Glock 23 vs 27: 16 Parameters that Help You Choose the Best

It can be daunting to choose between Glock 23 vs 27 since both guns have similar features and performance.

The following is an in-depth write-up analyzing these two weapons to determine the best handgun to suit your needs. Read through to understand the parameters distinguishing these guns.

Glock 23 vs 27 – Overview

The comparison table below will hint at similarities and differences between Glock 23 and Glock 27.

Glock 23 and 27 Primary Specifications

Numerous features, particularly on the gun’s design, should better guide you in understanding your weapon’s dynamics. Below are the key characteristics of the G23 and G27.

Glock 23 Primary Specs

The G23 is an improved version and has the following primary features.

Glock 27 Main Specs

G27 is smaller than the G23 and is designed as a better model of the G26. It has the following main features.

Glock 27 vs 23: Magazine Capacity and Physical Specifications (Primary Specs)

There are specific handgun features that you should take note of when comparing the 23 and 27. These attributes are mainly physical factors that play a role in the ease of everyday carry and loading of ammo. 

Frame Features: 23 vs 27 Handguns

The G23 version is one of the initial compact designs based on the Glock 19’s make, another reduced-size gun from the G17 version. Similar to regular small-frame handguns, this compact-size gun has interchangeable slide systems.

Meanwhile, the Glock 27 is a sub-compact 2nd model of the first Glock 26 version. Its frame size is an introduction to address the disadvantages of the initial compact design. Therefore, most G27 guns have better interchangeability features. 

The Winner: The G23 version has the best frame specifications. The extensive details on the frame make handling G23 more convenient.

Weight Comparison: Glock 23 VS Glock 27

A gun’s weight comes into play in terms of recoil management and durability, a factor highly considered in these Glocks.

These are their masses with loaded magazines (40 S & W caliber). You’ll find that each weight is manageable, only differing in bullet impact handling.

The Winner: You’ll like G27’s ultralightweight nature, which outshines the G23’s weight details.

Grip Specifications: Glock 23 VS Glock 27

The G23 has a long grip in addition to the backstrap design, allowing you to customize it for more control. The extended version is ideal for recoil and muzzle flip and complements the follow-up shots.

A G27’s grip is a smaller version whose convenience isn’t guaranteed. Your solution is to acquire modern G27 models with added dual recoil springs that reduce the kickback.

The Winner: G23’s grip size specification is ideal, with better comfortable handling, and protective features.

Accuracy Capabilities – G23 vs G27

The guns’ sizes impact their accuracy. Shooters with larger hand surface areas will tend to struggle with a baby Glock 27. However, the vice versa is also true, thus a need to confirm if the grip is comfortable for more precise shots. 

With a longer barrel, you’ll love the accuracy of the G23, which also comes into play when shooting over an extended range. On the other hand, the 27’s trigger fires at a higher velocity, making precision more of the marksman’s problem. 

The Winner: The accuracy in G23 is better through its larger details on its grip and barrel.

The Gun’s Shootability & Reliability Factors – G23 vs G27

Featuring a full frame, G23 provides a better four-finger hold, a rare advantage with the G27, where your pinky might be uncomfortably free. However, there’s room for an extended grip or magazine to correct any size errors. 

Despite the G27 not offering the best handling features, its longevity, and reliability are impressive. Together with the G23, you can rely on them to provide quality service in the long run. Here are some of the user convenience features for these excellent Glocks.

The Winner: Again, you’ll have a convenient time targeting while using the G23, which is also more reliable than the G27.

Concealing Ability: G27 Vs G23

Despite their size difference, these weapons are concealable. The Glock 27’s lightweight design and sub-compact size make it easy to disguise.

The 23’s concealing ability could be better, but it’s manageable with average-sized adult hands. In addition to good concealment, this gun’s size has the following pros:

The Winner: The smaller G27 has better ergonomics, thus being easier to conceal than the G23.

Cartridge Capacity: G27 Vs G23

You’ll love the G23 handgun’s magazine, carrying 13 rounds of S & W in the magazine, while the smaller variety only takes 9 bullets of the same cartridge. The weapons, however, have one additional ammunition in the chamber. 

As mentioned, the larger version can handle heavy cartridge recoil, while G27 needs to address the impact with the help of aftermarket accessories. Interestingly, the Glock 27 can use different varieties of bullets. 

The Winner: G23’s magazine capacity is larger, holding 13 bullets, compared to G27’s, which can only accommodate 9.

How Safety Locks and Performance Give Value to Each Glock

Apart from recoil management, knowing your gun’s safety features and performance capabilities is essential.

Here are the dynamics of these features impacting a gun’s value.

Safety Lock Features

Like most quality brands, the Glocks have an ideal safety and trigger system, including these technical safeties:

However, these safety locks disengage immediately after pulling the trigger, where the independent factor allows you to bypass either feature securely. Additionally, there are more safety designs which include the following: 

Close-up Photo of a trigger system.

Performance Features: Range Specifications

As mentioned, both Glocks give a cut-throat output in a head-to-head comparison. Their effective ranges are another factor that significantly determines their value and market pricing. 

The G23 has a max range of 50 meters and an interchangeable magazine release catch, which you can move to either side. The G27 covers an approximate distance of 30-35 meters, and factors like an ergonomic hold and integrated trigger guard complement your aiming.

Our Verdict: The Best Version

The G23 is a great handgun, winning in accuracy, reliability, and recoil management, where its size (frame, barrel, and grip) complements its quality output. Meanwhile, the 27 is the best conceal weapon thanks to its smaller size. It also has more incredible cartridge velocity. 

Nonetheless, despite major differences like recoil control, their performances come close, thus the confusion on which one to pick. Your intended use should guide you, and you can also select both as they are easy to bring along and perfect as larger rifle back-ups.

FAQ

Conclusion

That’s all we had on comparing G23 vs G27, where the long-barreled gun wins regarding overall performance. With their output differences slim, you can depend on the G27 for various purposes, taking advantage of its superior concealment capability. 

So, which Glock version would you prefer? Comment below with your answer, and tell us your review if you’ve used either gun before.