Frequently Asked Questions
Glock 23 Gen 3 for sale
What is the best upgrade for the Glock 23?
Popular upgrades include night sights (Trijicon, Ameriglo), a 9mm conversion barrel for cheaper ammunition, and an aftermarket barrel from KKM or Lone Wolf for improved accuracy. For carry use, prioritize sights first, then grip texture and trigger components. A recoil spring assembly helps manage .40 S&W recoil.
Can you put a red dot on a Glock 23 gen 3?
Yes. Gen 3 Glock 23s aren't MOS-cut, so you'll need a dovetail mounting plate (around $50) to attach a red dot like the Fastfire 3 or similar compact optics. Installation is straightforward and doesn't require slide modification. Modern red dots handle .40 S&W recoil without issue.
How much is Gen 3 Glock 23 worth?
Gen 3 Glock 23 pistols typically cost around $499–$549 new. Used examples average around $346, with some selling as low as $200–$275 depending on condition. Ten variants are tracked across 29 retailers, with 7 currently in stock.
Is the Glock 23 being discontinued?
Based on marketplace data, the Glock 23 has been officially discontinued by Glock, effective 11/30/2025. It is being replaced by the G23 V and G23 V MOS. We still show 10 variants across 29 retailers, but stock will not be replenished. Act quickly if you want one.
Which Glock 23 gen is the best?
"Best" depends on your priorities. Gen 5 is the latest, dropping finger grooves and adding a flared mag well and ambidextrous slide stop. Gen 4 offers a reversible magazine release and interchangeable backstraps. Gen 3 suits shooters who prefer finger grooves. Handle each if possible—personal fit matters most.
How reliable is a Glock 23?
Glock 23s earn strong reliability marks from shooters and law enforcement. Users report virtually zero malfunctions across hundreds of rounds with mixed ammunition types. Its striker-fired design and simple mechanics contribute to dependable performance. Recoil is sharper than 9mm but manageable, particularly in the Gen4 model and earlier generations like Gen3.
Is a used Glock 23 a good value?
Used Glock 23s typically sell for $350–$400, offering solid value if condition is good. You get a proven compact .40 S&W pistol suitable for carry or home defense. Check the generation, inspect for wear, and confirm function before buying. Parts and support are widely available.
When did Glock stop making Gen 3?
Glock produced Gen 3 pistols until late 2025, when they appear to have been discontinued. Glock also discontinued multiple Gen 3 and Gen 4 slim line models around this time. Check current retailer listings to confirm availability of remaining stock for specific variants.
Is Glock 23 better than Glock 19?
Neither is objectively better. The G19 shoots 9mm with lighter recoil, lower ammunition costs, and broader aftermarket support. The G23 fires .40 S&W, offering more stopping power but snappier recoil and slightly bulkier dimensions. Your choice depends on recoil tolerance, budget, and intended use.
What's the best ammo for Glock 23?
For the G23, choose .40 S&W hollow points meeting FBI standards: 12-18 inches of penetration and at least 0.6 inches of expansion. Reliable options include Hornady Critical Defense 165gr and Federal HST 180gr. Test several loads for reliability and accuracy in your specific pistol before carrying.
Does a Glock 23 have a threaded barrel?
Glock offers factory threaded barrel options for the G23, including Gen3 and Gen4 variants. Aftermarket threaded barrels from makers like SilencerCo, Lone Wolf Arms, and Gorilla Machining are also available as drop-in replacements, allowing you to attach suppressors or compensators.
What are the benefits of a Glock 23 threaded barrel?
A threaded barrel lets you attach suppressors, muzzle brakes, or compensators to your G23. Muzzle brakes reduce recoil and improve follow-up shots, particularly useful given .40 S&W's sharp recoil. Suppressors protect hearing. Overall, it expands your customization options beyond the standard configuration.
Is Glock 22 or 23 better?
Choose the G22 for full-size control, longer sight radius, and higher capacity if accuracy at distance matters. Pick the G23 if concealed carry is the priority—it's more compact while still delivering .40 S&W performance. Both are law-enforcement proven.
Can a Glock 23 be converted to a 9mm?
Yes, a Glock 23 converts to 9mm by installing a conversion barrel in the existing slide. Standard Glock 19 magazines work directly. Many shooters use this for cheaper range practice. Conversion barrels typically cost $100–$150, far less than buying a separate pistol, though some avoid conversions for defensive carry.
Is a Glock 23 a 9 or a 40?
The Glock 23 is chambered in .40 S&W. It's a compact, striker-fired pistol with a 13-round magazine capacity. With a conversion barrel and 9mm magazines, it can also fire 9mm ammunition.