The HK (Heckler & Koch) 23 emerged in 1972 from the original HK 21, which explains the optical and technical resemblance between them and their variants. Usually it is fired from a bipod, but it can also be tripod mounted. While the production of the original HK 21 and 23 have officially ceased, there are still models in production. Residual numbers may remain in service. An “E” added to the weapon’s name identifies models for export.
