HK USPC Review - Too *RETRO* for Carry?

[@Mr.Michael.Dela.Cruzzz]

Bought my very first USPc (.40) brand new in the beginning of 2000, till this year 2023, it's one of my favorite gun in the world! 🔥🔥🔥

[@NightwoodGuns]

😎👍

[@theprepperrevelator]

USPc is a phenomenal concealed carry choice that will never go out of style. The reason being, they are incredibly reliable. The average shooter will never wear one out. The most important factor with a gun is that it goes bang when you want it too. Anything that can be viewed as a shortcoming can be overcome with proper training and practice and if you don’t mind spending a little cash Gray guns or Langdon Tactical. Now having said that, it’s not for everyone, and that’s ok. Carry and shoot whatever floats your boat. Rick

[@NightwoodGuns]

100% 😎👍

[@ResplendentRaider]

Couldn’t have said better myself. Last time I checked, it wasn’t a fashion show or contest. If I can carry it comfortably, be accurate with it, has my desired capacity and most importantly its spot on reliable..what more can you ask for.

[@wizardofahhhs759]

Reliability? I have Walthers and S&W Shields that have at least 1k rounds through each one and never had any issues of any sort. I would say that 99% of reputable firearms manufacturers with modern technology all make reliable pistols. For instance, how could an H&K be any more reliable than a "Glock" or SIG or .......? Reliability is pretty much a non-issue with modern polymer framed handguns.

[@theprepperrevelator]

@@wizardofahhhs759 except that isn’t correct! Sig is known for beta testing their guns with their customers, an example being the p365 first gen, S&W is currently having reliability issues with their M&P 10 mm and their earlier m&p 9 struggled with accuracy issues. Glock had issues with their Gen 4 guns with brass to the face. Every thing I just listed can be confirmed with a google search. So much for reliability being a non issue! Lastly most serious shooters don’t consider a gun broken in until at least 1k rounds fired and don’t consider them really reliable until they can shoot 10k without a malfunction and no serious parts breakage, so it looks like you have a lot more shooting to do!

[@rifleshooterchannel208]

@@wizardofahhhs7591,000 rounds 😂

[@Eschebone92]

Still one of the coolest looking guns ever made. 😎

[@NightwoodGuns]

Always has been 👨‍🚀

[@mrjon75]

It's.... beautiful 😍

[@TerryLawrence-p3k]

Along with the PSP P7😃

[@willieb5911]

As a longtime HK enthusiast and multi platform owner, It's obvious you took the time to research all of the info in your video. I've seen other people who do reviews and I can tell they are only repeating what they've seen in other video reviews. This would be a great video for someone to watch who isn't very familiar with these type of HK handguns but is interested in learning more about them and comparing them to the popular modern striker fired competitors.

[@NightwoodGuns]

I appreciate that, man. I started this channel because I was also irritated by the echo chamber on KZbin. I’m glad it’s translating well 😎👍

[@angelovalavanis2314]

This firearm will never be an outdated model.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Can’t argue with that 😎👍

[@mikehoward6981]

I rewatch your hk videos every time i ponder selling one of my usp’s. Then they come to the range with me and i fall in love again! Great Job!!!

[@NightwoodGuns]

Glad to hear it! I have another USP video 1-2 months out 👀

[@DarkPhoenixTSi]

There is a little trick with the USP9 Compact mags that I did on my P2000 and P30SK. If you get the 17rd VP9/P30 upgrade kit for the 15 rd mags, you can run them in the 13rd mags to have a 15rd flush fit mag. Brings it up to capacity to size ratio with a G19. It makes the USP9C and the P2000 a damn near perfect hammer fired EDC.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Nice! How’s reliability?

[@DarkPhoenixTSi]

@@NightwoodGuns I haven't had any issues with the ones that I have done. I was able to increase the capacity on the 10rd to 12rd using the 17rd follower, baseplate retainer and the 13rd spring. I have about 400rds total between the three that I did, with the 13rd mag having a bulk of the rounds, and no failures. They all lock the slide on the last round as well. I did have to open the 13rd spring a little where it interfaces with the follower for the 10rd SK mag, but I have been happy. They have fed everything from cheap blazer brass all the way to my carry round, 124gr HSTs with no hiccups.

[@NightwoodGuns]

@@DarkPhoenixTSi That’s awesome! Thanks for the tip! 😎👍

[@DarkPhoenixTSi]

@@Phil-gh6ue those are standard VP9/P30 mags with the sleeve and baseplate, so the wouldn't be flush fit on the USP9C.

[@DarkPhoenixTSi]

@@Phil-gh6ue ah, so they did what they should have done when they released the kit for the 17rd upgrade.

[@johntalbot119]

Love my USPs. 9 & 40. Both sizes. For over 25 years. Thanks for good video!

