HOWTO: HK USP ambi safety install

This is a quick tutorial on how to install an ambidextrous safety lever on a USP. These instructions will also help you convert a V1 to a V2.

[@Navy87Guy]

Excellent tutorial! I just used it to convert my HK45 from v1 to v3 and replace the safety/decocker. The only thing I would add (that isn't mentioned explicitly) is that when you are pushing the pin back in (from either direction), make sure the hammer is cocked. When it is decocked, it causes a slight misalignment between the holes through the sear group and the frame. Cocking it puts everything back in alignment and the pin goes in easily. Thanks for taking the time to make this!

[@scottlewis5755]

Thanks for the video. As a lefty, I waited 13 years tooooooooo long before getting around to modifying my V1 USP 45. Took less than 5 minutes to swap in the ambi safety.

[@futtermanfarms6791]

Thank you for the great vid. Helped a HUGE amount. I just did 4 of these and it went well. 2 little tips. 1. when trying to get the pin back through the right side, it helps to move the trigger bar or the hammer to let off a little tension from the parts. Then the pin will work in easily. 2. when doing the lever in or out, it helps to try at one o'clock for part of the pull and 12 for the second half. reverse for putting in. Never would have tried this without your video. Worked great! thank you!

[@FirearmTutorials]

Great! Thanks for watching!

[@FirearmTutorials]

I've done about 5 of them. The first time took me a while, but I'm good at it now.

[@snake6221]

Great instruction, man. While my pin was more of b**** to move, you explained everything thoroughly so I could put it back together without issue. Especially loved how you showed how the dent and the other plate was supposed to move outside of the frame, so those that aren't super familiar with their USP can understand WHY such and such piece goes there. Makes it easier to put it back together when you understand HOW it works. Well done 7 years ago. LoL now that I have this done on my USP45CT I'm going to to it to my FSUSP45T and my other USPC CCW.

[@FirearmTutorials]

Glad it helped. Thanks for watching

[@FirearmTutorials]

Just realized, you were the one who bought my USP compact... enjoy that gun. The one in this video was an older one.

[@bfmdal]

Great directions. Accidentally ordered lefty shooter version of Usp compact. 70 bucks later for ambidextrous safety (single side was $29, figured why not both sides) plus $20 for gunsmiths center punch kit on Amaz, and I was done in 15mins, first try. Well done video

[@jeffhollins9658]

Do you know the parts I would need to make a usp V1 to a V2? I'm a Lefty as well. Only have access to a V1 where I live.

[@jpuckett5580]

Thank you! Hardest part of switching right-handed safety lever for the left-handed safety lever on my HK45 was paying the $50 from HKParts. Very nice video!!!

[@FirearmTutorials]

I'm glad it helped you out. Yea, I don't know why someone hasn't come along and opened up shop for 50% of what hkparts is selling stuff for. They are 1 step away from being cheaperthandirt.

[@Dfgbuiiyyyybb]

Hey Eric this video was incredibly useful. I just bought a second hand USP and added the ami-safety using this video

[@FirearmTutorials]

Glad it helped. Thanks for watching. I have a few other vids for stuff on USPs.

[@combustion9426]

Just used this video to swap my USP V1 to a V2 with a Compact lever, thanks for sharing your knowledge!

[@FirearmTutorials]

Great. Thanks for watching

[@williamgonzalez2433]

Hello, please tell me if needed anything else than the V2 LEVER? like a different plates or disconnector???

[@rich_219]

I removed the hammer spring first. Then followed all his steps. It makes it alot easier since it's not under tension.

[@RochaRolando]

Thanks for making this video! I just got an ambi safety and after watching you, I'm confident I can do this myself!

[@FirearmTutorials]

Yea it's not bad.

[@luckyh2]

I will definitely follow your channels because Watches and Guns are a couple of my serious passions. Everyone says I should start a KZbin channel but it seems like quite the job.

