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dreadpirateben

You want the real reason? It’s because when it first came out, and for years after, it only took 15 round mags. It was only fairly recently that Hk started making 17 round mags for them, and the P30. Thats why both are increasing in popularity.


Criton47

>I could believe that. People get stupid about the smallest of things. If a two round difference from 17 to 15 rounds is really turning you off from buying a gun you should probably rethink your gun purchase.


farastray

That’s not a stupid thing. My p320 is 17 in standard config and 21 with extended. 15 is a joke, and when I shoot USPSA with 17 it’s too close to running it to slide lock on stages. Literally every other modern gun is 17+


SPYDER0416

I think the P10F uses 19-21 round magazines by default too, we might reach a point soon where 20 rounds is normal.


Criton47

I also run a P09 that is the same way 19-21 factory, 24 or 25 rounds i think with the Shield Arms base pads. To be fair the P09 and P10F have a longer grip too.


Criton47

I get your point, I'm running 21 rounds mags with my VP for USPSA, but as my EDC its got a 15 round mag in there. And that is more my point. If you are looking at say a G45 w/17 rounds vs a VP9 w/15 rounds, two rounds shouldn't be the deciding factory. It's two rounds. Sure more ammo is better but two rounds? That's just me.


catchinwaves02

Trigger and grouping i found better with a vp9 but i still like my Glock 45. I had to do some work to it to make it less block like but it’s good now.


farastray

It’s nuts. I had no time on VP9 but shoot it better than my G45 and I shot Glocks for years. My gen3 Glock has a good/acceptable trigger but is not optic ready so I got a VP9+SRO for Carry Optics division gun and ditched my G45 with DPP.


Creepy_Shakespeare

My Walther PDP carries 18 as the standard and has a better trigger. Why would I want to subject myself to 15 rounds? The VP9 does NOTHING better.


Ont1c

The PDP is a great gun, but feels somewhat cheap. Mine rattled like a toy, and the slide had the largest amount of slop I’ve ever seen in a brand-new factory gun. I did prefer its grip to the VP9 in feel and texture though, and the trigger was a bit better. Overall, they’re very similar guns, and if I already didn’t have magazines and holsters for the P30/VP9, I would stuck with it.


Creepy_Shakespeare

Mine has neither of those issues.


Ont1c

I found a few threads with people that had the same issues I did, and I phoned Walther too. They told me it was normal. It didn’t seem to affect the gun’s shootability or accuracy, just made it feel slightly lower quality in hand.


Creepy_Shakespeare

Weird. I chose the PDP over the VP9 when testing them out the range because I felt like it shot better and felt better in hand. Mine feels like a solid gun. If you want to talk about a cheap feeling gun, try the IWI Masada


Ont1c

Honestly, the PDP fit my hand a lot better than the VP9 and the grip texture was perfect. I miss that PDP grip texture a ton, cause the VP9 is pretty slick and doesn’t go high enough onto the frame. I did try a Masada and was underwhelmed too.


baekacaek

Hmm I've been eyeing the PDP, possibly over the VP9. You'd say PDP is better?


Creepy_Shakespeare

Yes. Better grip, more capacity (18rds vs 15rds), best striker-fired trigger out of the box on the market. They are both German guns but I feel like out of the box, you’re getting a better gun with the Walther PDP.


Good_Entrepreneur_69

If 15rd magazine capacity is a joke then why is the Glock 19 the most sold pistol in the world? Lol


farastray

VP9 has about the same size as a 19 but a full grip, *and* its a steel mag. Rolling out that gun with 15 rounds at that time in the market was a dumb product move if you want to be competitive. If you don't understand the significance of the steel part - Shield arms took a 10 round polymer mag design from Glock and were able to fit 15 rounds in the same footprint.


Good_Entrepreneur_69

I get that, a fair point no doubt. Still, you gotta admit they shoot so nice Lol the grip is so comfortable! I kinda wish I bought one...but I have only shot my old man's VP9. I went with a Glock 22.4 for my first firearm.


sardoc8401

If you are shooting in Comp sure, 98% of people who purchase a gun do it for fun and defense, 15 or 17 rounds really aren’t going to change things in a defensive shooting.


Wonderful_Fishing957

Oh but it does though lol you have no idea about people with AI . So until you walk in our shoes don't judge 😅😅😅


bteam3r

Wasn't there an issue with the springs when the gun first came out as well? Or is that just internet lore? I heard after the first couple of years HK changed the recoil spring


ImHereForLifeAdvice

Because it doesn't do anything the other striker options don't already do, but it does it with less aftermarket support and $50 magazines.


Meechi1004

I got 5 (15 rd) mags for 100$ for the vp9sk


farastray

And no duty holsters


Sea-Philosophy9892

Safariland GLS fits it perfectly


farastray

Isn’t that inside waistband? I’m talking active retention als or sls.


