HK Mk 23 Mod 0 SOCOM
Heckler & Koch GmbH · Pistol · In Production · 1996
Also known as: Mk 23 Mod 0, SOCOM Pistol, Offensive Handgun Weapon System, OHWS, HK Mark 23
Overview
The HK Mk 23 Mod 0 SOCOM is a large-frame, double-action/single-action semi-automatic pistol chambered in .45 ACP, developed by Heckler & Koch to meet the United States Special Operations Command's Offensive Handgun Weapon System (OHWS) requirement. Adopted in 1996, it forms the centerpiece of a system that also includes a knock-on suppressor and a laser aiming module (LAM). The pistol features a match-grade threaded barrel, a polymer frame, a corrosion-resistant finish, ambidextrous controls, and a separate manual safety and decocking lever, and is renowned for exceptional durability and accuracy under harsh field conditions.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1120 g (39.5 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 1450 g (51.1 oz) |
| Overall Length | 245 mm (9.65") |
| Barrel Length | 149 mm (5.87") |
| Height | 150 mm (5.91") |
| Width | 39 mm (1.54") |
| Sight Radius | 200 mm (7.87") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 12 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 259 m/s (850 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 477 J (352 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 406 mm (15.98") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Hostile Environment |
Calibers
- .45 ACP · primary — also known as .45 Auto, 45 ACP, 11.43x23mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Decocking Lever, Firing Pin Safety
- Features: Match Grade Barrel, Threaded Barrel, Suppressor Ready, Accessory Rail, Ambidextrous Controls, Corrosion Resistant Finish, Laser Aiming Module Mount
Variants
- HK Mark 23 — Commercial
Service history
Operators
- United States Special Operations Command · adopted 1996 · as Mk 23 Mod 0
- United States Navy SEALs · adopted 1996 · as Mk 23 Mod 0
- Polish Armed Forces
- Republic of Korea Armed Forces
Conflicts
- War in Afghanistan (2001-2021)
- Iraq War (2003-2011)
Production
Production years: 1996-present
Initial SOCOM contract announced in 1994 for 1,380 pistols; a civilian/commercial version is sold as the HK Mark 23.
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Designer: Heckler & Koch
Notes
The complete SOCOM Offensive Handgun Weapon System pairs the pistol with a quick-detachable suppressor and a laser aiming module. The pistol was extensively tested to extreme reliability standards, including 30,000-round component endurance with no parts failures.
Background
Developed under SOCOM's Offensive Handgun Weapon System program, the Mk 23 was conceived as an offensive weapon rather than a last-ditch sidearm. Its reputation for reliability was cemented by endurance testing in which test guns fired tens of thousands of rounds without a single component failure.