Glock 23 Gen 2 – Overview

The Glock 23 Gen 2 is a compact semi-automatic pistol chambered in .40 S&W, designed for law enforcement, personal defense, and concealed carry. Introduced in the early 1990s, the Gen 2 variant reflects Glock’s continued refinement of their "Safe Action" pistol platform, offering a balance between firepower, size, and reliability. Unlike later generations, the Gen 2 models are known for their absence of finger grooves, smooth grip texture, and two-pin frame design, which some shooters prefer for its simplicity and comfort.

Specifications

Model: Glock 23 Gen 2

Caliber: .40 S&W

Action: Striker-fired, Glock “Safe Action” system

Capacity: 13+1 rounds (standard magazine), compatible with extended mags

Barrel Length: 4.02 inches (102 mm)

Overall Length: 7.36 inches (187 mm)

Height: 5.00 inches (127 mm)

Width: 1.18 inches (30 mm)

Weight:

Unloaded: 21.16 oz (600 g)

Loaded: ~31 oz (880 g)

Frame Material: Polymer

Slide Material: Steel (Tenifer or nDLC coated depending on production batch)

Sights: Fixed (standard white dot front, white U-notch rear)

Grip: Non-textured polymer with no finger grooves (Gen 2 feature)

Rail: None (Gen 2 models do not include accessory rails)

Safeties: Trigger safety, firing pin safety, drop safety

Finish: Matte black

Production Era: Early-to-mid 1990s

Key Features

Compact Frame: Easier to conceal and carry than the full-size Glock 22.

.40 S&W Chambering: Offers a balance between capacity and stopping power.

Classic Glock Reliability: Known for durability and ease of maintenance.

No Finger Grooves: Preferred by many for its cleaner grip profile.

No Accessory Rail: Reflects the original design intent of streamlined simplicity.