Introduction to the Glock 23X
If you’ve been keeping an eye on Glock’s innovative lineup, you’ve probably heard of the Glock 23X. But what exactly is it? In short, the Glock 23X is a crossover pistol that merges the compact slide of the Glock 23 with the full-size frame, offering shooters a balanced mix of concealability and capacity.
The 23X has quickly gained traction among firearm enthusiasts, law enforcement professionals, and everyday carriers who want the power of a .40 S&W round without compromising on comfort and handling.
Glock’s X Series Concept
Origin of the X Series
The X Series began with the Glock 19X, which was initially designed for a U.S. military contract. Even though it didn’t win that contract, the concept sparked huge interest in the civilian market.
sb tactical , pistol brace , sb tactical brace , sbtactical , ar pistol brace , sba3 brace, sb tactical , pistol brace, sb tactical hbpdw, sb tact , sba5 brace, pistol braces, sb brace, sba3, sba5, sba tactical, s&b tactical, sb tactical sba3 , sba4 brace , ar pistol brace, sba4, hbpdw brace, folding pistol brace, ar15 pistol brace , sba3 pistol brace, ak pistol brace , sba 5, mp5 brace, folding pistol brace, hbpdw, picatinny brace, pdw brace, picatinny pistol brace, sba3 brace, pistol, stabilizing brace, ar brace , arm brace, ar15 brace, ar 15 pistol brace, picatinny folding brace, 1913, folding brace , shotgun brace, best ar pistol brace, best pistol brace, 1913 brace, ruger charger chassis, ar pistol, mp5 pistol brace, sba5, mpx mpx, blade buttstock sb22, ar brace, sb tactical pistol brace, picatinny pistol brace, pistol stock, sba3 pistol brace, best pistol brace, folding brace, ak pistol brace, cz scorpion brace, mp5k brace, beretta pmx brace, sb tactical pistol brace, arm braces, sb tactical sba4, ar15 pistol, best ar pistol brace, sba4 brace, sb tactical, pistol brace, pistol brace on buffer tube, sb tactical hbpdw, sba5 brace, sob, pdw honey, badger, sig brace, sb tactical pistol brace, sba3 brace, sb3, sb tactical sba4 , hbpdw brace, glock brace, sba3, sba3 brace, pistol brace update, 1913 stock, atf pistol brace, glock pistol brace, folding pistol, picatinny folding brace, sb tactical hbpdw, ruger charger stock, mp5 brace, sb tactical pistol brace, sb tactical sba3, hbpdw, :sob:, psa jakl, sb tactical hbpdw, atf usa, picatinny, jakl-9, sba 5, best pistol, ruger 10/22 chassis, best ar pistol, sba4, mp5 pistol brace, ar pistol buffer tube, 10 22 chasis, sig brace, sba3 pistol brace, best mp5 clones, psa ar9, 1022 chassis, best handguns 2024, ap5 for sale, sba3, best pistols 2024, tactical draco, sb tactical hbpdw, sb tactical hbpdw, tactical skeleton, picatinny brace, pistol stabilizing brace, mp5k brace, best ar15’s, psa jackl, 1913 folding stock, pistol brace update, child’s wrist brace, sb22, a3 tactical brace, black scorpion holster, pdw brace, 1911 takedown, brace vs stock, b tactical, atf pistol brace update, psa shotgun, wrist brace near me, psa jkl, sb stock, ar15 discount, ar pistol for sale, l brace, 10 22 chassis, pdw pistol chasssis, best ar stock, 308 jakl, best ar brands, brace arm, best ar buttstock, list of atf approved pistol braces, pmx industries inc, a3 tactical, sb tactical sba4, sb tactical sba4, s.o.b, pistol brace vs stock, car-15 sd, g force blade 6, best sbr, gforce blade 6, stabilizing, best ar 15 2024, best revolver 2024, tactical elites, pmx industries, best revolvers 2024, sb3 cheek riser, sb3 cheek riser, pistol chassis, cz scorpion brace, psa firearms, jakl 308, what is a pistol brace, forearm brace, bcm ar15, jakl 9, milspec retail, tailhook brace, zb47, psa ar15, pcc extension, sd tactical, best pistol 2024, sba3 cheek riser, sba3 cheek riser, psa jakl 9mm, best hk pistol, picatinny stock, micro buffer tube, sb tactical pistol brace, sb tactical pistol brace, sb tactical pistol brace, sb tactical pistol brace, sb tactical sba3, sb tactical sba3, sb tactical sba3, ar data scout, zpap draco, pistol buffer tube, sba3 pistol brace, psa 9mm , tatical
Design Philosophy Behind the Crossover
The idea was simple yet brilliant: combine the compact slide for easier carry with the full-size frame for increased magazine capacity and better control. The Glock 23X brings this same formula to the .40 S&W platform.
