Battle of the Germans - P30 vs USP

[@Dara-ih6jq]

Let’s be honest here. Nobody needs more than 1 but once the H&K bug bites you, you end up with a desire to collect them all even though it’s completely illogical and expensive.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

True, but can always get your money back out of then so a safe investment IMO.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Will have to get to that level soon, close, but not yet.

[@tron3420]

@@TheGeekyNerd any advice on where to find a quality owb UBL holster for the HK p30? Only ones I see at places I am sure make quality products have nothing or vp9 holsters only.

[@SeangLHeng]

Yep I bought a USP .40 and ended up buying the P30, P30L, P30sk. I might as well collect all of them

[@Lexicologist1971]

I liked the P2000 so well, I got a 2nd to be sure I always have one.

[@Lexicologist71]

The P2000 is a USP Compact with improved ergonomics. I have both. They use the same magazines and holsters. The P2000 is completely ambidextrous with adjustable grip size. The USP has a safety and aggressive checkering front and back. The trigger on the USP has less travel in every movement.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Great vid, man! The USP is definitely the best "hell and back" handgun.

[@MatteoFitness]

better than the mk23?

[@NightwoodGuns]

@@MatteoFitness The USP is certainly easier to carry 😅

[@stephansmith740]

Got my first one yesterday. Shot it... and after years of collecting. I'm deciding to downsize 75% of my pistol collection. My heavily used 95` USP 40 (450$) is hands down the pistol I shoot the most effectively and I noticed this on round 5 as much as round 500. I'll be buying my HK pistols to say the least...

[@wehrewulf]

$450

[@mikeburford3005]

I've been trying to decide whether to get the USP or P-30. This video is helpful! Thanks, man!

[@theexpatgunner]

Got myself a full size USP 9 earlier this year and love it! You can tell it has a nice finish and is very well built! Great video 👍

[@bradlfsh]

I had a p30 it was really nice. It's Decked out with features out the box. It was hammer fired which I like and you can't hardly find any hammer fired autos these days

[@tonyfelix287]

I have the P30 V1 with the LEM trigger, i can’t believe I don’t miss the safety even with a round in the chamber.

[@VersperasSDS]

The P30 also has the hostile environment finish.

[@Dulex123]

Beautiful firearm. (Might have commented on this video on my other channel..?) my grandpa has a hk usp 9 made in the year 2000. He bought it in February of 2001, he last fired it..probably 2006..? It’s pretty darn new. Not even 150-200 rounds have been through it. Got to inspect it last week!❤

[@brianshuler6951]

The USP set a standard for combat pistols in the 1990's and it is still a top performer. The 9mm compact is an excellent carry pistol for all of us who prefer handguns with more substance than the micro's and sub-compacts of today.

[@lifeistoshortgottobeoptimi8707]

Carry one everyday in a Alien gear holster

[@brianshuler6951]

@@lifeistoshortgottobeoptimi8707 I still have the AGH hip holster

[@brianshuler6951]

I used until I converted to AIWB. I use a JM Custom Kydex for appendix carry.

[@wehrewulf]

micros

[@tjwonder8157]

Great video. Adjusting the different grip sizes for a custom grip is a really good idea. Small, Small, Large seems to fit really well.

[@voyteka1870]

Finally - a proper comparison video of USP & P30. Well done!

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Thank you much. I was looking for a video myself for some time but can never find one.

[@leonkennedy4587]

@@TheGeekyNerd make one for the p30sk and the vp9 sk

[@Lexicologist1971]

The USP Compact mag release can be upgraded with the HK45C mag release.

[@Raider214]

I don't have much trigger time on my P30L, but I've got tons of reps with my USP45 and HK45 tactical. I should absolutely love the HK45 more, it has front slide serrations, the batman grip, and total ambi controls, but the recoil system in the USP just works. Not that the HK45 doesn't, but it works differently.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Agreed.

