The Glock 23 Gen4 FS (Front Serrations) stands as a popular choice among concealed carry enthusiasts and law enforcement professionals alike. This compact .40 S&W pistol offers a compelling blend of firepower, reliability, and manageable size, making it a versatile firearm for various applications. This in-depth review will explore its key features, performance characteristics, and overall suitability for different users.
Key Features of the Glock 23 Gen4 FS
The Glock 23 Gen4 FS builds upon the proven platform of its predecessors, incorporating several significant enhancements. Let's break down its defining characteristics:
Caliber and Capacity:
- .40 S&W: The powerful .40 Smith & Wesson cartridge delivers substantial stopping power, making it a popular choice for self-defense and law enforcement.
- 13+1 Capacity: The standard magazine holds 13 rounds, providing ample ammunition for most scenarios. Extended magazines are also available, increasing capacity further.
Gen4 Upgrades:
- Improved Ergonomics: The Gen4 features interchangeable backstraps, allowing for customized grip size and feel to suit individual hand sizes. This significantly improves comfort and control.
- Rough Textured Frame: The textured grip provides enhanced purchase, even in wet or sweaty conditions, promoting a secure and confident hold.
- Dual Recoil Springs: The dual recoil spring system contributes to smoother operation and reduced felt recoil, improving overall shootability.
- Front Serrations (FS): The addition of front slide serrations provides improved purchase for slide manipulation, even while wearing gloves. This is a crucial feature for faster and more reliable reloads under pressure.
Other Notable Features:
- Safe Action System: Glock's signature Safe Action system combines a trigger safety, firing pin safety, and drop safety, ensuring the pistol only fires when the trigger is intentionally pulled.
- Durable Construction: Glocks are renowned for their robust polymer construction, which combines lightness with impressive durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Reliability: The Glock 23 Gen4 FS is known for its exceptional reliability, functioning flawlessly even in adverse conditions.
Performance and Handling
The Glock 23 Gen4 FS balances power and control remarkably well. The .40 S&W cartridge provides substantial stopping power, while the improved ergonomics of the Gen4 frame mitigate recoil, making it manageable even for shooters with less experience. The textured grip and front serrations further enhance control and facilitate fast reloads.
Suitability and Applications
The Glock 23 Gen4 FS's compact size and powerful cartridge make it suitable for a wide range of applications:
- Concealed Carry: Its compact dimensions make it ideal for everyday carry, easily concealed under clothing.
- Home Defense: The .40 S&W cartridge provides sufficient stopping power for home defense scenarios.
- Law Enforcement: Its reliability and firepower have made it a favored sidearm among law enforcement agencies.
Considerations
While the Glock 23 Gen4 FS offers numerous advantages, potential buyers should consider a few factors:
- Recoil: The .40 S&W cartridge produces more recoil than 9mm, which may be less comfortable for some shooters, especially those with smaller hands.
- Capacity: While the magazine capacity is substantial, it's lower than some larger caliber pistols.
- Cost: Glock pistols are generally competitively priced, but the added features of the Gen4 model may slightly increase the overall cost.
Conclusion
The Glock 23 Gen4 FS is a high-performing, reliable, and versatile pistol. Its compact size, powerful cartridge, and enhanced ergonomics make it a compelling choice for concealed carry, home defense, and law enforcement applications. However, potential buyers should carefully weigh the recoil and capacity considerations before making a purchase. The combination of features, reliability, and ease of use make the Glock 23 Gen4 FS a top contender in the compact pistol market.