Specifications of the Glock 23X
- Caliber: .40 S&W
- Magazine Capacity: 13 rounds (standard), with options for extended mags
- Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
- Overall Length: 7.44 inches
- Height: 5.47 inches
- Weight (unloaded): 24.9 oz
These numbers place the Glock 23X in a sweet spot—large enough to handle well, yet compact enough for concealed carry.
Design and Ergonomics
The Glock 23X doesn’t just perform well; it feels good in your hands.
Grip Design
The full-size grip allows for a solid hold, even for shooters with larger hands. Glock’s Gen 5 frame eliminates finger grooves, giving it a more universal fit.
Trigger System
It features Glock’s signature Safe Action® trigger system, providing consistent pull with every shot.
Ambidextrous Controls
Left-handed shooters will appreciate the ambidextrous slide stop lever and reversible magazine catch.
Performance and Reliability
When it comes to performance, Glock’s reputation speaks for itself.
Accuracy at Various Ranges
The 23X delivers tight groupings at 15–25 yards, making it effective for both defensive and duty use.
Recoil Management
The .40 S&W has a snappier recoil compared to 9mm, but the Glock 23X’s full-size grip helps tame it.
Field Testing and Durability
Like most Glocks, the 23X is built to run in harsh conditions—mud, sand, rain, you name it.
Glock 23X vs. Glock 19X
These two siblings share a lot in common but differ in caliber.
- Similarities: Both follow the crossover design, full-size grip, and compact slide.
- Differences: The 19X uses 9mm, while the 23X chambers .40 S&W.
Which should you choose? If you prefer higher capacity and softer recoil, go with the 19X. If you want more stopping power, the 23X is your best bet.
Glock 23X vs. Glock 23 Gen 5
The Glock 23 Gen 5 is compact all around, while the 23X offers the longer grip. The trade-off comes down to concealability versus control.
Concealed Carry Suitability
At first glance, some might think the 23X is too big for everyday carry. But with the right holster, it conceals surprisingly well while offering excellent capacity and handling.
Law Enforcement and Civilian Use
The Glock 23 has been a favorite among law enforcement for years. The 23X continues that legacy by combining proven stopping power with modern ergonomics, making it a solid option for both professionals and civilians.
Accessories and Customization
From night sights to red dot optics, the 23X is highly customizable. Glock’s MOS (Modular Optic System) versions are also available, allowing you to mount your favorite optic.
Popular add-ons include:
- Tritium night sights
- Weapon lights like Streamlight or SureFire
- IWB and OWB holsters from leading brands
Maintenance and Longevity
Like all Glocks, maintenance is a breeze. Regular cleaning and lubrication will keep it running for decades. Replacement parts are cheap and widely available.
Ammunition Choices for Glock 23X
The .40 S&W shines in versatility. From self-defense hollow points to budget-friendly range ammo, the Glock 23X can handle it all. Popular options include Federal HST, Speer Gold Dot, and Winchester Ranger.
Pros and Cons of the Glock 23X
Advantages
- Balanced crossover design
- Proven .40 S&W chambering
- Full-size grip for better control
- Glock reliability
Limitations
- Lower magazine capacity compared to 9mm counterparts
- Snappier recoil, which may be harder for beginners
User Reviews and Feedback
Many owners praise the Glock 23X for its comfort, accuracy, and adaptability. The most common criticism? Ammunition cost and recoil compared to 9mm.
Price and Availability
On average, the Glock 23X retails between $600–$750, depending on the configuration and dealer. It’s widely available at local gun shops and major online retailers.
Final Thoughts
The Glock 23X is a standout choice for shooters who want the versatility of the crossover design with the trusted punch of .40 S&W. Whether you’re a law enforcement officer, a concealed carrier, or just someone who appreciates Glock’s engineering, the 23X won’t disappoint.
FAQs
Q1: Is the Glock 23X good for concealed carry?
Yes, with the right holster, it balances concealability and control very well.
Q2: How many rounds does the Glock 23X hold?
It comes standard with a 13-round magazine, but extended options are available.
Q3: Is the Glock 23X better than the Glock 19X?
It depends—choose the 23X if you prefer .40 S&W stopping power, or the 19X if you want 9mm capacity and softer recoil.
Q4: Can the Glock 23X handle +P ammunition?
Yes, it’s built to handle high-pressure loads, but always check manufacturer recommendations.
Q5: What makes the Glock 23X different from the Glock 23 Gen 5?
The 23 Gen 5 is fully compact, while the 23X uses a crossover design with a full-size grip.