Choosing between the Glock 22 and Glock 23 often boils down to personal preference and intended use. Both are popular, reliable handguns known for their durability and ease of maintenance, but subtle yet significant differences exist. This detailed comparison will help you decide which Glock best suits your needs.
Caliber: The Fundamental Distinction
The most crucial difference lies in their caliber:
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Glock 22: Fires the .40 Smith & Wesson (S&W) cartridge. This cartridge offers a larger projectile and more stopping power than the 9mm, but generally with increased recoil.
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Glock 23: Chambered in .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol), this pistol delivers substantial stopping power, but with noticeably more recoil than the Glock 22, or even a .40 S&W.
This caliber difference directly impacts felt recoil, ammunition cost, and magazine capacity. The .40 S&W generally sits in a middle ground between the 9mm and .45 ACP in terms of recoil and power.
Size and Weight: A Matter of Feel
While sharing a similar design philosophy, subtle dimensional differences exist:
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Glock 22: Slightly larger and heavier than the Glock 23 due to the longer cartridge. This translates to potentially more comfortable handling for some shooters.
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Glock 23: More compact and lightweight, making it easier to conceal and carry for extended periods. However, the increased recoil can make it less pleasant to shoot for some.
The size difference is minimal, but experienced shooters will feel the weight and dimensions impacting their overall shooting experience.
Magazine Capacity: Ammunition Considerations
Magazine capacity is affected by the cartridge size:
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Glock 22: Typically holds 15 rounds in standard magazines, offering a greater capacity for defensive situations. Extended magazines are available for even higher capacity.
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Glock 23: Generally holds 13 rounds in standard magazines, though extended magazines are also available. The lower capacity is a direct result of the larger .45 ACP cartridge.
Recoil and Shootability: A Subjective Element
Recoil is subjective, but generally:
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Glock 22: Offers manageable recoil for most shooters. The .40 S&W cartridge provides a balance between power and control.
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Glock 23: Features noticeably sharper recoil due to the .45 ACP cartridge. This can be challenging for new or smaller-statured shooters. However, experienced shooters accustomed to .45 ACP may find it perfectly manageable.
The best way to determine which recoil profile suits you is to shoot both handguns if possible.
Which Glock Should You Choose?
The "better" Glock depends entirely on your individual needs and preferences.
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Choose the Glock 22 if: You prioritize higher capacity, manageable recoil, and a balance between power and control. The .40 S&W is a solid all-around cartridge.
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Choose the Glock 23 if: You need maximum stopping power in a compact and concealable package, and you're comfortable managing the increased recoil of the .45 ACP.
Ultimately, handling both firearms and testing them at a shooting range is highly recommended before making a purchase decision. Consider factors like your hand size, shooting experience, and intended use case (concealed carry, home defense, competition, etc.) to determine the optimal choice for you.