[@Lurkartiist]

Lol Batman grip

[@billassande7628]

Good video sir.. All my HK hammer pistols are LEM so the difference in triggers is almost nonexistent. I find that I shoot the USP slightly better since changing out the OEM sights for my preferred fiber front/black rear. Once I can find a set of Trijicon HDs for my USP9c we will see. With most people who shoot both they like the feel of the USP9c a bit more. I have my P30's setup with the large grip panels and backstrap so that could be why. I don't use a WML beyond home defense or very limited circumstances making proprietary rail of the USP moot. Overall both are great guns.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Thank you much. :) Very well said.

[@mrglock2313]

I have been wanting a p30 for a long time now, so today is the day I purchased one. I can't wait until I pick it up and try it out. Good video 👍

[@pistoreroloco]

Where did you find it ?

[@mrglock2313]

@@pistoreroloco GunBroker $650.00

[@pistoreroloco]

@@mrglock2313 used ?

[@mrglock2313]

@@pistoreroloco new. I got the V3 not the long slide. I think my barrel is 3.85 and you can get a full hand grip on it

[@pistoreroloco]

@@mrglock2313 if you can DM me I want one bad

[@nextlevelfirearms6585]

H&K & their LEM trigger...you'll never look back

[@GregSims-f2h]

Great overview thank you

[@Holret]

There are solutions to alot of the USP aging shortfalls. You can modernize to the same level as a modern fire arm. You could buy a heavier spring, any of the already available compensators (given that you have a extended barrel), an optics plate (which replaces the rear sight), a rail adapter and of course, you can always grab an extended magazine. If you want a USP be ready to dish some $$$

[@pg2661]

Love them both!

[@ryszardkoprowski1414]

Please note, that P 30 incorporates a more simple, yet harsher trigger mechanism. Its creepy and far away from the UPS's one.

[@digitalpunk5365]

The Olight pl mini Valkyrie 2 will fit the usp and USPc rail with a slight adjustment with the key on the light. Works great

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Good to know! Thanks, have one and will try it out.

[@digitalpunk5365]

@@TheGeekyNerd I could have sworn I subbed to you either yesterday or today. Following your 500 follower thing. I just checked and it showed I wasn’t. I even commented on it but now I’m not sure. Perhaps just a dream.

[@docmagee5211]

I have and love them both! Plus, I have a few other HK models as well. HK is my brand of choice. 😎

[@chaff5]

The USPc compact holds 13 rounds because it's a compact. The P30 is a full length grip.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

True, but comparing them there still is room for probably two more rounds of the follower was changed.

[@chaff5]

@@TheGeekyNerd The update P30/VP9 mag holds 17 rounds. The USP compact, even if updated, will still lag behind because you're comparing a duty gun to a compact.

[@Gieszkanne]

@@TheGeekyNerd Yes you can see that with the USP Compact in 40 S&W there it holds 12 round so just one less. Normally version in 40S&W have at least 2 rounds less or more. Someone in another review said that you can get 15 rounds of 9mm into the 40 USP compact mags. HK should offer 15 round flush mags for the USP C. And probably it would be also possible to make 17 rounders for the full size USP:

[@thenotoriousvlog5986]

Good review. I have an HKVP9. I shot it better than my Glock 19. I looked at my 19 like a red headed step child lol jk. I still love my 19 but the HK felt better on my hands. I might do a comparison video and tell what differences I like and dislike betw the two. Looking to get a P30 in the near future. I use to be a Glock fanboy but now I’m venturing out to different brands.

[@moustachio334]

Seeing the inside of both side by side puts my mind at ease about the integrity of the P30. It seems internally it is the same reliable hammer fired HK. Now I wish HK would beef up and actually perfect the VP9. I love the VP9 but it does seem like their budget gun. I wish I could find a video like this comparing the two. I know the P30 is a legitimate duty gun made to handle regular abuse. I fear the VP9 is only made for match shooting. I don’t understand why HK would risk their indestructible image with a gun like the VP9. I love the trigger but can I trust it? I see a lot of VP9 problems popping up in the forums and fortunately HK has steadily improved the gun by replacing the polymer RSA. I’ve also seen people get new VP9’s with problems and HK is quick to help them, it’s often “out of spec” springs. I’m thinking this had a lot to do with gun demand during Covid and HK can’t be the only manufacturer with problems but then again, when have you ever heard of a P30 or a USP with problems? I haven’t. Maybe their 2020 update VP9’s are vastly improved. You’re correct that these guns are going to be more accurate and durable than the shooter. There are plenty of VP9’s proving the fake MAC torture test wrong. I just love the feel of the VP9 and wish it was on par with the build quality of a P30 or USP. I love the P30 but the striker action is incredible.