[@NightwoodGuns]

Glad you enjoyed the vid! The USP is a great design! 😎👍

[@GigaDad89]

I recently purchased a Cz 75 P01 because I wanted a classic hammer fired carry gun. Such a sweet pistol!

[@thefrogking481]

Yes they are!

[@NightwoodGuns]

Great choice! 😎🙌

[@ResplendentRaider]

I just one of those too..plus the P07 for the same reason. I now prefer DA/SA, but still have one striker fired gun left…XDM Elite Tactical. That trigger is really good imo, but my preference is now hammered fired

[@zebwalton979]

I just recently sold my P01. The roll pin and firing pin broke at 1,500 and 2,000 rounds, respectively. I need something more durable and reliable. The USPc is just that.

[@ResplendentRaider]

@@zebwalton979 Ive been using snap caps so hopefully I don’t have that problem.

[@valstutz2628]

Excellent overview of a German classic! I'm about to purchase an HK USP Compact myself (in .45 ACP). I've wanted one for years and have initially thought of using it in a concealed carry role. You really covered the pros and cons of this pistol. Of course, when you get into other calibers, you start to throw other factors into the mix (felt recoil, capacity, etc.). I feel that for me personally, a USP (or any other semi-auto) in 9mm would be a better concealed carry option for the reasons you outlined, especially in the modern era with all the good quality 9mm carry ammo we have available and higher capacity. So I'll probably utilize my new USP as more of a home defense/range gun role. Either way, very excited to pick it up soon! Really enjoyed your video, subbed!

[@NightwoodGuns]

Nice, I’m excited for ya! 😎👍 And welcome to the channel!

[@DrSpas]

Do it. I love the uspc45, the hk45c is nice but I still prefer the usp. Bullet proof reliability, fantastic functionality and easily personalized with factory parts. There are a couple sites out there to source anything you need to convert to any variant. I have an ambi decocker, deleted the safety, and threaded barrel at this point. To each their own and with the usp you can make it your own.

[@ckost2308]

Good honest review! I have this same USP Compact 9mm, upgrades for CCW were basic but MUST have for me. First to go was the bobbed hammer, for a standard USP hammer, I hate not being able to control the hammer thru out it's path, it was then treated to a V9 conversion with the 5+6 detent plate to dump the decock feature, this also eliminated the 1/2 cock feature, large HK45C magazine release was installed for sure fast mag changes, then Trijicon Green night sights were installed (Not Trijicon HD, those have some sharp edges), then DecalGrip were added to ensure a firm non-slip grip in all conditions. Those upgrades put the USP Compact 9mm in a much better place to perform it's tasks...fight for ones life! H&K Detent plates are marvelous, they make the gun very modular and easily converted to what the shooter needs without expensive parts changes.

[@NightwoodGuns]

@@ckost2308 very nice! 🙌

[@madmark503]

I was issued a USP 40 for 8 years. I’ve had a USP 9, USP 9 compact and an HK45. And I’ve taken the USP/HK45 armorers course. I liked the USP9C the best. I had a LEM trigger in it. The LEM trigger is the way to go. Great guns in general. Fun fact, HK recommended cleaning the USP every 400 rounds.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! 👍

[@ghosta8116]

HK will never be outdated.....it is timeless.....simple

[@NightwoodGuns]

💯

[@h3brew]

I now have the USPc 9 as my main CCW. Put the Grey guns short reset system in it as well as the flat faced trigger. Bought it in V1 config but got a LEM conversion kit. This setup is a thing a thing of beauty and shoots so good. Makes me look good at the range.

[@NightwoodGuns]

That’s a great setup! 😎👍

[@h3brew]

Ah, good to know thanks. I have a p30 mag with the Xgrip sleeve as a spare mag and did the follower spring upgrade in the 13rd factory mags to jump to 15 +1.

[@osbornmotorsports]

Where did you find the LEM conversion kit? I have been looking for nearly a year and can't find them anywhere.

[@NightwoodGuns]

@@osbornmotorsports Sign up for notifications on hkparts website for the LEM kit. They restock every few months.

[@osbornmotorsports]

@@NightwoodGuns thanks, man. Will do

[@LP-zn1wx]

I love my HK P2000 LEM in 40. Had it for 15 or more years, ran it hard and it never failed me. It has been very accurate for me. 😊

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! They are built to handle insane round counts 👍

[@dwayneelizondomountaindewh6073]

the p2000 is a much better design.

[@bradskis81]

That is a phenomenal firearm.

[@ShaunPanzer]

It’s a great pistol . Nobody I ever met said anything disparaging about a USP .