[@FirearmTutorials]

There is a learning curve if you don't know how to work with audio and video. I was a novice when I started this channel. Now that I have the knowledge and equipment it's not THAT much work, but shooting footage at the range really feels like work. I haven't had time to do much the last year, but I'm moving to a new and bigger house that will have a better setup this stuff. More things to come.

[@neilvalentino1294]

Thanks so much for this instructional video. It was really helpful! Just installed the ambi safety on my HK45 which took all of 10 minutes. After watching this it was too easy!

[@scoot45123]

Perfect!!! I changed mine as I was watching your video! Thank you so much!

[@FirearmTutorials]

Glad to help!

[@cladinator]

Thank you for the excellent video. I just installed on my 45C. Your instructions were very thorough and easy to follow.

[@FirearmTutorials]

cladinator cool. thanks for watching

[@Sodier8345]

Thanks. Great informational video. I used this video for my HK45 and HK45CT, and I had my USP 40 on the side as reference. Looks like HK minds think alike. Thanks

[@nonfiction_4life156]

Worked great on my 45 tactical , thanks for the help 💪🏻

[@redhead5222]

Awesome video, worked like a charm on my HK45!

[@aserkkk]

Thanks. It really took me a lot of time taking off the old one.

[@luckyh2]

Awesome video !!! Worked like a charm on my HK45c Tactical V3 converted to V1. Thank you .

[@PracMode]

thanks I used this vid to do my compact 40 usp.. went exactly the same. Thanks again tutorial made it easy!

[@171smithchris]

Great vid!! I was able to install the ambi safety on my HK45C with no issues, thanks!!

[@FirearmTutorials]

Awesome. Thanks for watching.

[@flawlessfoose]

Good video bud. I'm looking to remove the ambi and replace it with the standard left side on my expert. This video makes it helpful

[@FirearmTutorials]

The HK webshop will have them for around $50 about once or twice a year. Topgun supply usually has a good deal as well.

[@danielshapiro7169]

Excellent video. Just to confirm what I’m hearing in the comments, this procedure is approximately identical for the HK45T (and family)?

[@d28952]

So the extent plates go back into the same sides? They just need removed to get the lever out? Then then go back.?

[@williamgonzalez2433]

Hey 10 years later this video is still very useful, thank you. I have a question. I want to swap a v2 lever in my usp. Do I need any plates or different desconectar or just the V2 lever??????,please.

[@FirearmTutorials]

Just a V2 lever. The plates are v1 and v2: www.midwestgunworks.com/hk-usp/detent-plate.html Nothing different on the disconnector.

[@luckyh2]

You have excellent taste in watches my friend !!! I've noticed your 18k WG Rolex pave' dial, diamond bezel Day Date, stainless Rolex Submariner and your blacked out Luminor Navy Seal watch. Great wristwear choices !!!

[@FirearmTutorials]

Thanks. I've been rocking the Luminox Land series lately. I really like the Tony Kanaan series. I might start another channel in the future to cover things like watches, leather shoes, etc.

[@jeffhollins9658]

Hi. This is my first usp. I can only get the V1 variant at this time but I'm left handed. What parts would I need for the decocker, safety to be put on right side? Like 5he v2. Tia

[@FirearmTutorials]

It requires a V2 lever. You can't simply switch the V1 lever to the other side. I went with the ambi since it's the best of both worlds.

[@jeffhollins9658]

@@FirearmTutorials ok thank you. Can you recommend a site,or link for that part. Thanks.

[@FirearmTutorials]

@@jeffhollins9658 this is for the full size gun. If you have a USP compact there is a different part www.eurooptic.com/HK-USP-Ambi-Control-Lever-Kit-50217891.aspx

[@jeffhollins9658]

@@FirearmTutorials thank you

[@BogDrakonov]

On a brand new USP .45 I could not get the control lever out. Local gunsmith helped. Had to also remove the catch and hammer spring.

[@d28952]

I meant detent plate. I got the detent plate and connector out. But I can't get the control lever out. It comes about 90% out. And even putting pressure down with a punch it acts like it is still attached or stuck on one last notch. I have pulled and wiggled it almost to the point of potentially damaging something. But it will won't come out. Any suggestions?