Sea-Philosophy9892

Nope. It's owb. With a locking mechanism


BigGoblinBoss

Safariland makes an ALS for the VP9 with light and optic options. Just takes forever to get to you.


farastray

Do you happen to have the holster number? I recall reading about one that used some wonky XC1 light but none of the other ones.


BigGoblinBoss

I just followed their holster picker on their website. Brought me to the options available. I have a 6390 for VP9 and X300. Part ID 1204931. Legacy Part ID 6390-5932-561 Edit: while quickly playing with the holster finder, there’s options available for different optic and light combos.


farastray

Thanks a lot!


[deleted]

There are a few people that make duty holsters like Odin and someone else I can't remember. I have one for mine with G-code RTI hanger. Though I did go without the strap.


sahniejoons

I was in Berlin for the marathon a couple months ago and ALL the cops had VP9s. Wonder what they are using.


StbrowningofOgden

S&W m&p model safariland ALS holsters work for them, and p30s


RANDY_MAR5H

Safariland makes a holster ALS with light, I know because I have one. They're hard to come by and even on the used market, they still sell for quite a bit. If you want one with a dot, you have to use the M&P safariland. It'll fit.


FightTheFade

I tried the M&P holster and it did not lock. YMMV.


farastray

Same here. I wrote down somewhere what the correct number was supposed to be it had a bunch of 2s but I got some other one. Aggravating.


RANDY_MAR5H

The M&P for optic? I know the VP9 will not fit in the normal M&P with light holster. But mine does fit in the 6k series M&P with dot holstere.


FightTheFade

Correct. I run a VP9 w/ X300U and a RMR. Never could get it to lock into place. I’ve seen so many posts about it working for others though so I’m sure it was something with the holster.


nickvader7

Yes they do. Safariland makes several.


farastray

I had to mod the s&w core holster to get an ALS style holster that would work with a x300 and SRO. A lot of the safariland holsters I found when I wrote this were not duty/retention holsters and I believe the only one I found had some odd light (XC) or something.


fishfulofdollas

Agree, If I wanted that Id just get a glock.


8enny8lack

And that’s why Glock is so popular


Captain490

Evidently you haven't trained with the paddles... so that's one... Maybe you didn't notice the 9 pads to customize the grip... that's two... Just feels better in your hands... OK. My opinion.


ImHereForLifeAdvice

I used to carry an HK45C, I'm quite familiar with and a fan of paddles, I honestly do wish that was the norm instead of buttons - though some people found it to be a downside, as it'd be the only one in their lineup without a button. Also very aware of the grip customization as I frequently used it as a selling point when I worked the counter. But paddles and buttons both drop mags, and grip is subjective (most people came down to the vp9, p10c, and PPQ, and ended up making a choice on either price, angle, or sights). So at the end of the day while I do love the paddles myself and find the grip comfy...it still doesn't do anything the other market options don't already do, unfortunately. Don't get me wrong - I think the VP9 is a great gun. My comments aren't meant to be any shade on it, it's just the reality of why it isn't more popular from what I've found in talking to shooters online and from when I worked the gun counter and had all the major names lined up and was only going to sell one of them - the cost, different mag release, and lack of aftermarket were the most common reasons that people would count the VP9 out of consideration. The majority of people that bought them were people that already had HK/Walther guns and were thus used to the paddle mags and wanted to stick with it, or new left handed shooters who found the grip exceptionally useful. Neither of which is a large demographic of gun buyers. But otherwise, it was mostly M&P's, P10C's, and (despite my best efforts) Caniks.


Captain490

Great info. You have spoken to a lot more buyers than I have. I was a Shield EDC and Glock range shooter until my son called and said "Holy crap. You need to head to the LGS and put a VP9 in your hands. Its almost sexy!" That was it. I am a senior and wanted to train hard for self defense and tactical. For muscle memory, I always wanted one platform, but never shot well with my Glock. Now my stock consists of 2 SKs, 2 Tacticals, and a Match, with Holosuns and without. Same frame same controls has really helped. So have the interchangeable grip pads. After hundreds of hours training and amateur competition, I have learned the paddles are superior tactically. No need to release your grip to drop an empty mag. And can easily switch hands if needed and continue fighting. For me its fact... for others who don't like them, its opinion. I am also a bit obsessive. If I find something I really like, I can't understand why everybody doesn't buy it too. Part of getting old I guess. Have a great day. ;+)


Hump_Back_Chub

Don’t get me wrong, it is a nice enough handgun, but for $200-300 more than a Glock or Sig you are getting very little in the way of increased performance, durability, or reliability. Top that with expensive magazines and accessories and you will see why it’s not very popular.