[@NightwoodGuns]

😎👍

[@fts8076]

The UPS platform is the most reliable and most strenuously tested handgun platform in history. I bought my first one in 1999 and have over 45k rounds through the platform. In all thoes rounds, I have had 3 malfunctions. 2 were ammo related (cant touch off a round if the primer falls out). The other was a weak extractor spring from a gun with over 14k rounds that i know of. If you really want a light on your ccw, then a TLR3 will bolt right on without an adapter. The paddle mag release is far superior to the button because it is in inherently ambitious and you can hit it with your thumb, trigger finger, ring finger or whatever. The capacity is a little low for some people, but there are still tons of people running around with less. Also, if you live in a ban state, then they all "only hold 10 rounds". I feel the USP Compact's strengths far outweigh it's weaknesses (or perceived weaknesses).

[@NightwoodGuns]

All great points and observations 👍

[@TheLegoJoker]

I’m an LEM guy but there is a detent plate you can get to eliminate the decocker for someone who wants to carry cocked and locked and doesn’t want to worry about accidental decocking. The paddle mag release is far superior to the button in my opinion but I can see why people prefer the button if it’s all they know. I prefer a P30 variant over the USP Compact but they are still very fine guns and absolutely still relevant today.

[@NightwoodGuns]

😎👍

[@Harry_JJ]

I CC the USP compact for these reasons 33% Jack Bauer 33% Danny Archer 33% Vincent 1% Because it looks cool

[@NightwoodGuns]

Perfection 🙌

[@GLOCKCOPG23]

Nothing outdated about the USP. It was 50 yrs ahead of it’s time when it was introduced. It is still top tier today. Anyone who says it is “useless or outdated” simply does not deserve your attention because all of their credibility is lost.

[@youtubewatcher4792]

That issue with the decocker being depressed while firing (14 minute mark) is a real thing. I changed my compact to variant 5.

[@NightwoodGuns]

@@youtubewatcher4792 I did the same to mine 😅

[@ckost2308]

I changed my USP Compact 9mm to V9 with the 5+6 detent plate, the dumped the de-cock feature, I hate those!

[@youtubewatcher4792]

My bad, I got my variants and detent plates confused. I did the same as you.

[@bradskis81]

Changed all my USPs to a V7, have the LEM trigger in all of them. Love the LEM trigger system

[@rifleshooterchannel208]

I went to LEM partially for that reason and also because I wanted a constant trigger pull and better reset.

[@nonameneeded-n6t]

Bought one the day after 9/11. Many thousands of rounds dumped. Never a malfunction. Still one of my fav go-to's. The limited capacity just means more mags. She a keeper.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice 😎👍

[@michaelphillips5786]

Hey Nightwood, you are the reason I own a USP 9MM 4.25 Happy Thanksgiving!

[@NightwoodGuns]

Hope you had a great Thanksgiving! Enjoy the USP! 😎👍

[@gerybastiani1578]

I picked up a used USP45 FS and love it, was built in 2003 but still performs. Love the DA/SA use to it since I've got a Sig P220 compact and had an FNX45 T. May send it to HK and have them go through it. On my FNX45T I had the DPM spring setup and it was great

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! 😎👍

[@kennethbaker5223]

I love my USP C! Had an optics cut done for it, and it's very reliable!

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! 😎💯

[@cccalifornia7206]

Who did your optics cut?? If you can please share??

[@DookeyRidr]

The P2000 is the next evolution of the USP and makes possibly a better ccw option-less “overbuilt for 40”, streamlined controls, decocker on the back of the slide, it’s just less modular. Underrated imo.

[@NightwoodGuns]

P2000 is definitely underrated. It just doesn’t look as mean 😅

[@kickback69200141]

I picked up the USP 9 compact with the Langdon Tactical package from my local gun shop, I am in love with it. I had a USP 40 back in the late 90's but didn't like the 2 tone look. But picked it back up and fell in love again. Great review.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! 😎👍

[@mikevarnerzski]

I put about 80k through my uspf 40 from 94-2014. It was a tank.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Nice! It just keeps on chuggin’ 😎👍

[@Taegashi]

Just for the collectibility factor, such an iconic gun! It’s just a bonus that it’s such a great platform too. It always reminds me of Metal Gear Solid. Also couldn’t stop looking at the head of Future Trunks on the shirt, then you pointed it out. Way to look out for us cultured folks out here!

[@NightwoodGuns]

Definitely a classic blaster! 👍 And yes, of course I had to give Dragon Ball a shout out 😂 I’m just glad there are cultured people like you who appreciate it!

[@NameQuestUSA]

The HK USP Compact is a classic!

[@NightwoodGuns]

Definitely 😎👍

[@shootinnscootin5545]

Buying one from my buddy this Thursday. I don't care what anyone says, the USP is one of the best pistols ever made. Anybody who doesn't like theirs can send them to me.

