Heckler & Koch Mark 23

Heckler & Koch MK 23
Heckler & Koch MK 23
	MARK 23 equipped with suppressor and laser aiming module.
Type	Semi-automatic pistol
Place of origin	Germany
Service history
In service	1996–present
Used by	See Users
Production history
Designed	1990s
Manufacturer	Heckler & Koch
Produced	1991 – July 2010 (Military version only) 1991-present (Civilian version)
Variants	Mk 23 MOD 0 (military markets); Mark 23/MARK 23 (civilian and law enforcement markets);
Specifications
Mass	1.2 kg (2.43 lb), empty; 1.47 kg (3.2 lb), loaded; 2.29 kg (5.0 lb), loaded, with suppressor and LAM;
Length	245.11 mm (9.65 in), without suppressor; 421 mm (16.5 in), with suppressor;
Barrel length	149.10 mm (5.87 in)
Width	39.116 mm (1.54 in);
Height	150 mm (5.9 in);
Cartridge	.45 ACP Can also fire .45 Super using factory parts and no modifications
Action	Short recoil, DA/SA, Modified Browning Action, Linkless. SA pull 4.85 lbs. (2.20 kg) and DA pull 12.13 lbs. (5.50 kg)
Rate of fire	Semi-automatic
Muzzle velocity	370 m/s (1200 ft/s)
Effective firing range	50 m
Feed system	Detachable box magazine; capacities: 10 rounds (restricted); 12 rounds (standard); 17 rounds (extended); 20 rounds (extended); 24 rounds (extended);

The Heckler & Koch MK 23, Mk 23 MOD 0, Mark 23, or USSOCOM MARK 23 is a semi-automatic large-frame pistol chambered in .45 ACP, designed specifically to be an offensive pistol. The USSOCOM version of the MK23 came paired with a laser aiming module (LAM) and suppressor. The USSOCOM MK23 was adopted by the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) for special operations units, beating out the nearest competitor, Colt's OHWS. Development of the pistol began in 1991 as special operations representatives identified the need for an "Offensive Handgun Weapons System—Special Operations Peculiar", and delivery of the pistols began in May 1996 to the special operations units.

While the USSOCOM Mk 23 designation usually refers to the complete system, it is also commonly used to refer to the pistol component alone. The LAM and suppressor were developed by Insight Technology and Knight's Armament Company (KAC), respectively. The civilian version of the Mk 23 sold by itself is designated the Mark 23.