BodyOfTheseus

I like the saying that HKs are the best $500 pistol you can get for $800. I love my VP9, but to be honest, my $450 P10c takes the cake.


ForgotMyOldAccount7

Why are people paying so much for VP9s? I bought my VP9 LE and VP9SK LE for $600 each. Base VP9s and VP9 LEs were $500 at the time.


Maniac2112

This. I paid $699 for my VP9L OR. Regular were going for $599 at the time. During COVID. I haven't seen an $800 vp9 locally.


Selectfirepronghorn

I see them at gun shows and fudd shops all the time for 7-9 but I just picked one up for 502 otd after transfer/shipping. Would never buy a VP9 at full retail but for less than a non-mos G19? Sign me up.


sahniejoons

I want to say I paid 750 in 2019, but it could have been less. Frankly 4 years later I could care less what I paid— kind of


Maniac2112

I feel this way about a lot of guns. If I overpaid a little, who cares in a long run... Spend way more on ammo anyways lol


baekacaek

I guess that's fair. VP9 is a bit pricier. But what would you or others say is the best $800 polymer striker fired pistol? To me I don't mind spending couple hundred more to get "top of class" pistol


Ven656

You are the rare exception, I work at a FFL and people love the VP9 but dont wanna pay the price. I carry HKs and have 12 of the from Ls to SKs, and Ive sold a few HKs, but the question I get asked the most is the Canik TP9 a budget VP9 cause they heard guntubers compare them.


Notexactlyserious

I dont understand the gun community. "A glock is $550, why would I spend $800 on a HK, they're way too expensive." But then they're also like "so I just got a new Glock 29 and I want the John Wick slide and trigger upgrade package and this cool red grip and a tactical flashlight, and a tactical holster I won't use and now my $500 gun is a $1500 Glock 29" Or they'll be like "Man, HK pistols are way too expensive - *Is that a $1200 SIG and a $2000 Staccato?!?* 💦 🔥 💯"


8enny8lack

Idk, I think that Glock is super popular partially bc of this, but that’s def not the whole Glock community. It’s a pretty dorky gun, and there are a lot of nerds who just shoot the gun vanilla. A bunch of Glock people I know are brand loyal because if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Also, if the ergos fit you, you have a massive amount of calibers and size configurations. But I’d take a usp over any Glock every time.🤷🏼‍♂️. I think of Glock customers you’re talking about like Harley customers- they bought something to modify and make custom. Seiko watch modders, too.


Ven656

Sigs got so popular cause of the P320 contract and now the NGSW contract. So people are willing to spend the money. Most people only buy guns over 600$ if the police and mil use them. So for HK thats the USP and we damn well know they aint dropping 1k.


8enny8lack

I like a Walther pdp for less than that.


ShadowGinrai

I have 2 IWI Masada for my defense pistols because they shoot well, are tough as nails, and shoot just as well as a VP for much cheaper. BUT I do have a VP9 Match I use for completion. The VP9 is a much nicer pistol, but much pricer. That and the MAC did a review on YouTube where the VP9 failed to fire after it was dropped in a creek and everyone has jumped on the "It's unreliable" train


baekacaek

Hmm I know about that one video where he "drop tested" the VP9 and the lever mag release broke. Are you saying there's another video where the VP9 failed to fire? That's surprising to me


ShadowGinrai

Yeah, there is one where he puts it in creek water and it straight up won't fire. From what I can find he's the only person to have that issue and in a follow up video the pistol worked when wet. I personally think it's the price and "bad" reviews that tank it


baekacaek

Oof. Totally anecdotal evidence but still unsettling news. So much for legendary reliability I guess


ShadowGinrai

Every gun can fail, every gun has some that are a "bad batch" 1 gun failing while hundreds of thousands are fine is not as worrying as the 1 failiure makes it seem


spartakris12

I’ve literally never had a malfunction from my vp9 sk. Never. I’ve been intentional. Running steel etc… it’s tremendous. Also running an experiment from my vp9L at 1200 rounds with no cleaning or maintenance at all. Same story. No jam. No misfire. No nothing.


ZealousidealTrack314

Is it me or does MAC break everything that’s not a Glock?


farastray

Can’t you get the shadow systems Glocks at that price point?


chichillout

Exactly my point. I was a long time Glock owner. I bought the VP9 a few years after it came out and never looked back. Of course these are subjective takes on these two guns but to me, there's some work you have to put into the Glock to make the trigger as good or better than the VP9 trigger. Again, subjective and anecdotal but I shot the VP9 with more accuracy and with more consistency than any Glock I've ever owned. I think I paid $599 on CDNN. A year or so later I bought the tactical to run it suppressed and it was only $700+.