[@NightwoodGuns]

@@shootinnscootin5545 I’m excited for ya! I agree, I will take all unwanted USPs 🤣

[@gracedagostino5231]

I'm in California, and with our stupid Roster, am very limited in handgun choices, all old models. I have a HK P2000SK LEM, and the only thing I didn't like about it was the long reset. Now I have installed the Gray Guns Short Reset, and what a difference. I now have the short reset of a modern polymer striker, but with the much nicer hammer fired trigger break. The best of both worlds! If I had lived in another state, I probably would have just bought a micro polymer plastic striker for carry. But I think this P2000SK LEM with Gray Guns Short Reset is superior to the new micro strikers.

[@NightwoodGuns]

The P2000sk is a great little handgun! Definitely holds up as a great “tiny” offering 👍

[@ronaldbak2092]

Great video! I just picked up a used USP-C 9mm with night sights and 3 mags for $600 and I couldn't be happier, sure there are more modern pistols for the same price point, but not with the build quality the USP offers, as far as having all the modern bells and whistles for optics and rails, I am old school and prefer good ole iron night sights, the best part of owning a USP-C is it's a classic HK and built like a tank and shoots great and has a feel these modern lightweight firearms just don't have.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! Congrats! 🙌

[@ericpayton6659]

Its my EDC and it will take an absolute world beater of a pistol to replace my USP 9C

[@NightwoodGuns]

Hard to beat the USP series when it comes to durability 👍

[@jesterhead8028]

I carry the P8. I was trained on it and trust it. If others want to carry other weapons, please go for it.

[@NightwoodGuns]

The P8/USP series will always be a good choice 👍

[@zach5053]

Been looking for a good USPc review for ages… last time I checked was before you posted this video! Id never seen your channel before but Im subbed now

[@NightwoodGuns]

I’m glad you found the video 👍 Welcome to the channel!

[@rjg02005]

Couldn't agree more about rolling discrete when the fan has slung the fecal matter. I have a USPC in 9mm and it is absolutely my go-to for messy situations. You can always arm-up overtly when absolutely necessary, but I can't imagine a situation where I would actively choose not to also have my USPC concealed in my waistband.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Well said 👍

[@JohnDoe14783]

just picked mine up today for my new concealed carry! I bought a tier 1 Axis Slim holster for it. can't wait to carry it

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! I was running the Axis Slim in this vid! Great setup!

[@nosurrender4824]

Love my USP! I'd bet my life on it. More accurate than me & 0 failures. 👍💪🏻🇩🇪

[@NightwoodGuns]

😎🙌

[@ASPIRITMAN]

Great review and tips. Convinced me, this is the one for me. Thanks

[@NightwoodGuns]

I’m glad you enjoyed the vid! It’s a great handgun! 😎👍

[@LionheartSJZ]

Man, I'm vibing your videos a ton. Dragonball was an essential and influential part of my early teenage years. I owned all the Mangas lol. Probably made me a better man. The shirt is amazing! I love the in-depth and intelligent information you provide in your videos. Personally, I own a Glock 19 and a Glock 43 for cc, but I guess I'm in a completely different situation than you are lol.

[@NightwoodGuns]

I’m glad you’re enjoying the channel! Dragonball 100% made me a better person, I’m grateful to have grown up with it. It also helps that it was super badass 😂👍 G19 is still one of my go-to guns. Great choice! 😎

[@piffpete420]

I used to carry a USP 45, such a great gun.

[@Dulex123]

Never stop posting.

[@NightwoodGuns]

I’m never going to give you up. And I’m never going to let you down. 👍

[@raifcluster]

Great video. I shot a USP yesterday in 40 cal, and was shocked at the thing's comfortable recoil! We were shooting 9's (Sigs and Springfield Armory) and the 40 USP was actually easier to shoot.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice 😎👍

[@patrickg2577]

It’s a great gun. The usp was designed around 40 cal, so was sig 226 and 229. The mechanical recoil reduction system makes the usp way more efficient to stay on follow-up shots. It was built with the snapy 40 cal in mind when they developed this pistol.

[@NightwoodGuns]

@@patrickg2577 It’s also beefed up and more durable because of that 👍

[@HDBujutsu1775]

It came out around 96 and is still one of the most reliable pistols made. I carry it cocked and locked and never had an issue decocking the pistol

[@Mr.Phesadent]

Fantastic review and exactly what I was looking for man! Currently carrying a P365 X Macro and really enjoy it. It's a fantastic carry w/ good ergonomics and 17+1. It's just logical..but i'm far from logical... Picked up my unicorn a few months ago, (USP .45 Tactical) and good lord I fell in love instantly. Reason i'm here today is i'm really considering the USP-C as my carry due to a "similar" size to the Macro, ergonomics, nostalgia, and as fantastic as the .45 tac shoots, I could only imagine 9mm. Trying to find one in Houston today!