[@chrisf247]

People act like the USPs all have better or lighter triggers than the P30s, but I think it comes down to individual guns. I think HK has a pretty wide range as far as acceptable trigger pulls on their pistols.

[@TheLegoJoker]

Get yourself and Xgrip adapter for your P30 mags to fit your USP Compact. They cost around $30 or so, but worth it to me.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Thanks, will check them out sometime....just need to find more P30 mags now lol.

[@pandemonikussuperbus4590]

The regular usp and uspc are as good as the p30 and hk45.BUT the expensive line of usps like the expert tactical match elite are on a completely different level.and the mark 23 on a league of its own.

[@Brad-ic4bp]

I was on the hunt for a P30 9mm when I found a USP Compact at one of my local gun shops. I wasn't aware they were still being made. I assumed the P30 had replaced the USP. I bought the USP, and it feels much better in my hand (no need for different backstraps and side-panels to customize the grip ). I also like the more prominent slide release lever on the USP. Obviously, either gun is money well-spent, but I shelled out $1,019 for the USP, so that one clearly gets my vote.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

USP is more of a battle proven/made gun whereas the P30 is a modernized upgrade suitable for civilian and military markets IMO.

[@shadowphl]

@@TheGeekyNerd P30 if memory recalls was the pistol that has gone 90,000 rds without major failures, if i am not mistaken. my choice is the P30 in .40sw V3, mine though has a tuned trigger from car firearms when Fred was still doing trigger jobs and it is sweet! short reset 3.5lbs sa pull, 5.5 da pull with heine straight eights ledge. Gun is not only combat accurate but is bullseye accurate.

[@martina6212]

@@shadowphl there is a usp 45 with 250,000 with no broken parts

[@ericbitzer5247]

If I had to pick, I'd go with USP.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Why not both lol :)

[@ericbitzer5247]

@@TheGeekyNerd Both would certainly be better.

[@mummel2013]

hey there i have a usp sd and i love it, buuuuut the underbarrelslit brings a few problems with it caus not everything fits on it :/ but i like the design and the feel of the usp most it feels indestructable (even with the plastic)

[@danielhe551]

If I had to pick, I’d go with John Wick!!

[@aclockworkpeon]

Great comparison. And although it's just an aesthetic thing, I like the red highlight of the HK logo on the P30. Did it come like that or did you detail it or paint it in?

[@flatheadfletch]

Good review but misleading on P2000 ! It’s the best of both worlds ! Well I have P30L and P2000sk. Both Lem versions no safeties. Love them both. USP 40 lem next and last !

[@flatheadfletch]

Ps no USP but found P2000 lem woohoo

[@DIYDad1]

What is it that you like about the P2000 over the P30? Is the trigger about the same? I’ve heard the P30 is worse but maybe they are about the same when it comes to lem. Just curious because I’ve had my eye on a P2000 for a while and can’t decide if I want that or a P30 or P30sk.

[@moustachio334]

They just need to make a USP 2.0 with the same slide and fcu but an updated frame with hand panels and 1913 rail. People would spend big money for that. That USP slide is milled from a single piece of steel. It’s incredibly strong. I don’t know about the P30. But HK update the USP frame and you’ll sell these guns even at high prices.

[@JawadKhan-fq5li]

@moustachio334 • And the same recoil system.

[@NHWilderness]

I just brought my .40 usp Smith and Wesson tactical down to the gun shop trading for the new p30 sk 9mm love the 40 bought never gonna get a suppressor and I just got the new vp 9mm stricker fire...I just like the double single action with the safety and decocker..is odd the put the decocker in the back instead of keeping it right in the safety..idk I hope I like it cuz the .40 was a great gun hope I don't regret this decision

[@MacLomax]

Even if you don't get a suppressor, the trigger on a USP tactical is ridiculous. It's super accurate.