[@pv107]

Good job. Will do that to mine. Ambi controls should of been standard issue on the USP!

[@David-rc8hp]

I used this to my hk45 an the lever seems to have a lot of play in it stays down any recommendations When I install the same on my usp45 it works fine the lever stays in place

[@alteswaldtroll]

Thanks for the video. Very helpful.

[@LaughterIsDeadly]

Can you attach only the right side of the ambi lever for left handed shooting? or do you have to have both left and right?

[@FirearmTutorials]

They are all different parts. The ambi, left side, and right side are all unique.

[@LaughterIsDeadly]

I just purchased a USP40 S&W V1 but I'm left handed. I'm trying to figure out the best way to modify the weapon so I can use it most comfortably in my left hand. Any recommendations?@@FirearmTutorials

[@FirearmTutorials]

@@LaughterIsDeadly I'm a lefty as well. I went with the ambi setup so it work with either hand. If you only want the lever on the right side of the run for use with your left hand.... then you need a V2 lever. Note that there is a full size and compact version. The compact version has a "thinner" lever to keep the guns footprint as slim as possible. If you have a fullsize gun (seems like do) get a fullsize V2 lever.

[@LaughterIsDeadly]

I do have the full-size. I'm also wondering, can I swap the slide release to the other side too on the v1? if so what do i need to do it? Do you have a video on that? @@FirearmTutorials

[@FirearmTutorials]

​@@LaughterIsDeadlyyou cannot change the slide release on the USP. I drop it with my trigger finger.

[@Rey-hl8oz]

Great tutorial. Switched mine from a left to a right lever. What grease is good use if the plate is dry?

[@FirearmTutorials]

I just used SNO. cheap gun grease I found at my LGS.

[@nailpuller101]

just did my usp9 thanks.

[@FirearmTutorials]

Glad it worked out for you. Thanks for watching.

[@rodbrown6434]

Very nice ambi install video

[@guymatsuda8250]

Is this the same process for a HK45?

[@FirearmTutorials]

Yes, the parts look a tad different but the process is the same.

[@GJ710]

Seems like I'm the only one having trouble. I just can't get the lever off my hk45 when I get to the part where you're suppose to use some elbow grease to pull it out while pushing the flag down. Any tips on accomplishing that?

[@FirearmTutorials]

Make sure your lever is rotated to the correct position when you start that.

[@GJ710]

+FirearmTutorials .com yea. I was at it all morning, all positions and just couldn't get it. Does the pin have to be set back all the way so the internals are aligned or will that cause more tension?

[@GJ710]

+Douglas Boehme no way.... I was playing with the hammer the whole time trying to get it out and nothing but didn't think of pulling the trigger lol.

[@GJ710]

+Douglas Boehme ok, thanks!

[@touofthehighplains]

I just got done the install as well. Thank you for the video. I will say after the install the new levers seem to be stiff. Maybe there is a break in period?

[@FirearmTutorials]

+touofthehighplains Make sure the axel is centered in the detent plate.

[@touofthehighplains]

+FirearmTutorials .com The pin is riding on the detent plate normally I think. Maybe my detent plate just isn't broken in.

[@FirearmTutorials]

My expert was like that from the factory. It eventually loosened up. Thanks for watching.

[@45elitetraining30]

Great video. Thanks for your help!

[@twiacp]

Thank you for posting this video. I was able to install an ambidextrous safety on my USP Compact 40 because of it. One thing that I noticed after the install, is that the safety is pretty stiff now, especially when decocking. Will this loosen up over time?

[@FirearmTutorials]

Larry Hancock Maybe. My Expert came like that from the factory. You can try putting some grease on the detent plate. Thanks for watching.

[@twiacp]

***** Good deal. I pulled the safety back off and reinstalled it. It seems a bit easier to decock now and I'll be sure to grease it. Thanks again, awesome channel!

[@johnholdsworth7191]

Awesome tutorial. Thanks!