[@Harry_JJ]

I still have my USPC 9. It’s the longest running gun in my possession. I never get tired of it. Though it is the hardest for me to shoot well HK can never be outdone. Though they’ve had some flops (SL8, G11, XM29) They set the standard a decade before anyone else did. The VP70 laid the groundwork for what polymer guns could be capable of. The USP started the trend of having accessory rails and may be the ONLY pistol that can handle .40 beyond 10K rounds The MP5 is what every sub machine gun wishes it could be What more could you ask for?

[@MrDberumen]

Lil Brother all I gotta say is if you want QUALITY HK is the choice period

[@NightwoodGuns]

Can’t go wrong with HK 😎👍

[@Paddy-McNasty]

Love the retro reviews. Would love to see you tackle the sig 226 legion series

[@NightwoodGuns]

If I get the opportunity to review one, I will 😎👍

[@walternelson753]

I love red dots, and all the rail options, I find myself going retro w/ night sights a ton for ccw due to simplicity.

[@NightwoodGuns]

@@walternelson753 nothing wrong with that 👍

[@clplusp8762]

I absolutely adore my USP 40 Compact and still carry it from time to time. So much so that I nearly bought a P2000 in 40 just to be able to interchange mags but ended up getting it the P2000 in 9mm instead

[@NightwoodGuns]

😎👍

[@MilitantX1]

I love my HKs. My USP Compact 9mm is one of my main EDCs.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! 😎👍

[@CookbookAdventures]

Just bought a HK VP9 SK -B OR, I love this gun. USP is next on my list at some point.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! A great addition! 😎👍

[@kf5881]

favorite handgun ever, and my concealed carry of choice

[@NightwoodGuns]

It definitely has a special place in my heart 👍

[@buzsalmon]

I like HK USP handguns. PERIOD.

[@timothyevans2183]

Good comprehensive review.. love lem and paddle mag release.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Glad you enjoyed 👍 LEM and paddle make for a great combo!

[@edt8535]

Retro? Maybe, but still an absolutely incredible pistol 🎉

[@NightwoodGuns]

Agreed! 💯

[@ShaneABaker]

So, I commented on this video once before... but I've come back with some new thoughts, and points or view. Did this video help me realize that I wanted a HK? Yes. Which one did I get? The HK 45 C. Do I think that these kinds of tools still have their place in the world? Absolutely. If this was all I had, I'd practice and carry with confidence.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice, man! That’s a great piece! 😎👍

[@kdworak4754]

Yo Nightwood... in light of all the MSP drama, can you do video on your grip? I am chasing the elusive proper grip technique. Right after I think 'the wave' is it the Ben Stoeger drama happened. So, not asking to address the drama just a video on your pistol grip technique. If you think, its been done, you're right. But, I've noticed that sometimes I need to see things done 10 different ways before 'I get it.' Thanks either way.

[@NightwoodGuns]

I’ll think about it. Maybe I’ll do a YT Short or something. That MSP/Stoeger drama is so stupid. There is no 100% proper grip technique. There are a lot of techniques that work well and different techniques just “click” better for different people. Stoeger isn’t wrong, but he isn’t right either. And there’s no reason for him to be a douche about it (but that’s his brand, so whatever) I’d honestly like to see the two of them go head to head in an elite standards shoot off to see how they stack up against each other. At the end of the day, if you grip the gun high and hard (and especially hard with your support hand) you are in pretty good shape. The trick is maintaining consistent grip pressure throughout your string of fire and not loosening it under recoil.

[@JWolf-r5x]

You should be a salesman for HK! Sold!

[@seadevil26]

You're a great source of Info for the HK USP compact series. Since I'm old school I absolutely love this platform. Which light/laser would you recommend for that platform... Thanks ,as always, and keep the videos coming!!!

[@bryanbirney2866]

The trunks shirt.. the usp, I'll let it run through, liked and subscribed

[@NightwoodGuns]

Much appreciated 😎👍 Sounds like you have excellent taste!

[@hixnada8278]

Nothing wrong with the USP9C, but the P2000 would be a better option for carry as it’s thinner and slightly better sights. 13+1 is still very relevant. I’d much prefer HK to Sig or Springfield

[@davidr8467]

Better sights? I have both with Meprolights on them and I prefer the USPc version. When I compare them there is more gap in the rear sight and the front post is narrower on the P2000. This leads to more play in the sight picture which can affect accuracy. Not speaking of the non-illuminated factory sights, if that's what you're referring to. Love both, just prefer the USPc.

[@chadhaire1711]

Yeah that P2000 was a real peach with Border Patrol, they really enjoyed those cracked polymer frames.

