H&k P30SK vs. FN FNS-9C

[@spookymedic]

Great review. I recently picked up the FNS 9c and out of the box you can't do much better for compact of any kind. The mag release is a thing but everything else is so well balanced, great sights and compact. Great trigger and excellent recoil. I'd have to say of all the compacts I've had with higher capacity this may be the best.

[@keithtomczyk4730]

I have three FNs. My 49c has the mag ejector "issue". That was done purpisely because many shooters stated they were prematurely ejectilating during performance.......😁 I live my FNs ,all tgree.

[@decodeddiesel]

The main reason why I am going with the P30SK V1 is for the exposed hammer. I have transitioned to AIWB (appendix) for my daily CCW and being able to have my thumb over a hammer while reholstering is huge. I have been carrying my VP9 and M&P9C AIWB, but I would like the extra level of safety afforded by the exposed hammer.

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

That's good thinking, and a very good reason for selecting a hammer fired pistol. Technically, even the LEM would allow you to cover the hammer with your thumb, it's just flush-cut. Thanks for the perspective!

[@decodeddiesel]

I have always liked the LEM trigger. A lot of people hate it, but I shoot it very well. Great video by the way, as is your P30SK video.

[@donboss4465]

Really a great review. The LE version of the HK is a DAO, not a SAO as the correction stated....HK makes floor plates to accommodate pinky fingers.

[@grumman7772]

I have a H&K for 20 Years never a bad malfunction on this gun best money can buy hands down

[@johnwelsh4750]

Thoughts on Sig vs HK ?

[@brooksduncan2438]

On my FNS 9C, I solved the hard mag release issue by installing the full-size FNS 9 mag release and it works great. I just ordered an HK P30SK LEM and can't wait to get my hands on it!

[@josephsmith8416]

How did you the p30sk once you got it?

[@theofficialyzfchris2396]

clearly the hkp30sk has very little recoil compared to the fn. it pretty much boils down to personal preference ie."which do you feel looks and feels cooler to own" js awesome video man

[@beretta92x93]

P2000 9mm 13 round mag works in the p30sk also

[@The_Other_Matt]

Great video. Both of these were on my wish list. Handled both and had an opportunity to shoot the FNS-9C at a local factory shoot earlier this year. I ended up getting an HK P30SK since a batch of the V1 variant with the LEM trigger popped up on the market recently and I didn't want to miss out. Love it so far. The FNS is also a nice pistol, especially at its price point.

[@billblake4029]

Justin, as usual, another excellent review by you Sir. Thank You !

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

+Bill Blake Thanks!

[@jconradh]

Nice video, thanks! The FNS can come with a safety or not, so there's another configuration. I find my 2 FNS handguns (Cc & .40) are "tack drivers". If you contact FN they offer an extended mag release button. I had the actual FIRST RMA of their FNS9C as my left-sided mag release button didn't work. They kept my gun for 3+ weeks and sent it back with 2 spare magazines and the enlarged mag release button. It works flawlessly now.

[@AmbGun]

Love my FNS9c and VP9. I wish the FNS9c had a paddle mag release, although the recessed mag button of the FNS is my favorite button mag release since you are far less likely to find your mag accidentally disengaged. Paddle mag, protected by holster trigger guard, ensures mag stays engaged and is fast to operate. But given that I rarely carry an extra mag, does that really matter?

[@diegoconde2728]

I had owned an HK USB COMPACT LE from the time they came out. I have over 4,000 rounds on it, All I do is give it a good cleaning job and keep shooting. I will continue to buy HK as long as the good Lord spare life. They are build like tanks.

[@darrenlandis3510]

I have the FNS9c and when I got mine I found the mag release a little tough to push in as well, I have some Weapon Shield CLP I got at a show and put a little around the mag release and what a difference it made. Now all of mag's come out with real ease and the mag release button is much easier to push in.

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

+Darren Landis Good tip - I love Weapon Shield and have some on hand. I'll give that a try!