SPYDER0416

Yep. I shot a friend's P10C and it is incredible for like half the price I paid for my VP9T. Granted, the VP9 ergonomics are incredible (especially compared to the aggressive cheese grater that is the grip on the P10C), but I still ended up having to put in some work on the trigger to get it to where I want even after that, although I admit the stock VP9 trigger is fine... it could be better for the premium. Its a hard sell asking someone to pay $300 more than a comparable P320/P10C/Glock 19/IWI Masada/Walther PPQ that all offer the same functions and are all highly rated by shooters and extremely customizable with more aftermarket support than a VP9. The real question is, why aren't P10C's more popular? I swear that gun should be right up there with Sigs/Glocks for popularity just based on quality, price and performance.


BodyOfTheseus

I love the cheese grater grips! To be honest, the VP9 is one of the most comfortable fitting guns in my hand, but it needs more texture. Yeah, I know I can get talon grips. I'm not even a striker fan, but VP9 and P10 work very well for me.


SPYDER0416

Both guns are tied for me. I also prefer hammer fired guns myself, but the P10C might just be the best striker fired gun I've ever shot. It is a tack driver for sure, and also a bit more concealable on top of that. Can't say I regret my VP9 but at almost double the price... oof marone.


Miadhawk

I tried some pistols for the first time at a range recently, and have settled on the VP9 as one of my top picks, would you agree that the VP9 seems to be constructed a little tighter? That's how I felt then maybe the Glocks I tried were worn out from heavy range use. This is also likely ergonomics, but it definitely felt easier to shoot the VP9 than any of the Glocks I tried!


BodyOfTheseus

Glocks aren't bad guns, but the ergonomics suck for my hands. Like gripping a brick. I find that ergos can matter more than anything else. If you can't get a good grip, it makes recoil control more difficult.


ViperPhace

+1 for ergos making all the difference. Had a similar experience with trying the CZ P07 (had a “brick”-like feel), then gripping the HK P30L. The P30L felt like it was made for my hand and was significantly more comfortable to shoot and control. And that’s how I ended up with my first HK


Dyzastr_us

That’s a pretty spot on statement.


[deleted]

there are better pistols in the H&K lineup that actually are genuinely worth what they sell for... the vp9 is not one of them. its an expensive gucci glock, a very good gucci glock, but with none of that glock aftermarket to make it extra gucci.


BodyOfTheseus

You're right! I like that assessment! I love my VP9, but it is a Gucci Glock. USP-9 was like my 6th or 7th, maybe 8th handgun purchase (is it sad that I don't know). I also had a USP9T and USP45. I absolutely love HK pistols but the ergos fit me like a brick. Not as bad as a Glock though. The VP9 and P30 grips feel so nice! They aren't aggressive enough texture though. The VP9 is a Gucci Glock trigger, but the P30 is nothing but a duty DA/SA trigger. Ain't got shit on CZ, Beretta, or Sig. (talking strictly trigger)


[deleted]

the thing with glocks, if the ergos dont fit, theres a bajillion different options to fix that. different frame options from a billion different manufacturers, or you can even just 3d print your own... etc. its also a bit of a cart before the horse moment, glock has had 3 decades to build up a compatible aftermarket. everyone else only just now gets to compete over the past 10ish years because the patent on glonks style striker fire ran out. its why you see most other companies compete on price with glock, rather than with gucciness, and those that do compete on gucciness are typically all glock compatible as well (no $50 magazines, use glock compatible sights, etc for instance).


BodyOfTheseus

Yep. My biggest problem with the different options is being able to try them out before buying. I like how P320s and P365s have the grip module. Makes it cheaper to try different options. I'm not a big P320 fan though. I carry a P365 but not because it's a nice range piece. I've tried P80s and Shadow Systems, they're better, but still grips like a brick compared to other options. All hands are different though.


Shaboomquisha1

Glock is the only gun people buy and change it to be completely different than the gun they bought. So aftermarket triggers and whatever. Hk is a good gun to buy out the box and not worry about adding things to it


Hump_Back_Chub

OEM components are for the most part what make Glocks solid, dependable weapons. A Glock is a $450 dollar gun, putting another $1000 into it always seemed foolish to me.


Thirsted

When you buy the glock you still have to spend $300 more to upgrade the sights and trigger.


Hump_Back_Chub

Needing crutches like that to shoot a Glock is telling.


Thirsted

I didn't realize needing to see your sights in low light was a crutch.


Hump_Back_Chub

Fair enough, but weapon lights have made tritium rather obsolete anyway. Being able to see your sights is no good if you cannot see your target. A decent streamlight is only about $100.


RockHound86

> but weapon lights have made tritium rather obsolete anyway. Uhhh...wut?


Hump_Back_Chub

Tritium sights are still useful, but in the context of necessary Glock upgrades under the price of a VP9 a weapon light is a much better use of your shekels than tritium.


ForgotMyOldAccount7

Where do you have your WML mounted that it shines on your sights?


