View Full Version : New to .40 S&W & G23 - any tips/pointers
I bought a new G23 w/ night sights today and really like the way it feels in the hand and how well it shoots. I hit Wally World and picked up a value pack of 165 gr FMJ WWB and a UMC 180 JHP value pack and headed for the range. There, I was really pleased with how well the gun performed and how easy it was to shoot well (well, by my stds). I ordered a couple of boxes of doubletap 165 gr gold dots and look forward to shooting some good ammo. I've only been shooting 6 mos. and have moved from 9mm (g26) to .45 (g30) and very recently .357 Mag (2 1/4" and 3" Ruger SP-101 and 3" Ruger GP-100) and, once again, I'm in completely new territory with .40 S&W. Any tips or pointers from those who have gone before on ammo, modifications (changing recoil springs), etc, or can I just expect the smooth sailing like I've had with my G30 (Wall-Mart 230 gr value packs - range, Speer Gold Dot 230 gr carry, no modifications to pistol)?
Elmstreet
12-02-2004, 20:16
Before reloading, I liked both UMC and Sellier & Bellot 180 grain FMJs for range fodder. Since reloading, I still favor 180 grains, but have found some hollow points that function flawlessly.
Both the UMC and S&B are pretty reasonable priced ammo and I have never had a malf with either.
Hope this helps.
Thanks Elmstreet. I shot a lot of UMC 230 gr through my g30 with no malf's, so it's good to know I can expect the same with 180 gr .40.
I've put about every ammo I could find through my G23 and haven't had any problems. I also have not modified anything on my gun. It is my carry and competition gun and I think it does fine for both.
Good choice on the 23!^c
Timjo1955
12-02-2004, 22:33
Soon after buying my G23, I had a few problems with it not going into battery with Blazer aluminum 180 grain rounds several times. I attributed it to the pistol not being broken in. I have several thousand rounds through the pistol now and no more problems with Blazer aluminum. WWB, Blazer brass, Rem UMC, and Fiocchi in FMJ all work fine. In JHP, I have used Speer Gold Dot 165 grain, Rem Golden Saber 180 grain, Rem 155 grain, and Rem UMC(from Wal-Mart) in 100 round packs without a jam. I have a Hogue one-piece sleeve on the pistol, but it has gotten loose so I have A-grips on order from Lone Wolf. I buy most of my practice ammo these days at Wal-Mart.
RMTactical
12-02-2004, 22:59
I have never had issues with any specific ammo in my G27, it eats it all. I shoot mostly WWB in 165gr for practice and 165gr Speer Gold Dots for CCW.
failsafe
12-03-2004, 07:12
I believe that most 40 cal shooters opt for the 165 gr rd...Hey not everybody, but I would venture to say most do...My rd of choice is the Remington Golden Saber 165 gr.....
i like the winchester silvertip 155s- they are easily available and reasonably priced and shoot well.
thinkfast
12-03-2004, 12:41
Beware of aftermarket mods-most of us wish we could have that money back for more ammo.
Watch out for the El Cheapo Reloads at the Gun Shows. The Glock owner's manual puts the ix-nay on reloaded and/or soft lead ammo. Wal-Mart 100 packs are tailor made for Glocks.
Heavier loads seem milder, like 165 & 180 grain.
Lighter loads really sizzle-think 135 grain Corbons for a 'blast' at the range.
Since you've handled the G26 for some time you're good to go with the G23. Blast away. And don't wait too long to add a G27 to your armory!
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