[@reker.a5790]

Does make you wonder, changing the p30 mag capacity up to 17 without changing any other dimensions. Who made the original call for 15 rounds? Makes me wonder if the due diligence was done to up it to 17rds

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Usually with HK they do it as to not fully max out the spring under load to extend life, but was negligible for the P30 so they redesigned to stay current with the market.

[@Bisley1]

I also wonder why my old p226 mags hold 15 rounds and my old p228 mags hold 13 rounds, whereas the new ones hold 18 and 15 rounds at almost the same size. It baffles me, 3 extra rounds.

[@AndrewIsNew]

The USPs and USP Compacts are almost different platforms since they didnt carry over the recoil system and cant interchange mags. The USPc seems more like a P30 than a USP.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

True, however the design fundamentals are there.

[@Lexicologist1971]

The USPC uses the same mags as the P2000. The molded holster I got for the P2000 also fits the USPC quite well.

[@navyman8903]

Nice work man.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Thanks man…appreciate it.

[@tion_suppressors]

Great video 🙌

[@harleybutler389]

would be nice if we could find either of these new these days.

[@pistoreroloco]

Still can saw a few In Texas new. But with the covid upcharge

[@TheGeekyNerd]

See them come in the country in batches spring and fall.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Darn the covid upcharge, is a legit problem right now.

[@harleybutler389]

hey, fellas. yea them and sig are asking a premium for their classics. lately ive seen on average $900 mininum for either.

[@tmac6949]

I own both. You got to shoot them and the USP is more accurate. I'm 40 Caliber. USP is the Ultimate HK. By the way I have the P2000 and P2000SK in 40 Caliber and they are a better build quality than P30 which I also own P30SK P30L in 9mm and P30 in 40 Caliber. Got the HK bug in a bad way and when I say I like the older ones better. They just feel better built but the P series is also really just as dang good. I want all of them except for striker fire. Not a striker fan of any gun.

[@jdglock9114]

8:20 Rapid fire you mention the mag release tab on right side irritating your finger. DREMEL might just solve that. Go easy of course.

[@DrSpas]

If you could put the backstrap and decocker from the p30 with the grip front from the p2000 on a usp it'd be perfect

[@AggiePhil]

I think you can replace the mag release lever on the USP with a larger one from another HK pistol (not sure which one, off the top of my head).

[@Topp-Dogg-AKA-A.C.E]

Great video, I have a quick question! How'd you get that red on the side of your P30?

[@BT2SS]

So the P30 is less reliable than the USP compact?

[@Gieszkanne]

The 13 round is only on the USP compact. The full size USP has 15 rounds. The first P30 also only had 15 rounds. HK later came up with 17 round mags for the P30. 40S&W doesnt have higher presser than standard 9mm. Actually 9mm +p and +p+ has more pressure than 40S&W. Both have the same recoil system . The full size has a different system. Some say its still superrior to the P30.

[@BT2SS]

I don’t know where you got your information, but they literally have the same finish. P30 also has the “hostile environment” finish. It says so right on the HK website. You’re clearly biased toward the USP, and if you like it better, that’s fine. But, you’re making false statements to justify your choice.

[@vicsage83]

I’d like to get a P2000 LEM for carry during cooler weather but (someday) a USP just to have for fun

[@yankeecornbread8464]

I couldn’t find a USP Compact in .40, so I went with a P2000, which is more comfortable than the full sized USP

[@Narsuitus]

I shoot two HK 9mm USP and one HK 45 USP. Love all three.

[@randyreynolds1045]

Love all my HKs❤

[@zenonayala9557]

Can you interchange the slides.

[@tonyclams1955]

Sorry no

[@Zedek_PhD]

Due to my Ehlers Danlos syndrome(which affects the shape of my fingers) I’ve always despised the p30/HK 45 grips. My fingers half dislocate because of the webbing, but the USP fits wonderfully. I wish I could use a p30 because I love having deckock only instead of the stupid safety

[@DAPH3NOM]

Like the video but had one issue. When you was comparing the capacity you said the p30 held more rounds because of reliability???? But that’s incorrect the reason why the USP holds less rounds has nothing to do with reliability. Your comparing a Full Size p30 to a Compact USP that’s why it holds less rounds because a full size USP holds 15 rounds instead of 13! But overall great video I enjoyed it.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

I might have misspoke, the fullsize USP to fullsize P30 holds 15(USP) and 17(P30). The USP design notes points out the reason as to reduce spring pressure to increase reliability.