[@chrishutchinson7611]

I have owned both and was extremely happy with both. My HK P30sk lite LEM variant is my current concealed carry pistol. Next gun will be another FNX9 or HK USP

[@CesarChavez-bn6iv]

Looks like I’m going with the P30SK

[@tbennett.georgia]

JOP - I love your "1st Hundred" videos! You promised the M&P9c vs FNS 9c - would really like to see it

[@KFGHQ]

Thank you very much. I'm actually in the process of deciding which of these 2 guns to purchase. Your information actually has me leaning to the FN

[@DarkPhoenixTSi]

They do make sleeves, primarily for the P2000 and P2000SK. I am currently running a USPc/P2000 13rd mag as a spare/range mag. With the X-Grips P2000SK sleeve, it fits nicely and looks great. That, in conjunction with the sleeve for using a P30 mag in a P2000, you would have a complete 15 round grip on your P30SK.

[@ITHINKUREALESUK]

way better custom fit sleeves for the vp9 mags to use in the p30, than xgrip link at top of comments Craig

[@pro2civilian753]

28:42 ?? I find indexing the trigger guard assists with the follow up shots accuracy. I wouldn't label it an improper way to shoot since I personally know extremely fast and precise guys who use that method and it works fine. Plus it makes more sense; higher grip on the pistol, more surface area covered, plus if you apply light rearward pressure on the trigger guard you drastically reduce the recoil. It takes loads of practice to get it down pat. I find my follow ups are piping each other with this method. ----> Try learning something new before criticizing the grip. :)

[@wayartio]

Once again, outstanding review sir! I like your accuracy segments most. A sub com gun nut could not do much better than either one of these. My money went on the P30 SK. I love the German Iron and had 3 Walthers before this one. Great content as usual!

[@Mr_Bibbles]

Very informative video. You've gotten another subscriber. I look forward to future videos.

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

+Escobar JP Thanks much! I hope to keep them coming!

[@RIPtide2323]

Both are great guns. If you can afford both it just comes down to which one is more comfortable and more accurate to you. That is why shooting the gun first should always be the determining factor

[@kenhoward3512]

I haven't read all the comments, but want to mention that FN now offers a replacement mag release button for the -9C from the standard-size FNS-9 that protrudes a bit more, to make actuation easier.

[@Tyrannosaurus10]

How about the Walther P99c? I think you're missing out if you haven't tried one!

[@bigB6flyer]

Great review of two top quality carry guns. I carry the p30sk lem w ns as well. I'm very happy with it. Can't wait for a sleeve to come out for the 15 rd p30 mags.

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

+bigB6flyer Agreed. I've only seen them for the P2000 so far.

[@vincepauls7470]

bigB6flyer

[@bayard0157]

The HK feels perfect in hand, but I prefer the FN's trigger any day to that long LEM or DA trigger pull on the HK's.

[@donnymazinga5295]

How 'bout doing a comparison between the FNS 9c and the H&K VP9sk???

[@jimmyd6988]

That would be a more accurate comparison.

[@randallflagg6516]

You read my mind!!

[@offroadfts]

I agree, I'd really apreciate and be interested in the fns9c vs vp9sk. I hope he delivers on our requests

[@larryjones6049]

To me the H&K is a safer pistol to carry. I will not carry a striker fired pistol. Great video. Thanks.

[@Highway9mm]

Awesome and in depth head to head review of two awesome pistols that I wish were legal in LAME-ifornia!! Great work sir!!

[@punkyskunk22]

You wanna be the one to tell Lena Miculek that she doesn’t know how to shoot properly?!?! 🤣🤣🤣 great video, btw!

[@bigfoot80.86]

Justin, The mag from a P2000 or USP compact 13 round will also work in the H&K P30SK.

[@benb6827]

Is the FNS trigger similar to Smith and Wesson mp?

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

+Ben Bui No, not at all. The M&P trigger is very spongy, whereas the FNS trigger is solid and crisp. They both articulate via a center joint for trigger safety, but that's really the only similarity.

[@benb6827]

Thanks!

[@kidsgottaeattrucking1084]

I personally really enjoy the FNS one of the most left-handed friendly Striker fire pistols out with ambidextrous slide release magazine release & safeties

[@joeycamacho968]

not sure if i missed it. but with this variant of the p30sk. DAO is pre-cock? or a true DAO with second strike capable?

