DefenseReview.com (DR): An online tactical technology and military defense technology magazine with particular focus on the latest and greatest tactical firearms news (tactical gun news), tactical gear news and tactical shooting news.
By David Crane
david (at) defensereview (dot) com
Photo(s) Credit: Hecker & Koch (HK)
April 27, 2017
A few days agao, Heckler & Koch USA (HK USA) issued a press release on the new HK VP9SK striker-fired sub-compact (also written “subcompact”) 9mm Parabellum/9x19mm NATO combat/tactical pistol, and even from the mediocre company photos of it, the new pistol still looks pretty good. While the PP9SK utilizes a 10 round mag (magazine) as standard, 13-round and 15-round mags will also be available for it in November 2017, making it a true high-capacity subcompact pistol. DefenseReview (DR) is curious as to how the new gun will handle and perform against the lower-capacity single-stack Walther PPS, which is currently DR’s favorite subcompact pistol, even over a (factory) Glock 43 (G43), a Nous Defions Arsenal Democracy customized G43 mini/pocket blaster notwithstanding.
That said, DR would REALLY like to see a subcompact variant of the Walther PPQ M1/M2 and CZ P-10 (see our recent CZ P-10 C piece), and then run THOSE two pistols in a three-way head-to-head against the HK VPSK for a true apples-to-apples comparison. DR readers may remember that back in 2015, DR published a Walther PPQ M1-versus-HK VP9 face-off piece, based on Dave Pavlick’s (Nous Defions Arsenal Democracy) detailed analysis of the two pistols, particularly their triggers, and the PPQ came out on top, due to its superior trigger design (in Mr. Pavlick’s opinion).
It’s certainly a great time to be a striker-fired 9mm pistol proponent. Yes indeedy.
The following HK VP9SK info comes directly from the HK USA website:
“VP9SK
The eagerly anticipated subcompact model of the acclaimed Heckler & Koch VP Series handgun, VP9SK (in 9mm) has all of the sought-after characteristics of larger frame VP pistols but in a more concealable design.
The highly-rated HK VP precision strike trigger is also found on the VPSK. The VP trigger surpasses those found on competitors. It has a short, light take-up with a solid, single action type break followed by a short positive reset. The net result is trigger quality unmatched in production striker fired pistols.
A small-scale interpretation of the completely adjustable VP grip feature — consisting of interchangeable backstraps and lateral grip panels — is replicated in the compact grip frame of the VP9SK. This allows the pistol to be easily modified to fit any individual user and is a feature found only on Heckler & Koch handguns. Molded finger grooves in the front of the pistol’s grip also instinctively position an operator’s hand for optimal shooting.
The VPSK has the features of the latest, state-of-the-art handgun. All controls are completely ambidextrous. Slide releases are present on both sides of the frame and the paddle style magazine release can be easily activated by left- or right-handed shooters.
HK’s patented charging supports, found on full size VP pistols, are also present on the VPSK. The charging supports are simple components that are mounted on each side of the rear of the slide and provide better gripping leverage for racking the slide rearward. The charging supports speed reloading and make operating the VP easier for shooters with reduced hand strength.
VPSK pistols can use a variety of proven HK magazines, including compact double stack 10-round and 13-round with either flat or extended floorplates for a more ergonomic grip. The VPSK can also use the same high capacity 15-round magazine used by the full size VP and P30 handguns. Magazine sleeves that replicate the grip profile of the VP handgun are also available.
VPSK pistols have an abbreviated Picatinny MIL-STD-1913 rail molded into their polymer frame for mounting lights and accessories.
VPSK pistols use a proprietary captive flat recoil spring that helps reduce the recoil forces affecting the operator and the handgun, improving shooter control during rapid firing and prolonging component life span.
HK’s famous cold hammer forged barrel — made from cannon grade steel — ensures a long service life. Similar HK barrels on 9 mm P30 models have fired more than 90,000 rounds in endurance tests in 2010. The polygonal bore profile, with no traditional lands-and-grooves rifling, contributes to longer service life as well as a slight increase in muzzle velocity.
The VPSK’s machined steel slide is protected from corrosion and wear by HK’s hostile environment finish and all metal components, including springs and pins have superior metallurgy.
Despite their small size, VPSK subcompacts have excellent weight and balance making them naturally pointable, easy to control, and accurate to shoot. VPSK models are currently available in 9 mm.
VPSK pistols are made in Heckler & Koch’s Oberndorf factory in southwest Germany and are well suited for civilian sport shooting, security, military, and law enforcement use.
A high quality and well-engineered design, the VP9SK possesses all the features and long-term durability that make HK products especially cost-effective when subjected to total life cycle cost analysis. And like full size VP pistols, the VP9SK is value priced at $719 (MSRP).
Available Configurations
Part No. 700009K-A5, VP9SK, 9mm with 1 flat and 1 extended floorplate 10 round magazines – MSRP $719
Part No. 700009KLE-A5, VP9SK, 9mm with 1 flat and 2 extended floorplate 10 round magazines with night sights – MSRP $819
NOTE: 13-round and 15-round extended magazines will be available November 2017.
Dimensions
| Caliber | Length | Height | Width | Barrel Length | Sight Radius |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9mm | 6.61 in. | 4.57 in. | 1.31 in. | 3.39 in. | 5.73 in. |
Weight
| Caliber | Weight (with empty magazine) |
|---|---|
| 9mm | 23.07 oz. |
Other Specifications
| Caliber | Magazine Capacity |
|---|---|
| 9mm | 10“ |
Company Contact Info:
HK USA Contacts:
Commercial and Law Enforcement Sales (USA)
HECKLER & KOCH
5675 Transport Boulevard
Columbus, Georgia 31907 USA
Tel: 706-568-1906
Fax: 706-568-9151
Email: cs@heckler-koch-us.com
Website: http://www.hk-usa.com
Military and Federal Law Enforcement Sales (USA)
HECKLER & KOCH
19980 Highland Vista Drive, Suite 190
Ashburn, Virginia 20147 USA
Tel: 703-450-1900
Fax: 703-450-8160
E-mail: info@heckler-koch-us.com
Website: http://www.hk-usa.com
HK VP9 Product Page: http://hk-usa.com/hk-models/vp9/
Global Corporate Headquarters & Primary Manufacturing Center
HECKLER & KOCH GmbH
Postfach 1329 D-78722
Oberndorf/Neckar Germany
Tel: +49 (0) 74 23 79 -0
Fax: +49 (0) 74 23 79 -23 50
Global Website: http://www.heckler-koch.com
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