welcome to Glock 23 Vs Ruger Max 9 comparison Blog.
I’ve had the opportunity to test out a couple of pretty impressive firearms: the Glock 23 Vs Ruger Max 9.
These two have been on the radar for anyone into concealed carry or looking for a reliable daily shooter. Let’s dive right into the details and see how these two stack up against each other.
| Feature | Glock 23 | Ruger Max 9 |
| Caliber | .40 S&W | 9mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 13 rounds | 12+1 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches | 3.20 inches |
| Weight (without mag) | 21.34 oz | 18.4 oz |
| Overall Length | 7.28 inches | 6 inches |
| Slide Width | 1.0 inch | 0.95 inch |
| Height (incl. mag) | 5.04 inches | 4.52 inches |
Glock 23
The Glock 23, often seen as the compact sibling of the G22, is tailored for concealed carry and daily use.
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
Ruger Max 9
The Ruger Max 9 is a highly compact and lightweight pistol, designed for ultimate concealability without sacrificing firepower. It’s an ideal choice for personal protection, offering a blend of performance and comfort in a micro-sized package.
Specs
- Capacity: 12+1 rounds
- Overall Length: 6 inches
- Weight: 18.4 oz.
- Height: 4.52 inches
- Barrel Length: 3.20 inches
- Slide Width: 0.95 inch
Features Comparison: Glock 23 Vs Ruger Max 9
1. Concealability and Comfort for Everyday Carry
Glock 23
The Glock 23, designed with daily carry in mind, really stands out in terms of concealability.
I’ve carried it around for a day and barely noticed it was there. It strikes that sweet spot between size and firepower, ensuring you don’t feel weighed down but still have enough rounds at your disposal.
Ruger Max 9
The Ruger Max 9 takes the concept of concealability a notch higher. It’s lighter and slightly smaller than the Glock 23, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize ease of carry.
During my test, it fit comfortably in various concealed carry positions, and its slim profile was hardly noticeable, even under light clothing. For those who are always on the move, this can be a significant advantage.
Winner
When it comes to concealability and everyday comfort, the Ruger Max 9 edges out the Glock 23. Its lighter weight and more compact size make it an ideal choice for extended periods of carry, especially in situations where discretion is key.
While the Glock 23 is undoubtedly comfortable and concealable, the Max 9’s design caters more effectively to those who prioritize minimalism in their concealed carry firearm. It’s the kind of gun you can carry all day and forget it’s there, which is exactly what many concealed carriers look for.
2. Handling and Ergonomics
Glock 23
The Glock 23 feels sturdy and well-balanced in hand. Its ergonomic design allows for a comfortable and firm grip, essential for accurate shooting.
The recoil is manageable, and the gun remains stable even during rapid firing. For daily carry, its compact size is a plus, making it easy to handle in various situations.
Ruger Max 9
The Ruger Max 9 is lighter and slightly smaller, which contributes to its ease of handling, especially for those with smaller hands. The grip texture ensures a secure hold, and the gun’s lightness reduces fatigue during extended use.
However, the lighter frame does mean slightly more perceived recoil, which might affect rapid fire accuracy for some shooters.
Winner
Both guns perform admirably, but the Glock 23’s balanced design and manageable recoil give it a slight advantage in this category. Its stable handling makes it a great option for both beginners and experienced shooters.
3. Accuracy and Performance
Glock 23
During my testing, the Glock 23 showed impressive accuracy. At various distances, it consistently hit close to the target’s center.
The trigger pull is smooth, contributing to better control and precision. This reliability in accuracy makes it a trustworthy choice for both self-defense and sport shooting.
Ruger Max 9
The Ruger Max 9 also showcased commendable accuracy. The lighter trigger pull aids in quick shots, and the gun performs well at close to medium ranges.
However, at longer distances, the smaller barrel length might slightly affect precision when compared to the Glock 23.
Winner
This one’s tough, as both guns show excellent performance. But, by a small margin, the Glock 23 takes the lead due to its consistent accuracy across various ranges.
Its stability and smooth trigger pull make it a slightly better performer in the accuracy department.
Pros & Cons Glock 23
Pros
- High Magazine Capacity: Standard 13 rounds, great for extended use without reloading.
- Robust Build Quality: Durable and reliable for everyday carry and usage.
- Balanced Ergonomics: Comfortable grip and manageable recoil, enhancing shooting accuracy.
- Good Concealability: Compact enough for concealed carry, without compromising on firepower.
Cons
- Heavier Build: Might be slightly cumbersome for some users, especially over long periods.
- .40 S&W Recoil: The caliber can be more challenging for new shooters.
- Size: While compact, it’s still bulkier compared to ultra-compact models.
Pros & Cons Ruger Max 9
Pros
- Ultra-Lightweight and Compact: Ideal for concealed carry, very comfortable for all-day wear.
- Sleek Design: Slim profile, making it less noticeable when concealed.
- Ease of Handling: Lighter weight aids in quicker maneuverability.
Cons
- Shorter Barrel: Can affect long-range accuracy.
- Smaller Size: Might be less comfortable for shooters with larger hands.
Similarities between Glock 23 & Ruger Max 9
- Designed for Concealed Carry: Both are tailored for discreet carry.
- Semi-Automatic: Both are semi-automatic pistols.
- Polymer Frames: Utilize polymer in their construction for durability and reduced weight.
Differences between Glock 23 & Ruger Max 9
- Caliber: Glock 23 is .40 S&W, while Ruger Max 9 is 9mm.
- Magazine Capacity: Glock 23 holds 13 rounds, Ruger Max 9 holds 12+1.
- Weight: Glock 23 is heavier (21.34 oz without magazine) compared to Ruger Max 9 (18.4 oz).
- Overall Size: Glock 23 is slightly larger and bulkier.
- Barrel Length: Glock 23 has a 4.02-inch barrel, Ruger Max 9 has a 3.20-inch barrel.
- Ergonomics: Glock 23 is more suitable for a variety of hand sizes, Ruger Max 9 favors those with smaller hands.
- Recoil: Glock 23’s .40 S&W has more recoil compared to Ruger Max 9’s 9mm.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing both the Glock 23 and the Ruger Max 9, it’s time to wrap up this comparison. Both firearms have their unique strengths, making them standout choices in their own right.
Ultimately, the choice boils down to individual preferences and specific needs. As for me, my pick goes to the Glock 23. Its combination of firepower, accuracy, and versatility makes it a more rounded choice for both everyday carry and range use.
It’s a firearm that doesn’t just meet expectations but exceeds them in various scenarios, from self-defense to recreational shooting.
FAQ’s
What is a Glock 23 good for?
The Glock 23 is excellent for both open and concealed carry, offering a balance of compact size, light weight, and substantial magazine capacity in .40 S&W caliber.
Is the Ruger Max 9 reliable?
Yes, the Ruger Max 9 has proven to be highly reliable, with extensive testing showing zero malfunctions over a significant number of rounds.
Is the Ruger Max 9 a pocket gun?
The Ruger Max 9 is versatile enough to be used as a pocket gun. It’s designed to be comfortable and concealable in an inside-the-waistband or pocket holster, without compromising on capacity or features.
Why is .40 caliber considered the best?
The .40 caliber is often preferred for its balance of power and size. It delivers more energy and larger wound channels compared to other calibers, making it a popular choice for self-defense.