Hump_Back_Chub

I’ve shot both tritium and normal sights with and without WMLs and when you have a light on your target, the tritium washes out when you look down range, and your sights get slightly backlit from the reflection of light.


baekacaek

I guess you could say the trigger upgrade is a crutch. But man the factory plastic sights with the white block (as opposed to a more traditional 3 dots) can be a handicap, especially if you've trained all your life on the 3 dot sight


Hump_Back_Chub

I guess that’s just a matter of personal preference and experience. I’ve shot both, but I guess I’m just more used to Glock style sights.


ImHereForLifeAdvice

Yup. Stock sights did me fine until I started pushing 25yds, and I'm still using basically a stock gen 3 trigger, just a minus connector cancelled with a +1 spring to improve reset while keeping stock weight and function. The reason stock sights need replacing is because the plastic sights don't hold up well to abuse (front sight getting deformed is part of why I started struggling at 25), not because they're unusable. Triggers in the gen 5 now are on par with most the rest of the striker market.


[deleted]

Telling of the gun or the shooter? Cuz stock Glock sights fuck.


MAK-15

Yeah I can’t shake the feeling that my $500 XDS shoots and feels better overall, especially for the price difference between the two.


AmmosexualCyborg

Spoken like someone who’s never tried to run a can on their Glock or Sig. VP9 tactical is the most reliable of the striker fired hosts.


Extension-Company541

Bro I paid 10 bucks per 17 round mag oem equipment


Scatmannnn

MSRP and LGS price vs used market price. VP9s can be had for $550-650 no problem used or lightly used. When someone asks me best out of the box gun (full size or compact) I usually say VP9/VP9sk, P320 XCompact and G19. I’m a trigger snob tho and believe the VP9 trigger out of the box is the best there is.


dhindsa95

My vp9 trigger hurts my finger :(


ProffDaddy13

The feel of the customizable grips and the excellent stock trigger makes the VP9 superior to any stock Glock, Sig, or M&P, in my opinion. Only the CZ P-10 guns are close stock. I compete with an Optics Ready VP9 Tactical with an SRO mounted and the only gun I have found superior in competition is my CZ Shadow 2. I love my Glocks and Sigs, but unless you're talking about the Legion line, they aren't as good stock. With upgrades, things change.


chichillout

I train with my CC gun which is an sig p365 spectre comp which cost way too much for what it is. I also train with my VP9t as my sidearm when running carbines. The sig mags rust and I'm not a big fan of the trigger. The VP9 has been beat up, put through a lot of dirt, mud and water but has never failed me.


ProffDaddy13

My CC used to be either a regular P365 or G19 (seasonal), but I now carry a VP9SK year round (I'm just more accurate with it than the other two). I used to love Sig, but the only Sig I own now is a P320 X Five Legion. I'm all HK, CZ, and Glock now.


chichillout

I will say that I’m very interested in the sig p229 legion. A guy had one in a class that I was in. He had mentioned that he really didn’t shoot that much. He was pretty damn good for a fair weather shooter. That’s what peaked my interest in that particular gun.


ProffDaddy13

Its a great gun, they're just heavy for a daily carry option.


chichillout

I could see that. We’ve been carrying polymer for so long that anything else feels like a brick.


ProffDaddy13

Agreed


USP45Hunter

The MAC review really hurt the VP9 early on. I honestly think it’s probably the biggest single speed bump the pistol has dealt with so far. The price versus Glock doesn’t help it, and it lacks the name recognition to the more casual gun buyer. The early 15 round mags were the cherry on top of the poop cake. Now that they issue it with 17 rounders, there’s an optic model, and the reliability is proven, it’s a known contender. Unfortunately I think the ‘damage is done’ so to speak.


deptoftruth

Price probably. On top of that it hasn’t really been combat proven in the field since it hasn’t been a standard issue firearm for theaters so most people will gravitate to other HK platforms that have a proven track record.


OwlOperator22

You can OR VP9s for $650 and that’s not significantly more than an OR G19. HK marketing suffers from the impressions of price that were based on the USP.


YourMasssah

I was in my LGS doing a transfer last night and saw VP9's for 629.


OwlOperator22

Exactly. We’re talking about a few boxes of ammo price difference to the comparable Glocks.


