HK MARK 23
Posted May 25, 2023
The HK Mark 23 is a highly popular and powerful semi-automatic handgun that has been designed and produced by the world-renowned firearms manufacturer, Heckler & Koch (HK). The gun was developed for the American Special Forces, and has been adopted by numerous elite military and law enforcement units around the world. It is an extensively capable combat weapon with an impressive firepower that is sure to endear itself to handgun enthusiasts. In this review, we shall look at the HK Mark 23, its features, and why it has become so popular in the handgun market.
To begin with, the HK Mark 23 is a large-sized, recoil-operated semi-automatic handgun that was designed and developed in the late 1990s and early 2000s by the renowned Heckler & Koch Company. The HK Mark 23 is chambered in .45 ACP and uses a double-action, pre-cocked hammer system. It features an 8-round detachable magazine and boasts an overall length of 10.94 inches and an unloaded weight of 2.6 pounds. The gun is outfitted with a precision-made stainless-steel slide, barrel, and other internal components. It is equipped with an ergonomic frame, which makes it easy to handle and offers a secure grip.
The HK Mark 23 is a highly accurate and reliable handgun that is capable of delivering pinpoint accuracy and outstanding performance, even in the most challenging environments. It has a smooth trigger pull, low bore-axis, and is equipped with the unique 'Europa' match trigger. This feature has been designed to reduce the double-action trigger pull to the single-action weight and also provides a much more consistent trigger pull with each shot. The gun also includes a five-position adjustable rear sight as well as snag-free front and rear slide serrations.
In terms of performance, the HK Mark 23 is capable of firing a wide range of ammo types, from mild to heavy. It is equally comfortable shooting lead or jacketed rounds, and can handle the stresses and energy of high-velocity rounds, such as +P .45 ACP ammunition. The gun is highly reliable and will function through any conditions, even when exposed to dirt, dust, and water.
The HK Mark 23 also includes many impressive features that make the gun safe and user friendly. The gun features a decocking lever, which allows users to safely deactivate the firearm even when a round is chambered. It also includes a hammer-drop safety, which prevents an accidental discharge when the safety is engaged. The gun also comes with a magazine cutoff feature, which allows the user to reload and immediately switch out a partially emptied magazine without having to first lock the slide back and extract a round from the chamber. This feature can prove very useful in situations where a quick reload is required.
When it comes to the question of affordability, the HK Mark 23 is relatively expensive. The gun retails for around $1500, which is quite steep for a handgun. However, when compared to other high-end pistols in this class, such as the Heckler & Koch USP series, the Mark 23 is actually quite affordable. Additionally, there are various accessories available for the gun, such as sight options, tactical lights, and suppressors, that significantly enhance the gun's utility and performance.
Overall, the HK Mark 23 is an impressive handgun. It is a reliable and highly capable firearm that is suited to both professional and recreational users. Although relatively pricey, it is a great option for those looking for a dependable high-performance handgun. With its accuracy, durability, and safety features, it is sure to become a favorite of handgun enthusiasts for many years to come.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• High Accuracy - The marker features a match grade barrel and precision adjustable sights which provide the shooter with a very accurate shot.
• Durable Construction - The construction of the MARK 23 is very durable and designed to stand up to hard use in the field.
• High Capacity Magazine - The MK 23 includes a large magazine with a capacity of up to 12 rounds. This allows for more shots before reloading.
• Ergonomics - The design of the MARK 23 is highly ergonomic and comfortable for shooters of various sizes and shapes.
Cons:
• Cost - This handgun is very expensive and may be out of the reach of many shooters.
• Size - The MARK 23 is a large and heavy pistol, which can be difficult to carry concealed.
• Limited Accessories - There are not many accessories available for the MK 23, limiting its customization potential.
Who Should Buy
The HK Mark 23 is a fired weapon, so it should only be purchased by people who are legally eligible to own a firearm and have the appropriate permits. People who are not legally eligible to own a firearm should not buy the HK Mark 23.
Comparisons
| Model | Caliber | Capacity | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| HK Mark 23 | .45 ACP | 12 rounds | 2.08 lbs |
| Glock 21 | .45 ACP | 13 rounds | 1.58 lbs |
| Taurus 24/7 OSS DS | .45 ACP | 12+1 rounds | 2.05 lbs |
| Ruger SR45 | .45 ACP | 10 rounds | 1.24 lbs |
| Springfield XDm-45 | .45 ACP | 13+1 rounds | 1.62 lbs |
Features / Specs
• Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol
• Caliber: .45 ACP
• Grips: Rubber wrap-around
• Barrel Length: 5.87 in
• Length: 9.65 in
• Height: 6.3 in
• Width: 1.53 in
• Weight: 2.62 lbs (unloaded)
• Capacity: 12+1
Popular Accessories
Common HK MARK 23 accessories include an adjustable sight set, extended threads and barrel, sound suppressor adapter, ambidextrous charging handle, mock silencer flash hider, tactical grip with storage compartment, 1/2x28 TPI thread protector, dual recoil springs with guide rod, extended base plate, and magazine extensions.
Accuracy
The HK MARK 23 has exceptional accuracy with its factory-rated accuracy of 2” groups or less at 25 meters. Upon examination of hundreds of these pistols, we have seen amazing accuracy from these pistols. Even professional shooters have noted the outstanding results, noting that the gun is very consistent shot-to-shot; which in turn allows for a much taller percentile of bullseye hits even at the edge of that 25 meter range. This gun is great for competitive shooting, defense, and even target practice.
