Glock 19 vs 23: What's the Difference?

Comparing the Glock 19 vs. 23 is like looking at two almost identical striker-fired semi-automatic pistols. The guns can be used interchangeably for a variety of purposes because the differences between them are very minimal. However, for avid shooters, army men, and gun enthusiasts, discovering these nuances is of utmost value. The Glock 19 is the most popular pistol from Glock with an optics-ready Modular Optics Configuration (MOS) system, no finger grooves, and front slide serrations. It comes chambered in a 9 mm Luger. The Glock 23 is the same but slightly bigger and comes in a .40 Smith and Wesson (S&W) cartridge. This contributes to variations in capacity, recoil, accuracy, and concealability. Our comparisons below will highlight all these differences.

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Glock 19 Vs. 23 Size and Weight Comparison

There isn't any difference in the overall length and height of the Glock 19 and 23. Both are 5.04 inches tall and 7.4 inches in length. Gen 4 G19 is 8 inches longer than G23. However, this is not the case with the Gen 5 models. Both pistols also have the same barrel length of 4 inches. There's a slight difference in weight, with the Glock 23 Gen 5 weighing 31 ounces and the G19 weighing 30 ounces.

The slightly heavier weight of the G23 is a result of the wider slide of the pistol. Even though the variation isn't much, the heaviness does impact the way the gun is handled and the shooting performance. The Glock 19's compacter design allows for a more comfortable and comforting carrying experience. That doesn't mean that the G23's heaviness comes in the way of carrying. It is a great combination of full-size and sub-compact pistols.

Here's a detailed comparison of the size of Glock 19 vs. Glock 23.

Glock 19 vs 23 - Caliber Differences

Caliber is the most significant difference between the two Glocks. The Glock 23 is a mid-sized .40 caliber pistol, while the G19 is its mid-sized 9mm counterpart. Also, the .40 ammunition of the Glock influences its stopping power, which is way more than the G19. So, the pistol offers the ease of use associated with the Glock 19 and the stopping power of larger calibers, which is why most professionals in the police department prefer it over the G19. Another point to note is that .40 caliber slides can handle 9mm. Some aftermarket barrels are designed to convert .40 S&W models to 9x19 mm. This is the major upside of owning the Glock 23.

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Differences in Capacity

The capacity and caliber of the Glocks are closely related. Although the G23 has a higher caliber, it has a standard capacity of 13 rounds because bullets with larger diameters, like .40 S&W, consume more space. Conversely, the G19 has a lower caliber but this allows more rounds to fit into it. Its standard capacity, thus, is 15 rounds. This capacity can be increased by installing larger magazines interchangeably.

Ability to Carry Concealed

Glock 23, with its .40 caliber, is rightfully regarded as a full-sized pistol. If you do not have a lean frame, the gun can get a bit chunky for IWB carry. When compared with the Glock 19, the G23's ability to conceal is faintly less. The Glock 23 Gen 5 has a moderately thicker slide than the G19, which affects the level of concealability. Gen 1 to 4 G23 models offer more advantages for concealability than Gen 5 Glock 23. So, if you prefer to carry discreetly, you can choose either the Glock 19 or G23's Gen 1 to 4 models.

Differences in Accuracy Between the Glock 19 and 23

The accuracy of the Glock 19 and 23 is great. Subtle variations are seen when we compare closely. Accuracy is linked to recoil and sighting radius. The sight radius of the two Glocks is the same (6.02 inches). Both have polymer frames and low-bore aix, which aids in minimizing recoil.

However, the G19 in 9 mm has a lower recoil and muzzle flip, which impacts accuracy positively. The 0.40 round of the G23 leads to more significant recoil, even if you have the strongest grip. So, the accuracy of G23 is slightly less than that of G19. It does not, in any way, mean that you cannot shoot your target. Seasoned owners of the gun can anticipate recoil and have no issues with G23's accuracy.

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Differences in the Power of the Round

The placement of shots is important to consider when comparing the Glock 19 and 23 because both of them are very identical. An easy way to know shot placement is by calculating the power factor. To find it out, divide bullet weight times velocity by 1,000. A power factor of 20 or above is excessive to control by most shooters and professionals in a pistol for personal defense.

Here's a breakdown of the power of 9mm and 0.40 S&W caliber rounds in different grains.

As is evident, the 0.40 caliber G23 has more significant stopping or knockdown power than the G19. This is because the .40 caliber bullet is thicker and heavier than the .35 caliber round of the 9mm. So, if your duties involve venturing into remote areas or hunting, you will need a pistol with great knockdown power, and the G23 easily fits the bill.

Differences in Trigger Between the G19 and G23

Both Glocks are equipped with the patented Safe Action safety mechanism, wherein three automatic safety mechanisms are automatically activated and disengaged without manual intervention. G23 has a double-action trigger, which is a simple and practical design. You can reset the trigger rapidly in this model. The G19 has a "New York" trigger spring. It uses a polymer spring support and a compression spring.

In both the Gen 5 Glock 23 and 19, as with other Glock pistols, the ramp's angle on the trigger connector determines the weight of the trigger pull. If the angle is greater, so is the pull weight. Glock trigger connectors come in three distinct angles, and all three of them fit Glock 19 and 23.

Besides the Safe Action trigger, both G19 and G23 are compatible with the GLOCK Performance Trigger. The new design utilizes a flat-face trigger. It gives a lighter, smoother pull, quick reset, and consistent trigger break. You may use this trigger for range and competition shooting.

Ability to Customize the Pistol

There is no shortage of options to customize Glocks 23 and 19. Let us begin with sights. Both G23 and G19 Gen 5 come with a Picatinny rail, which allows for easy customization of lights and lasers. You can even find models with custom finishes, Tetris stippling on the sides of the frame, and a double undercut to get a lower bore axis for better control on follow-up shots. Both the G19 and 23 allow you to change the fixed sights and barrels and install higher-capacity magazines. However, since the G19 is a more popular model, there are more aftermarket options for customizing it than for the G21.

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The Bottom Line on Glock 19 Vs. 23

The Glock 19 and 23 are reliable pistols with not many differences. The only visible variations are in their calibers and the resulting stopping power. Also, the advantage of concealed-carry is more with G19. But that does not affect G23's capability as a great everyday carry weapon for the range, competition shooting, or hunting expeditions. Besides, there are more custom accessories available for the G19. So, if you want to truly overhaul your pistol, it is possible with the Glock 19 more than 23. Ultimately, no model is better than its counterpart. Both are excellent, and your choice should depend on your preferences for comfort, accessibility, shooting circumstances, concealability, and the accuracy you desire.