[@hixnada8278]

@@chadhaire1711 using over pressured ammo or falling off an ATV doesn’t count. Got any real sauce?

[@chadhaire1711]

@@hixnada8278 Glock frames dont crack falling off and ATV. HK polymer has always been crap on many of their products.....try polymer cocking handles on 91 and 93 rifle crack all the time. The USP is a bit better.

[@pranavkamath4329]

The USPC can be brought in line with modern guns, but you’ll spend a tad bit. -The new followers from the 15 to 17 round conversation kits will let you load 15 rounds in the 13 round mag. Might have to modify springs a bit, but I’ve got several thousand rounds through one of my modified mags no problems. -Get an LEM trigger conversion, you can even retain the manual safety if you want, but it allows you to cock the hammer spring and get a single action pull weight while the actual hammer and trigger are in the forward position, so you use the double action pull length. This way you can run a light trigger all the time without having to engage the safety, same as most modern striker fired guns, but with a hammer fired single action break in the trigger. Can add the Grayguns short reset and flat trigger to make it better. -The HK45c mag release is longer and wider than stock and makes mag changes easier. A $6 part if it’s in stock, hkparts also has a $50 enhanced release that’s even bigger. -finally you can get the slide milled for an optic by any one of a number of shops doing it. Wright armory and Langdon both have their own plate systems for the gun too. Mine also has a tlr-7a on a GG&G adapter, and a threaded RCM barrel with a comp.

[@chadhaire1711]

all these "mods" are crap......does NOTHING for serious function which only proves it doesn't matter how well engineered a factory gun is someone will come along to fuk-it-up.

[@randomguy3034]

My 4 favorite mass production pistols are the Sig P226 (particularly the mk25 and elite) Beretta 92/m9 CZ SP01 And the HK USP Honorable mention Magnum Research Desert Eagle in .429.

[@NightwoodGuns]

That’s a SOLID list! 😎👍

[@capt.squirrel8516]

I just found your channel and I have to comment. I’ve tried different carry guns. I always come back to my USP Compact 9mm. I’m more accurate with it than anything else I’ve ever shot. I’ve never had a single malfunction. I’m more comfortable with it than anything else. As a side note I’ve had it for so long my grip is stamped Pat. Pend. and it says HK USP instead of just USP.

[@NightwoodGuns]

First time I ever shot a USP Compact I put three rounds in the same hole at 30 feet. It’s definitely an accurate pistol! 👍

[@scottmorgan1016]

We old farts like myself at 62 a double action pull is no big deal. I not a dot fan so that's no issue. But it a well built gun and when I am in a fight or the world flips slightly more than it has. A bigger gun which I will shoot better and will last, I like this. For me these micro 9 are just OK. I love my Smith 39 model of 9mm. Or my old 226 which is my battle gun of choice

[@NightwoodGuns]

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it 👍 You have great taste in handguns.

[@astroidother3609]

I carry the HK45CT which is a truly awesome firearm. That said a USP40C would also be a great choice

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! 😎👍

[@burquidez]

I have a USP9 full size. It is a fantastic pistol. The Streamlight 69242 TLR-4 Rail Mounted Tactical Light with USP Full Clamp - attaches directly to the pistol, The only problem is that it is nearly impossible to find a holster that has decent retention. Prove me wrong!

[@RocketPropelledGuy]

One thing: The compact series recoil spring assembly IMO shouldn't be described as being recoil reduction. The only thing the plastic buffer does is prevent the steel slide from battering the polymer frame at the end of rearward slide movement, where as the full size system actually does redistribute the recoil forces in such a fashion that reduces felt recoil and significantly reduces wear in general, but especially on the frame. I was disappointed DPM didn't offer one for it since that system was (I think) a major boon to the full size USP. H&K abandoned it after the MK 23 and full size USP's. Even the HK45 didn't get it. I have absolutely no clue why, I speculate lack of interest for the feature by large order customers who didn't want the added cost of manufacturing. On the other hand...if they were already taking the financial burden of buying H&K in the first place...

[@mmiski]

Thank you. Was just about to make the same comment about the nylon ring not being some magical recoil reduction component. As for why the USP9c (and P2000) didn't get the same dual recoil spring treatment as the USP Full Size, I think it's because of the simple fact that they didn't have enough space for it in the compact models. If you look at how long that second (inner) spring is, it basically takes up the entire 0.6" they chop off for the Compact model. The nylon ring allowed them to have a simpler, smaller design which basically did the same job of protecting the frame. Supposedly there's also talk about how members of the HK Shooting Team noticed the dual spring system caused the muzzle trajectory to be more of a figure-8 pattern, whereas the single spring system allowed the shooter to keep the recoil in the vertical plane. Having owned and shot the USP Full Size many times I think there's some truth to this. The felt recoil is slightly softer, but it also felt like the muzzle had an extra bounce or nudge from that second spring settling. Your traditional single spring design does give you a sharper recoil impulse, but it's more of a "one and done" type of action where it's easier to consistently snap back onto the target.

