Heckler&Koch HK45 COMPACT TACTICAL - Manual (Page 4)

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SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION
The HK45 and HK45 Compact were developed as product improvements to the
highly regarded HK USP45 and USP45 Compact family of pistols, first released
in the 1990s. New user-inspired enhancements found on the HK45 and HK45
Compact are also found on recent Heckler & Koch semi-automatic pistols,
including the P2000, P2000SK (Subcompact), and P30.
The HK45 and HK45 Compact were also developed as possible candidates for
the Joint Combat Pistol (JCP) and Combat Pistol (CP) programs administered by
the U.S. military in their search for a new service handgun to replace the 9mm
M9. These programs were suspended before completion and no pistols were
selected.
Key features and system characteristics
• Integral MIL STD 1913 (Picatinny) rail molded into the polymer frame
dust cover for mounting lights, laser aimers, and other accessories
• Ergonomic (HK45 full-size) and slim-line (HK45 Compact) grip
profiles with user replaceable grip panels to adjust the feel and grip
circumference of the weapon to suit individual operator hand size
and shooting preference
• HK45/HK45C grip-to-slide angle matches Model 1911’s profile
• Common high-capacity metal magazines with a capacity of 10
rounds (for both models). A compact 8-round magazine is also
available for use with the HK45C
• Ambidextrous controls with dual slide releases and enlarged
magazine release
• Uses the proven modified Browning linkless recoil operating system
• O-ring barrel for precise barrel-to-slide lockup
• Polygonal rifling for longer barrel life and better accuracy
• Improved ergonomic control levers (safety and/or decocking)
• Low profile drift adjustable 3-dot sights
• Contoured and radiused slide with forward slide (grasping) grooves
and anti-glare longitudinal ribs
The HK45 and HK45C (Compact) are designed for the commercial, law
enforcement, and military markets. Both models are available, or can be
converted to, a wide variety of variants that use different trigger firing modes,
including SA/DA (single action/double action), SA (single action) Only, and DAO
(double action only) using the unique HK LEM (Law Enforcement Modification)
system.
The control lever, a combination safety and decocking lever, is frame mounted
and quickly accessible; unlike the slide mounted safeties common on many
pistols. The HK45 control lever has a positive stop and returns to the "fire"
position after decocking.
Figure 1 HK45 Compact (left) HK45 (right)
By using a modular approach to the internal components, the control lever
function of the HK45 can be switched from the left to the right side of the
pistol to accommodate left handed shooters. Left, right and ambidextrous
control levers provide safety and/or decocking functions as required and can
be fitted to the pistol simply by changing parts. A control lever can also be
mounted on both sides of the pistol if required.
Like the Model 1911 pistol, the HK45 properly outfitted, can be safely carried
“cocked and locked.” Most DAO variants of the HK45 have no external control
lever.
The polymer frame of the HK45 was designed using technical experience
gained by HK engineers in the development of the world's first composite
material pistols, the VP70Z and P9S. This same type high-strength and
corrosion free material is used in the Mark 23 .45 ACP pistol designed by
Heckler & Koch and fielded within the US Special Operations Command
(USSOCOM). HK’s experience working with polymers in handgun designs continued
with the USP, USP Compact., P2000, P2000SK, and most recently the P30.
NOTE: Scratching of the external surface and/or holster wear of the finish is
normal and not covered under warranty. Any finish may wear over time.
Major metal components like the one-piece, machined steel slide are treated
with a special, extremely hard, nitro-carburized protective exterior treatment
that resists corrosion from salt spray and wear from hard use.
A unique internal mechanical recoil reduction system reduces the recoil
forces imparted to the weapon and shooter by as much as 30%, improving
shooter control during rapid firing and component service life. Capable of
firing standard .45 ACP ball through +P ammunition, the HK45 combines the
accuracy, modularity, reliability and minimum 20,000 round service life of the
famed USP45 series with the improved ergonomics of the P2000 series pistols.
Both HK45 models can be fitted with threaded barrels for use with muzzle
mounted sound suppressors.
HK45 & HK45 Compact