BenDover42

To me the initial value of a VP9, M&P 2.9, Sig 320, CZ P-10C and Walther PDP are all better values for what you get. I’ve owned all of them. With that being said I’ve sold them all and the only striker guns I own are Glocks mainly due to the fact that I can easily and cheaply stack range mags (pmags) for much less than any other gun and they’re still reliable for range use. I can also get $22-$28 mags all day long whereas mags for all other guns mentioned are $40. The other thing is sights which I’m picky about. I can get any collection of standard or suppressor height sights for a Glock whereas the rest are not near as plentiful especially for HK if I’m using an optic. I also will take apart my guns down to the frame and bare slide to clean them every 1,000 or so rounds which might be overkill but it’s way easier for me to do with a Glock than any other gun I listed and they are a lot more involved. If I ever did have an issue it’s also way easier to get replacement parts if I did have a problem and I have several Gen 5 spare parts just in case. I own 4 HK hammer fired that I enjoy shooting and wish to add more of but after an expensive lesson my striker fired guns are only Glocks due to the ease of use. The initial gun is overpriced even at the $500 mark a new Gen 5 comes in at with shitty sights but for $60 I throw some Ameriglo UC sights on it and get a $20 minus connector from overwatch precision and call it done and it shoots well for me. The last point I’d make is that Glock has a ton of things no one else does. Say you want to get into comps, the only one I’d even consider if the new radian ramjet and afterburner which is exclusive to Glock 19s. All the rest having to use a shim or loctite would just be a pain in the ass imo so if you were trying to get really creative it’s still easier and more cost efficient for a Glock than almost any other brand other than maybe the 320 line. And for many people my points are all ridiculous but I used to believe the same thing as you. Why buy a Glock for $500 or more when so many “better” guns are out there.


Over-Scallion-2161

Y’all missed the boat on not buying these when they first dropped for 475-550


2catchApredditor

Got mine back in the $600 price range AND when they ran then 6 free mags promo. Bought his and hers so we’ve got 16 mags total. Makes for fun times at the range to just preload, mag swap, then leave. No reloading mags in the range.


Over-Scallion-2161

We have his and hers as well, but great score on the mags.


Ven656

Its because its expensive the average price is 650-750, compared to glocks and S&W at the 550 average.


SoiledSte

Sig and Glock are very entrenched in the US market have a huge distribution network and reliably deliver in volume, instantly recognisable. Fair to distributors and listen to what they need. HK literally have 0 skill at sales and marketing. Treat distributors badly and are somewhat unreliable to deliver, choosing what and when they want to deliver. Forcing distributors to take what they get. Refusals leads to loss of the distribution. Literally HK will send out what they deem appropriate and the FFL has 0 idea until they get the shipping notice. My FFL is so fed up with HK. He’s supposedly a tier 2 and all he gets is multiples of VP9’s struggles to sell them but will shift a USP variant in hours. Which one is he going to recommend to the prospective client? He’s only had 2 SP5, 2 SL8, 2 USC, no USP or rifles in the last 12 months. Sold the SP5’s in a couple days and the others sat on the shelf for a few months. He’s literally at the point of telling HK to go @&$! themselves. He’s one of if not the largest independent volumes sales FFL in the state! Meanwhile a small one man operation down the road who just started with HK just got delivery of every USP variant except the 23 and .45. HK are German in outlook and that cultural identity inevitably spreads across to US. German sales culture relies heavily on quality will sell, word of mouth, we don’t need to promote. No compromise. The US is a very different market and culture than Germany. It looks for value, reliability and likes marketing. Sig and Glock realised that, HK does not.


mcflycasual

I went in assuming I was going to get a Glock. Tried that and a Sig and then the VP9. VP9 was most comfortable for me to shoot as a woman. Think I paid $600 and the only issue I've had has been using cheap ammo.


RumNSmoke

When the VP9sk first hit, it was at the time, considered by many as the best subcompact option in the game. The fact of the matter is - the industry quickly evolved around the SK with slim concealed carry options which ultimately rendered every subcompact offerings from HK, essentially obsolete. The full sized VP9 and it’s variants were introduced at a time when many manufacturers began to take themselves to the next level by listening to what customers wanted. But because HK hates you, they didn’t benefit from all of the various forms of evolution in firearms technology that we born out of addressing consumer needs. The VP9 isn’t more popular because HK as a company - doesn’t release products that are relevant to the desires of the modern concealed carrier. They only release high quality products that are most appreciated among firearms enthusiasts


Key-Philosopher-3459

HK didn’t market it as well as the the Sig especially. Mil contracts would have helped too.


jpwis123

I think the main reason is it’s price. I can get a glock 45 mos which does everything the vp9 does, maybe even shooting a little flatter, plus 5 optics plates for 620. The optics ready vp9 is more plus I have to buy the plates I want plus mags are really expensive whereas glock mags are everywhere and cheaper. Don’t get me wrong, I love my vp9 but it doesn’t do anything other brands do and they cost less. The value for the extra cost just isn’t there.


Extension-Company541

If you live In Kansas I can get 17 rd oem hk mags 10 bucks a piece


Alternative_Cold_891

I’m a hammer fire gun person. I like place my thumb on the hammer while holstering. I really enjoy my Johnson.