[@ITHINKUREALESUK]

both !

[@RedcoatsReturn]

You introduced me to FN. I will check them out further. Excellent comparative review!

[@hollowts4ogs141]

Someone on gunbroker has full sized FNS 9 SS for $399 as of today buy it now price. Auction should still be up until 24th of December.

[@deadsoulwalking4296]

Always good information on your channel man

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

+sauer-ruger Thanks! I try.

[@franciscochavez7296]

U needa be in a block buster movie ur action quality sir

[@samalbanese464]

I have the fn and love it as well

[@kn7gez]

I wonder if there will ever be a slightly smaller Walther PPQ to compete with these?

[@gerryk3114]

I have written Walther requesting a compact PPQ, then they released the PPS-M2

[@kn7gez]

+Gerry K Just bought FNS 4" barrel 40 cal. Didn't have a 40 since gave Glock 23 to son. Like FNS so far. $499.99 included 3 mags. Easiest to shoot well is Walther PPX 9mm. Some day get PPQ.

[@einsatzgruppencommander740]

There is now :)

[@verankapaun6052]

Good job. Stay with the H&k, that's some good shooting.

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

+Veran Kapaun It is a gun that I shoot well - and so does everyone else I've seen shoot one. Great ergonomics and excellent trigger make is so, I believe.

[@cekamsr]

I have the HK P30sk with standard DA/SA function and its far better than the DA LEM trigger you have. Much easier to shoot, for me anyways, than the stacking hammer action the LEM has.

[@lvgeorge]

Regarding the accuracy differences between the two pistols. The groups between the 2 seem about even. Is there an adjustment you can make to get the FNS FN9c closer to the Bulls-Eye? I hope that since time has passed since the creation of this video, there are more accessories and sights to choose from for both pistols. Great Presentation, I'm interested in both of these Guns so the comparisons will help me make a positive choice. Thumbs UP!

[@sharper9009]

Why were you using 6 O'Clock hold on the accuracy tests? The FN must be configured for a combat hold since all your shots were low. If I'm not mistaken the HK is set up for combat hold too, but oddly all your shots were right on with it. Anyway, just curious

[@82luft49]

I fully agree, sharper2112. I also posted the same comment. I honestly believe that Justin Opinion was favoring the H&K when he said towards the end that it was his edc. I own the FNS-9 Full Size, and my sight picture is approximately center hold. I'm in the ring more times than not.

[@sharper9009]

82 Luft I have the HK and actually think it's a great pistol. I don't shoot it as well as it seems I should though because it feels great in my hands. I'm not crazy about the sights so maybe that's part of it, I don't know.

[@82luft49]

sharper2112, the only HK we have in our armory is my son's USP in 45 acp. Good shooter, mild recoil. Well, you always have the option of changing the sights to your liking. The P30SK appears to be a fine pistol although I never shot one. A sight change could only make the gun more appealing. Doesn't hurt to try. Good Luck.

[@82luft49]

BTW, do you think Justin Opinion was showing favoritism towards his personal HK?

[@sharper9009]

82 Luft Yea I'm currently looking at other sight options. I don't know that Justin was intentionally showing any favoritism toward the HK, but he may indeed like it better. If you give anyone 2 different pistols they will always like one better than the other, and the preferred pistol will differ from person to person. Different strokes for different folks. Most pistols today are more accurate than the shooters holding them ever will be; everything else is just personal preference, reliability, etc....

[@iamaboozer]

Flush magazine is great for larger hand. I have a larger hand and my pinky never hits the lip. Grip feels good.

[@LatestHour]

The HK looks like a tank next to the FNS-9C, but the stats are the same.

[@bobhartman2571]

Great review! Thanks!

[@lhf3rd819]

Have the FNS9 & FNS9c. My hit on target using 6 o'clock hold looks like your demonstration. Is there a better hold to get hits more centered? I have been doing better putting sights on center of target.

