4 Glocks: G35/3 in .40, G30/4 in .45, G19/4 in 9mm., G42/4 in .380.
The .45 cal G30 Gen 4 is my favorite concealed carry gun (IWB), It has minimal recoil for a .45, and is very accurate-I use it in Action Pistol Shooting Competition. It easily conceals IWB with shirt tails out and sits very close to the body, draws fast, and is spot on accurate. Glock did this one especially right with the double recoil spring helping followup shot to be very fast. A few customizations help too.
Sir,
Shooting in Action Pistol Shooting is challenging! Firing the pistol you carry in this competition clearly gives you an edge in any situation. Sounds like you do something very few shooters actually do- accept the challenge to be all you can be.
Good shooting
Bob Campbell
I can think of several reasons to choose 9mm over .40.
1) It’s easier on the budget, which encourages regular practice.
2) It’s easier on the shooter, which both encourages regular practice and makes followup shots faster and easier.
3) It’s easier on the gun, though this probably won’t matter for occasional or moderate shooters.
Also, the early .40 cal Glocks (along with other maker’s pistols) had occasional problems with blown cases (and sometimes guns) due to insufficient chamber support. That’s long since been fixed, but that doesn’t mean it’s been forgotten about.
I agree 100%, but I went to the next. I carry the Gen 4 G 22. I get a better purchase on the grip with it over the G 23. Shoots great. I have weak hands and wrists and I don’t find the recoil difficult at all. Accuracy is pretty good also.
I prefer my Glock 20 Gen 4 and Glock 29 Gen 3. Both are 10mm. Both are more powerful than a 40sw if you buy the proper ammo, and I do.
The 29 is concealable, and the 20 could be with the proper clothes and holster.
NO THANKS to the model 23.
SS1,
Thanks for reading.
Your choice of the 10mm reflects experience I am certain.
The 10mm is a great cartridge. To each his own, and I agree
on concealed carry.
I believe the 10mm moves into deer killing capability inside of 50 yards, which makes the 10mm a go anywhere do anything handgun.
Best,
Bob
I have loved the 10-mm since I started shooting it back in the mid 80’s. I am not recoil sensitive so in my G-20 I get 15 rnds of 650 FPS hitting my target especially when I use my 6″ barrel option.
@Bob Campbell: Thanks for your reply. Of all people, I didn’t know that the author word answer positively to my 10mm comment 🙂
@Gunclub: Finally another 10mm fan has posted!! Your 6″ barrel comment has me interested. I have thought about buying one for my G20 to increase accuracy, but I felt that since the front sight is not extended, then accuracy improvements would be limited. What is your opinion?
“…and it is all Glock.”
Hardly a ringing endorsement. Does Glock pay CTD for these infomercials?
@Rick
It does get a bit tiresome, Rick, I agree. It would seem at times that the “writers” for CTD/TSL are biased toward Glock. It would be a shame if this is true as it then taints the Blog as a whole for everyone. I understand that there have been changes in the editorial management recently at CTD/TSL so I don’t expect this kind of biased reporting to improve. Like to old saying goes “follow the money”.
Pete sends…
The Glock is always reliable, you cannot take that away. You comment on follow the money is not well take. But following the trend and buying public cannot be ignored.
We take hits no matter what the article, no matter what the gun, but for most shooters, the Glock works.
As for myself and always on my own time and my own dime- and often in uniform when I could- it is the cocked and locked Colt 1911 .45, Government Model. That is my choice.
I meant your comment is not well taken
Where is the editor? LOL
All Glock fans? Not so much. If you read through the articles, particularly mine, you will see I am a fan of SIGs above all else. However, there are many other fine makes and I own a bunch of them. As a well as a bunch of low-dollar guns, which I am also a fan of and often write about.
In the end, we have to look at the market. Glock currently represents over 60 percent of all handgun sales and Glock has enjoyed the lion’s share of sales for many years. With those kinds of numbers, it would be irresponsible if we did not dedicate a lot of coverage to Glock. Likewise, Glock does not own the hearts of so many enthusiasts and law enforcement professionals simply by chance. The platform has proven to be reliable and Glock’s pros are winning more than their share of competitions. ~Dave Dolbee
Thanks for your answer, Dave. It can also be looked at as preaching to the choir. Comparing Glock-Glock-to-Glock as in this piece is nothing but sycophantic, and has no perspective at all. Yes, I know this is a blog, not real journalism, but there should be some pretense towards objectivity. Otherwise, like I said originally, it’s an infomercial.
As far as I know, Glock has 60% of the LEO sales market, not of all sales, but I also couldn’t find stats for 2014 to be 100% sure. Got a reference?
Rick,
Thanks for reading. And this is more than a blog, these are professional writers with great experience in the field, not simply fans testing real guns. Without being combative what is journalism? Most of the gun books are for entertainment, the same reason I read Motor Tend, but there is also good information. I had the idea for this story and presented it to the editor because of the current move in law enforcement – by all reports- of a move away from the .40 to the 9mm. I took a look for myself. Evidently they have forgotten how badly they campaigned for the .40. Best,
Bob
I’ve been shooting a 3rd gen. 23 since its conception. It took time to get to like it since I’ve been a 1911 shooter since early ’50’s. With its capability to be converted to 9mm and.357 Sig in less than a minute, it has become my number 1 all around handgun. It has functioned flawlessly with all 3 calibers!