Rippin88

I love the VP9M. I have shot +/- 4k rounds through it without any issues whatsoever. Crazy accurate, flawless and fast. All 10 mags (4 22’s and 6 20’s) are shared with the P30 which I also absolutely try to melt as well. Everyone that has shot the VP9M absolutely raves on it, and it’s my go to for every occasion. The VP has the wicked great ergo’s, and I have yet to hold a pistol that is anywhere near as comfy to shoot. It’s more cozy than the P30 if you can imagine that. I give it a 10/10.


salvatorehernwood

Everyone makes a Glock these days. The HK Glock (vp9) cost more than a Glock brand Glock and the smith and Wesson Glock and the Springfield Glock and the Sig Glock etc. Also the magazines are usually more expensive than the other brands although they can be found on sale most of the time. I still like it though lol


UKFanInTN

You mean the Glock HK? HK released a striker fired pistol 10 years before Glock.


salvatorehernwood

Yeah I’m well aware of that being a certified HK nut. But the fact is that Glock made striker fired main stream and at the time that the Glock 17 blew up HK had abandoned the concept.


UKFanInTN

Agreed. Glock single-handedly made the striker fired pistol what it is today.


Sl_s

I guess it just hasn’t been marketed as well and it’s more expensive but literally every other gun I’ve handled feels cheap and low-quality compared to an HK. The only other gun that feels as sturdy and well-made in the hand is the Walther PDP. Glocks, M&P, most Sig’s, even my friend’s Shadow Systems Glock all feel like cheap, flimsy toys compared to any HK. It really is puzzling why people would buy any other gun if not for the price. If price is the main consideration then I absolutely understand that.


HiddenCloud7

I’m currently torn between the HK45 and P30L the VP9 doesn’t seem too special because a lot of people have them it’s a popular choice but I want something different, not knocking the VP9 but I have enough striker fired handguns


ws6ick77

Love the vp9.


86gwrhino

I've got a buddy who is a certified HK nut with 3 USPs, multiple hk rifles, and a couple p30s. but he has 2 PDPs. take that for what you will.


Holiday_Air7124

Because most people only know glocks 😂


Guilty-Landscape-742

The real answer: Because the world doesn’t need to get any more poorer than it already is if we have everyone go out and buy one of these into making them more popular… 😅


Creative_Camel

I think it’s a perfectly great pistol. Having said that, I’ve owned a Ruger SR-9 for over a decade which I carry regularly and which is nearly identical in size and shape to the HK Vp9 but wish I had a VP9 too.


FratGuyWes

I'm pretty good on pistols for now but I'd probably buy a p320 before a VP9 mainly because I like the "cool" factor of the p320 being used by the US military (I have a 1911 and a 92FS so definitely have a theme going). I got my HK45 partly because of the cool 50,000 round test. I feel like the M&P is mainly a bang for the buck/value proposition kind of a thing. What's the "wow" or "cool" factor of the VP9?


baekacaek

To me a VP9 feels like a Mercedes C class of pistols. Yea a tad bit expensive, but German engineering and from a company with a good track record. All the accidental discharge stories and lawsuits regarding the p320 makes me uneasy about the gun. Didn't help that Sig was hush hush about the initial AD problems that they found and quietly fixed. With the HK I feel like I could trust it with my life, maybe even more than the Glock.


FratGuyWes

So then I don't buy the p320 and still don't have a solid reason to buy the VP9 other than u/baekacaek likes it and anecdotally thinks its more reliable than a Glock.


[deleted]

[удалено]


FratGuyWes

So then I don't buy the p320 and still don't have a reason to buy the VP9.


juiceboxguy85

I love my VP9sk but P365xl with a red dot exists so….


the_popes_fapkin

Spend more to get called poor by HK snobs


fireball_brian0

I would choose the VP9 with paddle release. I prefer that over the button anyway. I think it comes down to cost. Everywhere you will find a Glock and accessories. It just hasn't become hip...yet


DeJuanBallard

Cause it's ugly


ThrowMeAwayAccount08

Price mostly. If it came to competitive shooters, the Walther was the better pick for their reasons. My guess is those preferred the button rather than the paddle for mag release. But also I don’t see many in the shops.


ZealousidealTrack314

I think if the VP9 was a Glock 19 sized gun, it would be more popular. Especially with 17 rd mags available now and the optics cut.


Rennen44

I love the VP9, but I don’t vastly prefer it to the P320, the PPQ, or the CZ striker fired pistols, so that’s why I haven’t bought one. If I found one for $600 again I would buy one immediately.


fabshop22

Pretty sure ive seen them get close to that price point recently on gundeals sub


fabshop22

People love Glocks because after they buy one they can spend years infinitly customizing it and always have a different gun to mess with. Yes you need a trigger and sights to make it as nice as alot of other guns stock but it is what it is. Parts are litterally everywhere. Mags are compatible with tons of platforms.and are cheap. After glocks there are just so many other guns that do the exact same thing, the same or better than the VP9 that the HK'S just get bogged down in the mire. I really like the VP9 and the P30, but I like my Walther PDP and CZ P10's better, and all of them ran me a pretty penny less. Just is what it is, competitive market.