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

+Louis Friend I shoot so many different guns, it takes me a magazine or two to get acquainted with it's preferred hold point. Sometimes I'll adjust my hold for desired target hits and sometimes I'll leave it alone to keep with a consistent group. But in "real life" you'd want to learn where to hold for center hits. This applies only to elevation - if you have windage issues, fix the problem - don't adjust hold to compensate.

[@loganhoyle7934]

I enjoy your vids! Been a subscriber for awhile now! Keep em coming sir!

[@TheBoxingCannabyte]

got the HK P30 SK /w an excellent sleeve for the 15 round mag, feels damn near exactly like the P30 L's handle (smalls with kinda a small-medium mix backstrap which is perfect for me more or less). It's not made by HK but is fantastic, if you youtube "HK P30 SK 15 round mag sleeve" on here you'll prob spot it, it's sold on ebay for like $12-13

[@loloyec]

Sr if you need to pick up between hk p30 and vp9 what would be your choos

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

IMO, the P30 is a slightly better pistol. Overall quality is better, and I think long-term reliability is better. It also feels just a wee bit nicer in the hand.

[@chelseafischer233]

Agree p30sk hands down

[@TexasBuyer2001]

Which holsters do you use for these two guns?

[@defilade1066]

Fantastic review! well done. I like the HK.

[@hansstrouf]

Do you like shit?

[@joewger]

Like HK sculpted front trigger guard . I rest my left hand index finger on the front of them to counterbalance my right hand triger pull. If you have never done it, try it!

[@kneedlezkane7665]

Excellent review!!! I have the SK.

[@bwax1542]

Nice comparison video. When concealed carrying your HK P30SK, what holster do you prefer and is it IWB or OWB?

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

+B WAX StealthGear Onyx - IWB

[@marksweetser6312]

B WAX look at the n82 professional. very nice

[@MPGunther1]

enjoyed watching your comparison

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

Thanks

[@greekbrew]

It may have been better to compare the M&P 9C with the FNS-9C. Capacity and size are similar. P30SK is closer in size to a Glock 26. Love the P30SK LEM, my EDC.

[@Rcknroler913]

Both are fine examples.

[@ricks.1092]

Justin (provided it's your "Real Name"), you can use the Mag Release Button from the FNS-9 (Full Size). The full size button is not as pronounced or slimmed down like the one on the compact. It's an easy switch and cost like $10. Just google FN Parts. And theirs a online store that specialized in parts for FN. Type FN Parts and the first website that comes up, will be the site you want to go to. You can get ANY Part for your FNS or FNX from this site. And the parts are OEM too. I agree about the mag release on the FNS(c). It just doesn't protrude out enough. The full size mag release will definitely fix this issue..The FNS9 and the FNS9(c) is my primary EDC....depends on the season and what clothing I'm wearing. I do have other models/brands in my carry rotation. However, I favor the FN's the most. Also, after about 600 rounds my trigger actually got better. Which I thought the trigger was quite good, out of the box. It went from 6lbs down to consistently pulling at 5lbs. And it smoothed out a bit too. Also, aimsurplus.com is the cheapest site for extra magazine...cost is $39.50, opposed to $45-$50 from other places. For my main pistols, I like to have (at a minimum) 10 spare magazines. Mainly due to the political climate. Never know if some legislature is passed or subsequently sneaked into another bill. Rather spend now and be prepared, opposed to spending four times the cost. And we all know too well. that the anti-gunners will NEVER give up. In their quest to negate the 2nd Amendment.

[@henryschmidt636]

Yes you can, there is talk about it on the fn handgun forum.

[@josephnubile1970]

Hi, when you do carry the HK P30 what holster do you use. I am looking into buying one and would like to know what would be a great holster to invest in.

[@HarryDangler69]

Vedder

[@JRMJRM92]

Both are quality guns but IMO I think the HK has a better fit and finish and looks more durable. Both manufacturers are top tier companies so you can’t go wrong either way.

[@tharrisone]

I bought the FNS 9c 9mm and took it to the range on my lunch break. I really love this gun, its soft shooting and very enjoyable to shoot. I thought the aggressive little squares would bite me after a while but it didn't. I really appreciate your videos but I keep buying new guns you review. Strange dichotomy there. Give those ducks a break now and then, aren't they union members?