[@FirearmTutorials]

I'm glad you liked it. I'll be adding a video on how to do a 1911 ambi-safety.

[@southpaw4627]

Just now seeing this. Good helpful video. But what about the slide release? Can it also be moved on this?

[@FirearmTutorials]

Nope. On the USP you are stuck with the slide release on the left side. The newer HK models have it both sides.

[@tempestscout2]

Thank you! Used to install variant 3 & 4 with decocker lever (no s and f)

[@FirearmTutorials]

tempestscout2 glad I could help. more vids conning soon.

[@SmokeNGunsBBQ]

Helped a lot. Takes a lot of wiggling and some oil to get it past the flag.

[@webfactorysolutions]

Is it possible to get a slide that ejects to the other side??

[@FirearmTutorials]

Unfortunately no. They make left handed AR-15s but to my knowledge nobody makes a pistol that ejects to the left.

[@webfactorysolutions]

@@FirearmTutorials well, dang!! Anyway, thanks for the tutorial and for replying back!!

[@agoogleuser4410]

Excellent video. Thanks.

[@deanmioli2181]

Hi Eric, Something seems to be blocking the safety after it enters the hole about a quarter of the way in.Any ideas? Working on a HK 45, I have done this successfully on a few USPsThanksDean

[@FirearmTutorials]

push down on the "flag" with a punch?

[@deanmioli2181]

Hi Eric, its past the flag, I can't seem to get the original nor the ambi more than a quarter of the way in. Something may be protruding in the safety hole. I will give HK a call.

[@brentfoto]

I may be able to purchase a used USP Compact V1. I am also a left-handed shooter, sorry to say. How do I get the ambi-lever to make it into a variant 4. e.g., decock ONLY, DA/SA trigger. Your fix is way beyond my competence level, I do have a gunsmith that could probably do it. I also do believe the language in the manual (which I checked online) is to CYA on behalf of HK requiring a certified HK armorer to perform the mod. Such a pricey pistol should not require end-user to jump through such hoops. My gunsmith has 40 or more years' experience. Having said that, if I get the pistol I will refer him to your video for some guidance. Prompt reply appreciated, and Thank You!

[@FirearmTutorials]

To make it V4, you just need a different slide plate. This gun has the V1+V2 plate. It's really not that complicated. If you watch this video a few times through and have the punches you should be able to get it yourself. I have a few other vids on the LEM swap and hammer replacement. Those will give you a better look at the internals of the gun as a whole. The USP is not "that" complicated, but it's also not a Glock either.

[@william.s.goodwin]

Bump to Andrew. Need to convert a V7 to a ambi. throw in a LEM upgrade , too

[@lalo7347]

Thanks for the video!

[@Omil7750]

Thanks.. that was really cool!

[@touofthehighplains]

Does anyone know if this mod is mushy for all USPs? I have handled a USP Compact Tactical that had a ambi safety installed. But the safety is mushy and stiff to engage and disengage. It isn't positive like a 1911. Or Mark 23?

[@deanmioli2181]

Being a lefty I currently have the control on the right side. To make it ambidextrous on a usp do I need the ambidextrous kit or just a certain left side control? Btw I find your videos most helpful. Thanks Dean

[@FirearmTutorials]

+Dean Mioli You need the kit. It gives you an axel that goes all the way through the frame with a hole on the right side so you can attach the other lever with a roll pin. FYI, there is a compact fullsize version. They are not the same.

[@takenotesadv]

This worked on my hk45. I did have to manipulate the trigger and hammer to remove the safety lever.

[@MrJking06]

My safety is on the left side, would I be able to just remove it and re-install it on the right side?

[@FirearmTutorials]

Unfortunately, you'll need a V2 lever.

[@scginda803]

@@FirearmTutorials I attempted to install my v1 on the right side. Now its stuck. Smh

[@FirearmTutorials]

@@scginda803 Yea! it would be so much easier if you could just flip the V1.

