HK USP .45 ACP
Model: 81000324
HK USP .45 ACP
Model: 81000324
Full Specifications
About This Firearm
The HK USP was designed around the .45 ACP cartridge from the start. Heckler & Koch engineered the recoil reduction system specifically for .45 pressures, and the result is a polymer-framed gun that reviewers consistently describe as softer-shooting than its 31.3 oz weight would suggest. The DA/SA trigger runs 4.8 lbs in single action, and the combined safety/decocker gives you carry options that striker-fired .45s like the Smith & Wesson M&P 45 M2.0 cannot match. At 7.91 inches overall with a 4.41-inch barrel, it is one of the more compact full-size .45 ACPs.
The USP's one real limitation is its proprietary accessory rail, which accepts only HK-pattern lights and a small number of third-party adapters. The Glock G21 Gen5 MOS and FN FNX-45 Tactical both use standard Picatinny rails with far broader light compatibility. The USP has been in production since 1995, making it one of the longest-running polymer .45 ACP designs. Parts availability, armorer knowledge, and aftermarket support reflect three decades of continuous service with military and law enforcement units worldwide.
Best For
Strengths & Limitations
- HK's captive recoil buffer system absorbs .45 ACP recoil better than the standard guide rod systems in the Glock G21 or S&W M&P 45, which reviewers consistently note produces less felt snap
- The DA/SA trigger with safety/decocker offers seven configurable variants (V1-V7), giving more carry condition options than any other polymer .45
- The proprietary HK rail does not accept standard Picatinny lights. Only the SureFire X300/X400 with HK adapter, Streamlight TLR-2 HK, and a few others fit directly
- No optic-ready option exists for the standard USP 45. The slide profile makes aftermarket milling difficult, and HK does not offer a factory optic plate
- Magazine availability is limited compared to Glock. HK magazines are metal, durable, but cost roughly twice what Glock 21 magazines do
Category Rankings
How the HK USP .45 ACP ranks among full-size .45 ACP handguns.
Ballistics Calculator
Calculate trajectory, drop, and energy for .45 ACP ammunition.
.45 ACP Ballistics →Where to Buy
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HK HK45 .45 ACP
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Smith & Wesson M&P 45 M2.0 .45 ACP
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Sig Sauer P320 Full Size .45 ACP
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Sig Sauer P220 Nitron .45 ACP
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Glock G21 Gen5 MOS .45 ACP
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the USP 45 and the USP 45 Tactical?
The Tactical adds a threaded barrel (.578x28), adjustable target sights, and a match-grade trigger. The standard USP 45 has a 4.41-inch barrel and fixed 3-dot sights. If you plan to run a suppressor, the Tactical is the correct model. The standard USP requires a barrel and sight swap to host a can.
What do the USP variant numbers (V1-V7) mean?
They describe the control configuration. V1 is DA/SA with safety and decocker (left side). V3 is DA/SA with decocker only (no safety). V7 is DAO with no external controls. Most civilian sales are V1. If DA/SA with decocker-only appeals to you (like a SIG P-series), look for V3.