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

Maybe I need to do more "Deep Dive" videos - the ducks aren't in those. Their union steward got them out of it. ;-)

[@userbosco]

Another great review and video. I was kind of scratching my head tho. You were sort of gushing over the FN's trigger, feel, etc, but your target otherwise. Also, what was the cost delta? H&K usually brings quite a premium. Again, great review and thanks!

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

+userbosco The FNS-9C can be had for about $500 as shown in this video. The P30SK LEM shown here is closer to $900 but if you're lucky could be found near 8 bills. Yes, significant gap and I was remiss not including that info. Funny thing with the triggers though - the FN has a beautifully crisp trigger that I do like a lot - but I shoot the HK better. Believe me, I am no expert - but there are so many variables and trigger pull is just one. Grip angle, reach to trigger, sight picture, just to name a few. Thanks for watching and for commenting!

[@thunderholeacres6384]

You’re wearing a copper customs hoodie, are you an Indiana Guy?

[@2Aknight762]

Do you do any rifle or shotgun shooting, 3 gun?

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

+Bigbore I don't spend as much time as I'd like (or should) with long guns. I have several but never seem to pack them for my range days. I don't shoot 3 gun only because there is no club nearby that does it, so I never have invested in any gear or training time.

[@jameskrivitsky9715]

Am I correct, no manual safety on either gun ? What are the safety options ? J K

[@mikeschmidtuh5202]

Have the sk wish hk made it in .357 sig

[@herrmahlzahn6924]

I like the FN trigger better but love the ergonomics from the H&K. Still undecided since the P320 compact is still in the picture too.

[@diegoconde2728]

Nothing like HK I’m a retired LE Officer others brands have their good features but no one build a gun like HK

[@cesarsaavedra3095]

The 320x pro with new trigger is awesome

[@davelpz3340]

How does the fns hold up to heat? Reason I ask, there was a video of an FNX 45 flexing at the magwell pretty bad after being left in the sun for a bit.

[@wadeyates3273]

I have an FNS 40 and a 9c and they do not flex.....at all... i have compared them to the FNX 45 and the FNX has thinner walls on the mag well. I would imagine that was done to allow greater capacity. All three are great shooters and in my experience, so far, the flex in FNX has not caused any functionality issues.

[@ITHINKUREALESUK]

If your interest in seeing them both on the gun I have video of both. Just thought you may enjoy seeing these options for turning one pistol from sub compact to compact, and then to full size carry all with a magazine base! Have a great day,......Gil

[@gerryk3114]

Price Comparison ?? Price is always something I have to consider !!! That old Bang for the Buck !!! Maybe, that's why I love my PPQ-M2 9mm !!!

[@gerryk3114]

***** Thanks for the numbers !!

[@gregkowerda2960]

If you're shooting low with a 6 o'clock hold why wouldn't you use a center hold?

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

+Greg Kowerda If I didn't adjust for it, it was to keep my groups consistent. If I were truly trying to hit bullseye or competing with the gun I would certainly change my hold point. I often leave it for the viewers - so you can see that with the same sight picture and hold point, where each gun impacts. Some people have serious preferences about POA vs. 6 o'clock holds, and that might be good information for them.

[@johnwayne2012]

i sold my hk p30....it was a nice pistol, but the trigger hurt my finger....and I never thought i would say something like that.

[@tannerg4511]

Great video, Liked and subbed!

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

Thanks much!

[@Berserkable]

I don’t know why but every time I hold an FN pistol it just feels like a cheap toy to me. I’d like a FNX45 tactical but when I hold it I change my mind real quick. I always hated these “two fingered” handguns until I held the P30sk and VP9sk. It felt solid and my hand was locked into place. The lack of 2 rounds doesn’t bother me in the slightest. I personally would take a more comfortable gun that I’m confident with over an extra 2 rounds. Just my opinion.