[@NightwoodGuns]

I would argue that the “buffer” or “absorber bushing” cushions the rearward slide movement causing a dampened impulse. Is it as effective as the dual spring in the USP? Probably not. But they adapted to the limited size in the compact the best they could. Still a very soft shooting gun.

[@alexaguero5439]

It has a safety, adds safety which gives you more confidence when you’re carrying one in the chamber It has metal mags vs the usp9 full size It uses usp40c mags ,vp9 mags in general which can increase the capacity, p2000 mags. This makes it easier to find magazines for it. It is cheaper to use than a usp45. So you can shoot it more. Very reliable and durable Hammer fired with a system that makes it easier to shoot It has a threaded option You can buy a rds rear sight mount if you don’t want to mill it You can get a threaded barrel You can conceal it better than a USP FS allowing for every day carry to be more practical even during the hotter seasons. You don’t really see people using uspc as much but and less available. Your gun will stand out more due to that. Parts are generally well made like the full size Cons: -harder to shoot it with a compensator due to parts available to do so - less choice of pistol lights - higher price than other compacts (you get what you pay for)

[@dalecharles811]

The only gun as reliable as my G19 but shoots so much smoother and sadly more accurate than my Glock 19 Gen 1,2,3,4 & 5

[@NightwoodGuns]

Yep, it’s a winner 😎👍

[@blaiseeltine9516]

picked up a HK45C as part of a trade, when they first came out.. super accurate, easy peasy to squeezy.. sadly got into Glocks a short time later and sold it off. don't own glocks anymore either.

[@NightwoodGuns]

HK45C is also nice 😎👍

[@jimhovater8755]

BRAVO SIERRA. My EDC is an S&W 3914.

[@NightwoodGuns]

@@jimhovater8755 nice 😎👍

[@gixsix6270]

Great collectors gun. Will never fail you.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Agreed 😎👍

[@jonathanfrost944]

Great video. I have shot a lot of USP's including the compact. The triggers on all Hk hammer fired guns are pretty bad, however, with training they can be shot very well and quickly. The part about decocking the gun under recoil is a good point, but I have never seen it happen or had it happen to me with any 9mm USP and I ride my thumb on the safety. As a lefty, I much prefer the paddle release and find it much faster and easier to actuate. They are great guns, and I am an Hk fanboy, but if you're not going to train and shoot a lot a striker fired gun is probably a better bet.

[@chrisgeorge6928]

This was the first gun i have ever bought . Been my conceal carry sense day 1

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! 😎👍

[@diamondaranda336]

I campus carried that for a semester in 45. I deleted the safety to version 3, which is decocker only with one in the pipe. It's definitely a favorite to conceal.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! Big fan of campus carry and the USP here 😎👍

[@diamondaranda336]

@@NightwoodGuns thanks, I just found your channel. Good stuff

[@NightwoodGuns]

@@diamondaranda336 Right on, welcome to the channel 👍

[@jamesduprey2719]

Still, the best in my collection. A true shooter. Durable, accurate. Over built making it better than most for the next 20+ years. Buy one if you can afford it.

[@harrystangel6857]

Bought USP 40 in early 90’s. Great weapon ! Thinking about the compact model!

[@NightwoodGuns]

😎👍

[@arcrid8440]

“The USP is so old, I’ll take a Glock” USP invented: 1989 Glock invented: 1980 😂 Great review as always!

[@NightwoodGuns]

🤣 Yep, it’s hilarious. In all fairness to those people, Glock updated their designs with rails, optic cuts, flared magwells, ambi controls, backstraps, etc.

[@InfernoPhilM]

Found you because I was interested in DPM for my Rival.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Hey man! Welcome to the channel! 👋

[@davidwethington9320]

Safety is a non issue. Just get a variant that doesn't have one. Admittedly i don't carry my p30sk as much now because of the thickness and weight. I still take it when i go shooting because its more enjoyable than my smaller easier to carry options. I find I spend way more time on the smaller ones because of their size.

[@underabigsky]

You are young. The third gen S&W’s and Sig 226/229 were out between S&W wheel guns and HK USP’s. Solid review no matter!

[@NightwoodGuns]

I’m confused, did I get something wrong in the video? I mentioned that 30 years before the USP came out, people were carrying 1911s and wheelguns. 🤷‍♂️ Regardless, I’m glad you enjoyed the vid!

