The MK23 gives shooters absolute match grade accuracy - yet they exceed the most stringent operational requirements ever demanded of a combat handgun.
One of the most thoroughly tested handguns in history, the MK23/MARK 23 project originated in 1991 when HK began development for the U.S. Special Operations Command, the unit that directs the activities of America’s most elite military units, including the NAVY SEALS and the Army Special Forces. Following stringent comparative trials, on May 1st, 1996 the Mk23 was adopted as a service pistol under the designation MK23 MOD.O.
Among others the following tests had to be passed successfully:
30,000 round endurance firing test with + P ammunition
Extreme temperatures +73°C/-54°C
96 hours saline mist test
Sand, dust and sludge tests
96 hour surf simulation
Harshest drop tests
Accuracy and the highest precision
The frame mounted de-cocking lever, separate from the ambidextrous safety lever, allows the hammer to be lowered safely and quietly. When the hammer is down, the ambidextrous frame mounted safety lever is locked in fire position so that the pistol is always ready for Single Action operation. During testing, the USP had to meet the most stringent operational and accuracy requirements ever demanded of a combat handgun. Endurance testing demonstrated a service life of over 30,000 rounds of + P ammunition. To meet the reliability requirement, the pistol had to demonstrate a minimum of 2000 mean rounds between stoppage (MRBS). All pistols in the test exceeded the 2000 MRBS with an average of 6000 rounds.
In more than 450 accuracy test firings from a precision firing fixture, MK23 pistols far exceeded the US Government requirement, averaging under 37 mm.
Specifications
Caliber .45 AUTO
Principle of operation Recoil operated weapon with modified Browning locking system and recoil buffer system
Dimensions .45 AUTO
Overall length 9.65 inch
Overall height 5.90 inch
Overall width 1.54 inch
Barrel length 5.87 inch
Sight radius 7.68 inch
weight Without magazine 2.43 lb
Magazine capacity 12 Cartridges
Single Action (SA)
trigger pull 5.17 lbs
Double Action (DA)
trigger pull 11.47 lbs
Sights Fixed
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The operation of the pistol, recoil operated weapon with locked breech and tilting barrel.
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Grip made of glass fibre reinforced polymer with corrosion proof metal inserts
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Safety with separate de-cocking lever for the hammer
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Two Steel magazines
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Magazine capacity 12 cartridges
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Integrated support rail for aiming units
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Open square notch rear sight with contrast points
