Hey there! You’re not alone if you’re grappling with the choice between the Glock 23 Vs Glock 27.
As a professional shooter with plenty of hands-on experience with both models, I’m here to share my insights. These two Glocks are top contenders in the world of concealed carry firearms, and each has its strengths.
Let’s dive into the details and see if we can’t make your decision easier.
| Feature | Glock 23 | Glock 27 |
| Caliber | .40 S&W | .40 S&W |
| Magazine Capacity | Standard 13 rounds | Standard 9 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches | 3.43 inches |
| Weight without Magazine | 21.34 oz | 19.40 oz |
| Weight with Loaded Magazine | 31.39 oz | 26.46 oz |
| Trigger Pull | Approx. 6.29 lbs | Approx. 6.29 lbs |
| Overall Length | 7.28 inches | 6.50 inches |
| Slide Length | 6.85 inches | 6.26 inches |
| Overall Width | 1.26 inches | 1.26 inches |
| Height Including Magazine | 5.04 inches | 4.17 inches |
Overview Glock 23
The Glock 23 is the compact brother of the G22, designed with concealed carry and daily use in mind.
Specs
- Caliber: .40 S&W
- Magazine Capacity: Standard 13 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
- Weight without Magazine: 21.34 oz
- Weight with Empty Magazine: 23.81 oz
- Weight with Loaded Magazine: 31.39 oz
- Trigger Pull: approximately 6.29 lbs
- Overall Length: 7.28 inches
- Slide Length: 6.85 inches
- Overall Width: 1.26 inches
- Slide Width: 1.0 inch
- Height including Magazine: 5.04 inches
Overview Glock 27
The Glock 27 offers the same reliability and performance as its larger counterpart but in a subcompact frame, making it ideal for concealed carry.
Specs
- Caliber: .40 S&W
- Magazine Capacity: Standard 9 (Optional up to 22)
- Barrel Length: 3.43 inches
- Weight without Magazine: 19.40 oz
- Weight with Empty Magazine: 21.34 oz
- Weight with Loaded Magazine: 26.46 oz
- Trigger Pull: approximately 6.29 lbs
- Overall Length: 6.50 inches
- Slide Length: 6.26 inches
- Overall Width: 1.26 inches
- Slide Width: 1.0 inch
- Height including Magazine: 4.17 inches
Top 5 Features: Glock 23 VS Glock 27
1. Accuracy
Glock 23
The Glock 23, with its slightly longer barrel and larger frame, provides a stable platform for accurate shooting. In my testing, I found that its size, combined with the heftier weight, helped in managing recoil, which is key for accuracy.
The longer sight radius also aids in better alignment and improved precision. For shooters with larger hands, like myself, the Glock 23’s dimensions offer a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience.
Glock 27
The compact size of the Glock 27 posed some challenges for me, especially with follow-up shots. The shorter barrel and sight radius demand more skill to maintain accuracy.
However, surprisingly, I found myself shooting more accurately with the Glock 27. Its compactness somehow worked in my favor, offering quicker alignment and a snug fit in my hand, even if I had to adjust my grip occasionally. The accuracy was consistently good, hitting closer to the center mass.
Winner
This one’s a bit tricky. While the Glock 23 has the theoretical edge due to its size and sight radius, my personal experience leaned toward the Glock 27. Despite its compact size, I achieved better accuracy with the 27.
It’s a testament that individual preferences and hand sizes play a significant role in shooting accuracy. So, in my case, the Glock 27 takes the crown for accuracy, though it might not be the same for everyone.
2. Shootability
Glock 23
Shooting the Glock 23 felt more natural due to its larger frame. It sits comfortably in the hand, offering a solid grip and better control over the weapon. The recoil was manageable and didn’t significantly impact my shooting rhythm.
The larger size also meant that it was easier to maintain a consistent grip throughout multiple rounds. During my testing, I noticed that the Glock 23 allowed for smoother transitions between shots, adding to its overall shootability.
Glock 27
The Glock 27, being smaller, surprised me with its shootability. Despite its compact size, it wasn’t uncomfortable to shoot. The recoil was a bit more pronounced than the Glock 23, but it was by no means unmanageable.
I did have to adjust my grip occasionally, but it didn’t majorly disrupt my shooting experience. The Glock 27 proved agile, allowing for quicker handling and maneuverability, a significant advantage in certain scenarios.
Winner
For shootability, I’d lean towards the Glock 23. Its larger frame and balanced weight distribution offer a more stable shooting experience, especially for those with larger hands.
The controlled recoil and ease of maintaining a consistent grip make it a more forgiving firearm, particularly for extended shooting sessions. The Glock 27, while impressive in its own right, requires a bit more finesse to master due to its compact size.
3. Concealability
Glock 23
The Glock 23 strikes a balance between size and concealability. Its compact design is a step down from full-sized models, making it easier to conceal, especially for someone with my build (6’3″, 205lbs).
I found that the Glock 23 could be comfortably hidden under a jacket or loose shirt without much printing during my testing. Its size requires a bit of planning regarding clothing choice, but overall, it’s a viable option for concealed carry.
Glock 27
The Glock 27 excels in the realm of concealability. Its subcompact frame makes it an ideal choice for concealed carry, easily fitting into various holsters and clothing styles.
