The HK VP9 might not have the same name recognition as a Glock 17, Glock 19, or models by Sig Sauer.
And yet, it is a great firearm for many reasons: Let’s review the HK VP9, a full-sized striker-fired pistol by Heckler & Koch.
The VP9 has various features that I love for shooting accurately and more comfortably.
I found the handling to be especially comfortable, with the barrel length enhancing precision and the trigger providing a smooth take up.
Our review will give you better insight into the VP9’s primary features and the benefits they offer.
Read on to learn more about HK VP9, its pros and cons, and a few alternatives you could consider.
Product Overview
The HK VP9 is among the solid full-size 9mm workhorse pistols that deliver the highest performance and bang for your buck. Like other high-quality HK guns, this handy firearm shares the same durability and reliability to let you look forward to long, enjoyable days at the range.
The HK VP9’s size and quality performance make it perfect for self-defense, concealed carry, and a great day at the range. Its notable accuracy makes it a great option since the barrel length improves precision and offers a longer sight radius.
The VP9 incorporates luminescent sights with one forward sight and two dots in the rear sight. These details ensure that lining up a shot is straightforward and convenient, and fast, even for beginners.
Pros
- Has a wide selection of different bullets available
- Delivers a fairly soft and easy-to-manage recoil
- Is lightweight
- Has an ergonomic and molded grip
Cons
- Has an unpopular paddle-style release
- The loaded chamber indicator can malfunction
- Recoil produces a high muzzle flip
Features of the HK VP9
Handling
The HK VP9’s handling integrates an ergonomic design that enhances your grip and precision. The molded grip incorporates a light texture without being aggressive. You can personalize it using the large, medium, and small panels included in the box. Attaching these accessories into the back and side of the grip lets you style the beautiful VP9 according to your preference.
For instance, you can fit a large grip on your backstrap with smaller ones on the side panels. Left-handed users can benefit from the adjustable feature since not many pistol grips offer this feature out of the box. The VP9 has an ambidextrous construction with slide releases on both sides.
Trigger
The HK VP9 has among the best-in-class triggers in the market, delivering a smooth take-up and a decent break. Its integrated ridges to aid your trigger finger to pull and make utility easier and more accurate by minimizing shifting of the pistol. I also like that you can get an aftermarket trigger to repair or upgrade a worn-out piece, eliminating expensive replacements of the entire gun.
Magazine and Reloading
The VP9 provides you with two 15-round magazines of 9x19mm ammunition. You can comfortably strip the gun since it features ergonomic cutouts at the magazine’s base.
Its title-style release lets you drop the magazine in different methods, using your main-hand thumb, middle finger, or trigger finger.
It also has a loaded chamber indicator at the back, appearing as a red dot below the rear sight. I appreciate this since it makes loading easier for beginners.
Social Proof
I scoured the internet and found some additional reviews for you to consider
This is also a strong review to consider as well:
Alternatives
The Glock 17 presents a solid alternative when you cannot find the HK VP9. The hold and feel of a VP9 remind me of a Glock. They have similar measurements and overall feel to the gun.
The Glock has a tough yet simple design globally recognized, with minimal muzzle rise and a full-sized grip to enhance accuracy and control.
Another alternative you can consider is the HK P30 which comes in 9x19mm Parabellum. The P30 is a high-quality pistol that will set you above the rest.
Like the VP9, the HK P30 incorporates detachable side and back straps to facilitate customization for maximum comfort. However, this model has more texturing than the VP9 to make it more forgiving if you have a less-than-stellar grip.
HK VP9: Worth It?
Whether you are starting your gun journey or are a regular at the range, it is easy to understand how the HK VP9 can quickly become your favorite 9mm pistol.
This handgun is a highly practical choice. It is easy to maintain, it’s safe, and it’s accurate. The ergonomic components such as moldable grip and loaded chamber indicator make it a suitable choice for different users, ranging from experienced shooters, and left-handed gun owners, to beginners.
The masterful Heckler & Koch ensures you have a lightweight yet sturdy pistol to serve you reliably for decades to come.
Brady Kirkpatrick is the Editor of Gun Made. Brady is a passionate firearm owner from Omaha, Nebraska. Gun Made has been featured in various publications such as Forbes, Officer.com, American Police Beat, and countless others.