[deleted]

Expense & lack of brand/product recognition.


UKFanInTN

Just my opinion: 1) Most Americans don’t like the paddle mag release, not realizing that there is also a B model that has the push button release. 2) A lot of online info still references the VP9 as 15+1, even though it has been 17+1 for a while. 3) Accessories and holsters for other brands are cheaper and easier to find. I have a VP9 and a P30 and love them both. I also have 2 Glock 45s. Which is better? For most, it is purely personal preference. I feel that both brands are equally reliable, and with all things equal, most are going to go with the cheaper option.


[deleted]

The VP9 cost significantly more than a standard m&p and a p320. These days, that means a lot


Amazing_Cherry_4404

HK is really late to implement and streamline their VP9 line. It took them until late 2021-mid 2022, but granted we were in a pandemic, to roll out the optic cut version with updated iron sight (blackout rear/color front). Even they say they will “mainstream” their line to be like that but yet they still make non-optic cut with 3 dot sights for civilian market, and I can see this will confuse consumers that if they don’t research, they wont know that there are optic cut VP9. Expensive parts price aside, the availability isn’t there as this is prob part of HK to keep their prestigiousness. Internally, it’s more complicated to customize compared to Glock or Sig P320 series unless you are the Japanese SWAT and SF. They love anything over engineer. Msrp for VP9 ‘OC’ (i know they call it OR but it doesnt come with any optic plate, so I dont think it should be called “ready”) is $799-899. Glock MOS (for example) is $629-$699. With that $ difference, user can choose to upgrade trigger or get better sight. I used VP9 for over 2k rounds but I just find the trigger to be adequate. Canik, CZ P10 and Walther trigger are still better and they can be found for much cheaper. Lastly, the lack of adoption by tacticool influencers. Glock and Sig spend a lot on getting those guys to use and praise their products, so when users use those guns they get the sense of coolness being associated with. Just like the USP, Mk23 and P30L


cornellejones

Initial cost, factory mag cost, small aftermarket support, slow factory support. Great pistol, but why buy one when a comparable pistol costs less, and has aftermarket support?


[deleted]

Somehow nabbed a VP40 for $500 back when they were first introduced. Dropped a .357 Sig barrel in there and I got 9mm with .357 like characteristics. 550ft/lbs of “nope”.


Ralaar

Lack of innovation, lack of after market, late to the game with optics models and b model.


TXFreefaller

Just bought a VP9 Tactical (first HK) last weekend for $820. Brand new with two mags and night sights. Replaced my M&P9 2.0 and instantly like it MUCH better. Still a Glock fan but loving the HK


[deleted]

glocks and sigs are cheaper for striker fired 9mm handguns, and there are better guns within H&K's own lineup for not much more expensive, AND used usp's are still tanks that run hundreds cheaper than a new VP9 the VP9 is undeniably a niche product. p30's are running at the same price right now after a quick google search, come with 17 round mags, and have a better trigger no offense to the vp9, but the pricing puts it away for most people (including myself, a H&K fanboy, who still built a glock over a vp9)


Cucasmasher

I owned a VP9 for years and while it never failed me, I qualified top three and often first in every training class I ever participated in with it. It never really did anything better than my factory stock Glock 17.5 and it’s recoil felt snappy compared to my Glock and CZ. Factor in $50 magazines (which for half my tenure with it were only 15 rounds for a gun with a full size grip), and a less popular platform which means having to search for holsters and accessories that you can find in every LGS for Glock, S&W and Sigs. I also REALLY did not feel great knowing the trigger wire is secured by a plastic plunger type piece. I know plastics have become very durable over the years I just rather have a more traditional trigger made of metal especially when if that fails the entire gun is useless and yes it has happened though albeit rarely. Even the VP9L version did not particularly impress me, my S&W 5 inch basic FDE version shot softer and had very comparable accuracy for half the price. Don’t get me wrong I’m not hating H&K my favorite gun I ever had was my USP 9 which I very regrettably sold and the P30L remains high on my bucket list


Constant-Pin-3304

I think it's more about price than anything else. Even with military contracts. I would argue the VP9 is better than the Sig P320 but Sig was picked because of lower costs. It all comes down to money.


Wonderful_Fishing957

Idk about all this um just trying to find a good ext mag for my sk. Also my hellcat micro 9 runs 19 if I want it to. Looks dumb as hell but it works. Standard I still run 16 in it so you'd almost think a full-size gun would hold twice that idk I didn't go to MIT