During my tests, I noticed that it was easier to conceal the Glock 27 than the Glock 23, with minimal printing, even under lighter clothing. Its size is a significant advantage for those prioritizing discretion in their concealed carry firearm.
Winner
When it comes to concealability, the Glock 27 is the clear winner. Its smaller frame and lighter weight make hiding easier, especially under less bulky clothing.
This makes it an excellent choice for everyday carry, particularly when discretion is key.
4. Capacity
Glock 23
The Glock 23 boasts a standard magazine capacity of 13 rounds, which is quite generous for a compact firearm. I appreciated this higher capacity during my testing, as it meant fewer reloads and more continuous shooting.
This aspect becomes crucial in self-defense scenarios where each round can make a significant difference. Knowing you have those extra rounds, the higher capacity also gives a psychological edge.
Glock 27
The Glock 27 comes with a standard magazine capacity of 9 rounds. While this is lower than the Glock 23, it’s still respectable for a subcompact firearm.
I noticed the need for more frequent reloads in my field tests, but this didn’t significantly hinder the shooting experience. The option to use higher capacity magazines is there, but it slightly alters the gun’s profile and may affect concealability.
Winner
When it comes to capacity, the Glock 23 is the clear winner. Those extra four rounds in the standard magazine can be a game-changer in various situations. While the Glock 27’s capacity is adequate for most concealed carry scenarios, the Glock 23 offers a better balance between firepower and size.
For someone who values capacity highly in their decision-making, the Glock 23 is the preferable choice.
5. Ergonomics
Glock 23
The Glock 23’s larger frame offers better ergonomics for shooters with larger hands, like myself. During testing, I found that its grip and overall design provided a comfortable and secure hold, crucial for controlled shooting.
The balance and weight distribution felt natural, and the controls were easily accessible. This ergonomic design contributes to better handling and, ultimately, to improved accuracy and shootability.
Glock 27
The Glock 27, being a subcompact, has a smaller grip, which might not suit everyone, especially those with larger hands. In my testing, I had to adjust my grip more frequently, and while the gun was still manageable, it didn’t feel as natural as the Glock 23.
However, its smaller size does make it easier to handle and maneuver, especially in tight spaces, which is a plus for concealed carry scenarios.
Winner
The winner in ergonomics is the Glock 23. Its design caters to a wider range of hand sizes, providing a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience.
The Glock 27, while excellent in its own right, may present some challenges for those with larger hands due to its smaller grip.
Therefore, the Glock 23 stands out as the more ergonomically favorable option for overall comfort and control, particularly during extended shooting sessions.
Pros & Cons Glock 23
Pros
- Larger frame offers better grip and control for those with big hands.
- Higher standard magazine capacity of 13 rounds.
- Longer barrel length aids in improved accuracy and shootability.
- Slightly heavier weight aids in recoil management.
- Overall larger dimensions provide a more stable shooting platform.
Cons
- Heavier weight might be less ideal for extended carry periods.
- Might feel too large for shooters with smaller hands.
Pros & Cons Glock 27
Pros
- Compact size makes it highly concealable.
- Lighter weight is more comfortable for long periods of carrying.
- Smaller frame is advantageous in close-quarters scenarios.
- Optional higher capacity magazines available.
Cons
- Standard magazine capacity of 9 rounds is less than the Glock 23.
Similarities between Glock 23 Vs Glock 27
- Both are chambered in .40 S&W caliber.
- Share the same Safe Action System.
- Similar trigger pull weight (approximately 6.29 lbs).
- Overall width of the guns is identical (1.26 inches).
- Both models are renowned for their reliability and durability.
Differences between Glock 23 Vs Glock 27
- Glock 23 has a longer barrel (4.02 inches) than Glock 27 (3.43 inches).
- Glock 23 is heavier across all weight categories compared to Glock 27.
- Glock 23 has a higher standard magazine capacity (13 rounds) than Glock 27 (9 rounds).
- Glock 23 is longer and taller, providing a larger frame than Glock 27.
- Glock 27 is more compact, making it slightly more concealable than Glock 23.
- Glock 23’s larger size offers a more stable platform for users with larger hands.
- Glock 27’s smaller size may require more frequent grip adjustments for larger hands.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing the Glock 23 and Glock 27, it’s time to wrap up and reveal my personal choice. Both pistols stand out for their reliability, performance, and suitability for concealed carry.
In my experience, GLock 23 emerged as a more balanced choice. This model struck the right chord with me, balancing size and firepower in a way that suits my lifestyle and requirements.
FAQ’s
Can Glock 27 use Glock 23 magazines?
Yes, Glock 27 can use Glock 23 magazines for extra capacity, providing flexibility and convenience.
Can I shoot 9mm in my Glock 23?
Yes, 9mm NATO can be used in a Glock 23, but be mindful of the increased pressure and always maintain your firearm with care.
Is a Glock 23 a full-size gun?
No, the Glock 23 is not a full-size gun; it combines compact dimensions suitable for both open and concealed carry.
How many rounds can a Glock 27 hold?
The Glock 27 typically holds 10 rounds of .40 S&W in its standard configuration, making it highly effective in a compact size.