[@47chezman]

The USP platform is one of the greatest handgun platforms ever created. That’s not even up for debate. The only negative thing people say about HK is they’re expensive and not as small as some of the other guns of today. I never experienced a single failure with any of my 7 HK’s.

[@NightwoodGuns]

I’m glad you’ve had such good experiences 👍

[@newengland8126]

I don't like combo safety-decockers. Depending on the gun, I want one or the other. I changed my Beretta 92FS to decock only and love it.

[@NightwoodGuns]

One of the best upgrades you can make to the Beretta 👍

[@rogermurphey7444]

Just started watching your channel. I'm now a fan. The main reason I haven't owned a HK is the price. But now I like everything thing about the HK USP compact 9mm. Yes even the paddle release. I would rather own this HK, then a Glock. Sorry G. Fan boys😮. It will be a while before I can get it, cause I just got a S.F. Hellcat Pro 9mm. They say you can have everything. Just not all at the same time. 😊 thanks for the HK education.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Glad you enjoyed the video! There’s something alluring about the classic and aggressive ruggedness of the USP Compact’s design. It’s got that pure retro drip that deserves to be in the collection 😂👍

[@Wiseblood2012]

I love the USP. I am biased though. I used to work for HK. The only changes I would make is spurred hammer and the saftey/decock lever from the full size.

[@NightwoodGuns]

I do prefer the spurred hammer as well 👍 The USP is a legendary pistol 😎

[@Wiseblood2012]

@@NightwoodGuns yeah, the decocker from the full size has a larger paddle that I can reach without shifting my grip.

[@dalecharles811]

Still the best, 100% reliability and accurate

[@NightwoodGuns]

💯

[@BERSERKERNA39]

The HK LEM trigger is like a striker fire.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Yep, I like the light LEM 👍

[@KG-gv1ds]

20,000 rounds through mine (mostly practice) . Dropped in salt water, sand, dirt, mud, had hammer coated in clay and it still fired. Concealed carry though? meh.. it's more of a side carry or tactical carry than appendix or belly carry. It's (even in compact form) a hefty weapon and unless you're standing all the time, it's not very comfortable to carry in front, rear or appendix style carry. Definitely more of a fall/winter/early spring concealed weapon for side carry. Where i am i can carry concealed or open. It draws way too much attention either way during summer months. Absolutely my go-to weapon though if SHTF...no question about it Edit: I'll also add that over the years (i have a v2 original) and so many rounds, the only thing i did was get a new barrel for it (after the rifling was worn badly) and re-sight it. Cleaned it every once in awhile but mostly just rinsed it from sand and saltwater. I'd do 250 rounds each time at the 'range' then throw it in a drawer or safe or whatever, then i'd do another 250 the next week, etc. 2500 rounds without cleaning and i put some really suspect ammo in there and the only malfunction i ever had was an ammunition failure and upon inspection the strike was a big ol' dent in the primer and an ammunition manufacturing issue I've heard "stories" about hk's ejecting brass in the face, but i've had never had an issue like that. All brass was ejected to the 3 o'clock every single time.

[@saintmichael753]

Good stuff. Do you wipe your EDC gun down every day and/or let it air dry (from sweat, especially in the summer) before putting it away?

[@NightwoodGuns]

I treat my carry guns with Eezox nowadays so that mostly protects them from sweat. I’ll only wipe them down if I hike in the summer and my gun gets absolutely drenched with sweat 😅

[@saintmichael753]

👍🤙

[@heinrichstoltz1356]

Love my USPc .45ACP Carry it on a very regular basis.

[@NightwoodGuns]

It’s a great little tank 😎👍

[@juanzuniga5976]

I carry usp 45 compact in the colder times of the year owb with a flannel or jacket. This is a proven reliable gun.

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice 😎👍

[@mossydog34]

I own a Sig 365 and a usp compact. If you can load 12 rounds in the 365 out of the box, you're lucky. The H&K is a dream to load.

[@NightwoodGuns]

P365 definitely takes strong fingers 🤣

[@zanychelly]

Welcome!! Need some customizations, stranger? Like some chromatic slider, and a new picatinny rail? Maybe rename it to Handgun, or SG-09 R?

[@NightwoodGuns]

@@zanychelly Now THAT’S a weapon! 😎

[@DB2A7]

Retro/Out Dated... Possibly the same. 🤣 I watched three time for ya!

[@NightwoodGuns]

🤣👍 You da man!

[@johnsmith-gk4td]

Years later, still have my HK45c!

[@NightwoodGuns]

Very nice! 😎👍

[@Language-Game]

Great review of a classic!

[@NightwoodGuns]

Glad you enjoyed! 😎👍

[@SouBuuS]

Respect for that DBZ shirt lol - just picked up the USPc 40. Waiting for it to come in!

[@NightwoodGuns]

Right on! 😎👍