HK45 & HK45 Compact Pistols Variants

The HK45 is Heckler & Koch’s newest semi-automatic pistol and is available as both a full-size and compact model. The HK45 and HK45 Compact Pistol were developed as product improvements of the highly-regarded and ultra-reliable HK USP45 and USP45 Compact family of pistols that were introduced in the 1990s. New user-inspired enhancements found on the HK45 and HK45 Compact are also present on several recent Heckler & Koch semi-automatic pistols, including the P30, P30L, P2000, and P2000 SK. 

These features include changeable backstraps, improved Picatinny MIL-STD-1913 accessory rails, better ergonomics, and more ambidextrous controls. The HK45 and HK45 Compact Pistol were originally developed as possible candidates for the Joint Combat Pistol (JCP) and Combat Pistol (CP) programs administered by the U.S. military in their search for a new service handgun.

Well-suited for personal defense use, the HK45 and HK45C (Compact) are available in, or can be converted to, a wide variety of variants that use different trigger firing modes, including DA/SA (double action/single action) and DAO (double action only). The DAO mode uses the unique Heckler & Koch LEM (Law Enforcement Modification) firing system for improved double action trigger pull.

By using the modular approach to the internal components first pioneered by HK on the USP, the control lever function of the HK45 can be switched from the left to the right side of the pistol to accommodate left-handed shooters (additional parts required). Left and right mounted control levers provide safety and/or decocking functions as required and can be fitted to the pistol simply by changing parts. For true ambidextrous use, a control lever can also be mounted on both sides of the pistol if required. Extensively tested and operationally proven, the HK45 Series is a new paradigm for Heckler & Koch handgun design and manufacturing.

The HK45 is the first Heckler & Koch model manufactured in the company’s American factory in Newington, New Hampshire. Contoured and radiused machined steel slide with forward slide grooves (front cocking serrations) and anti-glare longitudinal ribs (top). An improved USP-style control lever, a combination safety and decocking lever, is frame mounted on the HK45 and is quickly accessible. The HK45 control lever has a positive stop and returns to the “fire” position after decocking. The full-size frame model of the HK45 measures 8.03 inches (204 mm) in overall length with a 4.47 inch (113.5 mm) barrel. Despite its “full-size” designation it is smaller than both the USP45 and USP40/9. The HK45 uses the an ergonomic profile grip similar to the recently introduced HK P30.

 HK45 Compact Pistols Variants

Each HK45 comes standard with an extra backstrap; medium and small interchangeable backstraps ensure an optimal fit for most shooter’s hands and complement the ergonomic profile grip. HK45 and HK45 Compacts have proprietary O-ring barrels for precise barrel-to-slide lockup and optimal accuracy. HK45 and HK45 Compact barrels are made using the famous HK cold-hammer forging process. Integral MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rail molded into the polymer frame dust cover for mounting lights, laser aimers, and other accessories. HK45 shown with SureFire weaponlight.