[@ALoneGrunt]

HardcoreAmericanUSA hell yea dude. In all likelihood if you ever had to pull your gun and use it, you’d fire 3-5 rounds and the perpetrator would realize they had someone with force equal to them and flee (assuming this went down in a public area) More than likely not going to have a Hollywood scenario and need to empty a full clip, reload, and do it again. Find a range that teaches defense classes and simulates a high stress environment with raised adrenaline and practice with your carry gun. Master that, get your first round on target, having 11 extra becomes irrelevant. (Sorry for rant 🤘🏻)

[@DaGn0528]

You were right the first time HAHA. The LEM is double-action only.

[@82luft49]

Why a 6 o'clock hold when target shooting the FNSc? The grouping, although tight, was low and to the left completely missing the center circle. You should have automatically adjusted the sight picture for at least a center hold, or slightly higher unless you purposely wanted the P30sk to out shine the FNSc. Not a fair comparison by far.

[@chrissexton4825]

He aimed at the same place with the same ammo and shooter. This was a perfect test showing how they shoot same groupings but one was doen to the left (fns 9) and one was up and down (skp30sk). A real shooter sees that plus the price tag difference of 150-200$

[@chrissexton4825]

I have owned both love the hk though.

[@chrissexton4825]

But fn always makes great products made in america. I love the fnp 9, fns 9 doesnt matter all great guns and can pick them up for 400 give or take.... For how they perform that price is thief.

[@rickdiaz100]

What A Shot!

[@OldmanSnake]

Own both and HK is much better gun in every aspect except trigger reset which isn't a factor

[@grady7443]

Just a couple things. #1 a striker fired compared to a double action???? #2 front trigger guard serrations on both for those who don't know how to shoot properly???? haha, Really?

[@Optatius]

I love my p30sk in every way but it is a bit of a lets say more voluptuous girl. Not the lightest in the crowd.

[@joewger]

Shoot American Eagle 124gr next time for ballistics.

[@miguelitomigra543]

If it's not hammer fired, I'm not interested. For many good reasons.

[@mountainmanwatchreviews8081]

I've only gotten through the intro which was magical by the way but I don't see how the HK can compete when it only comes with a flush mag and the FN comes with three different mags allowing for the versatility of carry, carrying with a full grip and the 17 round which could be considered home defense.

[@jeremyhall5970]

BeardedGearNut you can use the clips out of the VP9 or the full size P30 they both fit

[@Kaltwasser45]

They make +1 and+2 baseplates, not to mention being able to use the VP9 P30 USPC MAGS with it. You can also use Taylor Freelance mag extensions. MOOOOOOOOOOOT. :D

[@vegasus4503]

I just bought one last Thursday, HK now ships their P30SK with 2 mags with the extra finger extensions. I bought the ones with Night Sights so it comes with 3 mags 2 mags with extensions. HKParts also sells extensions with +1 and +2 base plates.

[@rotorwind177]

Looks like with the FN you got some brass to the face. None with the HK

[@randolph6511]

As I have said before, I like the grip texture of a pistol to be akin to a deeply knurled weightlifting bar.

[@audiophocus65]

Can't compare striker and hammer dude. H&K all day though.

[@loganhoyle7934]

THUMBS UP!!!

[@teoff16]

What your occupation? How many pistols do you own?

[@pauls3880]

Dude you keep saying Flesh even magazines ! its FLUSH !!!!!

[@roosterboy7357]

Most people who buy the p30 will probably go with the v3 model

[@johndeere1951a]

Negative to the ergonomics on that FN. The slide design is unfortunate. Im in favor of pronounced slide and grip sarrations. That trimed front FN slide is terrible. Nothing to grip. The H&K is clearly superior. No contest here.

[@CalebNorthNorman]

👍

[@gmoops8986]

Nice comparison of two worthy EDC's. However, I could do without the "Rambo"-like histrionics that begin and end the video. This seems to pander to those "good-ol'e-boys" down at the "spit-n-whittle" bench in front of the barbershop.

[@guerom1367]

Digging the fns. Dont like that ugly lil hammer on the hk

[@timothywilson1493]

I don’t like striker fired guns!

[@anthonyanolik1285]

12 vs 10 in the same size. Hk capacity always sucks

[@ChopperPoppin]

my wifes gun vs the gun i want

[@toynazi]

P30sk all the way!!

[@hansstrouf]

Do you like shit?