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Glock 23(gen4) vs Glock 23(gen3)?

4.6K views 20 replies 16 participants last post by  Larry V  
#1 ·
I'm getting a pistol, new or like new condition. I don't know what mods(if any) that I'll make to the pistol, suggestions? I was thinking of a heavier recoil spring, etc. May not need a new spring with the gen4, or I may still want to upgrade to a heftier spring, i don't know.

I need to know if I should go with the gen3 or gen4 based of availability of parts and other factors. I'm not asking for a comparison between all the guns features, but feel free to enlighten me if I've overlooked something. I like the gen4's new spring system and exchangeable backstraps. I am aware of the enlarged mag release, ambidextrious release, & grip stippling.

Where should I buy and which pistols should I go with? Also what mods and iwb holster should I grab?
 
#2 ·
Hickok45 on You Tube compares the two. He favors the gen 4 model over the gen 3. But that is his preference. There are some aftermarket parts for the gen 4 but not many.

Depending on what mods you want to do with the gun, the most flexibility at this point is the gen 3. The gen 4 will eventually get to this point.

If you are a GSSF member and have a local gun shop that will honor the GSSF gun program, then buy through them. If you don't have anyone around, check out Ed's Public Safety, they will treat you right. If youÂ’re not a member, consider it. You may check some of your local guns shops and see what they would do on prices. I have one here that will match a cheaper price, provided you can document the price and its accuracy.

Holsters are like opinions....everyone has one and it is the right one. There are a lot variances with this; carry all day, your dress, job, body, are just to name a few. It'll be more trial and error than a science.

I haven't shot the gen 4 yet so I don't have factual info on how it shoots. But check out Hickok45s video.

Good Luck and have fun!


:wavey:


red
 
#3 ·
I have a gen 4 G23. I'm pretty happy with the way it shoots. I have to be honest though, I've shot the gen3 and gen 4 G23 and didn't notice much difference in the way they shoot. I love the way Glock shoots period.

I do like having the interchangeable backstraps. Gives me the flexibility to find the right grip feel of the gun. I also like the heavier duty spring.

Just an opinion, believe me, I am FAR from an expert. Good luck with the purchase!

I am actually thinking of joining the GSSF as well for the gun purchase program. Sounds like a sweet deal!

Safe Shooting!
 
#8 · (Edited)
Do you have a link to this video? I'd like to watch. Thanks!

Safe shooting!
Actually it's a Gen2 vs. Gen 4 comparison
http://www.youtube.com/user/hickok45#p/u/19/kXS3c110Te4

The main differences between the Gen 3 & Gen 4 is the Gen4 offers different size backstrap options, and a completely redesigned recoil spring assembly. If the grip flexibility offered by the Gen4 is important to you, go with that one, otherwise either one should be just fine.
 
#12 · (Edited)
If you plan on using Crimson Trace laser grips, I don't believe they are (yet) available for the Gen 4. it would be difficult, given the adjustable backstraps.
I've got the CT's on my OD gen 3 and really like them.
John
Im guessing that you would be resigned to use the crimson trace "laserguard" product. I am doubtful that CT will bother trying to desin laser "grips" for an interchangeable grip gun..

Again, though, the crimson trace "laserguard" product would make more sense.
 
#13 ·
Actually it's a Gen2 vs. Gen 4 comparison
http://www.youtube.com/user/hickok45#p/u/19/kXS3c110Te4

The main differences between the Gen 3 & Gen 4 is the Gen4 offers different size backstrap options, and a completely redesigned recoil spring assembly. If the grip flexibility offered by the Gen4 is important to you, go with that one, otherwise either one should be just fine.

Thanks for the correction, my bad, he had a gen 3 g19 instead of the gen3 g23. It was a gen2...thanks for posting the link. Just was able to get back on the 'net.


:wavey:


red
 
#14 ·
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You must not know where to shop. :whistling:

There are some pins, a trigger assembly from Glockmeister and have heard of a couple of small things from other online suppliers (haven't seen them to know exactly what they are)....but like was stated earlier, there aren't many.

Does that help, JBP55?


:wavey:


red
 
#15 ·
I think whatever would feel best to you. I hear the grips on gen 4s are less exaggerated as compared to gen 3's. I'd like to get a hold of a gen4 to do a comparison.
 
#19 ·
If you want a smooth glossy slide, get a Gen3. I've got a Gen 4 22 and just got a Gen 4 23. The 22 is one of the early ones that don't have the recessed rim for the spring in the front of the slide. Anyway, the 22 has a nice glossy slide and the 23 has a flat grey looking slide that already shows signs of use from nicks and dings from carry. The barrels on both are flat grey. People who claim the Gen 4's recoil less or whatever are FOS. Really the only benefit is the recoil assemblies should last at least twice as long before replacement because the springs are working half as hard. A 20# recoil assembly is going to feel the same if all other things are the same whether it's accomplished with one or two springs.
 
#20 · (Edited)
What is the poundage on the gen 4 springs?

Why 9mm in gen3 4sure?

I don't know the rate of a gen 4 recoil spring but it's widely acknowledged that it: a) is heavier than gen 3 b) solved the problems that some .40cal gen 3's had with weapons lights (via lowering excessive slide velocity). The latter being a major complaint of major L/E organizations.

Without trying to start a pissing contest, many believe (I'm one of them) that the gen 3 recoil spring rate is correct for a 9mm but too light for a .40. Many also believe (I'm one of them) that the gen 4 recoil spring rate is correct for a .40 but too heavy for a 9mm.
 
#21 ·
If you want a smooth glossy slide, get a Gen3. I've got a Gen 4 22 and just got a Gen 4 23. The 22 is one of the early ones that don't have the recessed rim for the spring in the front of the slide. Anyway, the 22 has a nice glossy slide and the 23 has a flat grey looking slide that already shows signs of use from nicks and dings from carry. The barrels on both are flat grey. People who claim the Gen 4's recoil less or whatever are FOS. Really the only benefit is the recoil assemblies should last at least twice as long before replacement because the springs are working half as hard. A 20# recoil assembly is going to feel the same if all other things are the same whether it's accomplished with one or two springs.
My Gen 3 22 and 23 feel about the same as the Gen 4 22 I purchased. I have stainless steel rods and springs in my gen 3's so they shoot pretty soft!!