Description
Grand Power doesn't get the same shelf space as the big American names, but anyone who has spent time behind one of their pistols knows they're doing something different. The P1 MK23 is the compact version of the flagship K100, trimmed down for everyday carry while keeping everything that makes the full-size gun worth owning: the same grip ergonomics, the same 15-round capacity, and the same rotating barrel action that makes Grand Power pistols noticeably softer to shoot than a comparable Browning-style tilting barrel design.
What Makes the Grand Power P1 MK23 Different
The rotating barrel is the headline feature, and it's worth understanding why it matters. Instead of the barrel tilting upward during the recoil cycle like virtually every other modern service pistol on the market, the P1's barrel rotates on its axis as the slide moves rearward. The result is a lower bore axis, less muzzle flip, and reduced felt recoil. It's a noticeably different experience at the range, and it translates to faster, more confident follow-up shots. The Mk23 generation brought an updated locking system that uses cam grooves and locking lugs for a more streamlined and durable design, plus enhanced grip texture and a reworked slide with more aggressive serrations.
P1 MK23 Controls and Carry-Ready Features
Everything on this pistol is fully ambidextrous, including the safety, magazine release, slide lock, and even the takedown tabs. That kind of left-right symmetry is genuinely rare in the handgun world and is a big deal for left-handed carriers and anyone who trains seriously. The manual safety operates similar to a 1911-style thumb safety and can only be engaged with the hammer cocked. The DA/SA trigger gives you a longer, heavier first pull from the de-cocked position for an added margin of safety, with a crisp, short single-action pull for follow-up shots. The slide ships optic-ready with a milled cut and four included adapter plates covering the most popular red dot footprints: Vortex Venom/Docter Noblex, Trijicon RMR, CMORE STS2, and Shield SMS. Three-dot sights handle iron-sight duty when you're running it stock.
The frame is built around a CNC-machined steel chassis inside the polymer grip, which keeps the frame rigid and contributes to the P1's reputation for a consistent, repeatable trigger pull over a long service life. Four interchangeable backstraps come in the box so you can dial in the fit before you ever head to the range. For a compact pistol with real carry credentials, the P1 MK23 is the kind of gun that rewards a closer look.
Key Specifications
- UPC: 8588005808651
- Manufacturer Part Number: 8588005808651
- Model: P1 MK23
- Caliber: 9mm Luger (9×19)
- Action: DA/SA (Double Action / Single Action)
- Barrel Length: 3.66" (93mm)
- Overall Length: 7.38" (187.5mm)
- Height (without magazine): 5.24" (133mm)
- Width: 1.42" (36.2mm)
- Weight (with empty magazine): 735g (25.9 oz)
- Weight (without magazine): 647g (22.8 oz)
- Capacity: 15+1
- Sights: 3-Dot; side-adjustable steel rear
- Slide: Optic Ready / Serrated
- Safety: Manual thumb safety (ambidextrous)
- Color/Finish: Black
What’s Included
- Grand Power P1 MK23 pistol
- 3 x 15-round magazines
- 4 interchangeable backstraps
- 4 optic adapter plates (Vortex Venom/Docter Noblex/MeoRed 30, Trijicon RMR, CMORE STS2, Shield SMS)
- Trigger lock
- Bore brush
- Owner's manual
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the rotating barrel on the Grand Power P1 MK23 affect recoil?
The rotating barrel keeps the barrel moving in a straight line during the recoil cycle rather than tilting upward like a traditional Browning-style action. This allows for a lower bore axis and reduces felt recoil and muzzle flip noticeably. In practice, most people find the P1 softer to shoot than comparable compact 9mm pistols. It makes a real difference for fast, controlled follow-up shots.
Is the Grand Power P1 MK23 a good concealed carry pistol?
It's sized right in the Glock 19 range, making it manageable for concealed carry without feeling like you're giving up much in the capacity or ergonomics department. The 15+1 capacity is solid for a carry gun, the manual safety adds a layer of security, and the full-grip ergonomics make it comfortable to hold and shoot. Whether you carry IWB or OWB, the P1 MK23 fits the role well.
What red dot optics are compatible with the P1 MK23's optic-ready slide?
The P1 MK23 ships with four adapter plates that cover the Vortex Venom/Docter Noblex/MeoRed 30, Trijicon RMR, CMORE STS2, and Shield SMS footprints. That covers most of the popular micro red dot options on the market today. You'll want to make sure you have the right screw length for your specific optic, since plate depth can vary.
Does the P1 MK23 have a decocker?
No, the P1 MK23 does not have a decocker. To de-cock the hammer, you hold it with your thumb, press the trigger, and ride the hammer down slowly while keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. This is the same method used on several Eastern European DA/SA designs and becomes second nature quickly with practice.
What is the Mk23 designation and how is it different from older Grand Power pistols?
Mk23 is Grand Power's generational designation for their 2023 model updates, not a specific model name. The Mk23 generation introduced a revised barrel locking system using cam grooves and locking lugs, an updated optic-ready slide with a milled cut and included mounting plates, and enhanced grip and slide texture throughout. These updates apply across the entire Grand Power lineup, including the P1.
Can I adjust the grip size on the Grand Power P1 MK23?
Yes. The P1 MK23 includes four interchangeable backstraps that change the feel of both the palm swell and the sides of the grip. The largest backstrap also adjusts the trigger reach for those who want a more precise trigger finger position. Most people find the default backstrap fits well right out of the box, but having four options makes it easy to personalize the fit.





Reviews
There are no reviews yet.