[@scginda803]

@@FirearmTutorials I "unstucked" by watching a disassembly video. Thanks for the vid. The ambi safety works great.

[@reker.a5790]

Here we go boys. Got 3 of these puppies to do. Wish me luck lol

[@reker.a5790]

Success for 1!

[@reker.a5790]

Fucked up the pin on my third try. Owned all up like crazy.

[@JESSEDART187]

Aces...thank you fella...!

[@Mark-zb8fi]

Only Video on how to do this.. so thanks!! Sure did help.. Now, I just need to know where to get the parts.. ha

[@FirearmTutorials]

Check ebay there is someone selling the full size version for $60 something. Beats hkparts who wants almost $100

[@PVoScourge]

Just bought my first gun, it has a right hand safety... can I use the existing part to make it left hand?

[@FirearmTutorials]

I think you can but the letters S and F would be upside down. I don't remember if this is 100% accurate. Early on with these guns I bought the levers to flip mine for left hand use. If you shop around/wait you'll eventually find the ami-lever like this for around $40-$50, which is a much better in IMHO. Keep in mind there are levers for full-size and compact. Both will work, but but the compact ones are mean't for single stack frames and have a lower profile so they are a little harder to actuate with your finger.

[@cylonvoiceguy]

No you can not. The part will fit but the cam will not engage the safety

[@thomasK411]

Good video but all of my insides fell out when I put the retaining pin out to far. Wish you could do a video for this so I could put it back together

[@FirearmTutorials]

I have some other USP vids might help you.

[@thomasK411]

@@FirearmTutorials that would be amazing it's just the two pieces that sit on the hammer that that little rod goes through. I'll have to watch your video to see what they're called

[@thomasK411]

@@FirearmTutorials I just need more or less a close up for 2 pieces

[@kirihikoazuma8045]

Does this work with an airsoft HK USP Compact. Or can you make one on it?

[@FirearmTutorials]

Kirihiko Azuma no idea but I would assume not since those airsoft guns don't use the same mechanical internals

[@kirihikoazuma8045]

To bad thanks though.

[@kr3wski31]

Whats the cheapest online retailer i can buy one of these kits at?

[@ninjazxd]

blake krajewski gunbroker.com has the kits for less than $40

[@JoshBayne80]

Is there an ambi magazine drop trigger? (I am SURE thats the technical name for it!!!)

[@FirearmTutorials]

The magazine release is technically already ambi. You can buy an "extended" version to make it easier to use but it is right under the trigger near the back of the trigger guard.

[@a1phamalestud]

I got a great deal on a lefty’s usp 40 now I’m gonna make it useable 😂

[@jesseanderson1335]

Cool. Where is the best place to buy the part? It's $100 on the H&K site... Wow. Sometimes being a lefty is expensive!

[@FirearmTutorials]

Jesse Anderson If you wait/hunt you can find them for as little as $45. HK will have a sale at the webshop. Topgunsupply usually has them for cheaper.

[@FirearmTutorials]

hkparts.net is a rip off and the owner is a crook. Believe it or not it's often cheaper to call HK customer service direct.

[@jesseanderson1335]

Thanks!

[@FirearmTutorials]

www.tacticalshit.com/hkparts-net-owner-faces-33-years-federal-prison-multiple-charges/

[@EPlepis]

Hey there, great video! Just curious, have you done this to the hk45 too? If so, i wanted to know if you could tell me the dimensions on the lever on the HK45 internally? I'm looking to use that ambi lever on my airsoft replica, but i want to make sure they fit before purchasing it

[@FirearmTutorials]

I have not. I know you can use the HK45 lever one the USP with some modification. I think that means you may have to do some filing. Not sure about airsoft guns.

[@daniellindsay733]

Nice and easy.

[@cbrotherwood]

works on the HK45 too

[@luvlyfe23]

Thanks !

[@FirearmTutorials]

Exact same.

[@luckyh2]

I don't care for the Tony Kanaan series because I don't really like the Panerai Luminor, Bell and Howell etc... shaped head. It looks cool, it's just not my style.