[@DAPH3NOM]

Very fair I respect that see I like you tubers like yourself your willing to correct your mistakes and move forward I have a lot of respect for you sir! Keep up the good work and I’m definitely subscribing to your page💯💯💯

[@loveyourfreedom3903]

Long and thin will go right in. But short and thick will do the trick

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Actually laughed out loud on this one.

[@TheSonicVoid]

IMO, the USP is the best looking pistol out there. What a timeless design.

[@hectorvazquez4528]

Name a pistol that had a pic rail in the early 90s

[@animalsoul444]

USP! it feels better for me in the hand, i like the compact especially, and i want a decocker

[@Peenurpool]

.... You can swap the mag release paddle for a HK45C one, and it makes a huge improvement 👍... I have done this to all my USP pistols, full size and compact, as well as my P2000 and P2000sk... It pops right in and is very easy to do... Many many people have done this for quite a while now, and never an issue...

[@Bisley1]

Apparently the larger paddle has a metal latch that holds the magazine in, instead of a plastic latch. From what i have read, this will chew theough your plastic magazines over time, if you shoot a lot. Not an issue with the metal mags though. I have no experience with it, but you might want to keep an eye out for magazine wear.

[@Lexicologist1971]

I've replaced the releases on my USP Compact, P2000's, and P2000SK. It is a very nice and easy upgrade.

[@Trey-p2x]

I don’t own a compact USP but I love my p2k. It’s the same internals as the p30 but extremely comfortable and points naturally, not to mention you can use vp9 OR sights on it, so you can get better sight options than the usp. I’m a whore for good night sights with a bright front

[@Frosted.7]

Now do a P30 vs P2000 - I have a USP9 and a P2000 LEM Please Convince me to not buy a P30 lol.

[@v.german11b]

Easy: either or will do. Two outstanding handguns.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

True, which is why I have both. :)

[@v.german11b]

@@TheGeekyNerdI have the Walther PDP full size 5" and the compact size 4". I wouldn't mind to own a H&K VP9. But I am fond on Walther, then CZ, followed by Canik. Have too many handguns already.

[@DIYDad1]

This is a good comparison, I’ve been wanting to get into the HK game for a while they just make such awesome guns I like how you mentioned the USP, for your “to hell and back” gun lol that’s kinda what I’m going after even though that scenario may never happen it’s nice having peace of mind that you won’t have to worry about your sidearm if you’re going to be trekking through the woods or the snow for miles and if it gets wet it will work or whatever. But from what I’ve heard the P2000 and P30 are just as reliable since they are all from the same lineage. Interesting that you mentioned the triggers feel almost the same. And you are right on forums people seem to like the usp more but interesting that you said they are both very similar. I’m so torn on whether I want a LEM or V3 DA/SA with decocker. Tbh I’ve only ever shot my friends sig p226 and loved it but I really think I’d like to try a decocker gun some time. All I have right now are striker fired 9mm’s. Would be fun to branch out a little bit. Just for that one gun that can do it all so to speak. I’m also considering the p2000, idk maybe years of playing CS:GO made me like that one 😆. The grip on the p2000 is shorter than the p30 so easier to conceal than the full size p30. More of a dual purpose pistol maybe? I’m sure I can’t go wrong either way. P30 grip just seems maybe a hair too long to conceal carry. But for range use and home defense I’m sure it’s great. Sorry for the long rambling comment I’ve been trying to figure this out for a while I just wish I could buy all of them!

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Wish I could buy them all as well and hopefully in time will lol. :) I would also take a look at the P30 SK if you like the P30, but want a shorter grip. Also although the two pistols are different, HK also could use work on the triggers to make them perfect and could not recommend enough the gray guns kit to solve that.

[@DIYDad1]

@@TheGeekyNerd yeah I’m spoiled by a good trigger with my Walther lol my Q5 is sort of my range toy I can hit targets at 75 yards all day with that guy. But I’m no stranger to bad triggers either my original M&p shield isn’t the greatest. So I’d like to have a double stack 9mm or 40 that I can conceal but also pull double duty for home defense or whatever else might come my way, best to be prepared for anything. I’ll definitely consider the grey guns trigger kit. My local gun store has a P30sk the other day I think it was the v3. Do you prefer the v3 with decocker or the LEM? I’ve heard some people say the LEM is a better trigger all around but I haven’t seen one in person I’d have to order one and ship it to my FFL if I find one I want to get eventually.

[@lukaszimmermann2215]

If you want a Apocalypse gun, get yourself a MK23 or USP45 Tactical. These guns are extremly overbuild for 45acp and will last for ever.

[@Zach-td5mb]

I would say check out the VP9 if you’re looking for the best HK pistol. You’re going to be disappointed with the trigger in these compared to a p220 series sig (they’re not bad, just not as good). Or really treat yourself and get a SAO CZ shadow 2 or decent 1911 if you really want the best trigger.

[@DIYDad1]

@@Zach-td5mb I actually got a CZ P01 a couple months ago. Really loving it so far. The trigger is definitely a longer travel and reset than what I’m used to compared with a striker fired trigger in a Walther or VP9, but when I’m shooting it and practicing with it and drawing and shooting fast I can’t even tell that the trigger isn’t as good honestly. It doesn’t make me any less accurate of a shooter. I don’t like to think I’m too much of a trigger snob but I can definitely appreciate a good trigger lol. The P01 is just fine tbh. And people like to say those are just mediocre compared to the SA CZ’s. But I’ve come to appreciate have DA/SA now that I’ve started to carry appendix. I still want to get an HK at some point just because they are cool lol. But I’ll agree with your original statement that the VP9 trigger is amazing. One of my friends has one and it’s great to shoot.

[@JoeBuck-uc3bl]

I preferred the the P30 over USP, until I found out about the goofy decocker location of P30.

[@Lurkartiist]

Yea I'm trying to get one of these

[@ThirdEyePower823]

I’m Curious How You Got The HK & P30L Red Lettered?

[@markk2060]

You can use paint, like liquid model airplane paint, let it dry a bit then wipe slide with a rag lightly coated with rubbing alcohol.

[@SEVERKNIGHT]

What? Not going to discuss the safety?

[@jimmihshs]

I have a P30 and a P2000 and I prefer shooting the P30 but prefer carrying the P2000.

[@JawadKhan-fq5li]

USP❤

[@donniematonnie9378]

2 H&K's are enough.The P30 in the video is obviously a P30 9mm cause it has a 17 shot capacity. play gun compared to H&K's P30.40 cal & H&K's USP std. .45 cal

[@reker.a5790]

P30 series is better than he 9mm usp series however the 40 and 45 models are better in the USP rather than the respective p30/HK45.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

I would agree since the more mass of the USP tames the 40 and 45.

[@reker.a5790]

@@TheGeekyNerd not to mention the recoil reduction system on the full size usp series is far more noticeable.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Very true, but makes sense since it has the dual recoil spring setup.

[@pichanthaboury592]

GLOCK MAT BRO?

[@TheGeekyNerd]

They make the best gun mats....WHAT! If HK makes a nice one will swap it out lol.

[@theprepperrevelator]

P-2000LEM or VP-9

[@georgemhaylov7252]

Never shot Vp9 but p2000 lem is better than any USP I had (Sa/da)

[@matthewc445]

I have p30l and uspc in 9mm. I would say keep USP forever, sell p30l to a john wick sucker.

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Why Not Both? LoL

[@fourspeedSS]

USPC is a Bulldog. Don't get bit 😂

[@battleelf6523]

USP COMPACT IN .40

[@erikcrawford7417]

Why are you showing everyone my gun? 😂 Team HK.

[@JMane3000]

Full size USP9

[@alcodie1558]

USP all day every day !!

[@danielhe551]

P30L for sure!!! John Wick vouched for it!!

[@TheGeekyNerd]

Good enough for him...good enough for all of us!

[@toddmcdonald8493]

Usp for me